Cheap speakers that rock

BY CHRIS CHONG

e3100
(Edifier)
2.1-channel PC speakers
Satellite speakers: 2 x 8 watts RMS (root mean square)
Subwoofer: 12 watts RMS
Frequency response: 48Hz to 20KHz
Signal-to-noise ratio: more than 85dB
Inputs: Analogue stereo RCA or minijack (via bundled adaptor cables)
Additional features: Bass and treble level knobs, magnetically shielded speakers
Price: RM179
Website: www.edifier.ca
Review unit courtesy of Inter-Asia Technology Sdn Bhd, (03) 6276 6292

IN A sea of affordable/budget PC speakers, the 2.1-channel Edifier e3100 stands out like a lighthouse - casting a ray of excellent sound quality (if that's possible) across the entire market.

A pretty bold statement, but very much deserved. Apart from its tastefully-designed satellite and subwoofer speaker housings (made from wood, which is acoustically superior to plastic), it's one of the few sub-RM200 speakers which can actually hold a candle against premium-priced speakers.

Its modest power ratings (8 watts RMS per satellite speaker and 12 watts for the subwoofer) belie its sonic capabilities. 

The satellites have both midrange drivers (3in) and tweeters (3/4in), which give solid vocals, speech and instrument solos without the piercing or strained quality that comes with the use of smaller speakers.

The satellite speakers handle midrange frequencies really well and are perfectly matched to the subwoofer, so you won't find the sort of hollow gaps that are normally associated with 2.1-channel speaker systems. Electric guitar solos sound great on this thing.

The frequency crossover between the satellites and subwoofer is pretty low too (my guess is somewhere around 200Hz), which endows the e3100 with all-encompassing diffused, non-directional bass.

It's a pretty well sorted woofer too, with rich bass that starts and stops quickly. Its frequency response is pretty linear too, so there are neither peaks nor boomy bass. 

As a result, it renders bass lines in a satisfyingly nimble way. Don't worry about the high-ish 48Hz frequency cut-off - you're not likely to notice it.

For a budget PC speaker, the amp is seriously good and is able to render music with excellent sound separation between various instruments. 

It sounds a little rough if you try to play music at uncomfortably loud listening levels, but you're probably looking at the wrong kind of speakers if that's what you're after.

I'm normally quite picky when it comes to speakers, but words fail me in describing the sheer excellence of the Edifier e3100. 

For what you get, it's an incredible bargain and I guarantee that you will not be disappointed. Go ahead and buy one today.

Pros: Excellent sound quality; perfectly matched satellites and subwoofers; bargain bin price.

Cons: Nothing, it's perfect!