Objective Data

Surge 17 Specifications

Frequency Response: 40Hz - 20Khz
Power Output: subwoofer - 15 watts RMS, satellites - 10 watts RMS (5W + 5W)
Drivers: Subwoofer - 4" Max-X high-excursion, satellites - 2" shielded Max-X drivers
Cord length: 9 feet to each satellite

Icon 750 Specifications

Driver: 40mm
Impedance: 32 ohms
Sensitivity: 102dB/mW
Frequency Response: 20-20Khz
Magnet: Neodymium
Cord Length: 4 feet
Plug: 3.5mm and mini-stereo plug, gold plated

Translation of Specs

I must once again speak out against the publishing of frequency response numbers without decibel ranges. Labtec isn't the only company that is guilty of this practice, most manufacturers list frequency response numbers without ranges. This is similar to stating your visual acuity using just one number. Instead of seeing 20/20 where you see at 20 feet what someone fully corrected vision sees at 20 feet, it is like saying you see something at 20 feet. Ok, that's enough ranting for now.

The Surge 17 puts out 25 watts of power, which doesn't sound like much, but it can play to moderate volumes in a small room. This should be more than enough power for 95% of your listening needs. What it doesn't have enough power to do is recreating a theatre environment. DVD-philes will have to look elsewhere to expedite their hearing loss.

The 2" satellite drivers are pretty standard for this market segment as is the 4" sub. , Don't expect to rattle any windows with the 4" sub… unless your windows are really flimsy.

I found the 9-foot cord a little restricting because I like to run cables behind my monitor and desk. For direct line of sight connections, 9 feet should be fine.