Home > Consumer Reviews > Boston Acoustics Horizon MM226 Multimedia 2.1 Speaker System (Mist)

I moved out of college this spring and had to sell my old 2.1 system, a Logitech Z-2300. Since I moved I've been looking at various options for a replacement. I liked my Logitech set quite a lot, especially for their incredible power and bass kick. However, I felt that it really lacked oomph in the all-important lower midrange, between where the satellites roll off and where the subwoofer kicks in. Also the subwoofer for that set is comically huge, taking up a third of the space under a normal desk.

Considering the weak midrange and absurd subwoofer I had been used to, I first examined a component system with a stereo amp and two proper bookshelf speakers (no sub), but I couldn't find a complete setup in a price range that made sense for me, and nothing I looked at would fit on my desk. Resigned, I looked at a number of 2.1 computer speakers, and almost bought another instance of my old system before stumbling across these gems. I'd heard some Boston Acoustics speakers that impressed me, and I figured that BA would put some real effort into setting their computer speakers apart from the rest.

I was not to be disappointed. Both these and the Logitechs have an appealing bright tone and good precision in the highs, but the Logitechs always felt somewhat disconnected as the sound traveled down the registers, jumping from satellite to sub with that missing midrange, and I was worried these would fall apart too. The Logitechs also suffered from an overpowered sub that I could never balance properly against the satellites, no matter how much tweaking I did in my EQ. However, Boston has created a well-balanced, cohesive system that shines across the board. They won't blow out windows at your next party, but that's not the point. The sub is still large but much more sensibly-sized than the monstrous Logitech one. If you're looking for thumping bass and raw power, go for the Logitechs; they can't be beat for price/performance. If you want accuracy and fidelity, though, I'd go for these Boston speakers any day.

I was somewhat skeptical of the other reviews for these speakers, but I always heard that Boston Acoustics made good speakers and decided to get these for my wife's computer since she is an avid music lover. She loves all sorts of music from world music, to R&B, to music from the 20s, etc
It all sounds so much better coming through these speakers. The sound reproduction is so crisp and clear with good range. I was just stunned at how well the speakers sounded. I am truly envious and am going to replace my Altec Lansings 2.1 speakers with these when the time comes! The person who just wants a lot of bass and the system just to thump, this is not your system. If you want a good range, from deep lows to crisp highs with a decent midrange, and you're looking for accurate sound reproduction, these speakers are for you!

My only complaint is the size of the subwoofer. It's pretty big, but we just put it under the desk, but if you're short on space, you should be forewarned :^)

I was looking for a musical step up from the great Logitech Z-2300 my daughters use to blast hip-hop, so I ordered these speakers on the strength of reviews here. After placing my order, I started to regret my choice when I discovered several 'lukewarm' reviews elsewhere, referring to them as overly bright or 'sibilant', and stating preferences for other speakers like the HK Sound Sticks. With this prejudice, I had a similar opinion upon initial listening. But after tweaking the bass setting and extended listening, I think they're marvelous. I'm not sure if it's because they've broken-in, or just that I've become accustomed to their sound. What I do know is that, to me, they sound very detailed and accurate. Tight bass, full mid range & highs. I'm hearing stuff in my music I usually only get from headphones. I recommend placing these on small stands to bring the tweeter up to ear level for best effect. The Z-2300 may fill a room better, but I think the MM226 is a better choice for the critical music listener sitting at the computer.

I just bought the white (Mist) MM226 speakers. I was a little hesitant because of the color. It would really stand out with my black 32" Samsung LCD and the black stand. I know that the black version on the MM226 has sky rocketed recently. I went to Boston Acoustics' website and lo' and behold, you can buy the satellite speaker grilles for only $5.00 a pair with free shipping! (On Sale "For a Limited Time Only!") You can select from a few different colors, even BLACK! I'm saving quite a few dollars by going this route. Hope this helps someone with their decision.

I've always loved BA speakers in the past and once I saw on the BA web site that new computer speakers were about to be available I knew I'd order a set - and I haven't been disappointed. They look good. They sound good. There's a separate corded volume control (which is nice to have compared to typical volume controls that are attached to one of the speakers. Only complaint is that the sub is BIG, so check the measurements on the web site and make sure there will be room!