Best Speakers for FLAC, Computer Speakers to appreciate FLAC Options

[Jp4ragon]

Hey everyone,

I have been wanting to appreciate the quality of FLAC files over mp3 while listening to them on my PC and have been looking into getting a new sound system. My wife surprised me for Christmas and got me a Logitech z-5500, but after doing some research, I am under the impression that this is not a good system for being able to appreciate FLAC (lack of clarity on z5500, made for gaming, etc). Is this true?

If so and if I return the logitech, my budget is between 300-600 dollars and i'm looking for a good recommendation on speakers I can hook up to my PC to listen to FLAC; 2.1 is preferred because the room I have isn't best for surround sound. Anyone have any good recommendations? I'd really appreciate any input here.

[Apesbrain]

Although your assumption about FLAC being "better" than MP3 V0 may be flawed, there is nothing wrong with seeking higher performance out of your playback system. If you're currently using speakers of the quality that typically ship with a boxed PC (or internal to a laptop), then there may be much to gain in terms of frequency extension, low distortion, and stereo imaging from a speaker made by a competent manufacturer to a higher price point. What sounds "best", however, can only be left up to YOU. Others can tell you what they like -- which can be a good place to start -- but that's no guarantee the same solution will be the one you prefer.

Listen to some different speaker models or, if that's not possible, read some reviews from actual owners for ideas. Take into account not only the reported sound but the size and aesthetics of the unit (and warranty). Buy the model that best suits your individual preferences. There is no substitute for hearing a speaker in the place where you actually plan to use it, so be sure you can return it for a full refund if after a home audition you aren't satisfied (e.g. no "restocking fee"; you'll typically pay return shipping if you've purchased online). Give yourself time to listen before making a decision; any new speaker introduced into your familiar listening environment will sound "different" in ways you may not be sure you like at first. You may also need to experiment with placement of the speakers and, if they are sitting on your computer desk, mechanical isolation.

In your price range the first option I'd consider is the B&W MM-1 but that's just me: I've heard them, I like their design, and having owned B&W products in the past I respect the brand. If you have an Apple Store nearby, you should be able to audition this speaker there. I'm assuming from your post that you listen primarily while seated at your PC, but if you are looking instead for "room-filling" sound my recommendation might be for something larger depending on the size of your room.

One other thing, listening to my music "in all its glory" often means listening louder than my housemates or neighbors would prefer I do. For this reason, I often listen via earphones and find it a very satisfying experience. There are some fine-sounding models available for a fraction of what you are willing to spend.