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REFERENCE SPEAKERS are meant not only for music lovers, but also music maestros. Unlike other multimedia speakers, reference speakers are designed to support numerous sources, including high-end stereo components and musical instruments, and provide sound that is above and beyond what you'd usually expect from "computer speakers." Because they're designed for bedroom music producers (as well as audiophiles), it is expected that individual instruments will shine in playback, lows will not sound fuzzy and highs will not shriek. Happily, the well-connected and clear-sounding Edirol's MA-15D speakers succeed on both fronts.
The two speaker MA-15D set provides robust and concise sound, even while not offering the loudest playback. When listening to a blaring orchestra, one hears the echoes on a conga drum; when watching a film with a car whizzing past, stereo playback is well represented. Even without a subwoofer (one is available separately), the speakers managed to adequately support bass, in part thanks to a built-in bass enhancer. There are three levels of bass enhancement, and we're glad to say none of them led to icky buzzing or diffused playback.
In addition to clear playback, the MA-15Ds are a connection nut's dream, with four inputs (two analog, two digital) and the ability to crossfade between two sound sources (digital/analog and analog) using two volume controls on the front of the right speaker. There are two analog device line ins; one stereo RCA and one stereo 1/8" input, while on the digital side, there are optical and coaxial inputs—users can bounce between the two using a switch. We were impressed with the sound quality from all inputs, as well as the ability to move between two simultaneously playing sound sources. Also available on the right speaker is a 1/4" port for headphones and bass and treble controls. The number of connections and clear (if not loud) sound makes the MA-15D set a safe choice for audiophiles and hobbyist musicians.
–AMY R. WOOD
MA-15D Digital Stereo Micro Monitor: 
Edirol | www.edirol.com | $220
Pros: Tons of connection options, clear, even sound, headphone port, crossfade.
Cons: Not loud, subwoofer optional, no additional cables included.
Requires: AC/power and 1/8" audio port
macHOME recommends: Using all available connection ports
Issue reviewed: September 2005
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