Logitech Z-5500 Digital Soundroom

[Mussels]

Read my sig for my specs. Im on vista ultimate 64bit

and they aren't complete - which is why i asked you to fill out the system specs (which is actually covered as a rule, in the stickies of the forum)

I havent used vista in a long time - could you at least check if there is a setting similar to the one i mentioned?

[Gerben]

I filled them in as much as I could. Hope it helps.
When I connected my Bose321, via the normal green output on the rear of my motherboard, I had no such problems...

[DanishDevil]

Welcome to the forum Gerben!

Have you reinstalled the latest sound card drivers? Also, check device manager and ensure nothing is driverless (marked with a yellow exclamation point).

[Mussels]

so to summarise your problem, when certain programs play sound the ENTIRE volume drops, or just other applications?

What connections are you using? you mentioned analogue works fine, but what connection where you using that didnt - what cable type (RCA/optical), did you have any encoding enabled, did you have any upmixing enabled?

[Gerben]

Welcome to the forum Gerben!

Have you reinstalled the latest sound card drivers? Also, check device manager and ensure nothing is driverless (marked with a yellow exclamation point).
Nope, there isn't alot i can do atm, because im at my laptop in france.
so to summarise your problem, when certain programs play sound the ENTIRE volume drops, or just other applications?

What connections are you using? you mentioned analogue works fine, but what connection where you using that didnt - what cable type (RCA/optical), did you have any encoding enabled, did you have any upmixing enabled?
The entire volume drops, im using those 3 colored cables, don't know their names.

[Mussels]

the three colorued cables are 3.5mm stereo cables, also called analogue.

If youre having volume drops, then its software - check for the setting i mentioned a few posts back in the windows control panel, under sound.

[DanishDevil]

Just let us know once you've had the chance to try these diagnostics out, and we'll go from there.

Psh, we're so much better than GeekSquad :)

[Gerben]

Back to my first question, is THIS (http://www.mycom.nl/Products/View/150164.aspx)any good? or should I buy a better soundcard with optical?

And would I notice better sound or something like that with optical?

[Mussels]

sound quality, not so much. DD and DTS can make movies sound better - but that cheapo card you linked to in a foreign language, doesnt seem to feature any encoding abilities, therefore making that no good for gaming.

You arent providing any real information for me to go with - WHAT do you want to sound better.

[Gerben]

I want it to make it sound more clean, not that what I now have is bad, but I thought it was my mobo or something, and for gaming better surround. But I can't check my pc, I'll be back the 8th of august, so then I can check on my pc.

[Darren]

I want it to make it sound more clean, not that what I now have is bad, but I thought it was my mobo or something, and for gaming better surround. But I can't check my pc, I'll be back the 8th of august, so then I can check on my pc.

Your requires are too vague to even grasp what you want, for gaming surround sound generally speaking most people would look for a soundcard with EAX 5.0 support typically a creative SoundBlaster card. You didn't mention movie watching so I can only guess that you are not interested in Dolby Digital or DTS encoding although its the route I'd recommend.

To be frank going from onboard to a cheap unknown soundcard like the ICIDU will make no difference, once you up mix the PCM stereo to surround sound on the Logitech Z-5500 it will most probably sound the almost same whether on the onboard or cheap soundcard. Either buy a soundcard capable of DD/DTS encoding such as the X-Fi Titanium or X-Fi Forte or do not bother.

(I didn't mention Asus' high end soundcards because the DX/DX2 line up are getting old and lack real EAX 5.0 which mind negate your better surround sound in games request)

[DanishDevil]

Auzentech X-Fi Prelude is the top of the line card and once you have one, life will never be the same! I had one, and don't any more. It's a sad day :(

[Darren]

Auzentech X-Fi Prelude is the top of the line card and once you have one, life will never be the same! I had one, and don't any more. It's a sad day :(

The preludes are good too. I have a X-Meridian which was equally top of the line. I wouldn't recommend either card today as Auzentech's driver support would most likely cater for their flagship X-Fi Forte. Plus they are around the same price as the Forte.

Edit:

Why did n't you want your X-Fi Prelude any more?


True. Forte is the PCI-E one, right?

Indeed its PCI-E.

Its Auzentech's high end soundcard until their X-Fi HomeTheater HD sound card gets released. Supports both HDMI video (1080p) and audio (DD True HD / DTS Masters) through a single cable.

[DanishDevil]

True. Forte is the PCI-E one, right?

[Paulieg]

I'm looking for a pair of Z-5500's....just don't want to pay $300 for them.

[DanishDevil]

Just hit up the hot deals web sites every day until you see something. I was lucky enough to get a set for just under $300 shipped two years ago. You'll be very lucky if you can get a set for a whole lot under $300 new after shipping.

[Assassin48]

i have had my set since sept 08 and never knew about theses "tricks" in the main post

Thanks for them! especially the boost one

[DanishDevil]

No problem! That's one of the reasons I made the club :)

[Assassin48]

can i join the elite club?

i will take a few pics of my setup once i can hold my camera again lol

[DanishDevil]

Fill in the info:

DanishDevil (Zack)
Devices: Auzentech X-Fi Prelude Direct & Optical, Dell D820 Laptop Realtek Onboard Coaxial
Speaker Info: Firmware v2.1.0, M/N: S-0115A, PID: R724, Speaker Wire, Boost 22
Favorite Media: All modern rock & metal, COD4

Info explained.

1. All devices that you have connected to the system and how they are connected
2. System Firmware Version
3. M/N (from the back of your sub)
4. PID (from under any of your satellites or sub - really your manufacturer date)
5. Speaker connection type (RCA or speaker wire)
6. Do you have Boost 22 capability
7. What your favorite song/album/movie/game is to use with them!

[Assassin48]

Assassin48
Devices: XFi Fatality , PS3
Speaker Info: Firmware , M/N: , PID:R740 , Optical , Boost 22
Favorite Media: Blu-Ray

[Batou1986]

@ Paulieg you'd be lucky to find them on sale that was worth more than free shipping on these things there a steal.
i have had the Z-5500's for a wile my buddy had the previous version of them the speakers still sound great today hooked to a sony receiver

[DanishDevil]

Assassin48
Devices: XFi Fatality , PS3
Speaker Info: Firmware , M/N: , PID:R740 , Optical , Boost 22
Favorite Media: Blu-Ray

Added :toast: Looking forward to pics!

[DanishDevil]

No, I am not sure that Boost 11 will blow the woofer and kill the amp. I wouldn't do it to my system, though. At half volume, the subwoofer on my system blows the hairs off my ballsack.

[DaveK]

No, I am not sure that Boost 11 will blow the woofer and kill the amp. I wouldn't do it to my system, though. At half volume, the subwoofer on my system blows the hairs off my ballsack.

Man I wish I had a sub like that, mmmm bass. I need a shave anyway :roll:

[DanishDevil]

Sure beats a razor! :rockout:

[DanishDevil]

I need a shave anyway

hairy smelly sweaty ballsack

You really need to take better care of those...

[DanishDevil]

All questions have already been answered. gopala33, we CAN NOT help you. Go register on an audio forum and bug them about which system you should buy. Not this thread.

[Lillebror]

Ive just got theese speakers today! Changed from a z5450 - thats the ones with wireless backspeakers. The z5450 had alot more 'smooth' bass. Like, it would really feel\sound like bass. While on the z5500 its a little tame and now with that much of a 'boom' to it. Maybe its just me thats doing something, but i havent changed anything since switching.

[TheGuruStud]

Ive just got theese speakers today! Changed from a z5450 - thats the ones with wireless backspeakers. The z5450 had alot more 'smooth' bass. Like, it would really feel\sound like bass. While on the z5500 its a little tame and now with that much of a 'boom' to it. Maybe its just me thats doing something, but i havent changed anything since switching.

Boom is from bad quality speakers afaik. It's not an accurate sound reproduction, but since it's "boomier" people think it's better. I'm not bashing, just giving my .02

[Cold Storm]

wait... you're testing on YOUTUBE videos???

NO, I don't test with Youtube.. Why should I when I got around 55gbs worth of music... I was just linking them as a fact of the type of music I tested it with.. There is some Youtube Videos that do have the quality of music that MP3's have.. Most come the from the Artist themselves that post them there.

I guess I should of said in the post a little better on the reasons I was posting the Youtube.

[Mussels]

NO, I don't test with Youtube.. Why should I when I got around 55gbs worth of music... I was just linking them as a fact of the type of music I tested it with.. There is some Youtube Videos that do have the quality of music that MP3's have.. Most come the from the Artist themselves that post them there.

I guess I should of said in the post a little better on the reasons I was posting the Youtube.

this wasnt aimed at you - it was aimed at the troll who is about to go away (gopala)


mods came to a decision that it may just be a language barrier (so no spam decimator), but i've decided to cleanup the thread and remove the crap related to that guys posts anyway.

47 posts of crap, unrelated to the thread and wasting our time.

