Altec Lansing Orbit

Altec Lansing Orbit Speakers review

Most notebooks lack audio quality. There just isn't enough room in there for high-end speakers, and despite improvements over the years, even Apple's range lacks the sonic integrity needed to get the most from your MP3s or movies. If you use your MacBook for media on the move, buying a set of travel speakers is nigh on a must. As the name implies, Altec Lansing's Orbit USB Stereo speakers connect through your Mac's USB port. They can't be used with iPods or other audio devices that use a 3.5mm headphone socket for output. Instead they're designed with notebooks in mind, and are therefore easy to carry around when travelling. When not in use, their cables fold away into the rear of the speakers, which then clip together end to end. A carry case is included, and as they're powered solely through the Mac's USB port, they don't need batteries or a power supply. Our only criticisms of the build are: the cable used to connect one speaker to the other is a little short; and the USB cable is on the right speaker, which is inconvenient since MacBooks' USB ports are on the left. Sound qualityAltec Lansing has a reputation for low-cost portable speakers that sound much bigger and more expensive than they actually are, and these are no exception.