Creative Technology DeskTop Theater DTT3500 5 Speakers

Pros: Impressive 5.1 Home Theater system about $100 less than the lowest priced full size systems
Cons: Lower mid-range weak, not really for a living room. Takes practice to control

Title 2: OK, So It's Not a $3000 Bose
Title 3: Do you need a $3000 Bose System on your PC?

What It Is
Manufactured by Cambridge Sound Works and sold under the Creative name, the DTT3500 is a 79 watt RMS Dolby Digital...

Pros: Low price, 6 piece speaker set, Dolby Digital Decoder, good sound, remote, Surround sound
Cons: Doesn't produce best sound out there, for small rooms, no DTS decoding, no THX

Before I start, this is an update to my original DTT3500 review in the DTT2500 section. The review in the DTT2500 was updated with the DTT2500 I bought brand new for $150. So my DTT3500's review finally in its proper home!

About six...

Pros: Dolby AC3 Decoder (5.1 Ready) for PC, Remote Control, Creative Name
Cons: On paper, the power seems a little dismal. Some controls confusing

For the first time in several years, I have finally decided to upgrade my entire computer system. This time, however, I am inclined to undergo the process entirely on my own instead of relying on a manufacturer like Dell to build it for me. As a...

Pros: Digital DIN and optical inputs, remote, independent sub, center and surround levels
Cons: confusing interface, cheap cables, poor documentation

I bought the DTT3500 because it works very well with my SBLive! Platinum 5.1, but I am disappointed in general with the system. The interface is unnecessarily complicated - and when I say complicated, I mean many simple features and modes poorly...

Pros: S/PDIF input (rca & optical), LED display, remote control, ok subwoofer, blah center/surround speakers
Cons: confusing front panel, doesn't switch inputs automatically, no headphone jack

I have had this product for a few years, and I have been somewhat happy with it. I paid about $250 US in 1999. The system comes in a HUGE box.

There are two interchangeable faceplates (horizontal or vertical). There are three small knobs...

Pros: Good sound for small/medium rooms, especially considering price.
Cons: Incredible how much packaging is used to ship this product!

I got this box two days ago that expanded into a mount Fuji of packaging, and wrapped safely inside was a DTT3500 PlayWorks from Creative Labs by Cambridge Soundworks. It took about an hour or so of pretty trouble-free time to set up (taking it easy)....

Pros: It's 5.1, it's loud, it's the best speaker setup out...
Cons: Waiting for the Klipsch Promedia 5.1 :/

These are quite nice speakers. The only noteworthy 5.1 computer speakers out, until the Klipsch Promedia 5.1 comes out. Which I am waiting for. But yea, Unreal Tournament was never the same once I got these, you can hear everything. And neighbors...

Pros: Good sound for small/medium rooms, especially considering price.
Cons: Incredible how much packaging is used to ship this product!

I got this box two days ago that expanded into a mount Fuji of packaging, and wrapped safely inside was a DTT3500 PlayWorks from Creative Labs by Cambridge Soundworks. It took about an hour or so of pretty trouble-free time to set up (taking it easy)....

Pros: Dolby Digital 5.1 is SWEET & Lots of Features
Cons: Although a quality product, not superbly clear or powerful

When it comes to the Creative's Speakers, these are probably the best. The DTT3500 has TONS of extras including cables and converters. The sound is not too bad, however I have heard better. If you've got the money to spend, go for the Klipsch. My...

Pros: Excellent Sound, Ease of use, Digital
Cons: Cons: ... That's funny

I've seen people with sound systems that cost well over $2,000, and the only advantage is that you have something that looks like a fortune, because it is. These speakers I am sure will meet or exceed any sound system there is, unless you've got a 16"...