Digital Trends

LaCie has introduced a USB, bus-powered version of its Neil Poulton-designed external speakers for desktop and notebook PCs.

Peripheral and accessories maker LaCie has introduced a USB, bus-powered version of its Neil Poulton-designs external speakers for desktop and notebook PCs. Previously available as a FireWire device, the USB Speakers are designed to be portable, offer decent low-level sound quality, and they work with either Macs or PCs without any additional software.

"The new USB Speakers provide universal flexibility to all USB-enabled computers without the need for additional power cables, electrical sockets, or batteries," said LaCie accessories product manager Alexis Kobassian, in a statement. "Also taking into account their rich sound and minimalist design, the USB Speakers can provide a new listening experience for those unable to enjoy LaCie's FireWire Speakers."

The USB Speakers operate at 1 Watt per channel (the low power design makes them suitable for use on notebooks) and feature 2-inch neodymium drivers with a frequency response between 90Hz and 20kHz. You won't be rattling the walls with bass, but they'll get teh job done for typical desk- and table-top situations, and they're easily portable for travel: the cables wrap around trees in the base of the speakers, and they ship with a carrying case. With a power adapter, they can even be used with many digital media players.

The USB Speakers are available now at a suggested price of $59.99.