Most modern PCs come equipped with advanced sound cards capable of outputting multi-channel streams designed to envelop the listener with audio. To take advantage of them, though, a surround-sound speaker set is needed, and that's exactly what Logitech is offering with the Z560.

This five-piece system comprises four satellites and a large sub-woofer and is capable of delivering 400W of output power. It produces a clear sound that copes well with both bass and treble.

The speakers have a slick, black finish and come with aluminium stands that can be fixed to a wall. Removing the styled front grilles presents a polished aluminium mechanism, typically found in the speakers of high-quality home cinema systems.

The units sport hi-fi-style screw-thread connectors, making simple cable extensions possible (most PC speaker systems are restricted by specialist leads).

The system is controlled via a desktop box which has volume, bass and fader knobs, as well as a switch to turn on Logitech's M3D Matrix surround-sound technology. This convincingly converts a simple two-channel stereo source to give the impression of full surround sound.

Another noteworthy feature is THX certification which, in effect, is a guarantee that audio reproduction will be faithful to film directors' intentions. In the PC arena it means very little because, as far as we know, THX-certified sound cards have yet to appear.

The inclusion of a remote control handset would have been a nice touch to appeal to those wanting to use the Z560 in conjunction with a console or DVD player, and a control deck that was built into the front speaker in Logitech's Z540 and Z340 speakers might have appealed to anyone who has an overcrowded desk.

Specifications:

Price: £199.99 (inc VAT)

Contact: Logitech 01753 870900
www.logitech.com