[Cold Storm]

this wasnt aimed at you - it was aimed at the troll who is about to go away (gopala)


mods came to a decision that it may just be a language barrier (so no spam decimator), but i've decided to cleanup the thread and remove the crap related to that guys posts anyway.

47 posts of crap, unrelated to the thread and wasting our time.

All good man. All good.


:toast:

[EarlZ]

Guys,

Im planning to buy a Z-5500 in the coming months, are there any new revisions / firmware updates or whatever that I should know/check before buying ?

[twicksisted]

not that I know of... mine ive had for a year and a half or so and theyre still keeping me more than happy ;)

[DanishDevil]

Originally I thought there would be large differences, but there aren't. You could get one made on day 1 of production and still have 95% of the features (Boost 22 and speaker wire are about the only differences).

[EarlZ]

I see, thanks for that information.

My current soundcard is a Creative X-Fi extreme Music should i be aware of some settings / limitations ?

[Mussels]

I see, thanks for that information.

My current soundcard is a Creative X-Fi extreme Music should i be aware of some settings / limitations ?

for gaming, you will only get 5.1 from analogue.
Thats not an issue quality wise as analogue is fine, but it does restrict you to the one cable type.

[EarlZ]

Did anyone here bought the Klipsch pro media 5.1 first then decided to switch to the z5500's ?

[DanishDevil]

I was considering buying them, but when I saw the Z-5500's I went for them instead. They're just so much more flexible than the Klipsch speakers because of all of the inputs.

[eggyhustles]

Ok back to the drawing board. i upgraded to krk rokit 8's and a bic h 100 but they were both overkill for my room so i decided to sell them and use the money for a new rig. still have the old z5500's so i'll be putting them back to use again. When i first got them they didn't sound too great in the bass department. sub didn't get deep or loud but playing around with the settings made the sub come alive :rockout:. i since forgot the settings i had and come back here for help.

running analog to an audigy 2 zs

Here are some of the settings.
http://i476.photobucket.com/albums/rr124/mrmondaynight/5-2.jpg
When i set it to 5.1, the sub is lifeless. it only comes alive when set to 2.1 but then only the left front sattelite plays.
http://i476.photobucket.com/albums/rr124/mrmondaynight/6.jpg
http://i476.photobucket.com/albums/rr124/mrmondaynight/7.jpg
http://i476.photobucket.com/albums/rr124/mrmondaynight/8.jpg

eq is off
cmss is off
volume is @ 90%, bass is 85 and treble is 89
bass management is greyed out for some odd reason, but bass boost isnt. bass boost is @ level 100 and the cutoff frequency is @ 51hz

[Mussels]

if only left front plays in 2.1 mode, you plugged the damn things in wrong!

bass management only works in 5.1 and 7.1 modes, when a dedicated subwoofer channel is present.

[eggyhustles]

Just double checked the cables, everything is plugged in correctly.

[Mussels]

if you only get one channel (left and no right) in 2.0/2.1 mode, then something is either not plugged in, or broken.

[eggyhustles]

Something must be broken then :( in 5.1 everything works fine, just the sub.

[Mussels]

Something must be broken then :( in 5.1 everything works fine, just the sub.

well thats weird.


2.1 mode = front left only
5.1 mode = everything with no sub


i mean really, that hardly makes sense. This over analogue, or digital connections?

[eggyhustles]

I phrased that wrong.

In 2.1 only left front & sub work. sub gets loud and deep.
In 5.1 speakers & sub work. sub sounds lifeless. it's there but it's not as deep as it is in 2.1 mode

It's over analog.

[Mussels]

either you're experiencing creatives version of driver/software brain damage, or somethings up with the speakers.

Can you test on your onboard audio, and see if it works better?

[eggyhustles]

Yes..will be back with results shortly

[eggyhustles]

5.1 works. sub still sounds like a midbass driver lol

[twicksisted]

when i got my pair over 2 years ago... i plugged them in and havent switched them off since... untill a day ago... then they wouldnt switch back on!!! was pissed... anyways after a few google searches turns out its a common occurence and you just blow the 2a SloBlo fuse if you switch them off at the back of the sub.... got another fuse and im back in business... long live the Z-5500 :D

[Mussels]

when i got my pair over 2 years ago... i plugged them in and havent switched them off since... untill a day ago... then they wouldnt switch back on!!! was pissed... anyways after a few google searches turns out its a common occurence and you just blow the 2a SloBlo fuse if you switch them off at the back of the sub.... got another fuse and im back in business... long live the Z-5500 :D

i cant wait for mine to come back under warranty :(

[DaveK]

I just wish I had a sub that big lol, don't need the 5.1 in my bedroom as I don't want wires everywhere, but man I bet that sub would rock the house. My little 30w Dell speakers thump in my room, imagine a big ass Z-5500 sub :D

[zAAm]

I just wish I had a sub that big lol, don't need the 5.1 in my bedroom as I don't want wires everywhere, but man I bet that sub would rock the house. My little 30w Dell speakers thump in my room, imagine a big ass Z-5500 sub :D

You'd be surpised wat the Z-5500's sub can do in a small room. I have a set in my dorm room that's about 8m^2 and it's LOUD! Can hear it anywhere in the dormitory and even the bathroom doors rattle 20m down the hall :laugh:

[TheGuruStud]

You'd be surpised wat the Z-5500's sub can do in a small room. I have a set in my dorm room that's about 8m^2 and it's LOUD! Can hear it anywhere in the dormitory and even the bathroom doors rattle 20m down the hall :laugh:

That's good ol concrete for ya. I once had an x-430? (cheapo 5.1) in a small basement and it vibrated the floors upstairs pretty hard. Resonance is awesome.

[MathewLisett]

Z-5500, i need help
ok tried gaining help from logitechs forum and ..well they seem to want to ignore my ply for help.

basically problem started about 2 weeks ago when i was going to watch a dvd and suddenly noticed that all i was getting whilst doing 5.1 was background sounds ie no voices .

so placed it onto stereo and the voices etc were there, so ive tried the test feature on the control pad to find sound on all speakers, but when i go onto the control feature on the pc the left right , center and sub dont produce sounds, and if they do its normally left front is going through center and center doesnt sound and right front and sub dont sound at all.

all cables are fine it seems considering during test sound goes through all speakers fine.

i replaced the fuse in the sub as i didnt know that when you turn the subs off and on, the fuse will blow (i did this AFTER the problem happened)

ive updated the drivers etc for my sound card and even gone straight back to its original drivers (sound card is the asus Xonar d2

PLEASE help.

oh and my pc is a xp pro sp3 (rather not have vista infect my system thank you very much )

oh and i cant gain tech helpf rom logitech via their email becuase their emails dont work.... which is helpful now isnt it lol.

M/N: S-0115B
Firmware v2.1.0

boost wont go past 11

[pantherx12]

I've wanted a set of these speakers since I first saw them on ebuyer 2 years ago.

You damn lucky people :P

I have to settle for 100 watts rms total!

[DanishDevil]

All of your volume settings for each speaker (center and rear have volume controls) are at the default settings? A little diamond will pop up over the volume if it's at default.

[MathewLisett]

oh and next to input it says direct.

also just done the mute trick and boost went to 22, so now its weird becuase no matter what volume i have it at it says volume+11 lol

how do you set it to default?

[DanishDevil]

The +11 is to offset the loudness of digital sources so when you switch from analog to digital you don't blow your ears off.

Hold down mute and turn the knob to the left until the +11 goes away.

[MathewLisett]

funny how ive had this lovely system for over a year now and didnt know any of these little tid bits lol

[Mussels]

Z-5500, i need help
ok tried gaining help from logitechs forum and ..well they seem to want to ignore my ply for help.

basically problem started about 2 weeks ago when i was going to watch a dvd and suddenly noticed that all i was getting whilst doing 5.1 was background sounds ie no voices .

so placed it onto stereo and the voices etc were there, so ive tried the test feature on the control pad to find sound on all speakers, but when i go onto the control feature on the pc the left right , center and sub dont produce sounds, and if they do its normally left front is going through center and center doesnt sound and right front and sub dont sound at all.

all cables are fine it seems considering during test sound goes through all speakers fine.

i replaced the fuse in the sub as i didnt know that when you turn the subs off and on, the fuse will blow (i did this AFTER the problem happened)

ive updated the drivers etc for my sound card and even gone straight back to its original drivers (sound card is the asus Xonar d2

PLEASE help.

oh and my pc is a xp pro sp3 (rather not have vista infect my system thank you very much )

oh and i cant gain tech helpf rom logitech via their email becuase their emails dont work.... which is helpful now isnt it lol.

M/N: S-0115B
Firmware v2.1.0

boost wont go past 11

your problem sounds like you arent getting a 5.1 stream.

if you are listening via digital, swap to analogue.

if you are listening via analogue, do a speaker test in windows - sounds like you havent connected your center speaker properly (as thats where voices come from in 5.1 movies)

[MathewLisett]

wouldnt going to analogue not give 5.1?

and how do i go to analogue.

and ive recently re adjusted the wires ie made the tips a fresh cut to see if this helped.

