JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System: Product Review

At first glance, the novel design might make the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System seem like all style and no substance, but once you hear the sound of this speaker and subwoofer combo, you may be pleasantly surprised. Ideal for a room of small to medium size (like an office, bedroom, or cozy living room), the speakers resemble two egg-shaped alien heads while the subwoofer looks like a mother ship. Combine the 34-watt woofer with easy device compatibility and clever features - like touch panel controls on the speakers - and you've got a product that operates just as neatly as it looks. Retailing around $120-150, the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System is a practical but fun sound system that will work for everything from CD players to iPods to computers.

PROS of the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System:

- It comes with a "highly recommended" rating from iPod lounge (it received an A-).

- Hookup is easy, as the plugs for the back of the subwoofer are each shaped differently. It's practically foolproof - friendly for those of us who are a little slower when it comes to connecting wires.

- The alien-themed design is (in my opinion) attractive, as the speakers really look like little aliens waiting to go back into their subwoofer pod. The system can actually become part of your décor.

- The clean white look visually matches most Apple products, but the system is compatible with any platform. It's not an Apple-only speaker set, even if it looks like it's supposed to be.

- The sound system is compatible with multiple devices, making it suitable for someone who switches between functions like an mp3 player and a computer..

- The speakers are equipped with "+" and "-" touch panels for volume control. It's even neat enough to mute itself when both controls are tapped simultaneously.

- The construction is durable, and the speakers are not top-heavy, even though they look it.

CONS of the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System:

- When switching between devices, the system sometimes needs to be reset - not a major concern, just a minor annoyance.

- Your friends may be jealous that the JBL Encounter looks and sounds so sweet.

Some specifications on the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System, for those of you who want numbers:

- Manufacturer: Harman Multimedia.

- Power: 13 watts per channel on the satellites. 34 watts on the subwoofer.

- Frequency Response: 40Hz to 20kHz.

- Subwoofer Measurements: 20 inches high and 7 inches in diameter.

- Speaker Measurements: 6 inches high and 3.5 inches in diameter.

Overall, this system is eye-catching while still sounding rich - with more-than-adequate bass and dispersion of sound. If you don't mind spending a little over $120 for something this versatile and unique, the JBL Encounter Multimedia Sound System can take you to another planet both visually and aurally.