The Logitech Z-5500 (see image) can blast a more powerful sound than the Logitech Z906 while remaining crisp and clear.
Logitech is not a full-on audio specialist, but it does offer some of the better speakers in the market today. Two of its most popular models are the Logitech Z906, a mid-tier offering for the budget-conscious, and the Logitech Z5500, one of its flagship products. Both are surround sound systems with five audio channels and one subwoofer, capable of delivering kick-ass bass and jam-packed power needed for bombastic indoor or outdoor parties. However, the Logitech Z-5500 can offer much more of both.
In summary, the Logitech Z-5500 has five extra watts in terms of total RMS, which is very important. This means that it can continuously handle more power output without experiencing any issues. In addition, the Logitech Z-5500’s subwoofer is 23 watts stronger. However, it is important to note that the Logitech Z-5500 has a heftier price tag than the Logitech Z906.
Let’s get down to brass tacks to see if the Logitech Z-5500 is worth the extra dollars.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the RMS or Root Mean Square rating is perhaps the most important metric. It is the average power output that the speaker can handle over a prolonged period of time.
Compared to peak power, which is the maximum level that the speaker can use in short bursts without blowing, RMS is a more accurate representation of a speaker’s true power.
Having said that, the Logitech Z-5500 boasts a 505-watt total RMS rating while the Logitech Z906 is at 500 watts. This discrepancy may not sound much, but if you love listening to your favorite songs in full volume, you would hear the difference.
As for the peak power, the Logitech Z-5500 is at 1,050 watts while the Logitech Z906 is at 1,000 watts.
What does all of this mean? Simply put, the Logitech Z-5500 can blast a more powerful sound than the Logitech Z906 while remaining crisp and clear.
Design and Build
If you are into modern and sleek designs, you would love the Logitech Z-5500. The subwoofer is all black, while the satellite speakers and console come in either black or silver.
It is slightly bigger than the Logitech Z906 and much heavier, but as the system is not meant to be mobile, this should not be an issue.
On the other hand, the Logitech Z906 speaker system is all black, including the remote and the console. It looks simple to the point that some people find it bland. Its design is more compact than the Logitech Z-5500, but it is less solidly built.
Connections and Input Compatibility
The Logitech Z906 (see image) speaker system is all black, including the remote and the console. Its design is more compact than the Logitech Z-5500, but it is less solidly built.
Both speaker systems are very similar in terms of connectivity and have all of the following:
- A 3.5mm audio input
- A headphone jack
- An RCA input
- A coaxial input
- Six direct channel inputs
- Two digital optical inputs
You can connect up to six different devices to either speaker system. With this level of input compatibility, you will have no problem connecting either one to your PC or home entertainment system.
Setup
Despite the high number of accessories that come with both speakers, you can easily set either system up. Both are basically plug-and-play, and it might take 20 to 30 minutes for you to lay down all the cables neatly. You can mount either one to the wall or place it on shelves.
Here is the Complete Setup Guide for Logitech Z906.
Cost
As mentioned above, the Logitech Z-5500 is more expensive — much more expensive. To give you a better idea, the Logitech Z-5500 fetches a price of around $1,588.97 on some major online selling platforms while you can have a Logitech Z906 delivered to your doorstep for just $299.99.
Conclusion
Whether you go with the high-tier Logitech Z-5500 or the middling Logitech Z906 will depend on your unique situation.
If cost is not an issue, then the Logitech Z-5500 is hands down the better choice for you. It packs more power without compromising on audio quality. It would also look good in any room or home office.
However, if you are working with a limited budget, go with the Logitech Z906. It is not that far below the Logitech Z-5500 in terms of performance, and, with proper care, it could keep your ears happy for years to come.