[morpha]

that why you need to use all 3 analogue plugs on the back and make sure the switch is set to '6 channel direct' and have a computer with a 5.1 analogue outputs.

[MathewLisett]

right, so since all that is already done, ie all three plugs, switch to 6ch into a 5.1 card... this means that the above idea of switching to analogue to see if the 5.1 worked then.... take it that wont work since im already doign it?

really confused at this point.

how do i set the thing to default

[morpha]

as mussels states 3 posts back up the page 'if your already using an analogue connection do a speaker test in windows'

this is located in the Control Panel.

[MathewLisett]

and its the windows xonar control panel thingy that ive been doing the tests with and the=ats where its different to the automatic test funciton from the pad, as when its the pad test all speakers work, but when its the wxonr panel only the rear works, the left front goes through the center , the front right works as the sub, the sub doesnt sound.

[Mussels]

and its the windows xonar control panel thingy that ive been doing the tests with and the=ats where its different to the automatic test funciton from the pad, as when its the pad test all speakers work, but when its the wxonr panel only the rear works, the left front goes through the center , the front right works as the sub, the sub doesnt sound.

then its pretty obvious, you screwed up plugging them all in and have them mixed up.

[MathewLisett]

well ill re do them, but the exact thing happened way before i even did the wires.

[mudkip]

hey,

My logitech z-5500 was acting weird and gave me this ''Mute on over temperature error'' so I decided to call logitech. I had to wait a few minutes but then I got this guy and I told him about my case. He asked if i had a coupon of the purchase ,but i told him that I lost it , then he said that he had to discuss something with his colleagues and after a min he came back . He told me that i had to make three photo's.

1) A photo of the whole set + a paper with the reference number he gave me
2) a photo of the control pod + the PID number + paper with the reference number
3))a photo of the whole set completely destroyed and unusable + paper with reference number

if i could send him these photo's he'd send me a new one. I was like , wtf? why destroy the whole thing? He said that this was the only way to make sure customers wouldn't abuse the whole replacement thing.

So guys, I'm going to hack and slash this thing down with and burn it afterwards. lol

I keep you updated :laugh:

[MathewLisett]

you sure he didnt just mean disaemble it as you would find it arrived to you? bit odd if he did mean destroy it.

how long did he say it would take for a replacment, and will it be you forking out the massive shipping fee... is it in the uk or abroad?

[DanishDevil]

Have him send you a new control dock / subwoofer instead of the whole damn set! That's insane!

[MathewLisett]

is there a logitech contraol panel, or diagnostic check thing so that i can see if its the xonar playign up etc

oh with the person sayign the wiring is wrong.

how could this be if when doing the automated testing with pink noise,the sound goes through the correct speaker?

[DanishDevil]

Well first, make sure that the cables are set like this:

Front Speakers: Green
Rear Speakers: Black
Center/Sub: Orange

And did you check your volume outputs under level on the control pod?

[mudkip]

no totally destroy it , he said that he know i'd sound weird but he said it wasn't a joke or something like that

[MathewLisett]

yep all of them are half way point at the moment, ie center surround and sub

[DanishDevil]

no totally destroy it , he said that he know i'd sound weird but he said it wasn't a joke or something like that

I wouldn't do it. That's just nuts. This is Logitech Holland or what?

[MathewLisett]

ok, so whats gonna happen if hes wrong and your naffed without a system .

how you gonna prove he told you to do this.

[mudkip]

Have him send you a new control dock / subwoofer instead of the whole damn set! That's insane!

he can't without destroying the whole set... don't ask me lol:laugh:

[mudkip]

Have him send you a new control dock / subwoofer instead of the whole damn set! That's insane!

ok, so whats gonna happen if hes wrong and your naffed without a system .

how you gonna prove he told you to do this.

lol ... i don't know but i don't think he's lying :)

[MathewLisett]

yeah thats the issue you dont "think" hes lying, so you dont know for sure.

i would have thought for them to gian money back they woudl reapir the units and sell them on.

[MathewLisett]

little ole me is now chuffed.

and it was all my fault lol.

i was always looking at my soundcard the wrong way around, ie instead of the connections being where they had been , i had placed them on the other end so therfore sound going where it shouldnt have been...

its always nice to consult your manual and manually test .

lol

all channels working now, what a beast this thing is i almost forgotten how good this was and ina small room aswell :)

cheers guys for the hand

now what extra tricks can be done with this thing, and is it possible to have my other system ie the one im typing with to be conencted to the sound system whilst its conencted via other one which has the xonar card, and is it possible to conenct my tv to it aswell.

[morpha]

I wanted to see smashed Z5500's

Make sure you record it with VIDEO when you do!

[mudkip]

I wouldn't do it. That's just nuts. This is Logitech Holland or what?
Yep logitech department in the netherlands

I wanted to see smashed Z5500's

Make sure you record it with VIDEO when you do!
I will lol

[MathewLisett]

that would cost you around 80£ to send recorded lol

[mudkip]

double nvm

[MathewLisett]

not worth it then is it since the system would cost tht retail

[TheGuruStud]

Actually, I think he might have a driver problem. My audio did that once. Shit was coming out of the wrong speakers in a test, but another worked fine and not shit would play right in windows. Of course, this was in vista :laugh: (POS).

I would try using a couple of the older drivers and see if you get the same result.

[MathewLisett]

thegurustud, if that answer was to me you did read my "its now working" post lol

[TheGuruStud]

thegurustud, if that answer was to me you did read my "its now working" post lol

:roll: I missed that post somehow :laugh:

and :slap: learn how to look at a sound card :p

Now that I think of it, it wasn't my xonar d2. It was the soundmax adi drivers doing that. Great hardware, but worst drivers ever.

[MathewLisett]

lol

my reaction was

yes in a loud ive sorted type.

then 10 secs later a deep duoh after realising how stupid id been lol

[EarlZ]

I've decided to get these speakers after a few paydays but i would like to know what are the limitations i might encounter with the set when using it with an X-Fi Extreme Music. What type of connections / settings can I use with this set and what features cant i use with my current set up ?

[DanishDevil]

If that's the only device you're using, I would hook up both the three 3.5" analog jacks, and an optical out (if the Xtreme Music has one...I forget). Use the optical out for movies with Dolby Digital sound and let the speakers decode it so you hear the movie exactly as intended, and use analog and CMSS 3D upmixing for music, and analog for games. It would be a great combo.

[mudkip]

x-fi suck imo , outdated technology ,rebranded, shit drivers etc etc

[EarlZ]

If that's the only device you're using, I would hook up both the three 3.5" analog jacks, and an optical out (if the Xtreme Music has one...I forget). Use the optical out for movies with Dolby Digital sound and let the speakers decode it so you hear the movie exactly as intended, and use analog and CMSS 3D upmixing for music, and analog for games. It would be a great combo.

It gonna be connected to me PC only, The X-Fi extreme music has no optical out but my motherboard has onboard optical out.

x-fi suck imo , outdated technology ,rebranded, shit drivers etc etc

I dont know of anything better on the PC, the best ( Auzen Prelude 7.1 ) still uses the same chip.

[Mussels]

I dont know of anything better on the PC, the best ( Auzen Prelude 7.1 ) still uses the same chip.

no, it doesnt. it uses the x-fi name but has *NOTHING* in common in hardware.

Hell, the extreme music is a pure software card...

[Basekid]

Hey all,

I'm a new, proud owner of a Z5500 :)

I am having a weird problem tho, the only way to get sound out of my back speakers via analog, is to have the speakers set up as 7.1 in my sound options (Realtek 889a) and then dissabling my side speakers.

If I select 5.1 sound, I don't get any rear speakers, just front/sub and side speakers, which obviously don't work...

Anyone got a solution? Or is it supposed to be like that...

Thanks!

[TheGuruStud]

No love for the xonar...? :cry:

[Mussels]

Hey all,

I'm a new, proud owner of a Z5500 :)

I am having a weird problem tho, the only way to get sound out of my back speakers via analog, is to have the speakers set up as 7.1 in my sound options (Realtek 889a) and then dissabling my side speakers.

If I select 5.1 sound, I don't get any rear speakers, just front/sub and side speakers, which obviously don't work...

Anyone got a solution? Or is it supposed to be like that...

Thanks!

at a guess, you plugged them into the wrong port - your rears sound like they're in the side port.

[Basekid]

at a guess, you plugged them into the wrong port - your rears sound like they're in the side port.



Yep, you are right:) Such a stupid mistake. I assumed that all the cables had to be plugged in as a row, but the 889a uses a L shaped setup...

Thanks for the help! I might just buy a real audio card. My Audigy 2 ZS is having issues playing 5.1 sound in games (and was therefore using the build-in audio chip on the mobo)

[DanishDevil]

Yeah, an Audigy 2 ZS is a little outdated for using with Z-5500's. I'd take a look around and get your speakers a new female playmate :)

[hbkl]

Yeah, an Audigy 2 ZS is a little outdated for using with Z-5500's. I'd take a look around and get your speakers a new female playmate :)

I`d like to buy the logitech z-5500 speakers but im a little confuse would my Sound blaster x-fi music edition go with those speakerS?

