Razer Mako Advanced Desktop Speakers

Advanced Desktop Speakers Bring The Sonic Ruckus

We want a set of desktop speakers to do two things: look hotter than an Icelandic supermodel and rupture eardrums like a low altitude sonic boom. Trouble is, most 2.1 systems score big in the aesthetics department but cough up a fumble when it comes to serious sound.

That was until we got a hold of a set of THX Razer Mako speakers. This 2.1 desktop system is one of the finest we've ever laid eyes or ears on. First off, the giant mushroom black matte speakers are gorgeous - they're striking enough to amp up even the most grayscale office drone cubicle. Plus this unusual design serves an actual purpose. The rounded 100-watt satellites produce what's called omni directional sound. Unlike traditional speakers that spew audio in one narrow direction, the Mako's shoot sound waves downwards and outwards in 360 degrees. Result? Audio from your movies, music, and games can be heard from virtually any direction. Especially clear and resonant are high and mid ranges.

But it's at low fidelity where the system runs into a bit of trouble. Bass response is a tad disappointing, especially when considering the sub's specs: 100 watts with a 120Hz crossover frequency. In an effort to improve low-end thump, we tried moving the woofer onto different surfaces (concrete floor, carpet, hardwood) but it didn't make much of a difference. Four hundred bills may be a lot to ask for speakers designed to sit atop a desk, but if you've got the scratch, there's nary another 2.1 system that can match the Mako's performance. Trust us, your ears will thank you - your cube-farm neighbors just might not.

WIRED Easy to install. Easy to set up. Easy to calibrate. Easy listening. Excellent audio performance with diverse separation at mid and high ranges. Gaming performance is exemplary - gunshots and explosions had us ducking for cover. Omnidirectional sound fills a room up with equally balanced sound.

TIRED Touch sensitive controller is beautiful but often unresponsive and ambiguous. Ho-hum bass performance is a head-scratcher. We want to feel our Barry White, not just hear him.

• Home Audio Components: Speakers
• Manufacturer: Razer
• Price: $400