Listening Tests

Soundcards Used:
Auzentech X-fi Prelude 7.1
Realtek Azalia HD Codec

a. Music

I used a large assortment of music to test the full capabilities of this speaker system. I used everything from Beethoven and Mozart to Ozzy Osbourne and DMX and of course the obligatory speaker tests. This system produced great low range without bottoming out on the Bass heavy tracks. You can turn the Bass knob up to full and the sub kicks and punches pretty good for the size. There was nice stereo imaging produced and the soundstage was nice, deep and accurate. This system produced a very nice balanced sound across the spectrum although I noticed some distortion at the highest volume settings available. The E3400’s didn’t disappoint no matter what tracks I played. This speaker system was also tested using two different PC sound sources to give this reviewer an accurate overall impression of the sound output. I should note a system of this power rating will not fill a room but is quite loud when sitting at a PC desk.

b. Movies

For movies I personally prefer surround sound, I will say that up front. This system again earned its keep and proved accurate sound across the front image. The virtual center produced by the 2 satellites was clear, articulate and concise. This systems subwoofer takes its bass signal from the Front L&R signal. The Video players are setup for 2.0 although you can use Virtual surround technologies etc. I used my standard test DVD’s which I have been adding to. This system performed well beyond it’s price point for the tested media.

Movies Tested:
Ozzy Osbourne: Live at Budokan
Saving Private Ryan: Omaha Landing Sequence
Twister: Tornado Sequences
Star Wars: EPIII: Revenge of the Sith – Intro Sequence
Van Halen: Live Without a Net – Couldn’t Resist.

c. Gaming

This system provides nice heavy low tones for gaming. I played a few newer first person shooters with a lot of action to see if the system would be overwhelmed with all the information. They provided accurate sound reproduction and perfect directional audio for all the games tested. I used both EAX and Miles 2D positional in some games. I also played the games using the Azailia Codec onboard as many people are using onboard sound solutions. The E3400’s are a great 2.1 solution for gamers if they prefer 2.1 over 5.1 on both sound solutions.
Games Tested:
MOH: Airborne
COD4 Modern Warfare: Demo
COD2: Russian levels
Prince of Persia: Sands of Time