Written: 03/07/00
Written by: Franco “Kincaid” Monno
Appox. Cost: $ 99 US

Whether you’re looking to build a new system, or upgrade an existing one a good speaker system should be on your list.  Altec Lansing latest speaker creation is an answer to the cry of flat panel speakers.  The ATP3 is not a Flat Panel speaker, it’s a more traditional designed system that uses tweeters, mid-range and subwoofer speakers.  The ATP3 has a great sleek design and comes in any color you want as long as it's black.  Besides it’s sleek looks, the ATP3 has big sound in a small package.

The Specs:

• Drivers (per satellite): Two 28mm full range, One 3 inch mid/bass

• Driver (subwoofer): One long throw woofer

• Frequency Response: 45 Hz - 18kHz

• Satellite Power: 12 Watts RMS @ 1% THD

• Subwoofer Power: 18 Watts RMS @ 1% THD

• Input Impedance: >10K ohms

• S/N Ratio: >70 dB

I'll be the first to admit the 45 Hz - 18kHz frequency response spec is nothing more than wishful thinking. While the sub may be able to go down to 45 Hz, I doubt it can do it without any cone breakup. This is why Altec doesn't list the plus/minus dB scale for the frequency response. Altec Lansing is a high end home speaker maker and to see them stoop down to using the same misleading specs as all the other computer speaker maker is disappointing. On the bright side they do list their amp specs correctly, showing the THD at the given power rating.

Next page: Taking a closer look

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