I know lots of Pc gamers prefer headphones over external speakers. Personally, I find that surround sound with external speakers almost always has better positional audio quality than headphones do.

Logitech is announcing today a new set of surround sound speakers called the G51 Surround Sound Speaker System. These speakers provide 360-degree sound with or without a multi-channel audio source. That means you can create a surround signal from any two channel audio source.

"The G51 delivers an immersive surround-sound experience, but it goes far beyond that for gamers," said Jef Holove, general manager and vice president of Logitech's audio business. "Surround sound is a competitive advantage in true 5.1 games, plus the system also offers two Matrix surround modes for classic stereo games or music. For online players, the G51 features headphone and microphone jacks with independent mute controls. And, the system was designed to allow modders to easily customize the satellite speakers with their favorite game art or to match their gear. In short, the G51 is authentic gaming equipment."

The system uses two matrix modes, one for gaming and one for music. Gaming mode boosts the rear speakers and the sub for a more immersive gaming experience. The speakers used in the G51 use Frequency Directed Dual Driver technology for a more uniform soundfield and house two drivers in each speaker. The control pod of the G51 system also has a headphone port and the speakers can be wall mounted as well. The G51 system is set for availability in October at a MSRP of $199.99.

Via Logitech