Conclusion

I like the 5300s very much. They offer power, solid sound quality, good design, and high ease of use for a very attractive price. The value is the real kicker with this system. If you are a PC user who toggles among movies, games, and music, then the 5300s will do you well. If you are on a modest budget, then they will really do you well. If it's time to upgrade, then the 5300s deserve serious consideration.

Highly recommended.

Summary

Designtechnica Editor's Choice!

This is a strong recommend. If you are looking for an affordable set of surround speakers for your game system or computer consider this one. The list price is $200 but we looked around and saw it for as little as $120 with an average price of $140. The speakers are light enough to mount on the wall, out of the way. The sub woofer is large enough to cramp you a bit under the desk. The system has a nice, clean look to it with the option of using the supplied grill or without if you are the type that likes to see the actual speakers. Attention to detail includes the ability to rotate the speaker for the best listening angle. The sound is rich, full and unbelievably clear for such small speakers. THX does not hand out certifications lightly, and this set has earned it.

Conclusion...

Surprisingly these speakers remained very consistent across the board and I am thoroughly impressed that speakers rated at 35Hz – 20kHz could actually achieve not only audible, but powerful sound outside their rated spectrum. The speakers were capable of producing 20Hz at 87dB, and compared to some inexpensive “Home Theaters In a Box” this is fantastic.  Most of them can’t reach below 50Hz.  These speakers can actually handle more then just games, but also do a good job with music, movies and possibly DVD-A or SACD. They are truly deserving of their highly coveted THX rating.