It is amazing what a year and a kick-up in price range brings in the Computer Speaker business. Last year, I had the chance to take a look at the Logitech X-540 speaker package, which retailed at $99. I believe the rating I gave it was a 9.0 of 10.0, with quality and value getting very high marks.



This season, I was given the opportunity to review the new Logitech G51, where I noticed immediate and positive changes even as I unpacked the box. While this is a review of the G51, which is a notch higher on the 5.1 system options, I will be comparing it to the Logitech X-540 as that is my previous reference point.

As I removed the components from the box, I was reminded how well Logitech does at both packing and protecting the components of the products it sells. The G51 was packed in three main sections, with the sub wrapped in cardboard and plastic in the center of the box and the satellites and Control Pod split up between two cardboard boxes flanking it. In addition, any premium (high-gloss/scratchable) surface is covered in plastic cling wrap to prevent it from being scratched or scuffed.

One thing I griped about last year was the fact the X-540 was packed with the speakers in the “wall-Mount” position. Well, a box and packing layout change had the G51 ready to roll with the desk stand position the default setting. While it still posses the innovative quick change controls (loosening a screw and rotating the base to the other position), it was still nice to not have to re-configure the four satellites. Installation was a snap, as everything is color-coded and the extra-long surround speaker cables.

The G51 Control Pod is absolutely the heart and soul of the unit, with complete control over all audio functions at your fingertips. Frankly, it just looks and feels impressive. It is connected to the sub via a special 6-ft cable, and is weighted with non-skid pads to prevent it from falling or being pulled off the desk. The control options are almost unlimited, as power, volume, speaker level, muting, matrix modes and external connections for a mic and headphones are all located on the unit. A definite step up from the X-540 and its volume, bass, matrix and headphone jack.

The volume dial on the G51 is located in the center of the Pod and is surrounded by a lighted volume indicator above and speaker indicator and selector button (for audio level) below. The left side has dual input jacks for both a headphone and microphone along with mute buttons for both audio and mic. The right side has the power and matrix buttons, which has three-way capabilities for gaming, music or off. I noticed that the audio has a variable increase (in relation to the lighted indicator) as you turn the volume up and down.

The Matrix Mode (which controls the surround capabilities) has option for both music and gaming. As we know from the X-540, the matrix mode enhances traditional 2-channel stereo and creates a 5.1 soundfield out of it. I will get into more detail on these modes below in the actual testing.

Logitech has always been innovative with their products, and the G51 is no different. One of the largest trends in computer and gaming is to personalize of customize your gear with skins or graphics. The G51 gets into the act with the ability to customize the graphics on the satellite speakers. The review unit I received was accompanied by several skin samples featuring Crysis, Quake Wars and a couple of generic inserts. Owners can also head out to the web and download and print off their own unique patterns at www.logitech.com/G51skins

After getting everything unpacked and set-up, the natural thing...