The Altec Lansing XT1 is a portable set of slim, stereo speakers for notebook computers that is completely powered by USB. Each panel houses 2 full-range neodymium drivers with aluminium cones and features bass enhancement technologies. The speaker feels solid and has a nice, classy finish. Apart from the USB connector, the XT1 has a standard auxillary jack for devices like an iPod and up/down volume control buttons on the side. Technical features aside, what we liked about the XT1 is how Altec Lansing has made sure it was REALLY portable enough for notebook users. Firstly, all the parts are detachable - speakers, stands, connectors, etc. Next, the speakers draw power and receive the output signals using a single cable to the notebook’s USB port. The designer was thoughtful enough to make the cable retractable and included a normal spare cable that comes with velcro to avoid the tangles. Altec Lansing even included a deluxe, padded case for you to carry the speakers around conveniently. While the XT1 was definitely better than my notebook’s built-in speakers when playing games and watching DVDs, it sounded a tad tiny when in a medium-sized room. The other thing we didn’t like was the lack of an alternative power source, i.e. you still had to connect to a notebook for power even when listening to the iPod. The Altec Lansing XT1 retails for $99.95 and there is a newly released XT2 priced at $149.95.
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