Digital Home Thoughts: Bowers & Wilkins MM-1 Speakers Reviewed

"The MM-1 sounds so magnificent that we don’t even mind that it’s a USB speaker system that bypasses the PC’s audio circuitry; in fact, that’s a major plus—unless you’ve invested in a high-end soundcard like the kick-ass Asus Xonar Essence STX we reviewed in June 2009. Our only other mild criticism is that B&W decided to use a proprietary cable hardwired to the right speaker (which contains the amplifier and DAC) to connect the left speaker, and the cable is just long enough to position the speakers on either side of a 30-inch display."

At $500, I'm not quite sure where the market is for these. Most HTPC's are going to want more power and probably are using a dedicated amp and full surround package. Those wanting a desktop with the best are still probably going to want to go with a dedicated and separate sound card and speakers. If I'm missing something here, please share in the comments.