Logitech X-240 2.1 Music Center Speakers

At the 2007 CES, one product announcement set the PC audio industry on its ear. That announcement was made by Razer, who demonstrated an intriguing, oddly-styled 2.1 powered speaker system co-developed with THX, Ltd and touting a host of innovative technologies as well as THX certification. Another PC audio product launch at the 2007 CES that received comparatively less fanfare, and generated a lesser amount of industry buzz, was Logitech’s new X-240 speaker system.

Of course, for a 2.1 loudspeaker setup that can be had for less than $50, there’s usually not that much to be excited about. What makes the Logitech product announcement of special interest, however, is the fact that the new model belongs to Logitech’s X-series speakers, known for exceeding the status quo in price-to-performance ratio with the $99 X-540 5.1 speaker system. Could the new X-240 speakers be able to manage the same feat in the $50 price category?

What really sets the X-240 speakers apart from the competition in the $50 price bracket is a special design for the speakers’ wired remote which integrates a nifty little stand that can accommodate several types of portable music players, including Apple’s iPod. Because of this feature, the X-240 are called “Music Center” speakers, though they’re still primarily intended as speakers for your PC.

A few weeks ago, Logitech was kind enough to send a sample of the new X-240 system for evaluation. What follows is an in-depth look at the system’s features and design, and we’ll also see if Logitech can manage the same status-quo-shattering performance from this low-priced 2.1 system.