GamePro Labs Gadget and Gear Roundup (4 of 8)

Axiom Audiobyte

What is it: A gorgeous high-end (and we mean high-end) set of 2.1 speakers. It features two satellites and a subwoofer that's driven by a dedicated amplifier that delivers 55-watts per speaker (up to 110-watts total). That's a lot of power for a set of speakers with a relatively small footprint. The satellites can also be customized with a variety of color finishes, including a classy looking natural wood grain.

How does it perform: In a word: amazing. The Audiobyte set delivers performance that you'd expect out of a truly high-end system; no surprise considering Axiom's been in the high-end audio market for a long time. The audio is crystal clear and we didn't have to turn up the volume much to get it to the point where people on the other side of the office were complaining about the racket. The subwoofer also provides a nice, deep bass response. All in all, the Audiobyte pumps out some amazing audio that really brought out the best in our music, games and movies.

What did you like about it: We hate to harp on this but the audio performance really is spectacular. We were amazed by how powerful the speakers sounded, especially considering their size. It's obvious that Axiom knows what they're doing and the quality is definitely there. The dedicated amp also lends a nice high-end touch to the whole setup. And for you iPod owners: there's a USB port in the back that allows you to not only channel your iPod's audio through the Audiobytes system but also to charge your iPod while it's plugged in. That's a pretty sweet bonus right there.

What didn't you like about it: It sucks to say but the price tag is a bit hard to swallow. There's no doubt that you get your money's worth but our review setup-which included two satellites in a metallic green high-gloss synthetic finish, the optional subwoofer and dedicated amplifier-will set you back $579. That's a lot of money to pay for a pair of computer speakers, even a set as nice as the Audiobytes. We also didn't like that the volume control was located on the dedicated amp. The amp was too big to keep on our desk, so we had to get creative with the placement to keep the volume knob within easy reach. Also, there is no headphone jack, meaning you can't easily go into stealth mode.

So should I buy it: If you've got the money and you're serious about your audio, then you should definitely consider the Audiobytes, especially if you listen to a lot of music and play a lot of games on your PC. You'll pay a premium price but you'll get premium performance in return. If you're on a budget or you possess a set of tin ears (meaning you can't tell the difference between a high-end speaker set and a low-end speaker set) however, then the Audiobytes are definitely not for you.

www.axiom.com
MSRP: Price varies. Units start at $379 and up. Our review unit retails for $579.
Fun Factor: 4.50
(Editor's Choice)

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war02orc

Good article GamePro, but I won't be using any of those devices lol. I have a surround sound audio system for my PC, an iPod, and no need of $100 earbuds. And who in their right mind would buy a set of 2.1 speakers for ~$500-600 instead of buying a surround sound system instead?

war02orc

I might use that 6 port charger though, but I'm worried about proper distribution of power to my devices. All it takes is one power spike or irregular power flow to destroy my iPod, PSP, or DS. For $45 it sounds too good to be true.

MegaGeek

This Keyboard would definately fit my lifestlyle except for the price. if anyone knows where to get an awsome keyboard like this cheap they are stupid not to buy one for at least backup.

Sire

okay, now the keyboard is just getting into a HUGE console controller looking keyboard, it's funny, I can't really tell how big it is but if you held it like a big controller and used your thumbs, it's like a Spinal Tap looking thing. And wasn't there just an article on how console controllers have too many buttons?......Or maybe you can hold it to your chest like an autoharp...........what you need is a keyboard or controller in where you pull, rather than push the buttons, you know, like an old cigarette machine, kinda like an operators switchboard.

colossus16

The Keyboard looks totally badass!!!! I see that there's multiples of some of the keys. The P button should be in a more convenient position, because in a lot of online games, P is pause, the all important function.

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