The Altec Lansing FX6021 is an impressive speaker system offering a soundstage not often heard on 2.1 systems. It is an attractive package whose features are diminished only by its inability to generate truly low frequencies.

The feature setting this product apart from its competitors is the use of Altec Lansing's InConcert Technology. Each satellite speaker consists of six identical micro drivers split into pairs, with each pair powered by a separate amplifier, mimicking the designs of professional audio speakers on a much smaller scale. The three amplifiers send different frequency filtered signals to the drivers, meaning in theory, that the generated output is spread over the sound spectrum achieving greater dynamics. The design means that not only are individual instruments more clearly defined, but the position of the instruments is portrayed much more effectively. The technology works well producing an impressive soundstage and delivering well defined mid and high ranges, with high hats and vocal sounding clear, crisp and never tinny. The technology provides a level of instrumental imaging that is not normally heard on 2.1 speaker systems.

Due to Altec Lansing's reputation for not producing the most bass heavy of speaker systems, the initial sight of the large ported box housing the subwoofer had us hoping that this system would prove otherwise. Sadly, it was not to be. It is not a bad subwoofer by any means, but for deep growling frequencies it struggled to provide the impact we're used to. Brutal, bass heavy music simply did not sound all that brutal on this system.

Aside from the woofer, the FX6021 package includes the two enormous satellite speakers, a wired control unit, and an infra-red remote. The satellite speakers are surprisingly heavy due to their detachable metal bases, but when you consider the height of the speakers (36.5cm) it becomes apparent this is for stability. The speakers emulate the aesthetics of the subwoofer and can be tilted to optimise sound reception. The wired control unit includes a standby switch and a control knob which can adjust the volume or levels of bass and treble. The unit also houses a miniscule remote control which offers access to all these functions. The remote is an excellent addition and our testing revealed it functioned up to 4 metres from the control unit.

The FX6021 is easy to connect to a computer or portable music player with all wires being clearly labelled and of good length. The wired control unit includes RCA connections as well as an auxiliary cable and a 3.5mm headphone jack, meaning that a portable audio device and headphones can be attached while still being connected to a computer.

The FX6021 is an excellent speaker system utilising the dynamics of the 12 driver technology to good effect. While it fails to really punch out the lower frequencies, the package delivers a well balanced sound across the range. If a bass heavy system is what you're after, you may want to look elsewhere, but for an all around balanced speaker package delivering more than your average 2.1 system this may be for you.