Why are entry-level computer speakers these days such crap?

[VirtualLarry]

I mean, in the 1990s, you could get half-decent magnetically-shielded computer speakers. They had them at every computer show. Sure, they touted theoretical "PMPO" wattage that was a joke, but at least they worked.

Nowadays, you go into Staples or somewhere like it, and pick up a pair of "computer speakers", and they aren't even magnetically-shielded.

I gave a friend a pair that I had, and his cordless phone makes the speakers buzz whenever he's close to his computer and on the phone.

I remember back in the day, "Labtec" used to make some decent cheap computer speakers that were magnetically-shielded, but that brand seems to have been absorbed by some other company and discontinued.

What are my options here? Ordering some mid-high-end 2.1 or 5.1 system, like a Logitech for $200, is way out of the question. Something under $30-40, max. Stereo only, no need for a sub.

 

[stahlhart]

I'm not sure that the problem you've mentioned is relevant to magnetic shielding -- perhaps they're no longer as widely available because we've largely junked CRT monitors that were so much more sensitive to stray magnetic fields in such close proximity.

I think your issue is more one of electrical shielding. Are you certain that the speakers are picking up the interference, and not the PC itself, or some other system component?

 

[corkyg]

It's simply a matter of cost - competition makes entry level stuff to be cheap. Audiophiles don't bother with such junk. EMI shielding costs $$$. In sound peripherals you really do get just about what you pay for.

A decent option is not to use "computer" speaker-amplifiers. Get a decent set of speakers and a small stereo amp - even a good portbale unit and connect it instead. I got a set of small KLH speakers at Costco several years ago, and teamed them up with a sub-woofer and small amp from Radio Shack. They give very decent sound with no EMI.

For your $30-$40 price range, check out yard sales.

 

[Bryf50]

A pair of these http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=300-652
+ a cheap ebay t-amp make a pretty awesome setup for the price.

 

[max347]

Why are entry-level computer speakers these days such crap?

Because people always want to spend as little as possible.

That being said, I had this set-
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16836113025

And it was not bad at all. It won't know your socks off, but I thought they were a pretty good deal. They go on sale sometimes for much less.