Bose Companion 3 - 2.1-channel PC multimedia speaker system - black, silver
From BOSE
Experience a new level of audio performance from your computer. Bose's premium multimedia speakers provide exceptionally clean, high-quality audio while freeing up valuable desktop space. Satellite speakers can attach to your flat panel monitor or right on your desk. A compact Acoustimass module fits neatly under your desk and delivers impressive lower tones that make movies and games come to life. And an all-in-one control pod houses a headphone jack, adjusts the volume and includes an auxiliary input.Companion 3 speakers represent a premium choice for all your computer audio sources. From MP3s, CDs and Internet radio to DVDs, streaming video and games. Hear full, rich sound from tiny satellite speakers designed to complement - and conveniently attach to - flat panel monitors. It's a unique combination of elegance and convenience, whether you place them on your desk or opt for a speaker-free desktop.
- Amazon Sales Rank: #75 in Speakers
- Brand: Bose
- Model: 3
It is what it is...
I have recently purchased the Bose Companion 3 2.1 speakers, and after listening to them cranked up on some rock music yesterday, I was disappointed. It brought to mind what many folks have been saying about these suckers. I want to voice the cons first however...
I must have read 20 reviews before I bought them, and have read 30 or so since after listening to them. It is absoulutely true that the speakers sound tinny when playing loud, powerful music up close. I am sticking to jazz and easy music while at my computer because of this limitation. However, if you step a few feet away though regardless of what you're listening to, you will notice your room completely filled with well-imaged sound. Also you have to place the satellites as far apart as possible (like any other Bose speaker--they're designed that way, duh) The midrange can be non-existant, but for the price what do you expect? The connectors on the satellites need work, because they are not designed well, but you shouldn't be rough-housing around your computer anyway, so whatever...
Over time the disjunct between the sub and the tinny satellites can and will get tiring especially at loud volumes up close, but that can be EQ'd out (even a month later--to this day, I'm constantly playing with the EQ!). The sub is the most pleasant surprise for the clarity of it's output and accuracy; it is truly impressive. I didn't think I'd get this much deep, true bass. The 'puck' volume control wheel is awesome, one tap and it mutes, plus you can put the volume exactly where you want it. For the overall size of the components, the clarity is impressive and they crank!!!
Do not believe any reviews from these idiots that tell you that these speakers are absolute garbage. Anybody who is only willing to devote a mere 250.00 to ANY speakers, and calls themselves a true audiophile is insane, so don't bother listening to them. I have to say this, for what I paid for them right out of the box, I couldn't be happier, overall. For a home speaker system for any one who is serious about 'audiophility' (I made that up), they should be willing to come out of pocket for around a 1000.00, period. Bottom line is you get what you pay for. The fact that I paid less 185.00 for my Bose Companion 3 2.1 right out of the box (no they weren't stolen--employee discount) only sweetens the deal for me, but when I think about what I've paid for high-end bookshelves, even the 250.00 seems paltry for what you get. Incidentally, I'm not a Bose guy, I like JBL's and Canton audio speakers. However, these Bose are impressive so please don't believe these 'cheapos' who want 3,000.00 worth of sound for 250.00--it'd be nice, but it just ain't gonna happen. Overall your getting you money's worth with these, and then some. This is the first review I've ever written, and I'm a fairly literate guy, but I felt compelled to clear the air on this. Please take this for what it's worth and shell out your 250.00 for these (or less with a hook-up), because they are a worthy, and truly impressive upgrade.
Great Little Speakers
The Bose Companion 3's are an inspiring set of multimedia speakers. I have listened to many, and I chose these over the Logitechs and Klipsch's.
The satellites jump out at you. Dialogue sounds from movies are very loud, distinct and, clear. Low, mid and high notes are articulated very well and great right and left (stereo) separation adds to the experience.
I must add this tidbit: these speakers are the only ones I've heard that will (from time to time) produce sounds that literally sound like they are coming from right next to your ear. I've heard speaker manufacturers say "these speakers will tickle your ear", but this is taking it to extremes! I have actually been startled (nay freaked out) by some of the sound effects I've heard. I have also heard sounds that seem to come out of nowhere. You have been forewarned, listening to these speakers can be adventuresome!
The subwoofer is impressive. It is only a 5" driver but it puts out tight controlled bass. It does have the ability to produce low, deep, rumbling sounds if called upon. The sounds are quite satisfying. Bear in mind, these are advertised as multimedia/desktop speakers and are designed as such. They aren't designed to fill a large room (like the Logitechs or Klipsch's) so don't expect them to produce sound audible in the nearest adjacent county.
Unlike the others, these are designed to be placed on a desktop next to your computer monitor (hence the puck control). The subwoofer is designed to fit under the desk or other convenient place unlike the Logitech Z-5500's whose subwoofer requires an additional room to house.
Weaknesses: The high notes seem to missing. If there are frequencies above 13,000hz they won't be audible. These are the really high notes for those of you unfamiliar with sound frequencies. If you are a casual listener, you won't miss it.
