Pro Speakers/iSub

[LaPorta]

@Phipli , @ClassicGuyPhilly , moved this here because there was too much to say for a profile post:

So, yes, they use the one-off Apple mini-mini plug. Interestingly, they are made to work seamlessly with the iSub on the QuickSilver. If you have the Pro Speakers plugged in only, they output the full audio range. When the iSub is plugged in, the machine routes the bass frequencies away from the Pro Speakers to the iSub ( which is USB-based). They are a pretty good combination, and make games very enjoyable.

I don’t believe they are quite as good as the full soundsticks package. I’ve had the first gen, USB-based soundsticks since 2000 when I got my iMac DV SE. I have used them with whatever my current machine is since then! I replaced the speakers in one stick so far: they do wear with age.

 

[ClassicGuyPhilly]

Good call on new thread.

Thanks for the feedback. If I understand correctly the isub and soundsticks can't be used together due to a limitation somewhere which didn't allow simultaneous control of two USB audio devices. Can you confirm this?

 

[LaPorta]

Actually, the SoundSticks and iSub are different animals. The two bass speakers appear the same, but in reality are not. The iSub is simply the stand-alone bass speaker that connects to USB...that is it. The SoundSticks are two satellite speakers with four cones each and the bass speaker. The difference is that the SoundStick package bass speaker has a built-in dongle that contains L and R RCA jacks for the satellite speakers to plug into. Basically, there would be no need for an iSub and SoundSticks as they would be redundant, and, as you said, piping sound to two different sources would require third-party software.

I can't right this second (working on an attic project), but this evening I'll get photos of both systems and post here.

 

[ClassicGuyPhilly]

Oh cool that clears up the confusion thanks! Looking forward to the pix.

 

[LaPorta]

Ok, so here is the scoop:

Here are the SoundSticks, one of the satellites and the sub:




The back of the SoundSticks Sub, with connector for the satellites:



Now, the iSub, and the view from the back:



You can see the difference. So: when looking for an iSub for your G4, make sure it isn't someone who just forgot where they put the satellite SoundSticks. It won't work.

 

[ClassicGuyPhilly]

Excellent thanks! How delicate is the isub? Would you think shipping would present a significant danger?

 

[LaPorta]

Not at all. The plastics have held up incredibly well - I think it is some sort of polycarbonate. They ship just fine.