If you’re in the market for a new speaker set for your PC, laptop, or tablet, I’ve got a solid recommendation for you: the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. Now, I’ll be upfront—this setup isn’t exactly new; it’s been around since 2002. Yep, 2002! So, why am I talking about it now? Good question. I’ve always been a fan of Logitech speakers for my main PC setup, and while I’ve had a great experience with them, I felt it was time to try something different. My last set, the Logitech Z323, was starting to show its age, and even before that, I felt they were a little underpowered. That’s where the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 comes in. Let’s dive in and see why it might just be the upgrade you’ve been looking for. Enter the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System.
Enter the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX Certified Computer Speaker System.
Manufacturer: Klipsch
Platforms: PC, Mac, Tablets & Mobile devices
Specs: 200 watts total system power • 2x satellites,
1x subwoofer • 31Hz – 20kHz frequency response • 106dB output.
MSRP: $139.99
So, what’s a geek to do when their old speakers bite the dust? Simple—grab a new set, of course! After browsing through the aisles of my not-so-local PC shop, I finally decided on the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1, and I’m definitely glad I did. To be honest, I did give some Altec Lansing options a try, and I was even considering the RAZER Leviathan soundbar as a replacement. But, as luck would have it, the Leviathan wasn’t due to ship until the end of December 2014, and most stores weren’t expecting it until early 2015. Looks like that’ll be a “maybe next time” situation.
Now, when it comes to the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1, don’t expect much in the way of extras in the box. You get the essentials: left and right speakers, a subwoofer, and some wires. It’s a pretty no-frills package, so if you’re hoping for a dock, remote control, or Bluetooth adapter, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a solid setup that won’t break the bank, this is exactly what you need.
One of the standout features of the ProMedia 2.1 is the subwoofer adjustment knob, which is located on the right speaker instead of on the subwoofer itself. This is especially handy if you place your subwoofer on the floor—trust me, you definitely don’t want to put this beast on your desk. It’ll rattle your entire workspace in all the wrong ways. Another nice touch is that the speakers connect to the subwoofer via speaker wires rather than RCA connectors or a specialized jack. This gives you two key advantages: you can easily replace or extend the wiring, and you can use banana plugs to make a more secure and reliable connection. This is something I highly recommend if you have little critters—whether pets or children—that love to hide under desks and mess with your gear.
The speakers also come with removable grills that expose the drivers, and the right speaker includes both a headphone jack and an auxiliary input, letting you connect external devices like your MP3 player, iPod, or Android phone via a mini-plug. There’s also an output for plugging in a pair of headphones, which is a nice touch for when you want to go private with your sound. One more bonus: the control module is detachable and replaceable through Klipsch’s website, so if anything happens to it, you don’t have to toss the whole system. I’ve already ordered a replacement myself, mainly due to the fact that kids and delicate electronics don’t always mix well!
In short, the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 is a simple, solid setup that delivers great sound without all the bells and whistles. It’s a perfect choice if you want high-quality audio without breaking the bank.
So how do they perform?
To put the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 through its paces, I tested it with a mix of racing games, movies, and music. I played Need for Speed: Most Wanted, GRID: Autosport, and Far Cry 4, watched Need for Speed and Black Hawk Down, and jammed out to the Gundam Build Fighters Original Soundtrack and EXIT TRANCE PRESENTS SPEED just to see how well they handled all types of audio. And let me tell you, every note was crisp and clear. The speakers were incredibly responsive, and the subwoofer was always there to drop some deep, explosive booms when needed.
What started as a simple speaker upgrade completely transformed my movie-watching and gaming experience, bringing it to a whole new level. Cranking the subwoofer up a notch or two was all it took to shake the walls and floor of my office—and yes, a few items on my shelves even fell victim to the powerful bass. My wife, however, didn’t quite share my enthusiasm… Sorry, honey, but these speakers are just too good to turn down!
A bonus is that these speakers are THX certified and deliver 200 watts of total power (35 watts per channel and 130 watts peak at the subwoofer). Honestly, I don’t even need to head into my home theater anymore if I just want a quick movie session. This setup gives me all the audio I need and then some, providing a worthy companion to my visual setup.
That said, there are a few things I noticed that stood out. First, the speaker wires are a little on the thin side. It’s not a deal-breaker, but I wish they were a bit thicker. They’re just a tad too flimsy for my liking. Second, while the speakers and subwoofer do a great job overall, I noticed they can sometimes struggle with certain highs and lows. It’s not a major flaw, but something worth mentioning if you’re listening for it. I’m also not a fan of the stands the speakers sit on—they feel cheap and flimsy. A light press from the top of the speaker will make the stand bend downwards, which isn’t the most reassuring thing. Finally, these speakers are on the larger side. Depending on how much desk space you have, they may take up more room than you’d like. They’re not as large as full home theater bookshelf speakers, but they are still pretty big for PC speakers.
Overall, these are easily some of the best bookshelf speakers I’ve owned in a long time, and I don’t see myself replacing them anytime soon. I absolutely love them. My wife, on the other hand, isn’t exactly a fan—but hey, that’s a good sign, right? It means they’re really delivering the goods.
Is the Kilpsch Promedia 2.1 worth it? You better believe it is!
Can't go wrong with the Kilpsch Promedia 2.1
The Kilpsch Promedia 2.1 is a fantastic buy and can be found at $139.99 or below which is a testament of their staying power since when they originally went on sale back in 2002 they were selling for $159.99. Kilpsch hit the sweet spot with this 2.1 package and for the money, you could do worse than to pick this up. Decent highs and lows all while being accompanied with a nice looking design, the Kilpsch Promedia 2.1 is perfect as a replacement set or for the gamer/movie-goer looking to add a little more oomph to their PC, Laptop or Tablet setup.
Just be sure NOT to crank it up when your significant other is trying to get some sleep. they may not appreciate it as much as you do!
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Fantastic Buy
