Thinking about some new desktop speakers

nicktay2605

nicktay2605

nicktay2605

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I've currently got the Acoustic Energy Aego M 2.1 system connected to my PC at home, but I'm noticing some reverb and sound distortion, particularly with certain bass-heavy music genres and at higher volumes. This might just be a limitation of the system or they might be on their way out, but either way it means that I'm thinking about a new set of speakers.

I'm thinking about going for a decent 2.0 system and forgoing the sub, mainly because it seems like there is much more choice when it comes to 2.0 setups. I've been looking at both active and passive speakers - presumably the only difference is that I would need a DAC for passive speakers?

In terms of options, I'm currently liking the look of the Q Acoustics 3010 or 3020, are there any other speakers that would be a better option? I had a look at a few of the Wharfedale speakers but they all look pretty massive.
 
You don't need a dac for a passive set up, your mobo/soundcard will do it.

Passive speaker wise, the Q-Acoustics 3020 are arguably the best speakers you'll get for <£200. What's your total budget? Naturally you'll need to grab an amp alongside the Qs.
 
Personally I'd grab a Monitor Audio A100 (you'll really struggle to get a better amp new for the money - check out some reviews, it also has full connectivity). I'd then combine it with the Q 3020s, or check RicherSound for any sales and get a BX2 and A100 combo which is just brilliant for the money.

I adore my BX2s, preferred them in the extensive demos I had to the Qs/Dali's etc as they just have a fuller body, better bass extension and more of a warm sound.

EDIT: MR2s are essentially the little brother of the BX2s. Same sound signature (so more warmth, fuller body) as the BX2s, but less clarity, slightly less dynamic. The MR2s also dont have the same soundstage or clarity as the 3020s, but are again warmer and fuller sounding. Depends on your preference.
 
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Thanks for the help Cookeh. It's funny that you mention the A100 because that was one of the amps that really stood out to me when I looked online. I love the design and it's had some excellent reviews. The fact that it can be positioned vertically is also a big plus.
 
Not a problem :) Try and get yourself down to a RicherSounds shop - they'll let you demo the A100 with both (or all three) speaker options :)
 
I've got the Q Acoustics 3010s, paired with a Topping VX1 USB DAC/amp. Superb set-up, I'm really happy with it. The 3020s were just a bit too big for a desk for my liking.
 
I have a set of B&W MM1 which are just on budget (I picked up a ex-demo set for £300). These have an onboard DAC and connect via USB which is a nice touch or can be connected directly using a 3.5mm jack. I've not used them for heavy bass but so far have been a superb addition.
 
TheVoice said:
I've got the Q Acoustics 3010s, paired with a Topping VX1 USB DAC/amp. Superb set-up, I'm really happy with it. The 3020s were just a bit too big for a desk for my liking.
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Thanks TheVoice, I'll take a look at them. Speaker size is a concern, the desk they are going on isn't too big and I'm concerned that the 3020s might be too large. Was it you who posted an image of your setup in the 'images of items I've purchased' thread? I seem to remember seeing one a while ago.

Duke_ said:
I have a set of B&W MM1 which are just on budget (I picked up a ex-demo set for £300). These have an onboard DAC and connect via USB which is a nice touch or can be connected directly using a 3.5mm jack. I've not used them for heavy bass but so far have been a superb addition.
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Thanks for the recommendation Duke, I'll check them out. I had thought about some powered speakers such as the AudioEngine A2+, but I wasn't sure they'd be able to compete in terms of audio quality.
 
Generally they don't, though they come close.

Also a lot harder to upgrade. Whereas the A100 will happily power any speaker up to £SILLY and both A100 and BX2/MR2/Qs will last forever.... I still have some 35 year old amps and speakers that are as good as Day 1.
 
Nick are you using any DAC or soundcard with the Acoustic Energy Aego M 2.1?

I myself is using the Acoustic Energy Aego M 2.1, as well as the Q Acoustics 3010 hooked up to the Edifier S730 subwoofer, and I love them both in different ways.
 
nicktay2605 said:
Thanks TheVoice, I'll take a look at them. Speaker size is a concern, the desk they are going on isn't too big and I'm concerned that the 3020s might be too large. Was it you who posted an image of your setup in the 'images of items I've purchased' thread? I seem to remember seeing one a while ago.
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Yep, that was probably me. It was mostly the larger footprint of the 3020s that put me off, they'd have sat noticeably further forward which would've made them a bit imposing for my liking.
 
Marine-RX179 said:
Nick are you using any DAC or soundcard with the Acoustic Energy Aego M 2.1?

I myself is using the Acoustic Energy Aego M 2.1, as well as the Q Acoustics 3010 hooked up to the Edifier S730 subwoofer, and I love them both in different ways.
Click to expand...

I'm not, just the onboard from my motherboard. Could you give me a quick comparison of the two?
 
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