[Danberg]

As an "oldie" to analog audio, I would like to acquire the  basic knowledge necessary to hook up external speakers to my desktop computer at work, to listen to Pandora Radio.  I hooked up a pair of tiny, inexpensive computer speakers, but the sound they produce is very disappointing (plugged supplied computer speaker jacks into the back of my computer tower).  Absolutely no bass, weak mids and mainly a higher pitched "small" sound. 

I have several sets of speakers at home that I have used over the years on my audio systems and would like to use one of those sets.

What is necessary to do go about connecting a pair of my home audio speakers to achieve a more fuller sound.   Can it be done on the cheap? I don't want to invest a lot of money in this project, since it is at work.  Please keep the responses simple, not that computer oriented.   

[jarcher]

Get one of these :

http://www.accessories4less.com/index.php?page=item&id=TEACAH01SA&gclid=COPhivWezLgCFdOj4AodRkcAWw

Connect your bookshelf speakers of choice, then a USB cable to your computer, and enjoy!  At that insanely great price I can't imagine you couldn't be happier. 

I use a Dared MP5 as a home office integrated amp / USB dac, which can be had used for $100 on Ebay.  But after you put some better cables + tubes on it to bring it up to speed, you'd probably be better off for the same or less w/ the TEAC above. 

There are also a few good powered speaker options that likely many will suggest.  For me I like having the versatility of not having the speaker + amp together and being able to choose and swap.  If space is truly at a premium, they are a compelling option.

If you are looking for a suitable compact speaker, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR seems to have gotten universal praise & is available everywhere including Best Buy for $130, or Microcenter for $90.  Sometimes you find them even cheaper.

Hope that helps & keeps it straightforward enough!

[Danberg]

Thanks for the reply.

I did purchase the Poineer BS22 several weeks ago but haven't had a chance to listen to them yet.  Yes they are one set of speakers I look forward to listening to, once I get the set-up put together.

[jarcher]

Good - then you're half way there.  You basically just need a preamplifier / amplifier and preferably a DAC (digital to audio convertor) that preferably has a good USB input to connect to your PC.  There are so many ways / components to do this, and you could go crazy considering all the options, but honestly I think that TEAC has it all in one : a good DAC with a good DAC chip + good USB as well as a reasonably well regarded B&O amp module section, all in an inexpensive, attractive and compact chassis.  If you were buying something similar from boutique brands like Wyred4Sound or Bel Canto, you'd pay 4-5 times as much. 

Best of luck to you!

[charmerci]

Or if you want to make it real simple and easy. Buy a pair of Audioengine 2's powered speakers (for $200 or maybe less). Plug into the wall and the minijacks in the computer and you're set.

[howburger]

For a lower entry price, try this http://www.musicalparadise.ca/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=52 along with the Pioneer speakers mentioned.

Harold

[JLM]

Cheaper than the Teac - NuForce Dia ($199, 24 wpc, 24/192 DAC, 6" x 4.5" x 1")

Here's the link:  https://www.nuforce.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=itemlist&layout=category&task=category&id=127&Itemid=860

Other small integrated amps with built-in DACs include NuForce DDA-100 or the new NAD D3020.

And as predicted, there are lots of smaller powered/active speakers for desktop entertainment with DAC's (Audioengine A2 does not have a DAC) include:  Audyssey Media ($210/pair, very small), KEF X300A ($800/pair, well reviewed, but no subwoofer output), Quad 9AS ($1300/pair, full featured, cherry finish), and Vanatoo ($500/pair, lots of features, cherry finish).  Your choices would depend on budget, size, taste, and features/connectivity.  Most powered/active speakers don't include a DAC and are intended for studio work (to reveal the warts, while sounding boring).  If you understand active versus powered you know that active is a superior approach.  The powered/active route IMO represents the future (smarter, smaller, and simpler).

Of course a 'cake and eat it too' option would be something like the Dia with a single driver speaker (that by default would be active), like Omega (here at AC).