Post by Eorl @ 10:09am 08/09/15 | 0 Comments
When you think speakers, especially when it comes to gaming applications, one brand will certainly pop into your head thanks to their prestigious lineup of past systems: Logitech. Today's review we take a look at their latest offering in the multimedia setup, the Z533 2.1 speaker system, which situates itself firmly in the marketplace at a RRP of $169.95. Aimed at those looking for just a bit more gusto then your typical speaker setup, the Z533 definitely proves its worth.
As the name suggests, the Z533 is a 2.1 system, comprising of two stereo speakers and a subwoofer. Thanks to its handy design the unit is attached together via a wired module, allowing control of both volume and bass without having to access the speakers directly. The speakers themselves attach directly into the subwoofer which is then connected into your device via a typical 3.5mm audio jack. For my setup I've got the jack going into my computer's on-board audio, however Logitech states support for gaming consoles, tablets and pretty much any device that has a 3.5mm jack.
Design-wise the speakers are decked out in a matte black finish with a few inches covered in gloss black just calling out for fingerprint marks. A gold finish is also present in the speaker cones, alongside the Logitech logo which definitely makes for a quite appealing design decision to complement the price tag. While it may not be for everyone, it definitely works for my office setup. The relatively compact size of the speakers also benefits the design, making it appear far less intrusive on your desktop.
The system's 'DJ-like' wired control unit serves as a power switch, volume control and bass slider, giving you greater control over your audio needs compared to the more traditional 2.1 speaker systems. The unit also comes with two 3.5mm audio connections, one designated to headphones for a more personal experience and the other for any connection you desire, be it MP3 player, phone or other device that outputs to auxiliary. For my setup this jack was used to output my computer's sound to the speakers.
With the system's primary control designed around a fixed control apparatus that can't be separated from cable, there is trouble for those who rely on desk cable holes as the unit is far too large to fit through. For myself this wasn't a problem as I simply had the unit sit towards the back of my desk still within reach, but it could be a negative to those wanting cable management. To overcome this issue Logitech has brought out a bluetooth audio adapter, allowing the user control of two devices simultaneously without the need for wires.
Cable management aside, a majority of users will be judging these speakers on their performance, and rightfully so. Plugging the Z533 system into my Windows 10 desktop I initially found the volume to be quite low, but soon found the error of my ways in that I was required to turn up my system's socket volume first. Cranking that up I was then able to utilise the full speaker's volume, via the control unit. And this is where I was truly stunned by the system's audio quality.
Initially I tested the unit through some simple songs via iTunes, noting its rich and full deliverance but also the deep bass sound coming from the sub. Moving onto my main use of sound, video games, I soon found the cherry on top. Starting with Battlefield 4's meticulously crafted sound design I was swept away, filling the room with sounds of explosions and warfare. I found that turning the volume any higher then halfway was almost too loud, especially from where I was sitting.
Testing a wide range of audio examples, it is safe to say that Logitech has once again proven their track record of audio craftsmanship, delivering a product that not only sounds great but looks the part as well. With a compact setup that can deliver a powerful kick of audio, I won't be switching back any time soon.
As the name suggests, the Z533 is a 2.1 system, comprising of two stereo speakers and a subwoofer. Thanks to its handy design the unit is attached together via a wired module, allowing control of both volume and bass without having to access the speakers directly. The speakers themselves attach directly into the subwoofer which is then connected into your device via a typical 3.5mm audio jack. For my setup I've got the jack going into my computer's on-board audio, however Logitech states support for gaming consoles, tablets and pretty much any device that has a 3.5mm jack.
Design-wise the speakers are decked out in a matte black finish with a few inches covered in gloss black just calling out for fingerprint marks. A gold finish is also present in the speaker cones, alongside the Logitech logo which definitely makes for a quite appealing design decision to complement the price tag. While it may not be for everyone, it definitely works for my office setup. The relatively compact size of the speakers also benefits the design, making it appear far less intrusive on your desktop.
The system's 'DJ-like' wired control unit serves as a power switch, volume control and bass slider, giving you greater control over your audio needs compared to the more traditional 2.1 speaker systems. The unit also comes with two 3.5mm audio connections, one designated to headphones for a more personal experience and the other for any connection you desire, be it MP3 player, phone or other device that outputs to auxiliary. For my setup this jack was used to output my computer's sound to the speakers.
With the system's primary control designed around a fixed control apparatus that can't be separated from cable, there is trouble for those who rely on desk cable holes as the unit is far too large to fit through. For myself this wasn't a problem as I simply had the unit sit towards the back of my desk still within reach, but it could be a negative to those wanting cable management. To overcome this issue Logitech has brought out a bluetooth audio adapter, allowing the user control of two devices simultaneously without the need for wires.
Cable management aside, a majority of users will be judging these speakers on their performance, and rightfully so. Plugging the Z533 system into my Windows 10 desktop I initially found the volume to be quite low, but soon found the error of my ways in that I was required to turn up my system's socket volume first. Cranking that up I was then able to utilise the full speaker's volume, via the control unit. And this is where I was truly stunned by the system's audio quality.
Initially I tested the unit through some simple songs via iTunes, noting its rich and full deliverance but also the deep bass sound coming from the sub. Moving onto my main use of sound, video games, I soon found the cherry on top. Starting with Battlefield 4's meticulously crafted sound design I was swept away, filling the room with sounds of explosions and warfare. I found that turning the volume any higher then halfway was almost too loud, especially from where I was sitting.
Testing a wide range of audio examples, it is safe to say that Logitech has once again proven their track record of audio craftsmanship, delivering a product that not only sounds great but looks the part as well. With a compact setup that can deliver a powerful kick of audio, I won't be switching back any time soon.
PROS
- Excellent sound design that will give 5.1 systems a run for their money
- Easy-to-use audio control unit
- Modern design style
CONS
- Audio control unit is a tad bulky and can prove difficult for cable management enthusiasts
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