A LOUD, more than adequate sound system.

Sound output is above average for price of system (I got a rebate which made it very attractive). The 7.1 System with a Creative Sound Card made for 7.1 (as I have) is quite the match. BE AWARE THAT THE CREATIVE AUDIGY 2 ZS SOUND CARD WHICH IS MADE FOR A 7.1 SYSTEM HAS SOME SERIOUS CONFLICT ISSUES WHILE GAMING THAT MAY HAVE TO BE ADDRESSED BY A PROFESSIONAL TECHNICIAN. Also, know that a sound card capable of providing all 7 speakers recognized is required. Many complaints that "two speakers didn't work" are because of the sound card, not the failure of the speakers.

Though some might list it as a Con, I find the wired remote to be quite convenient with the long cord run behind my desk and the remote in reach near my monitor (volume, bass control, and a headset connection on the remote). Good directions - easy to follow - even a caveman could do it! Supplied stickers allow for tagging designations of speakers.

I can understand why some might like to see speaker stands included (they aren't). Personally, I don't like more on my desk and preferred hanging them on the wall, so no detriment for me, though they aren't supplied with wall hanging hardware, either. Biggest Con I have is side speakers do not have adequate wire length if you plan on having any significant distance. All speakers could probably use a few more feet of wire. I will likely be doing some splicing in the near future on the side speakers.

NOTE! CHECK TO MAKE SURE YOUR SOUND CARD IS 7.1 CAPABLE (Many complain that 2 speakers fail to work after purchase - due to inability of Sound card - not the speakers).

Other Thoughts: This system might be viewed as a nightmare to set up if you have no clue about running wires and matching connections. I did not find it difficult, as all wires were marked well. 7 speakers with 7 wires running to a well marked subwoofer for hook-up (read the directions for connecting to proper input locations). One reviewer on another site mentioned the power unit getting hot. That had me concerned and have checked on it often. Never more than warm on mine - as expected. Not even close to "hot." I would agree with anyone who says that this is probably not the system for serious music masters (I would expect they would spring for Bose or other super quality speakers), but for those of us who want to do the gaming or just hear a decent music playback in 7.1, this has a good bang for the buck.

For a basic and solid 7.1 system without going broke, that has a very good sound, you can't get any better than this for the price! For those reviewers who complain of "cheap" quality, I suggest they spend the $500 - $700 for a "great" 7.1 system. These are definitely worth the price.