Xhifi's XDC-1 Desktop Audio system bridges the gap between your prized home theater loudspeakers and those you normally find on your desk hooked up to your computer, iPod, mobile phone or gaming console. It utilizes advanced driver and enclosure technology designed for near-field listening, beefed-up amplification and elegant finishing to bring genuine high-end performance to everyday applications.

Additional Resources
• Read more about XHifi on HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Read a review of Logitech Z-2300 Desktop System here.

Finished in a gorgeous European Cherry veneer, the XDC-1 provides one RCA input (no digital or USB connections), pin speaker outputs, two volume controls and a phase control. The volume controls, labeled Master and Subwoofer, allow for individual adjustments to both the low frequencies and the entire signal. It also provides an IEC power connector, allowing for easy power cord upgrades. The two sets of screw-in dual-height feet add a nice touch, so you can tilt the satellite speakers for better performance at specific listening positions.

The XDC-1's XD1 satellite speakers utilize a Radial Ribbon driver element within a cylindrical enclosure, offering tremendous speed and accuracy, along with a 360-degree radiation pattern. The cylindrical enclosure minimizes standing waves, making it difficult to hear the speaker's physical contents while listening; this is a hallmark of high-end loudspeakers. The thin design creates a very small footprint, making it easy to place in small settings, and the gold-plated binding posts make a very nice touch.

A custom-designed 50-watt digital amplifier drives the XD1 satellites. This circuit, about the size of an index card, provides high power and current drive, while keeping very cool inside the subwoofer's enclosure. Digital amplifiers present designers of today's smaller, more mobile consumer electronics with much more flexible options for driving speakers. While the purists claim the sound doesn't approach that of traditional amplifier designs, I would disagree with that on an absolute basis (digital designs get better literally every day), and, when combined with the enormous flexibility advantages, it makes the argument frankly not even close.

The Sub-1 Subwoofer also uses a cylindrical design, offering an elegant, rounded look at its front. It sits on three tiptoes, mounted on a flat base, creating a stable footprint with excellent de-coupling. The unit's down-firing driver is a six-inch paper type, specially designed for high-excursion and power handling. The down-firing design also allows for easier placement under desks and other similar tight spaces (a computer loudspeaker system's subwoofer doesn't have much use if it is firing into your legs).

The XDC-1 creates a very deep and wide soundstage, with the sound appearing out of nowhere in front of you, up and around the satellites. The highs are smooth and detailed, and the sub packs a punch. The ribbon drivers' exceptional speed combines with terrific bandwidth, making for great highs and midrange, and the unit's custom crossover seamlessly hands off to the sub, making for a very complete presentation.

Read The High Points, The Low Points and the Conclusion on Page 2