The signal response of the
Model 251 5.1 speaker system is excellent. (Freq. Res.: 35 Hz - 18kHZ). The 'compact subwoofer' is actually a pretty decent size for a system designed for a PC (that's a good thing), and has a nice, solid deep bass response. The satellite speakers have a clear midrange and a crisp high, revealing things I had previously not heard in both music recordings and games on my PC. The speakers have two listening modes specifically engineered to maximize the quality of the output depending on the number of inputs used. There is a 6 channel mode that acts as a true 5.1 surround system, and a 2/4 channel system that simulates surround sound (very well) from two or four channel sound cards, CD players, Mini-Disc players, MP3 players, and with an included 'Y' adapter, the console of your choice or even a DVD player or a VCR.
I was very impressed with the volume these 90 watt speakers were capable of. But, just as impressive is how smartly the speakers are designed; not only is the appearance stylish and sleek, but the installation is made simple and basically fool-proof by not only color-coded cords, but custom designed connectors, designed so that the cords that come on the speakers can only be plugged into the correct holes without modification. I will point out, however, that the design does not preclude over the counter AV cables from plugging into the connections, allowing for extension cords if you wish to move back your rear speakers. (This is not suggested by either Altec Lansing or this website, but it could be done.) This would likely throw off the 5.1 surround sound integrity, as the rear speakers would have longer cords than the front speakers, but it might allow for installation in a larger entertainment area.
