The Bottom Line
The Z-base 550 is an easy-to-use system that delivers bigger sound than you would expect. If you already have a multi-channel surround sound system in your main room, the Z-base 550 is a great home theater solution for a second room. I give the Z-base 550 a 4 out of 5 Star rating.
For a closer look, also check out my Photo Gallery.
Pros
- Great sound - good midrange and highs, adequate bass response for small room.
- Compact one-piece design that can also double as TV platform.
- Infinite compliance system produces big sound and clear dialog.
- Easy to set up and use - even without a user manual.
- Wireless Credit-card style remote control.
Cons
- Only two audio source inputs.
- No discrete audio input switching.
- No onboard controls (Don't lose the remote).
- No digital audio inputs.
Description
- Compact one-piece surround system - (28" Wide x 14.5” Deep x 3 5/8” High). Product Weight: 20 pounds.
- Speakers: Five 2" Mid-range/Tweeter Drivers and one 5.5" onboard Subwoofer.
- Frequency Response: 45 Hz – 20 kHz
- Amplifier Power: 60 Watts
- A subwoofer output jack on the rear allows owners to connect a separate external powered subwoofer (optional).
- Two sets of Standard RCA audio connectors on rear of unit. NOTE: The inputs on the Z-base 550 are "mixed" inputs.
- Auto off/on mode. System activates when it senses a source signal.
- Compatible with iPods, PCs, satellite radios, portable CD players, game consoles, and even DVD players.
- PhaseCue and Infinite Compliance provide a virtual surround soundfield. The degree of surround is adjustable.
- Credit-card Style remote.
The Z-base 550 is $499.99 and can be purchased directly from ZVOX Audio.
Z-base 550 Photos.
Guide Review - ZVOX Audio Z-base 550 Low Profile Single-Cabinet Surround Sound System
The Z-base 550 has two analog RCA stereo inputs on the rear panel. It is important to note that the inputs on the 550 are mixed inputs. In other words, both sets of inputs are always active. If you have two sources connected these inputs and they are both on, you will hear the sound coming from both sources. It is suggested that you only have one source on at a time.
There are no controls provided on the front panel of the 550. All controls are located on the remote control. There are several settings on the provided remote: Mute, Auto on/off, Volume and Subwoofer level, Phase Cue, Subwoofer level, and Treble control.
The ZVOX Audio Z-base 550 delivered very good sound and was certainly powerful enough for a small living room (easily 13x12 feet). Testing audio content from both DVD movies and music CDs, the highs were smooth, the mid-range was distinctive, and the bass response was better than I expected. Overall, the surround imaging provided a wide front soundstage and lots of depth, but not as effective as true 5.1 channel surround system would.
This system is not a replacement for a true multi-speaker system in a large room, but it is a great option for a basic no-frills surround system that can enhance your TV viewing enjoyment. The 550 can also be used as a second system in bedroom, office, or secondary family room. It sounds good with both movies and music. However, some features that would be desirable additions would include more inputs and source switching.
If you are looking for a no-frills way to get better sound out of your TV, without a complete home theater system, the Z-base 550 is a good value and definitely worth a critical listen.
