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Strengths: Great simulated 5.1 sound for a 2.1 system, desktop control pad, sleek design
Weaknesses: Price - $399 is high, but was the same everywhere when I got them (of course I just got an e-mail today from MacMall with a price that is $80 less... Go figure!)
Summary: 2007-12-15 06:06:52 This new series of Bose Companion speakers is a huge step up in design from the previous series. the Companion 5 system give a simulated 5.1 surround sound experience from a 2.1 configuration. Bose does this by putting two small angled speakers in each of the satellites aiming the two inner speakers at the listener, and the other two are angled slightly to each side. this configuration along with software gives the illusion that there are rear speakers with a good 5.1 sound source - like a movie. With standard stereo input (CD's or MP3's...) the speakers still give you a wider soundstage than you would have with a regular 2.1 system.
The "Acoustimass" module is a little more sensitive in placement that a standard subwoofer in a system due to the fact that it handles a higher range of frequency - it covers a portion of the lower-mids along with the bass usually associated with a subwoofer. I originally placed the module behind a filing cabinet under my desk, but this produced a slight hole in the lower-mids, and also made the lows a little boomy from being too close to the wall. turning the module so it fires forward alleviated these problems.
The desktop "Control Pod" is very natural to use. I have used keyboard and other "up/down" button solutions for volume control, but nothing works as well as a physical turn dial when you need to change the volume fast. The operation is very smooth and solid, and the touch sensitive center mute control with LED status indicator also works well. There are also two mini jacks for auxiliary input/output (MP3 player, earphones) so you don't have to crawl on the floor behind your computer to hook something up.
So far I have been impressed with the sound of this system for computer use. If you are looking for a great sounding system that can also play some 5.1 material while saving you the trouble of trying to place rear speakers, this may be what you are looking for. If you use your computer more for viewing movies or playing games, and want the best 5.1 surround sound experience, then you would be better off with a true 5.1 surround system. For me, this system give me the balance I was looking for.
***UPDATE***
Regarding the much lower price from MacMall - I called Bose to find out if MacMall was an Authorized Dealer, and was told that neither MacMall or PC Mall could be found on their list of Authorized dealers. Bose will only warranty products purchased through Authorized Dealers. I called MacMall and the Customer Service representative said that they were an Authorized Dealer - I asked him to send me an e-mail with something showing this, and he said he would. It has been over a week with no response (December 8, 2007).
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