Which speakers?

Not sure if this is the right section so feel free to move it.

Gonna get some speakers today, I'm stuck between these 2:
Logitech x-540
http://www.nxsource.com/products/221289/Logitech/970223_0403/
$69

Logitech z-2300
http://www.nxsource.com/products/220968/Logitech/970118_0403/
$108

I'm torn between power vs surround. Which would you pick?

 

The X-540 is an awesome setup. They deliver great sound and I don't regret mine.

 

If you plan on playing a lot of games or movies with surround sound, then the 5.1 setup is best. However for mostly music, I would go with 2.1. Music CDs don't utilize 5.1, they only have two channels. More speakers != better quality; you're better off having the Z-2300's two better quality speakers than the X-540s five lower-end ones.

I'll move this to the accessories forum for you, this topic will get more attention there.

 

How are they once you crank up the volume, is it loud w/ lots of bass? Is sound good all around, plus at different volume levels, ie, does it get distorted or anything?

Edit: thanks Chaz

 

If you're more into music detail you should consider the Klipsch Pro Media 2.1, JBL Spot, or the Creative Gigaworks T40 (in order of most bass -> least bass). The Z-2300s are very strong with bass but because they do not have dedicated tweeters, their mids and highs are not as strong. The Z-2300s are definitely a great buy but if you are willing to sacrifice some loudness and bass, you can get more detail and better ranges in the same price range.

 

Personally, I wouldn't call a 5.1 a 5.1 unless they have a THX slapped on it (i know, it's shallow thinking)
I vote for the Z-2300.

 

I was going to be using them mostly for music so less cords +2 channel sound only gives them an advantage. Plus I have the option through the Dolby panel on my laptop to "emulate"? surround sound using only two speakers. So I think I'll get the z-2300's unless someone can convince me otherwise now.

 

definitely go with the z2300. i got them for christmas, and now i have no friends in my dorm... Might have something to do with the awesome bass.

 

ugh... Logitech. I recommend any speakers from Altec Lansing instead. Altec Lansing's sonic signature in general are more detailed and has greater accuracy(for price sake). the logitech speakers i've heard produce a heavy fat lower end and the a fatiguing mid range.

if you've got an ear for detail or would like something to start a small party with, check out some lower end bookshelf speakers @ your local bestbuy/Circuit City or check out
www.PolkAudio.com

if you ever get hooked on movies, you can continually upgrade to a 7.1 PC theater.

Good Lucks!