Logitech Z-2300

Editors' Note: Due to competitive changes in the marketplace, we have lowered the rating on this product.

Although they weren't perfect, we liked Logitech's old Z-2200 speakers an awful lot. We were a bit annoyed by their use of hardwired speaker cables instead of quick-connect jacks (a feature that has not changed), but the overall performance of the set was spectacular. And while we admit we were skeptical about the attempt to mess with a classic, Logitech's new Z-2300 2.1 speakers improve upon the originals more than we thought possible.

A lot of the core specs remain the same between generations. The Z-2300 retains the Z-2200's THX certification and speaker-frequency response (35Hz to 20KHz) and the subwoofer's 120 watts of floor-rattling power. The remote still offers headphone access and the standard sub and volume controls. Design changes abound, however, and they're more than just cosmetic.

Redesigned for a sleeker look, the speakers still utilize the same phase plug-style drivers (designed to even out frequency response). At 2.5 inches, the drivers are smaller than the old, mammoth 3-inch version yet offer the same amount of power (80 watts, or 40 watts per channel). We also found the outer casing visually appealing, with a chrome-and-black color scheme and removable black dust covers. The extra 0.75 inch shaved off their width is a helpful update for the cluttered-desk crowd--though it's too bad you can't adjust their upward-firing angle. This time around, Logitech has also included a video game adapter for all you console owners.