Reviewed: November 4, 2004
Reviewed by: Mark Smith
Manufacturer
Altec Lansing
Type: Speakers
System: Home Video
Rating: 7.8
Features
MSRP: $49.95
There is no doubt about it; Altec Lansing delivers some of the best audio products in the industry and they have always tried to provided something for everyone based on their needs and their budget. The XA2021 is a 3-piece speaker system by Altec Lancing that falls into their existing line-up just below the XA3021 released back in 2002. Coming in at half the price and half the wattage, the XA2021 is designed for those on a budget who aren't ready to move into the world of 3D surroud, or perhaps just short on space.
The XA2021 sounds great considering they offer a standard stereo output, and the subwoofer makes this setup sound deceptively larger than it really is adding plenty of punch to enhance games, movies, and music. But keep in mind these speakers are merely intended to replace those tiny tweeters in your existing TV. Don't expect mind-blowing surround with the XA2021; it's just not possible.
Setting up the system is a breeze. Everything is color-coded so you likely won't even have to unfold the Quick Connect Card, but if you enjoy easy-to-read diagrams, they are readily available. The system comes with a 3-meter stereo audio RCA cable, so if your TV has audio out jacks you can plug that into the subwoofer and are ready to enjoying TV in expanded stereo with thumping base. If you have multiple game system you will either need to swap cables as needed or run your components through a audio/video switchbox.
The entire installation from unpacking to listening should take no more than 15-20 minutes. Of course if you want to strategically place your speakers it may take some extra time running wire. The XA2021 also comes with mounting hardware to mount the satellite speakers to the wall.
An auxiliary jack is also provided so you can attach one additional device like a portable CD or MP3 player. You won’t believe how good and how big the sound is even if you’re using a matchbook sized MP3 player.
Despite the lack of Dolby Surround, these speakers sound amazing for the price. Nothing sounded tinny and there was not a trace of static even at high volumes, and unless you’ve got a huge room or just a need to make your ears bleed you won’t need to go much past the halfway mark.
The XA2021 doesn’t come with a remote so you will need to adjust the volume on the back of the subwoofer unit. Admittedly, it’s a bit inconvenient but you can’t get everything when you are on a budget. There is also a headphone jack that will mute the speakers and allow you to game in private. I jacked in my AHS602 Gaming Headset (also from Altec Lansing) and the feature worked perfectly.
The XA2021 speakers look as good as they sound with and attractive subwoofer box design and some small but powerful satellite speakers that look like those giant microphones from a radio broadcast booth. The black and charcoal gray design is very attractive and will blend into nearly any type of décor.
With savvy gamers becoming more and more aware of Dolby Digital, and Pro Logic II, and many gamers playing on high dollar home theater rigs I have to wonder just how popular a 2.1 speaker system will be. But I suppose there are plenty of gamers who would rather buy games than expensive audio hardware and the XA2021 is an affordable and functional speaker set.
Overall, I can say I’m quite pleased with the performance of these speakers, especially for their size and price range. They’re not much different than a typical subwoofer and speaker set you might buy for a PC, and they will make a great addition to your gaming rig, TV, personal listening device, or any other audio source you want to plug in.
A second look at the XA202 by Roger Cox
Many of you know that a good home stereo system will cost you $500 minimum. Many gamers have already invested that much or more on their main system, but still have a second TV in their home.
I have a really nice 7.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound system in the basement that I love playing games on, but there are times when that area is occupied by my family. That’s when I take my game consoles upstairs and play on my 25” stereo TV. Going from 7.1 surround to 2-channel stereo is a big downgrade, but you can make your stereo experience better by hooking up the new Altec Lansing XA2021.
This 3 piece speaker system comes with 2 satellite speaks and a sub. It retails for $49.99 and at this price it’s a cheep investment that’s sure to enhance your stereo experience for gaming or watching DVD’s or TV.
I wasn’t very optimistic about a $50 system, but after using it for over a week I can honestly say that I’m happier with it, than without. Altec Lansing has managed to create a very good stereo system at a reasonable price. The XA2021 sounds surprising crisp and clear at high volumes. I would definitely recommend purchasing this system for any stereo TV you currently play on.