Home > Consumer Reviews > Monsoon MM-700 Flat Panel 3-Piece Computer Speakers

I have to say these are very decent computer speakers, but I wouldn't use them for anything else. First, the good things. The system gets 5 stars for it's futuristic look. The flat panel speakers could almost be hung on the wall. When positioned correctly (the speakers at 45 degree angles and a few feet away) the 3D sound effects are quite impressive. Even when outside of the "sweet spot" the speakers peform very well and sound very clear. The not so good... The system is slightly underpowered, putting out a total of around 45W (but I suppose this does satisfy almost all computer needs). One other slightly annoying thing is that the volume control for the speakers is attached to the wires connecting the speakers and subwoofer. This gets annoying when I put my wires behind my desk and I can't reach the control. Overall I'd give it 4 and a half stars, but that mark isn't allowed.

I bought the MH-700 speakers after reading a positive online review. I was not dissapointed. If you are sitting in the "sweet spot" (which is not a problem with a computer) the sound quality is simply amazing. The flat pannels have as clear a sound as I have ever heard and the subwoofer delivers crisp clean base. The volume control is convienient an easy to use. I found only one minor issue. In order to get the best sound you have to be in the sweet spot. From the side, the sound in not as clear. But hey, these are computer speakers so they are meant for you to be sitting at the computer. Overall, incredible sound for the money.

Like a lot of people who thought "buying a computer" entailed getting everything you needed for one price, I later discovered not all the components of my PC were satisfactory. Indeed, since my original monitor died (taking stereo sound with it) along with a small list of add-ons (mouse, keyboard), I had to search out new components to replace the old. Bear in mind that my PC is three and a half years old, and that the sound card isn't anything spectacular. For a little over a year I used two plastic-shelled speakers, with no noticeable improvement over the sound in the original monitor-housed speakers. I figured all I've got is a stereo pin-plug on my PC for outgoing sound...how could I expect impressive stereo sound?

Well, these brand new Monsoon speakers I'm enjoying as I write this have totally blown me away. Hookup was relatively simple, and the full range sound from them is amazing. In fact, with two other high-end systems in the house to use for comparison, I can safely say this speaker system is no slouch. The only way this system could fail to provide ample sound (as the previous reviewer suggests) is if you're using it in a HUGE room or meeting hall. Even then, this system would crank. Using it (as I am now) at a low volume setting produces sound miles ahead of any other PC speaker system I've ever heard.

Crisp highs, clear mid-range and booty-shaking bass; this system is worth every penny of the higher than average price. My only quibble is with the desktop volume module, which can shut off power to the 'satellite' (flat panel) speakers, but won't de-power the subwoofer. (It has a separate on/off switch on the back of the unit.) This system is ideal for PC use, but could also make an excellent sound option for a home entertainment setup, provided you purchase the appropriate adapter for line hookup. The stylish 'satellite' speakers look great just about anywhere, and their desktop footprint is minimal. If you take my advice and buy this great system, make sure you follow the manual's suggestions for speaker placement and you'll be sure to get the best possible sound repro, whatever your source.

-Stoned Soul

The first Monsoon MM-700 that I purchased was DOA (dead on arrival). The subwoofer had a "short" since sound would only come out of one speaker. When I returned it, the seller didn't raise a fuss. He implied that he's been having a high return rate for Monsoon products because of defect.

I received a new subwoofer and it worked and sounded terrific for three months. As with my first Monsoon, the subwoofer "shorted out" and sound is only coming out of one speaker. I couldn't get any warranty work from Monsoon and the cost to get it repaired out of my own pocket is high.

If it wasn't for the poor quality work control problems with this product, I would have given it high marks.

While no one should suggest that your computer speakers should replace your home system (unless your home system cost less than your computer), these are as good as I've heard. Much better than the Altec Lansing ACS45's that they replaced. 5 stars for appearance, I like the puck, so I'd give 5 stars for that, and 4.5 for sound quality, they're a little harsher than I prefer for audio (especially poorly recorded MP3's), but for games it's great.

The subwoofer actually feels as if it's true an audio component, something that the ACS45's couldn't match and the sound quality reflects it.

Please, don't expect these to sound as good as $500/pair home speakers, but I'm impressed for [the money]!