4. Believing Your Ears

Our test instruments showed that the 5021 tends to favor the highs. By no means unacceptable, but still evident, with the high bass and low midrange rather subdued. This is common, because it's no easy matter for speakers this small to blend with the subwoofer. Now there is nothing to say against the bass. It is regular and its range is all you could wish, from 30Hz (the lowest music notes) to 150Hz (where it segues into the midrange). Though not the performance of the most advanced equipment, it is still more than honorable.

For the volume, there is no problem either. Our usual test reached 115dB, comparable to other systems in the same category and objectively very satisfactory.

Top Sound Level: 115dB SPL

The clear, sharp sound is pleasant for the hears. The timbres are generally fairly neutral, though the treble is slightly more marked and can be quite noticeable in some programs. To deal with this, you have to use the treble corrector to drop the pitch a bit. On other programs, clearness is more of an asset but, if you are seeking maximum neutrality, you'll be let down because the sound is definitely projected. This is not too good for the subtlety of the stereo picture. On the other hand, Altec is true to its reputation for the bass, which is a joy to hear. And if strength is what you're after, you'll not be short on volume either. You won't reach the fullness of bigger speakers, but you will find the default setting is certainly not to be quarreled with.

Conclusion

Very pleasing to look at, the MX-5021 has many qualities that make it very attractive. However, true sound quality buffs will not be completely enthralled. Many adjustments must also be made to adjust the sound. In spite of that, it certainly ranks among the few sound systems for PCs that recommend themselves to demanding listeners.