[DanishDevil]

They will work fine but you can unleash more of the speakers' potential with a higher end sound card.

[Mussels]

hbkl: that card would give you decent (not great) analogue, but wouldnt let you use the digital connections for games.

[zAAm]

Mussels (and DanishDevil), I'd like to know (subjectively), is there such a great difference between default crappy onboard sound cards and the higher end xonar and the like? I know they offer new features, but if you consider plain sound quality, is there an audible, appreciable difference? I've struggled with this question for a while now and can't really seem to make a decision. Probably due to lack of solid information, because if I see a difference of 10dB in SNR I can't really link that to a change in sound quality.

I believe the Z-5500's was my best buy to date for anything computer related and if a sound card would make that much of a difference I might just consider it. (Incidentally, I'm using my onboard Realtek HD Audio sound card over analogue to my Logitech's).

[morpha]

I use the digital connection on my motherboard and dont have any issues with sound performance.
I definitely notice a huge difference between that and my onboard analgue.

[Mussels]

Mussels (and DanishDevil), I'd like to know (subjectively), is there such a great difference between default crappy onboard sound cards and the higher end xonar and the like? I know they offer new features, but if you consider plain sound quality, is there an audible, appreciable difference? I've struggled with this question for a while now and can't really seem to make a decision. Probably due to lack of solid information, because if I see a difference of 10dB in SNR I can't really link that to a change in sound quality.

I believe the Z-5500's was my best buy to date for anything computer related and if a sound card would make that much of a difference I might just consider it. (Incidentally, I'm using my onboard Realtek HD Audio sound card over analogue to my Logitech's).

its mostly features.

I can clearly hear a difference, but not enough to care (i have Z-5500's, X-540's and sennheiser HD-555's) and the headphones (lacking bass control) are the only ones i notice a real difference on between the cards. Then again, i have high end motherboards, so my onboard audio may be above average. (my media PC's onboard audio has DTS encoding, which most x-fi's dont :P)

when it comes to digital, its all about the features - if you want to game via digital audio, you need an encoding card,

[wolf]

Well you can officially count me as a wannabe owner :) I've been eying off this set for far too long.

[zAAm]

its mostly features.

I can clearly hear a difference, but not enough to care (i have Z-5500's, X-540's and sennheiser HD-555's) and the headphones (lacking bass control) are the only ones i notice a real difference on between the cards. Then again, i have high end motherboards, so my onboard audio may be above average. (my media PC's onboard audio has DTS encoding, which most x-fi's dont :P)

when it comes to digital, its all about the features - if you want to game via digital audio, you need an encoding card,

Haha strangely enough, I have Z-5500's, X-530's and Sennheiser HD-202's. Also, my mobo is pretty much top-end for an Intel board and has the top-of-the-line Realtek ALC889 chip which support digital output (SPDIF and Optical) and Dolby Digital Encoding (although probably not in hardware). The chip's DAC and ADC's have 108dB SNR so they are pretty much on X-Fi level.

So I guess it would be safe to assume that by switching to a Xonar it's unlikely that angel choir music will descend from the heavens in awe of the improvement in sound quality? :rolleyes:

[Mussels]

Haha strangely enough, I have Z-5500's, X-530's and Sennheiser HD-202's. Also, my mobo is pretty much top-end for an Intel board and has the top-of-the-line Realtek ALC889 chip which support digital output (SPDIF and Optical) and Dolby Digital Encoding (although probably not in hardware). The chip's DAC and ADC's have 108dB SNR so they are pretty much on X-Fi level.

So I guess it would be safe to assume that by switching to a Xonar it's unlikely that angel choir music will descend from the heavens in awe of the improvement in sound quality? :rolleyes:

analogue could get a bit better, but really you'll only notice it if you're already aware you're onboards lacking.


audio is really subjective, if you dont have a problem with what you've got, you'd hardly notice any upgrades (unless you're 90% of people, who think its better just by seeing a huge sub)

[zAAm]

analogue could get a bit better, but really you'll only notice it if you're already aware you're onboards lacking.


audio is really subjective, if you dont have a problem with what you've got, you'd hardly notice any upgrades (unless you're 90% of people, who think its better just by seeing a huge sub)

I think I'd call myself a wannabe audiophile. I'll probably be able to tell you the difference in sound quality and I'll upgrade even if I don't have a "problem" with the sound (I listen to all my music in FLAC format if that explains anything), but I'm only a wannabe since audiophile equipment is horrendously expensive :D. I've also repeatedly threatened to install a proper DLS SQ system in my car but I've not yet had the spare cash to do it... :cry:

I listen to music pretty much 90% of the time I'm awake so I think I've decided to invest in a proper sound card. Now the only problem is to decide which one. I'm thinking the Xonar D2X since I won't be able to use the analogue connections of the Xonar Essence STX since my headphones aren't even CLOSE to audiophile quality. Also, the added DTS encoding might be handy sometimes... Any suggestions?

Thanks again

[DanishDevil]

Get one with DD Live encoding. I used an Auzentech X-Fi Prelude for about a year and I miss that card like a lost child. Not too knowledgeable on the ASUS cards, but Auzentech does a GREAT job at taking a good X-Fi card with shitty drivers and customizing and tweaking those drivers for flawless performance and no hassle.

[El_Mayo]

Just stopping by on this thread.. are the Z5500 speakers wireless? o.O

[DanishDevil]

Nope. They are all wired with speaker wire. However, they do come with a wireless remote that controls just about everything you can control on the dock, though :)

[Mussels]

Just stopping by on this thread.. are the Z5500 speakers wireless? o.O

i beleive the Z-5450's have wireless rear speakers.

[FreedomEclipse]

i beleive the Z-5450's have wireless rear speakers.

they do - & because of that - they're not as loud as the Z5500's

[El_Mayo]

http://www.logitech.com/repository/335/jpg/2407.1.0.jpg
it's just that i don't see ANY wires here

[zAAm]

Also, another thing you don't see in the picture is them actually playing anything... I can take a picture like that but the set won't be connected. :p

[Mussels]

http://www.logitech.com/repository/335/jpg/2407.1.0.jpg
it's just that i don't see ANY wires here

you also dont see a background at all :P

[zAAm]

Get one with DD Live encoding. I used an Auzentech X-Fi Prelude for about a year and I miss that card like a lost child. Not too knowledgeable on the ASUS cards, but Auzentech does a GREAT job at taking a good X-Fi card with shitty drivers and customizing and tweaking those drivers for flawless performance and no hassle.

The Xonar D2X has DD Live and DTS encoding. Also, it has a pretty high SNR of 118dB. The tests I've seen so far places the D2X just a tad in front of the X-Fi Prelude. Mainly, I've yet to see a distributor of Auzentech products in South Africa so they are also pretty much off limits...

[DanishDevil]

Keep in mind just about anything over 100dB SNR is going to sound great. Manufacturers always boast 118dB when the previous generation had 114. For the Z-5500's, you're going to want the encoding features more than a few extra dB's of SNR, so don't pay a large premium for that.

[Mussels]

Keep in mind just about anything over 100dB SNR is going to sound great. Manufacturers always boast 118dB when the previous generation had 114. For the Z-5500's, you're going to want the encoding features more than a few extra dB's of SNR, so don't pay a large premium for that.

not to mention, those readings only affect analogue :) they're meaningless over digital

[DanishDevil]

Very true! Totally forgot to mention that :p

[Mussels]

i <3 this thread. thinking about my z55's makes me happy.


someone talk more about z55's :D

[DanishDevil]

Z55's make your e-peen hard. At least they make mine hard :D

[Mussels]

Z55's make your e-peen hard. At least they make mine hard :D

i'm strongly resisting the urge to put them in my bedroom, but i'm weakening.

Main issue would be the speaker wires are a pain to setup, but if i can find a second set of wires....

edit: i've found three sets of speaker wires :P two more...

[DanishDevil]

If you find extra wires, you're so doing it :)

[Mussels]

If you find extra wires, you're so doing it :)

started already - only got 2.1 setup when lady friend arrived

[zAAm]

Keep in mind just about anything over 100dB SNR is going to sound great. Manufacturers always boast 118dB when the previous generation had 114. For the Z-5500's, you're going to want the encoding features more than a few extra dB's of SNR, so don't pay a large premium for that.

That's true, it won't make that much of a difference for the average guy on the street... Although remember that the dB scale is logarithmic, so 118dB's SNR is less than half the noise of 114dB (and 6 times less than 100dB), which is an achievement in itself. ;)

not to mention, those readings only affect analogue :) they're meaningless over digital

Mmm, I must say I haven't really thought about that... :wtf:

i'm strongly resisting the urge to put them in my bedroom, but i'm weakening.

Main issue would be the speaker wires are a pain to setup, but if i can find a second set of wires....

edit: i've found three sets of speaker wires :P two more...

