Creative Inspire 5.1 Console 5500
Creative's latest temptation to console gamers examined.
Whilst undisputedly the visuals of a game are highly important in immersing the player into the environment presented, the good use of audio and music can be equally effective; helping captivate the players senses and mind in the escapism of the alternate reality on-screen.
Of course, on this technologically dependant front the PC has always remained one step ahead of it’s console siblings, but the gap is ever narrowing, and with the latest generation of consoles we are finally starting to see audio output that can at least provide a more immersive game playing experience. With this in mind, Creative have brought us the latest edition to their Inspire 5.1 series (a selection of speaker systems which seems to grown on an almost daily basis), the Digital 5500, which is specifically designed for use with consoles and DVD players. Pricing weighs in at approximately £150.
I’m testing this particular model through our Xbox, and the first thing worthy of note is the flexibility of inputs available. Whilst other systems in the Inspire range lack options on this front, it’s pleasing to note that you’ve got a choice of line-in, coaxial and optical inputs, allowing multiple devices to be attached simultaneously.
Secondly, the decoder unit (as you can see from the product photography), is rather sexy to say the least, and should look at home alongside your TV/DVD player, etc. This is a smart move on Creative’s part, and is one of the reasons this system is so flexible – you can attach it to your PC as well, should you choose to do so. The module has a wireless remote control as well, which allows you to adjust the volume and settings whilst remaining entirely motionless in your chair negating any degrading physical movement – which as any true (read lazy, inactive and pallid) gamer knows is a very useful thing.
So what else do you get? Five satellite speakers (front and back right and left, one centre) and a wooden Subwoofer. These little speakers do actually pack quite a punch – and whilst they might not be as sexy as the decoder, or indeed as powerful as decent home Cinema system, they do offer value for money. What’s more, when correctly positioned (quite vital in creating the best experience possible), they do create quite a racket which will easily fill a room – and was a veritable joy in games that made good use of surround-sound.
Before we crack on, here’s the science bit for you statisticians out there:
Power Specifications:
