November 1, 2006 - Let's not kid ourselves: When it comes to putting together the ultimate gaming computer, what usually gets beefed up first are the visuals. Most plunk down several hundred for a video card and a 23-inch widescreen monitor without flinching. But when it comes to the audio, a majority of us go "eh, it's built into the motherboard" and settle for muy cheapo speakers from Walgreens (because we all know that Walgreens is known for their inventory of extensive electronics). We say it's time to stop being lopsided with the attention we give to our senses. It's time we give our ears the recognition they deserve instead of, say, jamming stuff in there when we're bored.

Sound done right not only completes the home computing experience, it can deepen it. In apparent response to this notion, Bose has come up with a speaker system with technology that will make your old entry-level setup sound like the hollowed-out chunks of plastic and wires they really are.

Less is just right.

The Bose Companion� 5 multimedia speaker system comes with two pre-assembled speakers that come with their own stands, a bass module (called the Acoustimass module), and a control pod (which sort of resembles a hockey puck). While some would balk at any setup that included only two speakers, Bose has attempted to address those perceived shortcomings via their TrueSpace� surround digital processing circuitry. It delivers the surround sound experience you would normally get from a five-speaker setup, but keeps you from having to deal with five physical speakers taking up often premium space.

Don't call it a hockey puck. You might hurt its feelings.

Bose seems well aware of the limitations of having a substantial audio experience while sitting at a desk in front of a computer. Unlike a standard home theater setup--usually found in roomy common areas--space on a computer desk is scarce. Having only two speakers not only frees up a good bit of workspace, but also keeps your computer area from looking like a control deck straight out of Star Trek. The Acoustimass module, in addition, is meant to be tucked away anywhere within the listening area. The icing on the proverbial cake is the control pod. Serving as a power switch and volume control knob, the pod provides an easily accessible central control for the Companion 5 system.

Get your gaming on without cluttering up your space.

Users without high-end machines need not be concerned either: the Companion 5 system is built to provide premium sound without additional hardware or software. Just hook the speakers up to your computer via USB and you'll find yourself up and running your favorite dungeon crawler in no time.