May I ask WHY you've resisted the urge? You can always put them on real loud if you need to drown out any noise... That in itself would be a good reason to go through the trouble. :laugh:

[Mussels]

i didnt resist, they're in my room now :D

(however, i am not - at a lan.)

[HSVGTS]

Hi guys ive got the z5400 system but my sub blew can i use the z5400 receiver to power z5500 speakers and sub?

I found out they use the same DAC in the receiver http://hardforum.com/showpost.php?p=...1&postcount=12.

[bail_w]

Hi guys ive got the z5400 system but my sub blew can i use the z5400 receiver to power z5500 speakers and sub?

I found out they use the same DAC in the receiver http://hardforum.com/showpost.php?p=...1&postcount=12.


No, they have different pin outs.

[facepunch]

just got mine today and they are fu:nutkick:ing awsome

[Black Panther]

i didnt resist, they're in my room now :D

(however, i am not - at a lan.)

I have them in my bedroom... actually our bedroom.
Thank heavens husband's a heavy sleeper - no I'm not that lucky to be able to play loud music when he's sleeping but if I'm not on the net I'd be gaming and the rear left speaker's just next to his ear. :D

One little annoyance I got with the Z5500 is that when I start up my pc and power them on, they get reset automatically with effect at PLII Movie, and with all speakers (sub, centre and surround) at zero volume and the main volume also zero.

They just don't remember the setting I always leave them at (which is 6 Ch Direct, sub at 6.5 bars, centre at 3 bars, surround at 4 bars and main volume at 3 bars.)

Now it's been more than a year since I bought them, and I remember being confused since I'd find different volumes/settings every time I switched them on. But these past months I've always been finding them with everything at 0 volume and on PLII Movie.

Though it's not a serious issue, it's quite annoying having to press a lot of buttons to adjust them every time though...

Any idea why this is so?

[TheGuruStud]

I'd just call logitech and be like wtf bitches? :laugh:

[Black Panther]

I'd just call logitech and be like wtf bitches? :laugh:

Lol you're serious?

It's kinda I've got these for more than a year now, can't remember when this 'problem' started but it was long ago and I guess now there's no warranty.

I remember (long long ago) I had posted in this thread and someone told me about the switching off sequence (I'm not sure if he said I should switch speakers before switching pc or vice versa) and it worked for a short period of time... :ohwell:

[zAAm]

I have them in my bedroom... actually our bedroom.
Thank heavens husband's a heavy sleeper - no I'm not that lucky to be able to play loud music when he's sleeping but if I'm not on the net I'd be gaming and the rear left speaker's just next to his ear. :D

One little annoyance I got with the Z5500 is that when I start up my pc and power them on, they get reset automatically with effect at PLII Movie, and with all speakers (sub, centre and surround) at zero volume and the main volume also zero.

They just don't remember the setting I always leave them at (which is 6 Ch Direct, sub at 6.5 bars, centre at 3 bars, surround at 4 bars and main volume at 3 bars.)

Now it's been more than a year since I bought them, and I remember being confused since I'd find different volumes/settings every time I switched them on. But these past months I've always been finding them with everything at 0 volume and on PLII Movie.

Though it's not a serious issue, it's quite annoying having to press a lot of buttons to adjust them every time though...

Any idea why this is so?

Mine does exactly the same. It happens when there is no standby power to the system ie. you switch the system off at the plug. Only powering the system off into standby doesn't reset everything. I've had my system for almost 3years now so I've gotten used to it though :rolleyes:. Guess you could just try not to plug them out?

[Black Panther]

Mine does exactly the same. It happens when there is no standby power to the system ie. you switch the system off at the plug. Only powering the system off into standby doesn't reset everything. I've had my system for almost 3years now so I've gotten used to it though :rolleyes:. Guess you could just try not to plug them out?

Oh, I got no choice then. I never leave stuff on standby, especially since I spend a lot of time away from home...

[TheGuruStud]

Wait, you're switching it off at the source? Shit, I've never done that haha. But when the power goes out my settings are saved. I guess I'm special :D

[Black Panther]

Wait, you're switching it off at the source? Shit, I've never done that haha.

I always switch off every appliance from the wall socket after I'm finished - saves energy and removes the risk were something to develop a short-circuit while nobody's at home... :)
You mean you keep your speakers with the control-pod showing the red power-up button on standby 24/7?

[Edit: Wow I just went over 2000 posts lol]

[TheGuruStud]

I always switch off every appliance from the wall socket after I'm finished - saves energy and removes the risk were something to develop a short-circuit while nobody's at home... :)
You mean you keep your speakers with the control-pod showing the red power-up button on standby 24/7?

[Edit: Wow I just went over 2000 posts lol]

Nothing I own is ever completely turned off haha. That would just piss me off to have to switch things back on. Electricity is still the cheapest resource I use. My PC runs 24/7/365 (also for the reliability aspect, the shit just lasts longer always running vs on/off, I keep the HDDs spinning too).

And my power button is purple thank you very much :p

[Black Panther]

And my power button is purple thank you very much :p

:laugh: I had put it on purple once too! :p

[Mussels]

try setting the settings you want, turning it into standby and then cutting the power.


there does seem to be some way that the settings get saved, as i recall moving mine between houses and the settings sticking.

maybe try the off switch on the sub as opposed to the wall? (or vice versa)

[vaiopup]

Another owner here :)
Least I think it's them, but they are the previous version.

edit: Not used them for a few years but they are hooked up to tv/dvd etc.

May throw them in my rig room aka dining room and put hifi back in the living room.

All got kinda put on the back burner when I moved house.

[Mussels]

Another owner here :)
Least I think it's them, but they are the previous version.

edit: Not used them for a few years but they are hooked up to tv/dvd etc.

May throw them in my rig room aka dining room and put hifi back in the living room.

All got kinda put on the back burner when I moved house.

Z-680's?

[zAAm]

try setting the settings you want, turning it into standby and then cutting the power.


there does seem to be some way that the settings get saved, as i recall moving mine between houses and the settings sticking.

maybe try the off switch on the sub as opposed to the wall? (or vice versa)

Nope, standby -> sub switch loses the settings as well... As does standby -> plug. Sigh, I can sort of see the point of zero overall volume when the system loses power (so when it comes back on you don't get blown away if you were listening loud music before), but turning down the surround and center volume too is a bit excessive...

Maybe there is some sort of backup battery powering memory inside that might have failed? :confused:

[TheGuruStud]

Maybe there is some sort of backup battery powering memory inside that might have failed? :confused:

Should be NVRAM.

[Mussels]

Should be NVRAM.

should be, isnt.

these settings being forgotten isnt unique, mines done it before (and not, other times)

[zAAm]

Yeah, didn't think it could be that since it SHOULD be non-volatile...

Maybe I'll open the control panel and see if I can see anything without destroying everything... ;)

[vaiopup]

Z-680's?

Will take a look.....major diff is the input switcher thingy is black and more rounded.
Edit just googled, my bad.....yes mine are 680's....is that good or bad?

Hey ho.....guess I shouldn't be in this thread then.

[Mussels]

Will take a look.....major diff is the input switcher thingy is black and more rounded.
Edit just googled, my bad.....yes mine are 680's....is that good or bad?

Hey ho.....guess I shouldn't be in this thread then.

Z-680's are more or less the same. its just the actual looks of the units that changed really.

95% of the info in this thread will apply to the Z-680's as well

[TheGuruStud]

Wow, just googled z-5500. Places are charging $375 and up :eek::wtf::shadedshu

That's absurd. I can buy a cheap onkyo system for that.

[zAAm]

Here in South Africa the system is about R4200 (about the same I paid for mine 3years ago). With the current exchange rate of R7.39 = $1, that's $568.34. So $375 is a steal ;)

[TheGuruStud]

Here in South Africa the system is about R4200 (about the same I paid for mine 3years ago). With the current exchange rate of R7.39 = $1, that's $568.34. So $375 is a steal ;)

Not when I got mine for 175 free ship :p

[zAAm]

Not when I got mine for 175 free ship :p

Talk about unfair... The joy of living in a developing country - paying at least double for everything electronic. :shadedshu

[TheGuruStud]

Talk about unfair... The joy of living in a developing country - paying at least double for everything electronic. :shadedshu

It's developing :eek:

:laugh:

[zAAm]

It's developing :eek:

:laugh:

Let's call it an emerging market then ;)

[TheGuruStud]

Let's call it an emerging market then ;)

Hehe. I'm just being sassy. I have a friend from there, but she's never going back.

She's Indian and her husband is white, so I can't say I blame her lol

Shit, OT. I better make some relevant post about Z5500 quick!
Ummm... my speakers are purdy? No. I like it when the sub vibrates my butt? No.

I give up.

