Take Your Base
In the past couple of years there has been a definitive movement from some manufacturers to get away from multiple speaker systems. These have typically included narrow speaker bars that mean to simulate the sound you'd get from multiple speakers. While the results vary, the fact is that speaker bars are a good solution in certain set ups, but simply can't be used in all situations.
Here is where we have to give a shout out to ZVOX Audio for realizing this is a problem, and more importantly for coming up with a solution. Instead of merely focusing on a single one-size-fits-all design, the company uses its single cabinet technology as a basis for different platforms to deliver the best sound possible in a given size. This includes a line of powered "base" systems, designed to sit below a TV and replace the TV's internal speakers. Having put the Z-Base 525 to the test, we're happy with the results.
Making Base Camp
The ZVOX Z-Base models are simple low-profile powered speakers that serve as stands on which the appropriate sized TV set rests comfortably on top. The Z-Base 525 is 24 inches wide by 12.5-inches deep, but ZVox recommends leaving a little space so they suggest you use it with any TV 90 pounds or less with a base that is no wider than 23 inches and no deeper than 11 inches. This means it can accomodate most flat panel sets 37 inches (diagonal) or smaller and even some 40-inch and 42-inch models.
If you're buying the ZVox 525 to go with your current set, then take some quick measurements of your TV's base first. If it's for a set you have not yet purchased, then you may need to check your set's manual online before buying the 525 to make sure it will fit (most web sites do not list detailed specs for the TV's stand). And should you have a larger set, with a base wider than 23 inches or deeper than 11 inches, you'll want to step up to one of the larger Z-Base systems. In my case, the model 525 easily supported the 27-inch LCD TV in my office with plenty of room to spare.
The Z-Base worked well for me, because while I have a full surround sound system with the big TV in the living room, my 27-inch LCD set in my home office lacks any external speakers. Truth be told I knew that I needed something as I occasionally like to watch a DVD or cable TV in the office, and the sound from the set was as flat as the display itself. Because the TV is in a corner with limited space, there wasn't really room for a traditional speaker bar, nor even a small home theater in a box system. Thus the Z-Base 525 fit like a glove for my needs. The set sits on top of the sleek cabinet, which provided quite a bit more punch than what I had been getting.
Setting up the Z-Base should be straightforward for most users, but this depends entirely on one's TV. In my case I'm using a Samsung LCD model that unfortunately lacks an audio output. The only output option I have is from the headphone jack, and while I never actually use this for headphones I find that this really doesn't deliver what I'd consider decent sound to an external device. It can be used, but that's not the focus of this piece so I won't go there.
Instead I opted to use the alternative set up option. Instead of having the sound pass through the set and into the ZVOX, I opted to bring the sound directly from my components; in this case the cable set top box and a DVD player. The two rear inputs on the 525 made set up a snap, and all was good to go.
I was pleased to see that ZVOX has taken the wise move of including suction cups for feet for this line, thereby ensuring further stability. With my own installation, I found Z-Base was secure and solidly set up, ready for testing within a few short minutes.
Z-Base Brings the Noise
Powered up I was ready hear the sound, and I encountered the first significant problem with the Z-Base. Because I opted to use the two inputs, instead of passing through the set, I noticed immediately that this is one of those devices that doesn't have an input selector. Instead, you'll hear both sources if the devices are both on. In my case this wasn't so much of a problem because I can turn off either the cable box or the DVD player.
I do wonder what this would mean if I had an always-on device, or if I wanted to do picture-in-picture on the TV with multiple sources. The answer would be that you would have to mute the specific device if possible, or if that wasn't an option, I suppose unplugging it! Not the best solution, but it would work. It's important to note that if you go with the traditional implementation (using a TV's line output into the ZVOX), this will not be an issue as the TV will then switch between audio sources.
Getting past this issue, I was easily able to "hear" the difference. Because I was running the sound directly from the sources to the set, it was also possible to "mix" the sound from the TV's built-in speakers with the Z-Base, as well as switch back and forth to compare. Immediately it became crystal clear that the Z-Base has a warmer and fuller sound than what the TV could offer. And while it would be possible to have both the TV's speakers going at the same time as the Z-Base I wouldn't recommend it, as it didn't add to the audio experience. There was no delay, but the lack of fullness from the set was obvious enough, and this detracted from what the Z-Base delivered.
In my first test I had the set and base positioned in a semi-awkward position in the corner. The TV was angled but the Z-Base was not. This was better aesthetically for me, but it meant that I was essentially off to the side of the sweet spot. I moved the TV and Z-Base to a different location that placed it closer to the middle of the room, and it instantly became the center of my attention. Thus the system does benefit from the same positional set up as any true home theater system, so don't expect miracles if you try to shove it in a corner. But even when put in a less than ideal location, the sound was noticeably better than what the TV could deliver alone.
This was most obvious with DVDs that I put to the test. To see how the big bang theory held up, I tried out Downfall (Der Untergang), Saving Private Ryan and Gladiator - all of which always sound great in DTS - but in simulated surround sound on the ZVOX, these still packed a nice punch. While the 60-watt cabinet is essentially a 2.0 system, it offers more low end than you might expect considering the lack of subwoofer. Speaking of which, if you want "mo bass," any powered subwoofer can be added via the unit's subwoofer output. Additionally, while the PhaseCue technology is meant to simulate surround sound, the system never really fooled me into believing that this was a multi-channel speaker system. The sound was fuller by far, but it was a far cry from a truly cinematic experience. In other words, while PhaseCue did enhance the movie watching experience, it didn't really rock the house.
Control Freak
The weakest link with the Z-Base is the rather simplistic remote. While I wasn't expecting much, I did hope for a remote that was at least a bit sturdier than the one supplied. It has all the makings of a remote that you'd find a discount hotel. The layout was actually somewhat confounding as well, as it offered -/+ adjustments that were side-by-side for subwoofer and treble, but top to bottom for phasecue and volume. Except for the volume it is also hard to really distinguish the level for any of these adjustments. There only visual cue is a blinking light.
Each of the audio adjustments has nine levels, so to find the level you desire you need to count up as it blinks. If it stops blinking you've reached nine. The only other visual cue is the single blue power on light, which indicates the box is on. That bright blue light can be mildly distracting, but is more so when joined by its friend the green light, which is there to remind you that the box will automatically turn off when it doesn't get a signal. Given the price of $399.99, I'd think that some sort of level meter should be included, even if only by virtue of some additional (preferably dimmer) LEDs.
Turn-Ons
Turn Offs:
Final Thoughts:
Not everyone wants or needs a home theater system. Even for the true cinema connoisseur there are situations where an alternative system is desirable. The Zvox Z-Base 525 is ideal for a second (or third) TV, whether it be in a den, bedroom or home office. It provides sound that is simply better than what comes out of the speakers, and while it won't replace a true surround sound rig, this a simple and fairly cost-effective upgrade to any TV.
Where to Buy:
System Specs:
Manufacturer's Contact Information:
ZVOX Audio
59 Thomas Road
Swampscott, MA 01907
ph: 866-FOR-ZVOX (866-367-9869)
On the web: www.zvoxaudio.com
Where to Buy:
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