When I first saw Altec Lansing VS3251 powered audio system in a computer shop few months ago, I couldn’t resist drooling. I’ve been considering getting a new audio system for my computer because my four-year old second-hand stereo speakers start to manifest signs of death. What else could you expect from a second-hand – longevity?

Early this month I went again to the computer shop and took some glimpse on their sound solutions. I had several choices such as Edifier, Logitech, Creative, among others – but Altec Lansing stood above all of them. When I asked the sales representative to do a sound test for each of my desired speakers, Altec’s VS3251 immediately took my heart out. So, without second thought, I took my little savings and bought it. Now, this is my review.

What I Got

Aside from the pompous Altec box that I could brag to my friends, I also got five shiny surround speakers with removable stands, a wireless remote control, three audio input cords, and a subwoofer housed in a wooden cabinet.

Each of the five speakers is powered by one full-range 2.5” driver. The subwoofer, on the other hand, runs with one 5.25” long-throw woofer.

The VS3251 Experience

Setting up the speakers was quite easy and smooth. The 5.1 input audio ports (front, rear and center) are found at the back of the subwoofer box. Only the green (center) port is required for you to hear a sound from the speakers. Hooking all the audio inputs gives awesome 5.1 surround sound especially when the source audio comes from a six-channel sound card.

Altec made VS3251 a versatile sound system. Other than PC input, it also accepts music from MP3 players (iPod), TVs, DVD players, and even game consoles. The wooden subwoofer cabinet also features auxiliary input and headphone for private listening.

First, I started playing music from Winamp media player. I chose Bob Sinclar Feat. Fireball’s What I Want to immediately feel the speakers’ bass and power. I was surprised with the clarity of sound. The bass is powerful – the long-throw subwoofer lets me feel all the shakes and quakes. In fact, I ended up dancing with the music like a freaking idiot.

When I raised the volume to the highest level, I was really astounded with the consistency of great sound. The bass never failed and the highs were still clear – it felt like I was listening from large speakers.

The remote control allows easy toggle between surround and stereo modes – both provide outstanding performance. Surround mode is very ideal for watching movies and playing games, while stereo is perfect for listening music.

I watched Harry Potter movies to see how Altec VS3251 performs with movies – and to feel the difference of surround technology. It felt like I brought the movie theater at home. So much similar that one of our neighbors came to our house and joined me watching the movies. We were all incredulous and amazed how the five small speakers produce a very large and clear sound. Oh well, it’s Altec.

Conclusion

Altec Lansing VS3251 powered audio system exceeded my expectations. I did not regret buying it. I found the best replacement for my dying stereo speakers.

Price

Currently, Altec Lansing sells VS3251 audio system for $79.95. It has a big brother in same category, Altec Lansing FX5051 which unfortunately, is not available in our area and is quite expensive for me at $249.95.

About Altec Lansing

Altec Lansing is known manufacturer of high quality speaker systems. They have led the sound industry in audio innovation for 70 years. To give you idea how great their products are, their speaker systems have formed the backbone of world renowned places such as The United Nations Building, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Disneyland and Disneyworld, New York’s Lincoln Philharmonic Center and the Schubert Theatre, MGM’s Grand Hotel, The Singapore National Stadium, and The Sydney Opera House, to name a few.