Altec Lansing BXR1220 2.0 Speaker System
by Altec Lansing Technologies
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Category: CE
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: Altec Lansing TechnologiesModel: BXR1220
Color: Black
Product features:
- Compact stereo speakers for laptops and desktops
- Connects easily through a USB port for power
- Audio Alignment technology for balance and accuracy
- Built-in power and volume controls
- Each speaker measures 2.8 x 3.7 x 4.8 inches (WxHxD)
- AmazonBasics USB 2.0 A-Male to A-Female Extension Cable (3.3 Feet/1.0 Meter)
- AmazonBasics USB 2.0 A-Male to B-Male Cable (6 Feet / 1.8 Meters)
- AmazonBasics USB 2.0 A-Male to A-Female Extension Cable (9.8 Feet/3.0 Meters)
- AmazonBasics USB 2.0 A-Male to Mini-B Cable (6 Feet / 1.8 Meters)
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Altec Lansing BXR1220 2.0 Speaker System
Customer Review: The Altec Lansing BXR1220 - Affordable USB Powered Bare Bones 2.0 Speakers, But Still Not Travel Friendly
Summary: 3 Stars
Customer review from the Amazon Vine™ Program (What's this?)
Altec Lansing's BXR1220s are not designed for those who want audiophile quality sound. So far, the sound has not really improved much over the past few weeks after breaking these in for long stretches. Considering the price it's hard to get too demanding in the sound department. Relative to many similarly priced speakers these are a small step up, and they will more than suffice for an extra computer in a guest bedroom. Yet in many ways these are a new take on basic 2.0 speakers. For starters, these are powered by your USB port instead of via an AC outlet. For those starved for outlets, that's a welcome convenience. For those running out of USB ports, that's either a possible turn-off or a reason to buy a USB hub.
If style is a major factor for you, these might win over other models on looks alone. These speakers are small and just look cool. They are about the size of 2 soda cans, turned on their sides with silver stands holding them up at about a 15 degree angle. The right speaker has a turn switch in the back of it to power them on, and there is a volume dial on the top.
My set didn't really have instructions, but instead had simple pictures on the top inside flap explaining how to connect them. Installation was very simple, but I could see some people tearing the box apart looking for the "quick connect guide" referenced on the side of the box.
THE GOOD
+ The fact that these are USB powered means you don't have to worry about heavy power adapters or outlets. This is a definite plus.
+ The speakers themselves are VERY light and compact, making them a possible choice when travelling with your laptop.
+ The pricing is definitely attractive; even though these are not the least expensive USB powered speakers, they are in the ball-park.
+ The styling of this unit is definitely cool. They are compact and do not appear to be as inexpensive as they are.
THE CONCERNS
- The sound quality is very hollow and doesn't respond well to being broken-in. Most speakers soften after extended playing, but these seem like they might take weeks of non-stop play before they would sound better.
- The volume dial doesn't provide granular adjustment. Volume seems to go from "low" to "moderate." They never really got loud and there were few levels in between. That's a sign of low-efficiency wires typical of this price range.
- All the connections are hard-wired, which partly negates their potential use as travel speakers. Travelling wreaks havoc on cheap speaker wires. I have had many a portable speaker system bite the dust during a business trip. You are going to have to really pack these up carefully if you're travelling with them to preserve those wired connections. Once they break, this set is toast.
- These don't use USB audio. The awkward way they have tethered the audio input to the USB power cable makes these speakers less comfortable for laptops. Many newer laptops have USB ports on the side and audio outputs on the front. HERE'S A TIP: You can pull the two wires apart as far down as you want, but then you will have messy wires to deal with.
- Using a USB port means those who don't have a USB hub yet may have to look to buy one. For many home PCs USB ports are at more of a premium than power outlets.
- Perhaps the biggest con for some is going to be that there is NO auxiliary input to connect an MP3 player to these. Many other compact speakers do include an auxiliary input. In their desire to keep costs and prices down, they have limited the potential market for these speakers.
THE CHOICE
The fact that these don't come with a subwoofer may prompt some to look into the Altec Lansing 1221 2.1 Speaker System. I wouldn't recommend that. Those sound slightly better, but adding extra bass cannot improve this model's features and tone. The only way to get that is with a better set. And if you just want to save money, there are less expensive models out there.
If you want to stick to entry level units at the lowest end of the price range you should consider the Logitech S120 2.0 Speakers, keeping in mind that those are not USB powered. The Logitech S150s are USB powered and offer USB audio as well, meaning no extra cables. Each of those speakers come with their own flaws, but if low-cost is your primary objective they should be considered.
If you want to add a sub you should look at the Logitech X-240 2.1 Speakers, Logitech S220 2.1 Speakers, the Logitech LS21 2.1 Speakers or the Creative Labs Inspire A200 2.1 Speakers. And if you don't want a sub but are willing to spend more the extra $8-10, the Altec Lansing VS2620 2.0 Speakers are well worth it. They sound pretty good for a budget pair of speakers. They are about 50% more than these but still in the affordable price category. Once again, some might be tempted to step up to the Altec Lansing VS2621 2.1 Speakers that include a subwoofer. In that case it might be worth the expense, but then you are in a price range that includes many other good options.
CONCLUSION
Even with all of that, there is still a market for these. If compact size and style are key factors for you, these might win out over other models based on those things alone. These speakers are small and just look cool. The fact that these are USB powered is nice, but the hard wired connections and lack of an auxiliary port limit their flexibility. If outlets are at a premium for you and you have an extra desktop at home (like in your kid's room or a spare computer in the guest bedroom) these will do the trick for light use as long as you don't plan on moving them too much.
Enjoy.
Description of Altec Lansing BXR1220 2.0 Speaker System
The BXR1220 computer audio system delivers quality stereo sound at an extremely affordable price. Features built in controls for convenienceDigital Cameras & Photo Categories
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