This article is more than 1 year old

Logitech Z Cinema advanced surround sound system

Put your PC’s audio on a course of steroids

Yes, we know the Z Cinéma is aimed firmly as PC users, but it wouldn't have hurt to give the option of home-cinema usage. The sound is good enough. Incidentally, the MP3 jack goes into one of the speakers and not the main system, and playback suffers as a result.

However, to be fair, sound is only half of what the system is about. The unit is designed to work with the PC control system to allow the speakers to become part of the actual set-up and control interface of your PC. A nice little GUI pops up on the computer screen whenever you want to adjust something basic like volume, but the unit has a well laid out remote that allows direct control of all of the media stored on the PC.

Logitech Z Cinéma advanced surround sound system

The remote is a complete control centre for Windows Media Center

The remote is a complete control centre for Windows Media Center and Windows Vista. Users can access media controls, application shortcuts, internet radio and playlist presets all direct from the remote. The black Level button hops through each of the basics like volume, bass, treble, balance and surround levels, which is then adjusted with the large silver dial.

Extra options include shuffle and repeat modes (where supported) and there are four preset buttons that can store a playlist or favourite internet radio station. Just like a radio, the preset button stores the information when it's held pressed for a moment or two. We found this all worked pretty well, with the nice chunky size of the remote and logical layout making control and access easy right from the off, with not much bedding-in time before you really get the hang of it.

Verdict

For a person who is sure they are going to be using a PC as their main entertainment hub, then Logitech's Z Cinéma is a sensible investment. It's not cheap, which counts against it a little. However, the system does have a genuine audio pedigree and you can hear where the money went.

80%

Logitech Z Cinema advanced surround sound system

Cost counts against this system, but what you do get for your money is pretty awesome
Price: £250 / $300 / €300 RRP

More about

More about

More about

TIP US OFF

Send us news


Other stories you might like