Recs.
Updated
The MB42X is an upgrade over the quite popular MB42. These speakers feature a similar design as their predecessor but with a shift to a smooth, matte-black finish. The same drivers are also used which means good bass despite the small size, great mids and okay highs. However, the X comes upgraded with crossover technology which greatly improves the sound stage and imaging that these speakers produce.
SpecsUpdate
Pros
Pro Wide sound stage and amazing sound imaging thanks to the use of crossover technology
These speakers may be small, but they deliver a wide and enveloping sound stage that will definitely fill small to medium sized rooms with sound. Instrument separation is well defined and the details of the music are presented very well. This is thanks to the use of crossover technology which separates the sound signal input into 2; one signal path is dedicated to the tweeter and the other to the woofer. This results in optimal sound reproduction from these two parts without them "clashing" with each other.
Pro Easy to attach speaker covers due to the use of magnets
It is very easy to attach these speakers' covers if you want an even simpler and understated look to them. The covers are magnetic so you can just have the cover come into contact with the speakers and they will simply lock in place. They always end up centered so you do not need to put in a lot of care to get the covers on just right.
Pro Can easily fit on desks or home theater setups thanks to compact size
These speakers can be placed on small to medium sized desks without too much difficulty thanks to the small and no-nonsense cabinet design. These speakers can also easily fit in cramped home theater shelves or desks, making them quite versatile in terms of where you can place them and how you can position them.
Pro Produces high quality sound with elevated bass and more focus on the mids
These speakers can produce powerful bass despite the relatively small 4-inch woofer. The highs are slightly recessed and give way to the mids. This results in a sound signature that is smooth as the highs do not add harshness to the overall sound.
Cons
Con These are passive speakers so you need a separate amp or receiver to drive them
These speakers will not work when plugged directly into music sources such as computers or portable players. You need to connect these speakers to a speaker amplifier or audio receiver in order for them to work correctly.
Con Distortion can be audible on max volumes
Some distortion of the sound can be heard when running these speakers at max volumes for extended periods of time. This is due to the physical limitations of the speakers themselves, being quite compact in size. As such, these may not be the best speakers if you want to fill a large room with sound.