The ATP3’s two satellites each consist of the following: two microdrivers (Tweeters) and a 3” mid/bass speaker. The two microdrivers are situated in the upper part of each satellite, while the 3” mid/bass in housed facing downward in the base of each satellite.  With this type of speaker configuration, the ATP3 technically should produce a full range of sound over the more traditional mono-speaker style of its completion.

One thing I have always loved about Altec Lansing’s computer speakers is their ability to think about ease of use.  Like most of Altec Lansing’s product, the volume control is located on the right satellite making it convenient to easily change the volume to your preference.  In addition to the standard volume control, Altec has also added treble and bass controls. This is a much better setup then most computer speaker, which place the bass control on the hard to reach at sub.

With multimedia being a huge part of today’s computer systems, not every application requires the same treble and bass controls.  If you are using standard windows applications you’ll probably want to just leave the speakers at their default, when playing DVD movies you’ll want treble cranked a little higher then bass and with games like Quake 3 Arena and Unreal Tournament you’ll want the bass at a high level so you can add more life to all those rocket explosions.  Changing the treble and bass controls (if you have a newer sound card an equalizer) through your systems settings can get a little bothersome.

Included in the ATP3 sound arsenal is one stylish looking subwoofer.  The body is made of Medium Density Fiberboard or MDF; this provides a richer bass sound. Unlike most subs that have the subwoofer facing on the front side of the speaker, Altec has decided to make the ATP3s sub down firing.  Since bass frequencies are non-directional, placement of the subwoofer doesn’t matter. However it should place near a wall to enhance its response.

Installation is a snap on the ATP3. Everything is color coded.  The green connector is for your sound card.  One end goes into the subwoofer, the other in your sound card.   The orange PS/2 type connector is from the right speaker, because of the volume, bass, and treble controls being on the right speaker, Altec had to utilize a PS/2 connector.  The brown connector is for the left speaker.

Next page: How does it sound?

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