[logit85]

i have logitech Z-5500
i have problem i also using 6ch direct but sound noise
then i turn off i did try pull cable green black orange i try turn on still noise valume is 0% still noise i try 50% more noise i set valume 0% still same noise

how to solve to fix
what problem
help me

[zAAm]

i have logitech Z-5500
i have problem i also using 6ch direct but sound noise
then i turn off i did try pull cable green black orange i try turn on still noise valume is 0% still noise i try 50% more noise i set valume 0% still same noise

how to solve to fix
what problem
help me

Uhm, let's hope I deciphered it correctly :wtf:. Do you get ONLY noise or noise along with other sound? You say it happens in 6channel analog mode, does it happen with optical or SPDIF (if you can test it that is)?

[logit85]

Uhm, let's hope I deciphered it correctly :wtf:. Do you get ONLY noise or noise along with other sound? You say it happens in 6channel analog mode, does it happen with optical or SPDIF (if you can test it that is)?

optical and coax no noise but direct still noise i try effect stereo and streox2 and pl2 music still alll speaker sound noise i try pull cables jack i try turn on still noise all speakers

[logit85]

u can watch youtube link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4rDJ9QfW38

u can see that like noise that like for me i have problem that is

how to fix solve please help me

[zAAm]

Mmmm, don't think I can help you there. Must be some sort of interference caused by loose connections on the control pod PCB or some other problem. If you can listen to sound through optical or SPDIF I guess it's not a complete waste of the system. If not, I'd maybe test the system from analog outputs of an ipod or something similar to make sure it's isolated to the Z-5500's and then I'd suggest returning the unit for repairs?

[logit85]

Mmmm, don't think I can help you there. Must be some sort of interference caused by loose connections on the control pod PCB or some other problem. If you can listen to sound through optical or SPDIF I guess it's not a complete waste of the system. If not, I'd maybe test the system from analog outputs of an ipod or something similar to make sure it's isolated to the Z-5500's and then I'd suggest returning the unit for repairs?

i try to plug analog dvd player still noise
i think optical and coax no noise i can try but mp3 will sound 2.1 sad
i prefer 6ch direct very best i playing songs listering mp3 still all speaker great sound
i need complant logitech they will repair free ?

[Mussels]

my first pair of z55's died in a similar way actually, analog gave a hissing sound while optical and coax gave no audio.

you'll have to return them to where you bought them, like i did.


you really, REALLY need to work on your english. we cant help you if we cant understand you.

[logit85]

my first pair of z55's died in a similar way actually, analog gave a hissing sound while optical and coax gave no audio.

you'll have to return them to where you bought them, like i did.


you really, REALLY need to work on your english. we cant help you if we cant understand you.

my speakers is 1year ago already
i think warranty finish

[logit85]

today i have problem can't turn on because no red light
i have change new fuse still not working still no red light
how to fix solve

[DanishDevil]

Are you sure you used the proper type of fuse?

[Mussels]

is it plugged in and turn on at the wall, and at the back of the sub?

[logit85]

Are you sure you used the proper type of fuse?
yah fuse is 5v
is it plugged in and turn on at the wall, and at the back of the sub?
yah i also plugged in wall turn on and subwoofer back switch on already
still no red light

[Mussels]

yah fuse is 5v

yah i also plugged in wall turn on and subwoofer back switch on already
still no red light

then you likely used the wrong kind of fuse. Voltage is not the only thing you needed to match up - theres amperage, and the Z5500's use a slow blow fuse.

[EarlZ]

no, it doesnt. it uses the x-fi name but has *NOTHING* in common in hardware.

Hell, the extreme music is a pure software card...

Oh really a pure software card? Maybe you mean the extreme audio.

hbkl: that card would give you decent (not great) analogue, but wouldnt let you use the digital connections for games.

So gaming only supports digital 5.1 and not analog ?

My mother board has an onboard optical out, should i consider using that instead of my X-Fi ?

EDIT:

I currently have an Altec 621 and this one has been with me for about 6-7years already and the sound quality is still great for the age of the unit, so basically with my sound card should I still consider getting a Z-5500 or its a total waste since my sound card is not upto par ?

[Mussels]

digital connections only support 2.0 audio. you need a card with encoding to get 5.1 or better.

[EarlZ]

digital connections only support 2.0 audio. you need a card with encoding to get 5.1 or better.

Ok, so i guess im good to go with analog connection, gonna place the order for this speaker system.. hopefully it lives up to the expectations :D

[Mussels]

Ok, so i guess im good to go with analog connection, gonna place the order for this speaker system.. hopefully it lives up to the expectations :D

does your x-fi support real time encoding?

[EarlZ]

does your x-fi support real time encoding?

DD Live encoding or something ?? I think not.. but a member on another forum says there are no problems with 5.1 using analog with the extreme music.

[Mussels]

DD Live encoding or something ?? I think not.. but a member on another forum says there are no problems with 5.1 using analog with the extreme music.

DD live, dolby home theater, and whatever they call the DTS one.

Without those, stick with analogue.

[EarlZ]

DD live, dolby home theater, and whatever they call the DTS one.

Without those, stick with analogue.

Ok, ill be going with analog for now.

Maybe later down the the road ill get a auzen prelude

[EarlZ]

My retailer just delivered it now and my jaw just dropped from the AMAZING MIND BLOWING sound quality... WHY did i purchase this just now !?!?!?!?!

Altho im a bit pissed since one of the speaker cover already has a faded logitech logo.. the set i got is 100% brand new and sealed my retailer didnt even bother placing his warranty stickers on it.

my PID is R938 if that means anything.


EDIT:
BTW, How do i remove the boost+11 ?

[DanishDevil]

On the control pod, hold down Mute, and turn the volume knob down until it goes away.

Added :toast: and congrats on your purchase!

[TheGuruStud]

I just spin the knob really fast :)

[EarlZ]

So far Im loving the speakers, Would it be worth it if I upgrade to an Auzen X-Fi Prelude 7.1 ?

[EarlZ]

Is there a way to remove the speaker stands on the satelite speakers so that i can get a custom stand for the rear ones?

[Mussels]

Is there a way to remove the speaker stands on the satelite speakers so that i can get a custom stand for the rear ones?

it can be unscrewed and removed, although i have no idea how succesful replacement stands would be.

[EarlZ]

it can be unscrewed and removed, although i have no idea how succesful replacement stands would be.

Well i cant just let the rear speaker stand on the floor, so yes they will be very effective as looking for rear stands that are compatible with the default speaker stand base is close to impossible in my place.

[EarlZ]

Im also planning to get a headset to pair with my Z-5500 , how much can the control pod handle ?

[FreedomEclipse]

would it be wise to swap the front 2 speakers for a set of bookshelf speakers????

[Mussels]

would it be wise to swap the front 2 speakers for a set of bookshelf speakers????

its been covered a few times, short version: the amp filters most of the bass/low-ranges to the sub, so improvement is minimal.

If you already got em: try it, but dont waste money on new bookshelfs.

[FreedomEclipse]

nah - their an old set of sony speakers I was given by my auntie. I got bassreflex/bass redirection on a 80hz anyway. but if it dont make much differnce then i wont bother :P

[xvi]

Slight update. I tried the "Boost 22" thing again and it did work this time. It does not work on optical (which is probably why it didn't work the first time), but I can confirm that it does work for me on analog (Firmware v2.0.4).

Also, I've recently had a problem where my sound over optical will distort quite badly. I've recorded the output from the headphone jack (headphone splitter, one to headphones, the other to the line-in on my computer) and submitted a trouble ticket to Logitech.

For anyone who's interested, you can hear the distortion here (http://xvi.is-a-geek.com/Z-5500_Distortion.mp3). The first bit is a recording of the headphone output on my control unit when everything is fine. The second bit is a recording from the same source when the problem occurs. Go easy on the file. It's being hosted from my residential connection.

[Mussels]

Slight update. I tried the "Boost 22" thing again and it did work this time. It does not work on optical (which is probably why it didn't work the first time), but I can confirm that it does work for me on analog (Firmware v2.0.4).

Also, I've recently had a problem where my sound over optical will distort quite badly. I've recorded the output from the headphone jack (headphone splitter, one to headphones, the other to the line-in on my computer) and submitted a trouble ticket to Logitech.

For anyone who's interested, you can hear the distortion here (http://xvi.is-a-geek.com/Z-5500_Distortion.mp3). The first bit is a recording of the headphone output on my control unit when everything is fine. The second bit is a recording from the same source when the problem occurs. Go easy on the file. It's being hosted from my residential connection.

boost 22 only works on analogue. that was covered at the start of the thread.

[EarlZ]

Im using analog connection and im hearing a very very faint hissing noise.. is this normal ?

[Mussels]

Im using analog connection and im hearing a very very faint hissing noise.. is this normal ?

is the noise present at low volumes, or only at high?


You should always have your PC volume at 50% or lower (50% is unamplified), it shouldnt hiss then (unless your speakers are set way too high lol)

[TheGuruStud]

If you're using onboard audio, then that is possibly the culprit. With everything crammed together so closely it creates a lot of noise. You may also have a nearby device that puts off a lot of EMI.

Those two were always the problem in my experience.

[EarlZ]

is the noise present at low volumes, or only at high?


