Digital Trends

Logitech X-530 December 4th, 2006 | by Ian Bell

Designed for your PC or game console, the X-530 includes 5 satellite speakers and a subwoofer. The satellites feature frequency directed dual 2-inch drivers with 7.4 watts RMS going into the front and surround speakers and 15.5 watts going into the center channel. The subwoofer contains a ported enclosure and 5 and a quarter inch driver capable of 25 watts of power.

The main control speaker features a headphone jack, power switch and volume controls. If you want to adjust the bass, you have to use the bass control located on the back of the subwoofer, and that can be a pain at times.

We like the look of the X-530 speaker system and it’s easy to setup, but there are some drawbacks to a 5.1 system in this price range. The satellites almost feel too light to be taken seriously, and can be easy to knock over due to their small stands. The bass produced by the subwoofer sounds hollow at times and can bottom out at high volumes.

And lastly, the X-530 speaker system lacks digital inputs which really limits what you can connect to it. Instead you have to use an analog mini-plug adapter for connecting the speakers to a sound card.

Image Courtesy of Logitech

Conclusion

When you enter the sub- $100 dollar price range for a surround sound system, you are entering dangerous territory. We would recommend spending that money on a high-quality 2.1 speaker system, or spending a little more and getting a better surround sound system.

Pros:

• Affordable
• A complete 5.1 setup

Cons:

• Cheap feeling, top heavy
• No digital connection
• Flat sounding
• Bass distorts at high volumes