Logitech SoundMan Xtrusio DSR-100

Conclusion

Standing at the top of Logitech’s SoundMan speaker line, the DSR-100 is a high powered 4.1 speaker system that brings another quality option to the market.  It combines higher power with moderate features to be a straightforward system that focuses on the sound and not on the gimmicks.

The setup process for the system was fairly straightforward.  The choice of digital or analog connection adds flexibility to the system.  For those users whose 4 channel audio card offers the digital output, it makes for an excellent sounding and easy setup.  The cable lengths are for a moderate size setup, definitely designed for the desktop and not the living room.  The system went up quickly and got down to business.

The remote control simplifies the user interface to the system by allowing all of the components to be placed during installation and then left alone.  It has the power and volume controls, in addition to front to rear fader and a headphone connection.  Moving the headphone connection to the desktop is a quality feature for users who do not have easy access to their headphone jack.  If anything, it is a little small and could get pushed around a cluttered desktop, though it could be secured to a surface should the user choose to arrange their own mounting system.

The physical design of these speakers is worth a little bit of mention as the enclosure design influences the sound some.  Instead of squat cubes, the satellites are taller with a slight angle designed to project the sound up to a listener’s ears.  The extra height allows the source of the sound to be above desk clutter; there’s less to interfere with the listening experience this way.  The subwoofer is also designed in the taller, skinnier style; if it’s under the desk, there’s definitely more foot room.

The sound of the system is very strong.  It seems to have overcome some of the tonal problems that plague satellite/sub combinations to keep a level frequency response.  This allows it to serve as a music or DVD playback system when it’s not serving its primary role as a gaming system.  The functionality helps reinforce the value of the system.

The Logitech Xtrusio DSR-100 system is an excellent option for a 4.1 speaker system.  It provides a combination of both sonic quality with power that will satisfy many users.  It is primarily suited to gamers looking for 4.1 compatiblity for use with games offering four channel output, though will extend to other applications with ease.  At $179, the system represents an investment in quality, though the value is still strong.  To sweeten the deal, a full retail version of PowerDVD that otherwise would be $49 is included in the package.  The system will not disappoint.