What is the best computer speaker set up for my office? Nothing overpowering but deep-clear sound.

If you're looking for something more desktop oriented, you should try something from AudioEngine. I've tried a bunch of the standard computer speakers like ones from Klipsch (ProMedia) and Logitech (Z2200) but they use low quality mid range drivers and high end tweeters that get overwhelmed by massive subs. I have the A2's and they're probably the best balanced computer speakers I've had. They look unassuming, but they're well built, (quite heavy for their size) and really compact for how big they sound. At $200 they do cost a pretty penny, and some might question paying that much for a system that doesn't include a sub, but once you start listening, you won't miss it.

There are a bunch of other reviews if you're interested:

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/03/18/the-little-engine-that-can-audioengine-a2-speaker-review/

http://goodsound.com/equipment/audioengine_a2.htm

I recently built a new computer system and researched this very issue. My requirements were a 2.0 system around $100-$200. I wanted to avoid a sub because it's often distracting and annoying for everyone else. I narrowed down my choices to either the Edirol MA-15D ($179.00 on Amazon) or the Behringer MS40 (129.99 on Amazon). I ended up ordering the MS40's. Inexpensive, great sound and design, and a reputation to back it up. Do the research and you'll likely make the same conclusion.

By far the best sound I've ever heard for computer speakers is from the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1s. They have the most crisp highs and the best sub bar none. They are fairly inexpensive as well, running only $150. Best bang for the buck for sure! Stay away from the 5.1s though, they had issues with the amp overheating. Check the link for more info http://www.klipsch.com/na-en/products/promedia-2-1-overview/

Make the right choice, go with Klipsch. I've tried them all.

I think the best solution for you if money is no object is the B&W Zeppelin. Not only you get audiophile quality sound from a respected hi end speaker company but it's also small form factor but with style. By the way, it's also an ipod dock. http://www.bowers-wilkins.com/. I believe uncrate has featured the zeppelin before.

Bose isn't the speaker to go to when it comes to sound quality. It can be loud but it doesnt mean it sounds good. There's a difference. To be honest, You wont see speaker magazines like sound and vision mag or home theater mag recommend BOSE. i dont want to sound like im bashing, but if you want to get your money's worth and stay away from Bose. Same with B&O. Im not saying they're sounds bad but for the money you can much better speakers that will produce better sound quality

You're probably better off going with the Klipsch. I use Audioengine A2 as my desktop speakers. If you want something even better... Genelec speakers or Dynaudio Mc15. Soundbars may also fit you well from companies like Polk audio, Boston Acoustics and Zvox audio. There's so much to chose from. Do some research and audition the speakers if you can. Let you ears be the judge.

Hi Brian,

Personally, I have used dedicated speaker setups as well as the recommended-by-others amplifier-bookshelf speakers setup. Although you definitely get better quality sound from a bookshelf speaker setup in most cases, the size of the speakers may prevent you from being able to get the "sweet spot" of the sound depending on your furniture layout. That's why I would recommend the Focal XS 2.1 system which comes from one of the top speaker/component manufacturers in the world and is sized to fit into an office or home environment well. I own a pair of Focal 807V speakers for my home theater and they are amazing. The drivers they use are used in $100K+ speakers from high end audio companies like Wilson Audio.

Another option is to look at going the "studio monitor" route with nearfield powered monitors. This will provide you with the same experience as going the Amplifier-Speakers route except you can get rid of the amp since the amplification is built-in to the speakers. And because they are designed for studio monitoring, they are meant to be placed close to the listener position which is how most people are setup when they are working at a desk.