Digital Trends

Logitech Z-680

March 18th, 2003 | by Benj Mauck

Setup and Installation

Setup is very straightforward:  the satellites and center channel all connect to the sub with the included standard speaker wire.  An Allen wrench is included to reverse the speaker mounts (horizontal to vertical) if necessary.  The control center plugs into the sub via a SVGA cable, and audio inputs plug into the front and back of the control center.  The 6-channel analog cable is included, digital coax & optical cables are extra.

Conclusion

Logitech has exceeded our expectations in nearly every department with its Z-680 speaker system.  The clarity in the midrange and highs as well as excellent base response is truly impressive.  We noted excess background noise at low volume — an issue which some will find disturbing and others will not even notice.  In quality the system sounds very similar to its older cousin, the award winning Z-560.  The obvious advantages are the increased power and the move to 5.1 surround from the older 4.1 standard.  Other improvements can be found in the details, but deciding if the Z-680 is worth twice the price of the Z-560 will be a difficult one for most.  If stretching those hard earned dollars is most important, you will likely go for the $100 Z-640 or $200 Z-560.  But if power, sound quality, and features are top on your list, there is not much out there that can contend with the Z-680 sound system.