Computer setup

[Atalair]

Hey so I'm looking at getting some speakers for my computer to upgrade from my Audioengine A2's, however my budget isn't the greatest, at the moment it's about $300. I'm also using a Creative Soundblaster X-Fi HD external DAC.

I like the quality in the A2's however they are definitely lacking in the low end.

Any thoughts on a solid system I could use? Thanks!!

[fuzz092888]

I'm not really sure how much low end you're gonna get with a budget of only $300. the audio engine A2's go about as low as you're gonna get in that price range to my knowledge. My advice would be to save up a bit more and try to set up a way to add a subwoofer. I don't see a sub out on the audio engine's so you may have to wait and save up for a better pair of bookshelves or maybe a little stereo receiver that has a sub output on it.

Also try using the search box and search for computer setups there is some great advice already floating around this website.

Good luck

[BoredSysAdmin]

I'd say - you can add sub to your setup and configure your SB to cross-over
$300 is not much for sub, but you still can get some decent ones:

How big is your room, what are your uses and do you have size restrictions?

Sub could produce bass better than any $300 speakers would

[Atalair]

Size restrictions are not an issue, I previously had a Z5500 in here (massive sub). I did find someone selling used Audioengine A5 (not A5+) for $150 and was wondering if I should go for that one. What subs would be good to add on to this setup if I went that route?

[fuzz092888]

Well if you plan to add a sub I probably wouldn't go to A5s. Use that money towards the subwoofer instead. I believe the A5s only get you another 15hz or so of extension so not really worth it if you want more low end.

STF-1 Subwoofer

M8 Powered Subwoofer

either of these options would put you under $300 and still give you good bass. It's hard to recommend a sub for less than about $300 because the quality tends to jump significantly in the $3-500 range.

I have the Z-5500 as well and while that sub is halfway decent, a good quality sub will sound so much better and tighter.

[BoredSysAdmin]

Well if you plan to add a sub I probably wouldn't go to A5s. Use that money towards the subwoofer instead. I believe the A5s only get you another 15hz or so of extension so not really worth it if you want more low end.

STF-1 Subwoofer

M8 Powered Subwoofer

either of these options would put you under $300 and still give you good bass. It's hard to recommend a sub for less than about $300 because the quality tends to jump significantly in the $3-500 range.

I have the Z-5500 as well and while that sub is halfway decent, a good quality sub will sound so much better and tighter.

I agree - these are both good options.
I'd add two more: PA-120 - I own it and can confirm it's performance first hand. Not long ago it used to be $260 - ask these guys for better deal

Option b) Cadence CSX12 - I believe there is still a $100 coupon promo for AH members going on.
CSX12 Mark II - Cadence Sound Store

Both sub are 12" will have significantly more lower extension and power, but maybe at cost of transiency

[Atalair]

I've been looking at the PA-120, I've found it at a few places for $299+shipping, I'll keep looking though.

[Atalair]

One thing I'm not too sure about, does anyone know if the SB HD offers crossover so I can connect both the sub and A2's to the HD, or is there a better way to connect everything?