Wireless Style
Logitech Z600
The Logitech Z600 is a Bluetooth-capable 2.0-channel speaker system. Clad in fabric, the individual speakers themselves look like long necked, thin stemmed vases. Needless to say, the Z600 certainly can add a touch of grace to any desktop thanks to their elegant aesthetics.
Bluetooth-enabled, the Z600 can be used wirelessly in conjunction with any A2DPcompatible device. A total of eight devices can be paired with the speakers, though only three devices can be connected at any time, with just one allowed to playback audio. Toggling between active devices for playback is as easy as pausing the audio on one and playing audio on the second device.
Flat cables, the kind generally advertised as “tangle free” when used with earphones, connect the 2.0 speakers to a power source. While Bluetooth is intended to be the primary mode of playback, a 3.5mm port and USB port can be found on the back of the right speakers for those who would prefer wired playback. Additionally, the top of the right speaker is touch sensitive and can be used to control the volume of the speakers. The surface works similarly to the scroll wheels on Apple’s iPod Classic.
Each speaker unit of the Z600 is equipped with three drivers. While Logitech has not furnished us with more details, a simple inspection of the speakers reveals that at least one of the drivers is a downfiring woofer unit. We assume that the other two comprise of a tweeter and a full-range driver.
The three-driver combination helps give the Z600 full and rich sound. We found the speaker’s adaptable handling of the trebles and mids to be the most impressive aspect of playback. The product rendered the warmth and soulful nature of Melt My Heart To Stone by Adele, as well as the sharp, biting attack of Buckethead’s guitars on Sail On Soothsayer with equal ease.
Also worth mentioning is the wide soundstage for the Z600. The 2.0-channel speakers, as can be expected, have distinct left and right channels. But the directionality of the audio is clearly evident and easily discernible. This makes the speakers good for playing audio from movies.
The aspect of the Z600’s sound we had problems with was its bass performance. Without a dedicated sub-woofer, the low frequencies, while present in the mix, lacked the depth and extension we expected. The down-firing nature of the woofer driver for the Z600 also meant that low frequencies failed to deliver on impact.
Priced at $219, the Z600 are still worth looking into, if you’re keen on a set of desktop speakers. Elegant aesthetics make them easy on the eye, while the touch volume control and Bluetooth capabilities add a touch of user-friendliness. Sound quality should also please the majority of listeners as long as they are willing to live with slightly anemic bass performance.