Samson DMS80 Desktop Monitor System

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Compact monitor amplifier/speaker system. 5-band graphic EQ. 2-way shielded, full-range speakers.

The recent availability of home recording systems, especially hard disk recorders and compter-based multitracks have whetted the public's appetite for all-in-one units that do a number of things. Samson has thought out a neat little way to solve a few different problems when it comes to monitoring those recording systems.

Unlike the dinosaur days, when audio was monitored at deafening levels, the nearfield or desktop monitors now are the way to go. Matching the right speakers with the proper amp can be a complex task, and by the time you add an equalizer, your choices could be bewildering. The DMS80 is a system which begins with 2 Samson M40 2-way compact speakers, shielded, with a dome tweeter and 5-1/4 in. woofer in each. The integrated power amplifier and equalizer pumps 40 watts per channel into 8 ohms. A 5-band equalizer with in/out switch lets you "tune" the system to meet the needs of your listening space. An LED level meter indicates signal strength. Volume and balance controls are convenient on the front panel of the compact amp/EQ cabinet.

Many home engineers like to add a powered subwoofer for that low, low, bass. You can do so easily by plugging one into the mono line output, which has a variable level control. The subwoofer is your option - it's not included in this bundle.

If you'd like to make this the center of your multimedia system, you can plug a CD player or anything else you like into the AUX inputs. Your recorder or computer goes into the regular line read more inputs. And if you'd like to play or sing along with the program sounds, hook up into the 1/4 in. mic/instrument input on the front panel - it has a level control, as well.

Gold-plated jacks are used throughout the unit, which avoid tarnishing and enhance connection quality. The built-in AC power supply is fitted with noise filters.

For home recording, computer sound, small project studios, MIDI workstations, and other moderate applications, this rig fits like a glove. If you're looking for hi-fidelity top pro monitoring, move past this one and look a little higher.
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Compact Monitor Amplifier/Speaker system.

DA80 amplifier produces 40 watts per channel into 8 ohms.

Two M40 2-way shielded fullrange speakers.

5-band graphic EQ.

Audio LED level meters.

Mono sub-woofer line ouput variable level control.

Stereo headphone jack for private listening.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 1.5 x 12.7 x 10.1 in.

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 516-870-7200
Web: http://www.samsontech.com/contact/

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. (25 ratings)
by a customer from thecomputersmith.net

"Don't get better for the money."

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
My biggest gripe is that they only come in black. It makes such a great multimedia solution that I'd like to put a set on my wife's computer. Alas, though - black doesn't go in her craft room. I learned that with the LCD that I had to sell... If you're looking at multimedia speakers, and don't need surround sound, then these are as good as it gets for less than about $300. If you're doing recording, get yourself a good set of headphones, and use these to test open-air. I'd have no problems setting a CD/MP3 player on these and using them for a great sounding home set, either. Very versitile, and they sound great!

Sound
These are very accurate and can get much louder than I'll ever be able to take advantage of. The bass response is not overpowering, but seems clearly defined. I really appreciate the balance. I use the EQ when I'm listening to music to add a little punch, and the fact that it has a on/off is beautiful. Like others, I had a rediculous hum whenever I'd plug it into ANYTHING connected to my computer. It didn't matter if I was in an onboard sound card, and Audiophile 2496, a USB device, or anything. It would get lost at moderate volume, but I usually keep my volume low, and it DROVE ME NUTS! The ground lift completely fixed it. They should just include one in the box! These are my music/computing/recording monitors. And while I prefer to stick with my headphones (noise/spousal reasons), I'm never dissapointed by their read more sound. It's better than any of the computer sets I've listened to (including Klipsch & Cambridge) for 2 channel music listening/monitoring.

Features
The speaker wires are of a small guage, but I was unable to discern a difference with better wires, so I use the originals. I like that the speakers are wall mountable (either with a screw-in-the-wall, or a regular mount). I like having a 2nd set of inputs (wish I could control the volumes indepedently). I don't like the lack of 1/4" or balanced inputs (but I'm not honestly sure it makes much difference).

Quality
The amp is very well build. The only thing that would concern me is the EQ slider tips coming off. The speakers are very solidly put together also.

Value
I can't find anything to compete with it in its price range. I think you have to step all the way up to MAudio to do better (and I've honestly not listened to them). When you do, you leave the superior I/O, though.

Manufacturer Support
Talked to them about my noise problem. They suggested the ground lift which of course worked. Nice guy & always answered my emails quickly.

The Wow Factor
I thought it would be a good set. Truthfully, it's better than I expected. The 5" woofers clearly reproduce bass/midrange without getting muddy. I can't say how much I like them. I'm always getting something better, but it's going to take a lot more than $200 to better these things!

Musical Style:
Christian folk/rock/worship/???
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