You should always have your PC volume at 50% or lower (50% is unamplified), it shouldnt hiss then (unless your speakers are set way too high lol)

PC volume is always at 25% , Its very faint even if the Z-5500 is at about 50-60% its like i need to stick my ears next to the speakers to hear them or it has to be on a very silent time of the day ( like dawn )

If you're using onboard audio, then that is possibly the culprit. With everything crammed together so closely it creates a lot of noise. You may also have a nearby device that puts off a lot of EMI.

Those two were always the problem in my experience.

Hissing or the static noise is still there even if it is unplugged from the sound card.. Ill try to take the system on another room with minimal electronic devices and check if i still get the hissing/static sound.

[Mussels]

my speakers hissed all the time when they blew. Analogue worked (with hissing, and one channel was dead - worked when testing via remote, but NOT when testing via windows/MP3 player etc) - also, both digital ports stopped working.


My unit (and everyone i've ever tested) gives off a faint hum even when in standby, but i wouldnt describe that as a hiss. I turn mine off at the wall so i cant hear it at night.

[Cold Storm]

Whenever my Celly is on my desk, every now & again, I'll get a hum that comes from the center speaker.. Other then that, I don't get any interferance that makes it do so..

[EarlZ]

my speakers hissed all the time when they blew. Analogue worked (with hissing, and one channel was dead - worked when testing via remote, but NOT when testing via windows/MP3 player etc) - also, both digital ports stopped working.


My unit (and everyone i've ever tested) gives off a faint hum even when in standby, but i wouldnt describe that as a hiss. I turn mine off at the wall so i cant hear it at night.

Ok maybe not a hiss but a very faint and static noise.

[Mussels]

Ok maybe not a hiss but a very faint and static noise.

check if you can hear it from the subwoofer as well, if you stick your ear on it. It may well just be the background noise they make (they all do it)

[EarlZ]

check if you can hear it from the subwoofer as well, if you stick your ear on it. It may well just be the background noise they make (they all do it)

Placed the Z-5500 under full volume and there is zero audible sound from the sub-woofer, so i guess everything is in good order

[Mussels]

Placed the Z-5500 under full volume and there is zero audible sound from the sub-woofer, so i guess everything is in good order

yeah, sounds like you're getting the normal, annoying background hum.

I've got good hearing, so i can hear the things 2 rooms away - most other people tell me i'm making it up/hallucinating

[twicksisted]

not sure if anyone else gets this same bug with their Z5500 speakers....
Basically its a sound every couple of seconds that starts off as a high pitched sound and goes through to a low pitched sound (lasts around 3-5seconds) (like a slide of frequencies from high to low for a couple of seconds then quiet for about 10-15 seconds and repeat).... its very quiet but very annoying... this happens when the system is on and nothing is playing. Im guessing its doing the same with music playing but its too soft to hear.... the unit appears to work fine otherwise

Im guessing its the sub doing this as the sound is too low to be from the sattelites

[Mussels]

not sure if anyone else gets this same bug with their Z5500 speakers....
Basically its a sound every couple of seconds that starts off as a high pitched sound and goes through to a low pitched sound (lasts around 3-5seconds) (like a slide of frequencies from high to low for a couple of seconds then quiet for about 10-15 seconds and repeat).... its very quiet but very annoying... this happens when the system is on and nothing is playing. Im guessing its doing the same with music playing but its too soft to hear.... the unit appears to work fine otherwise

Im guessing its the sub doing this as the sound is too low to be from the sattelites

not here.

My 100% total and utter guess, is that it may be related to electrical interference - you know, bad power, or a fridge or something causing feedback.

[Kantastic]

I just ordered the Z-2300's because I can't properly setup a 5.1 config. Let's hope I like'em.

Edit: I thought about canceling since I AM tight on money but these should last me a while right?

[Fourstaff]

What is the oldest Z5500 here?

[EarlZ]

check if you can hear it from the subwoofer as well, if you stick your ear on it. It may well just be the background noise they make (they all do it)

There are times that the background noise they make is more audible, as of today its really audible when im not playing anything on the set..and this is with the sound card volume at 25% and speaker volume at about 40-45%

its like a ssssssssssssssssssssss thats very faint

[Mussels]

There are times that the background noise they make is more audible, as of today its really audible when im not playing anything on the set..and this is with the sound card volume at 25% and speaker volume at about 40-45%

its like a ssssssssssssssssssssss thats very faint

sounds like the background hiss mine has. Most people cant hear it, since they live in noisy environments.

[EarlZ]

Is this expected on ALL forms of high power audio system, even on those audiophile systems that costs millions of bucks ?

[freaksavior]

add me in :) dad got some

Freaksavior (Aaron)
Devices: Asus Xonar D2X
Speaker Info: Not sure...
Favorite Media: Movies

[Mussels]

Is this expected on ALL forms of high power audio system, even on those audiophile systems that costs millions of bucks ?

if it uses power, its going to leak as heat or noise. Just do what i do, and turn them off at the wall when not in use.

[EarlZ]

if it uses power, its going to leak as heat or noise. Just do what i do, and turn them off at the wall when not in use.

Thats too much of a hassle, turning them off with the power button kills the noise.

[Mussels]

Thats too much of a hassle, turning them off with the power button kills the noise.

really? mine make noise even when off. its quieter, but maybe my hearings better than yours.

[EarlZ]

really? mine make noise even when off. its quieter, but maybe my hearings better than yours.

you mean you hear the exact same amount of noise even if the unit is just powered off with the switch ?

[Mussels]

you mean you hear the exact same amount of noise even if the unit is just powered off with the switch ?

if i power it off at the control pod/with the remote, i hear noise still.
Flicking it off at the wall/back of the sub stops it.

[EarlZ]

wow, that is one sensitive ears!

[makthedon]

Got my z-5500 about one month ago and I'm really happy with their performance. I mostly use them to watch movies so they're connected with xonar dx through optical cable. Here's how I set it up in my room.
Ps. media center case soon to come instead of the one that's on the pic

http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/965/dsc00343p.th.jpg (http://img109.imageshack.us/i/dsc00343p.jpg/) http://img109.imageshack.us/img109/5938/dsc00344h.th.jpg (http://img109.imageshack.us/i/dsc00344h.jpg/)

Btw. Has anyone ever found any 96/24 material to play on z-5500? I can't find it anywhere.

[Mussels]

wow, that is one sensitive ears!

i can hear laptop power bricks humming. it seems cool, but it results in me not sleeping much :(

[EarlZ]

I dunno if it has been discussed here but between Digital and Analog connection, w/c produces sound better and why ?

[Mussels]

I dunno if it has been discussed here but between Digital and Analog connection, w/c produces sound better and why ?

too varied for a simple response.

Digital sounds cleaner, but has more requirements (such as a card with dolby/DTS encoding)

[EarlZ]

too varied for a simple response.

Digital sounds cleaner, but has more requirements (such as a card with dolby/DTS encoding)

Even if the movie or game supports 5.1 you still need DDlive for it to come out with 5.1 ?

[Mussels]

Even if the movie or game supports 5.1 you still need DDlive for it to come out with 5.1 ?

Movies are an exception, so long as they have DD/DTS encoding, and you use AC3 passthrough in your media player.

Games dont use digital sound, so they need DD live.

[EarlZ]

Movies are an exception, so long as they have DD/DTS encoding, and you use AC3 passthrough in your media player.

Games dont use digital sound, so they need DD live.

On consoles I guess their hardware as digital encoding ?

[Mussels]

On consoles I guess their hardware as digital encoding ?

Some of them, yes. Sometimes their games are pre-encoded as well.

[ManImCool]

Hello, I am a newcomer to this forum but a long time Z-5500 owner. Basically, I own an older model (it's sitting in the garage right now under a bunch of stuff so I can't get the exact PID #) but I'm almost positive it's in the R5XX range. About a year ago, one of my roommates was using my system (when I was out of town without my permission, go figure) and blew the subwoofer. I didn't even know that was possible, since I play music on the thing max volume all the time and it handles it perfectly. But basically the sub is blown, making all music sound like crap and rendering the system more or less useless. You can set the sub/bass with the dial all the way down to zero, so that you no longer have rattling, but that also sounds terrible (Z-5500s with no bass? All treble? What a waste!)

So now I'm trying to figure out my options as far as trying to get Logitech to replace my subwoofer unit. I will double check, but again I'm almost positive the PID sticker on the control pod is in the R5XX range. Does anyone know under what EXACT circumstances Logitech will replace the blown sub for me? I know they ask for your M/N number, which I *think* doesn't really matter, it's S-0115A (or B or C etc). The important number that I think matters (again, I am asking for clarification of all these PID numbers) is the PID on the back of the control pod. I think this #1 has something to do with the manufacture date, and #2 indicates a compatibility with the pod and the sub amp. I read somewhere that certain newer pods won't work with an older sub? Well in my case, I dont need another pod, I need a new sub to replace the blown one!

