This is just an amazing sound system. The technology of converting USB audio into true 5.1 surround sound is here and it is fabulous. I would be remiss if I did not mention that there was a constant low frequency "hiss" that came through each speaker using the USB connection. It was not overpowering - but when the system was not in use, it was detectable. This did not occur through a direct connection to a 5.1 surround card.

Aside from that - there is nothing to complain about here. Dedicated 5.1 surround sound when the right sound source is playing and great sound from all around when a standard 2 channel sound source is in use. The detail, high frequencies and room shaking bass make this sound much superior to any single unit add on for your MP3 player and it gives you 5.1 sound from DVD's.

At US$249.00 MSRP (and less on the web) it costs about the same as other "premium" all in one sound systems and delivers sound and technology they just can't match.

Pros:

• Amazing detail, bass and over all sound
• Truly immersive 5.1 sound when using the appropriate media

Cons:

• Slight low frequency hiss detectable when not being used to reproduce music or other source material.

The FX5051 is available at www.alteclansing.com and at on-line merchants.