Comdex: Flat, flat, the world is flat...
Top of the list for value for money, not to mention good looks, has to be Gallant's AudioStorm range - there are seven different configurations available - which offer reasonable performance for between $29 and $199. (UK prices are expected to be the same in pounds).
The AudioStorm FS2 comes with two 3 Watt (RMS) flat panel speakers and an amplifier. This is the "beginners pack" at $29. Top of the range is the $199 AudioStorm MT7 D/X 5.1 Dolby Digital Multimedia Theatre Speaker System with Dolby Digital decoder (6 channels) 12 Watt Subwoofer, 3 Watt centre speaker, four 3 Watt flat panel speakers and an amplifier.
Benwin, a Taiwanese manufacturer, was also showing off its wares - two 3 Watt flat panel speakers - called satellites - and a 6 Watt subwoofer. The Benwin range is significantly more expensive at $135 for a basic system (comparable to a mid-range AudioStorm DK4 ProLogic Upgrade kit at $109) with two speakers and a subwoofer.
With the arrival of Creative and Diamond's 3D surround systems, these speaker solutions will be an obvious choice for early adopters looking for a bit of class on the desktop.
Gallant's AudioStorm range is expected to arrive in the UK next month with Benwin following about six months later.