1 laptop...1 Spotify...1 Nephew...

[admin_exported]

Hi Everyone,

I am a user of hifi, but know nothing of computer music.

I have a young nephew, and would like to be able to give him some stuff for Christmas which will make his music sound fuller. And better.

He has been given two speakers that plug in to the laptop, and are the size of a baked bean can each.

He seems into Spotify, which as I understand it isn't free if you want better quality, so I guess he will have the free version.

What can you do to make this computer of his sound more like 20,000 pounds worth of hifi, rather than the inside of a baked bean can. Well, maybe not 20,000.

I don't want to spend too much, and don't want so much gear that cables and connections take over. I don't like too much complication, even in traditional hifi.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Neil.

 

[Anonymous]

The simplest solution would be probably be active speakers with a digital input - that will cut down on cables and complications. The best bargains are probably in the "pro" audio area. Companies such as m-audio make active monitors with USB inputs, it's quite a common setup now for home studios as well so lots of choice. Do you have a budget in mind?

 

[John Duncan]

Well the correct answer is this:

But I can't afford to give me a pair, never mind a nephew...

 

[Anonymous]

Not as pretty, but similar functionality for a lot less money buys you the Alesis M1 Active 520 USB, or for even less money the 320 USB (85 pounds!).

 

[idc]

I too would go with improving the speakers and getting active monitors. Speakers make the biggest difference IMO. I have not heard many, but these were excellent

Yamaha HS 50