So basically here is what has been going through my mind, and I'm asking you z-5500 veterans to tell me if this will work or if it will backfire with bad consequences. I'm going to call Logitech and tell them my PID# is something like R760 (when again, it's much older and in the R5XXs) so that they will automatically assume my sub is still under warranty and not ask any other questions. I'm hoping, that with me telling them the PID is newer than it really is, is that they'll just ship me a new sub unit. Worst case scenario, they ask me to send in the old blown subwoofer, and all is well. Now, will this fantasy I have dreamed up, work?

First of all, will it be that simple with Logitech (me saying "broken blown sub, I want a new sub" and them sending me a new one for free) or will I run into problems with purchase date, when I bought it, if it's still under warranty, PID#, just straight up not part of their policy to send a new sub, etc?

And second of all, if they do send me a new sub/amp, will I have any compatibility issues with my "older" dock, that is actually a R5XX and NOT a R7XX like I plan on telling them?

Any insight into any of my quest to get my Z5500 sub replaced would be immensly appreciated. Having a complete Z5500 system with a blown sub is like having a new Ferrari with a Prius engine. Help!!!

The reason I'm actually going to all this great length to get my sub replaced is partly my fault; when the sub first blew and broke, I called Logitech and complained, they said they would send me a new sub if I sent them the old one (just the sub unit); they gave me an RMA # and everything. I just never got past that point. This was years ago. I have long since forgotten the RMA#, and even if I had it written down, I doubt they would take the sub back after years later from the initial complaint. (Or, would they? If I called Logitech, told them all my original information, said they gave me an RMA several, several, years ago, could they look up that case and actually be cool with it, using the old case and old RMA and still send me a new sub? What do you guys think? Am I crazy?)

[DanishDevil]

Give them a call and say that life happened and you didn't get a chance to RMA it before, and if they will still honor it.

Oh, and welcome to TPU! :toast:

[Mussels]

depends where you live, logitech australia for example, dont do warranty. at all. not kidding - its where you bought it from, or no RMA at all.

[ManImCool]

Well i'm in living in california, bought it in california. American Logitech. Again, I went through this process with them years ago and they told me they'd replace the sub, just had to send in the blown one, with the RMA # they assigned me. I just never got around to doing it. So I know they WERE going to, just trying to figure out my options years later.

[aCid888*]

I've had these for a while....great for pretty much anything. :)


My Z5500 center speaker:

http://img.techpowerup.org/100130/P1040134.jpg

http://img.techpowerup.org/100130/P1040133.jpg

[EarlZ]

How about the other users are you guys also hearing the static sound on the speakers when nothing is playing ?

[InnocentCriminal]

I was so close to picking a set up but now that I'm finally moving house I had to turn them down.

:cry:

[EarlZ]

I was so close to picking a set up but now that I'm finally moving house I had to turn them down.

:cry:

Once your settled into your new place I hope you can still grab it!

[InnocentCriminal]

So do I!

The living room and bedroom are perfectly square - so pretty much ideal for this kit.

Fingers crossed!

[ManImCool]

Anyone? Can anyone provide help with the PID numbers??

[EarlZ]

Anyone? Can anyone provide help with the PID numbers??

From what I can recall, Pods with PID 5XX can connect to subs with 5XX or lower while pods with PID6XX to 9XX can connect to subs with 6XX to 9XX

[kushagra2008]

Hello Everyone,

Warm greetings from India, Kush here. This is my very first post on this forum. I need help from other members as I'm facing some issues with my current Audio setup.

My setup : Logitech Z-5500 & Xonar Essence STX hooked up via Optical (toslink) cable.

Pic : http://i49.tinypic.com/33y7349.jpg

To give you a better view (If my settings are in correct order?)

Problem is, I'm getting sound from only 2 (FL & FR) of the 5 satellites when I play Lossless Songs (which are 2 ch) with Dolby Digital Live on. I bought many Original Audio discs but to my disappointment I'm getting 2ch Audio (i.e., Only Front left and Front right speakers are working when DDL is in play). I know those songs are 2ch itself but is there any way to get (Digital Sound from) all 5 of 'em with Dolby Digital Live on (while playing 2ch Songs)? Is there any way to split those ch Digital Audio to 5.1 Digital Audio?

Right now, to get all 5 of 'em working I have to switch SPDIF Out to PCM in Xonar Audio Centre and Effect to DDPL II Music in control pod. Therefore, sacrificing DD Audio. I'm not able to get True 5.1 Digital Audio or 5.1 Digital Audio from 'em. All I'm getting is 2.1 Audio when DDL mode is selected.

In short, I want 5.1 DD Audio from them.

I hope you understand what I'm trying to say because I'm no good at Audio section and its very hard for me to understand basic vocab of Audiophiles, Please help me out I'm still not satisfied with the overall result of my investment.

Cheers.

[Mussels]

you will only get two channel audio from a 2 channel source.

DD live does not upmix.

Z55's do not allow stereo x2 or dolby music/movie modes with a 5.1 digital source.


If you want upmixed music, Turn DD live encoding off, and turn the 'effect' settings on the z5500 control pod on.

[TheGuruStud]

Use winamp or any other good player and it should output (upmix) it correctly. Mine plays in 5.1 with DTS and DD Live, I just tested it.

[Mussels]

Use winamp or any other good player and it should output (upmix) it correctly. Mine plays in 5.1 with DTS and DD Live, I just tested it.

winamp doesnt do it.

[TheGuruStud]

winamp doesnt do it.

How am I getting 5.1 :confused:

[Mussels]

How am I getting 5.1 :confused:

feature of your sound card software, most likely.

[TheGuruStud]

feature of your sound card software, most likely.

Which would be the same as his, pretty much, and I don't have any extra options enabled.

So his should be working, don't ya think?

[Mussels]

the only ways to get it upmixed, is one of two options that i know of.

1. Speakers have the options enabled (stereo x2, Dolby music, etc)

2. Something in windows software. CMSS 3D for creative users, setting input to 2.0 and output to 5.1 on CMedia cards, that kinda thing.

[TheGuruStud]

Hmmmm, my new drivers/software is different. You're right. Everything is upmixed automatically, now. It wasn't this way before b/c my 2.0 TV shows were only stereo, but the music was still upmixed.
Now, I'm really confused.

[Mussels]

http://img.techpowerup.org/100206/Capture490.jpg


you can see with mine, input and output is different.

If i set input to stereo and output to 5.1, then i get everything in fake 5.1 (upmixed) - however, i do not get positional audio in movies and games (true 5.1)


if i was you, i'd be checking in the software and in windows settings, to make sure everything is set to 5.1 (and/or DD, if it works that way)

[TheGuruStud]

His is set identical to mine and I have true 5.1 with 5.1 input.

kushagra: I'm gonna blame w/e drivers you have installed. Here's their list of drivers. ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/Audio_Card/Xonar_Essence_STX/
Are you using the ones off the CD (aka outdated)?

[kushagra2008]

Thanks for your valuable replies, My speaker isn't even producing 'fake' 5.1. I just want it to split those 2 ch Audio to 5ch audio. Even though it won't be true 5.1
His is set identical to mine and I have true 5.1 with 5.1 input.

kushagra: I'm gonna blame w/e drivers you have installed. Here's their list of drivers. ftp://ftp.asus.com.tw/pub/ASUS/Audio_Card/Xonar_Essence_STX/
Are you using the ones off the CD (aka outdated)?

Hi TheGuruStud,

I have updated my drivers accordingly, problem still persists.

[Mussels]

Thanks for your valuable replies, My speaker isn't even producing 'fake' 5.1. I just want it to split those 2 ch Audio to 5ch audio. Even though it won't be true 5.1


Hi TheGuruStud,

I have updated my drivers accordingly, problem still persists.

the only way i know of to do it, is disable dolby encoding and turn on the stereo x2 or dolby music features on the z5500's

These features are disabled when dolby encoding is on, because the speakers beleive they're getting a 5.1 source when its DD or DTS

[EarlZ]

The CMSS-3D on the X-Fi makes life easier for 2.0 to 5.1 upmixing and the nice thing is that it automatically turns the feature off if the soundcard detects the source as 5.1 :D

[EarlZ]

Before I upgraded to the Z-5500 ( Prev had an Altec 621 ) i rarely found the need to increase the volume when gaming but with the Z-5500 I have to raise the volume significantly ( to around 75% of the Z-5500 volume ) in order for my games to be audible and I have to revert it back down to around 20% when Im back to desktop, Im not sure whats causing this issue.. must be the 5.1 settings under windows ? I always run at 6Ch direct.

[twicksisted]

Before I upgraded to the Z-5500 ( Prev had an Altec 621 ) i rarely found the need to increase the volume when gaming but with the Z-5500 I have to raise the volume significantly ( to around 75% of the Z-5500 volume ) in order for my games to be audible and I have to revert it back down to around 20% when Im back to desktop, Im not sure whats causing this issue.. must be the 5.1 settings under windows ? I always run at 6Ch direct.

wow i have mine set at around 3 bars only... like 25% or so and my girlfriend always moans that its too loud... sounds like your windows volume settings or soundcard are to blame here