Axiom ships Audiobyte 'luxury' computer speakers

Home theater company Axiom has announced that it is shipping the Audiobyte, what the company describes as the "first" luxury speaker system designed for computers. At the core of the setup are two satellites, encased either in synthetic materials or real wood; each is capable of producing a massive 55W of power, and can handle frequencies between 100Hz and 20kHz. Unlike most computer setups, the Audiobyte's amplifier is kept separate, and includes a USB port for playing and charging iPods.

Basic black, white, silver and charcoal Audiobyte kits cost $349; synthetic cherry and walnut kits cost $399, while real wood models cost $559. To boost the low-end response, shoppers can buy an optional passive subwoofer for $179, which handles frequencies between 25 and 150Hz. And external volume control knob is said to be in production.