I do wish I could mute the sub completely. It has woken my dad up in the middle of the night even though I had it turned down as much as I could.
For listening to music or movies, the simplicity of the Bose Companion's can't be beat. These speakers are easy to setup, control, and sound great! The ability to immediately mute from the puck has been invaluable.
One last con: The Logitech Z-5500's offer 500+ watts of power, 4 surrounds and a mid channel, and a 10" subwoofer for nearly the same price as the Bose. The Klipsch Pro Media's can be found for less than half the price of the Companions. Bose, you need to lower the price on these.
*****Addendum*****
Some reviewers have complained of "shrill" sounding drivers. You need to break your speakers in by playing them for about 12 hours after which they will be fine.
Contrary to what another reviewer said, these speakers ARE magnetically shielded.
The puck volume control has a slightly sticky base that can lose it's stickiness over time. If this happens, use a damp/moist cloth and wipe the bottom of it. It will regain it's stickiness. ;)
Some reviewers have complained of "muddy" bass. It is not muddy at all. Like all subwoofers, room placement can be the key to whether or not you will receive good sound. You may also need to "break in" your speakers.
The plugs can be pulled out quite easily on my system causing slight loss of sound from the satellites. The loss is so slight it may not be noticeable upon casual listening (this happened to me). If you notice you are not getting clear stereo separation from the left and right, this may be the culprit.
AMAZING SPEAKERS!!! A bit pricey but worth it.
Let me start by saying that I've read all possible reviews on these speakers and on many Bose products as well. It's no secret that there's a lot of Bose haters out there and they have their reasons.
However, I do believe that one should be as well informed as possible before making such an expensive buy for desktop speakers. And let me rephrase that: "desktop speakers".
You see these are not meant to fill out an entire room with sound, these little marvels are designed for the kind of music lover / gamer who just doesn't like to hear or listen to music / games, but rather live them. Speaker placement is definitely more than just 50% of what you need to do to really enjoy them.
The other 50% or so will be how you've got your music equalized and which type of music you enjoy. Personally I listen go acid jazz, ambient, classic rock, classical, new age and modern day rock. I'd say this is a very ample spectrum of music and let me tell you, they all sound great.
There's been reviews that state that there's no middle in these speakers, just highs and maybe some good bass. I beg do differ because if the woofer is placed in a corner or somewhere where there will be low frequency resonance, then you'll have to turn the bass module to minimum volume since it will rock you. The sattelites are simply impressive. They're small, sleek, nice to look at and they do tingle your inner ear. Its as is they whisper to you your music, the sound can really wrap you up.
Have I've listened to other speakers?? Definitely yes. I wouldn't say I'm an audiophile but I do have a well placed pair of ears and let me tell you the sound comming from these is far better than the sound comming from my previous Home Theater (comprissed of a Marantz 4200 AV receiver, Marantz 4200 DVD player, JBL speakers and 12" Woofer). I also have a second Home Theater from Logitec where I do notice the sound is not as clear and crisp as my HT or the Bose for the matter. The sound comming from these Bose is simply clearer, more refined, it's like having all the artitst perform for you.
Now I'm not saying they sound louder than my HTs setups. And this is where many people may find themselves mixed up. Some reviewers state that these just don't have enough power, or that they don't handle all the frequencies. Frankly if they don't handle them, then I don't know what it would sound if they did.
Bear in mind that these are once again just plain desktop speakers, but they've made me sell my HT to go after one of the Lifestyle systems from Bose. Like I've said, I've read all sords of reviews from Bose haters and share some of their thoughts but I don't share most of them and also keep in mind that this is not a review from someone working at Bose or that I'm part of any marketing scheme to promote their products. I've already gone to demo the Lifestyle pieces and they've got me convinced.... I even managed to have the salesperson demo the speakers with Bose's media Center and without it, connecting the speakers directly to a Marantz AV Receiver. And here's where Bose works it's magic because the difference was quite noticeable when connecting Bose speakers to a Bose Media Center, whereas connected to the Marantz receiver (while allegedly better quality equipment), they did sound dull.
I know that all companies have good products and bad ones, I studied Marketing with Advertising enphasys and trust me when I tell you that I'm not beeing brainwashed.
What's really funny is that to date I haven't seen or heard any of Bose's ads so for me it's just the personal use of the products which makes me be happy with them or totally unhappy.
Apparently I've been fortunate to have a still working pair of Bose Companion 3 but one needs to ask oneself what it was that happened with the other reviewers whose speakers just stopped working. That's also why one should protect the equipment behind surge protectors to further guarantee the long lasting enjoyment of your purchase. For speakers these expensive, one should do it. I haven't done it, but I use them in my office where the electrical plugs are all protected.
My final thoughts..... Bose makes products for the kind of user who whishes to listen clearer, crispier, better, not necesarilly louder. If you want something to rumble in your house, then maybe Bose is not for you, and I'm not saying it won't rumble, since it'll definitelly will. All I'm saying is that there is cheaper equipment out there that will sound louder. But.... will it sound better?? That's one question you have to figure out for yourself. Me, I'm very happy I got these.
