Expert Review
Logitech PlayGear Amp portable speakers

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Expert Review

Logitech PlayGear Amp portable speakers

Date Published: 6/8/06

Logitech's PlayGear Amp is a set of powered speakers designed for use with the Sony PlayStation Portable. They work well with the PSP, as intended, but they also make a great companion for an iPod or other portable music player.

The design includes a pair of full-range, 1-inch micro drivers in each speaker. The speakers fold up for portability, and when unfolded they conveniently cradle a PSP between them. An integrated amp, powered by either four AAA batteries or the included AC adapter, drives the speakers. Controls are limited to power on/off and volume buttons, both of which are situated along the top of the unit.

Connecting the speakers to a PSP is a walk in the park. The included PSP cradle fits between the speakers, and the audio cable connects the speaker inputs to the PSP audio-out connector. Unfortunately, the supplied PSP cradle is a simple holding device, and it doesn't provide any integrated electrical connections. Connecting the system to a laptop or desktop computer is just as simple, although you may need to spring for an extender cable because the included cables aren't designed for a long reach.

The PlayGear Amp delivers amazing sound for such small speakers, both in quantity and quality. They won't rattle the floor with bass or make the windows shimmy from high volume levels, but they do produce clean, accurate sound. They are relatively distortion-free at higher volumes, but don't try to push them beyond their limit of operation.

As might be expected, the speakers produce most of their output in the mid and upper range of the audio spectrum. The high end is not so overpowered in response that it sounds shrill or tearing. For general music or movie playback, the speakers perform quite well. For game effects involving deep bass, such as explosions, the lack of strong, room-shaking bass is a minor disappointment.

However, the Logitech PlayGear Amp was designed to be portable, and it does a wonderful job at its intended purpose.

Pro: Small, lightweight, portable speaker system. Excellent overall sound reproduction. The package includes a PSP cradle and all necessary cables, as well as a deluxe travel case.
Con: Lacks deep bass. You can't separate the speakers from their stand for a wider soundstage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Logitech Inc.
6505 Kaiser Drive
Fremont, CA 94555
510-795-8500 Main
800-231-7717 Sales
http://www.logitech.com



Warranty
1 year



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Magic Debugger

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type: review
category: l4-cp-mp3-accessories

brws title: Logitech PlayGear Amp portable speakers Review: Powered by Consumer Guide and HowStuffWorks

meta d: The Logitech PlayGear Amp portable speakers are good for portable game consoles and music players, like iPods. Read Consumer Guide's review.

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