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Logitech Z-3 2.1 Speakers
Date: Thursday, April 15, 2004
Author: Jsgolfman
Provided By: Logitech
Page: 2 of 3
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Operation/Features
Rather than jot down a laundry list of features, I prefer to hit some highlights with bullet points. They are much easier to read and tables just don't do it for me.
40 watts (8.5x2 satellites, 23 woofer)
Peak power 80watts
Frequency response 35Hz-20kHz
Signal-noise ratio >92db
Wired remote
Brushed aluminum face
Wood grain (um, me likes)
Removable grills
Console game adapter
Color coded cables
Headphone jack on remote (very nice touch)
Yadda, yadda, yadda
The rest you can garner from Logitech, statistics can be SO boring. Suffice it to say that although they are not the most powerful speakers around, they get the job done.
From a purely "how do they look" point of view, they are definitely on the show off list. The contrast between the aluminum and the wood grain creates a homey, yet upscale look that will get noticed. A couple of features that I got particular enjoyment from were (1) LARGE dial on the remote and (2) headphone jack on the remote. The large dial makes it a snap to quickly adjust your volume, even in the dark. Of course the inclusion of the blue power LED on the remote adds a nifty bit of color in the dark. The headphone jack on the remote is a godsend for those who game. Whether you need to isolate yourself from exterior noises to hear footsteps or other soft integral parts of the game or simply to keep from waking the rest of the house during a marathon gaming session that lasted way too far into the night/morning, this little addition will be well received. I also appreciate the addition of the adapter for you game console. Now you can get truly great sound out of your console instead of listening to the tinny sound coming out of your tv.
As far as the actual function of the system, there aren't any tests that can be included in a review that would convey the sound quality of any speakers adequately. There are a multitude of testing programs for video hardware and such, but for reviews such as this you must base your decision on the opinions of several reviewers and then take your best guess. One thing that I wanted to do when testing the Z-3 was to run it through the gamut of my somewhat eclectic tastes. I will list the differing musical styles I used and my impressions of each as relayed through the Z-3.
Norah Jones - Vocals are highlighted; music sets the mood and tempo.
The vocals were crisp, musical portions were crisp as well with no distortion
Rage Against the Machine - Hard rock/funk w/rap style vocals
Vocals were again crisp, although not as crisp as others. This can be attributed to the emphasis on the music, loud music, as opposed to the vocal portions. The funky bass lines and rhythm guitar were distinguishable from each other.
Maroon 5 - Pop/Rock, mix of vocal and musical highlights
Less of an outright vocal style but still a lot of emphasis placed on vocals. The mixture was kept intact and no bleeding of vocals and music could be detected.
Redman - Hip-hop pure and simple. Large emphasis placed on vocals and bass line.
The vocals were very pronounced, as was the bass. Anyone who listens to rap knows that a multitude of different instruments/sounds are used and I could distinguish each. The bass tones were heard well and FELT. There was no distortion at low to mid levels but some at the highest settings on the woofer. Of course, the highest setting was loud and literally shook my desk.
Rat Pack - Vocals w/background music
Ok, I had to throw my boys in here. I am a HUGE fan of Frank, Dean and Sammy. I collect them on vinyl, CD, VHS, etc. I have always been partial to great vocalist and stylist and these guys are the greatest in my opinion. The sound was fantastic. I could almost feel as if I was at the Sands and they were doing their signature act.
Gaming - Self explanatory
For this category I played Tactical-Ops, UT2K3, HALO, Need for Speed Underground and Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. You like gunshots? Excuse my French, but, DAMN! I was sure someone was shooting in my room. Sounds were clear, distinct and absolutely frightening. Afraid someone is sneaking up on you? No problem. Footsteps, the biggest test, were very clear. Many times I was saved by listening for the footfalls of my enemy. I could often hear them from far away. It could have just been me, but I swear I could hear multiple enemies and distinguish between them by where I heard the footfalls. Left channel, on my left; right channel, on my right.
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