Hi

I want to buy a pair of powered speakers for use with my Mac - nearly all those I have heard in computer shops seem to be designed for gaming - thunderous bass and tizzy highs - absolutely ghastly. I want to use my speakers primarily for music replay with a bit of music monitoring too (although I tend to use my AKG K340s for the latter).

So, my question is, how much must I spend to get some decent sound quality?

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Julian Marsh

www.citroenet.org.uk


Cvm omnes vnvum cogitant, nemo cogitat

Hi Julian,

Good timing that you asked as we actually saw some fantastic computer speakers at the hifi show.

Made by Ferguson Hill they are essentially a scaled down version on their acclaimed full size range. Made from see through perspex they look stunning and operate with two subwoofers. Best of all Ferguson Hill hopes to keep the price around £500 when they are released.

Have a look at the photo here

Oh yes and the CD that you can see in that photo is a rather shocking acapella group covering U2 hits.

Thanks - horns, hmmm... Maybe they have moved on from the days when my father had a pair of Lowthers... They were incredibly detailed and efficient - but lacking deep bass and very coloured.
--
Julian Marsh

www.citroenet.org.uk


Cvm omnes vnvum cogitant, nemo cogita

Wow these do look amazing. i've always liked the look of the Ferguson Hill speakers but now maybe I'll be able to afford some with this new range!

Did you get to hear the sound quality they produced?

OooohhhhhhhHHHH I LIKE!!!
Do they sound as good as they look?
*sigh*
More to save up for, by the looks of it.

Horns can be good if you use valves or digital amps. I heard some lovely Cain & Cain a couple of weeks ago. Those were very highly resolving in the context I heard them but not for computer use.

My suggestion would be a T Amp with B&W control 1 if you're doing it on the cheap or if minted, the Fujitsu Ten Eclipse speakers that are intended for the ipod for £350-ish. They image like anything and are good for nearfield. One of the dealers sells them on Ebay. I also saw them in the Apple shop on Regent Street in London.

If you're going for serious stuff you could try www.turnkey.co.uk and look at the powered monitors. Dynaudio do some good ones.

You used to be able to get Wharfedale Diamond Active monitors. If they are still sold, that might be a good option. I saw them on sale as little as a year ago so they did develop beyond the famous Mk 1 versions.

Unfortunately Bob we didn't get a chance to hear them because Ferguson Hill were experiencing problems with their Macs' mouse and were unable to demo it whilst we were there. We wanted to pop back later but unfortunately time just wasn't on our side...did anybody manage to get a listen?