Klipsch, L.L.C., a leading manufacturer of loudspeakers for professional and home entertainment applications, has joined with Compaq Computer, the leading PC manufacturer, to introduce the first THXÆ-Certified speaker system for multimedia applications. The Klipsch ProMediaô v.2-400ô Multimedia Speaker System is designed to deliver the ultimate listening experience for PC, gaming, audiophile and Internet enthusiasts. This new speaker system includes four matched two-way satellites which utilize Klipsch MicroTractrixô Horn technology for accurate, clear and powerful reproduction, as well as a dedicated subwoofer for deep bass. The system is comprised of a high power five-channel built in amplifier, offering 400 watts of total power. Designed to maximize the latest multichannel soundcards for positional and environmental audio and DVD movies, the v.2-400 delivers a true reference standard for dynamic punch and bass impact. Designed by Klipsch and Compaq in accordance with Lucasfilm for THX Certification, the v.2-400 is charged with the goal of delivering state-of-the-art audio performance at a $249 MSRP. ""With the PC market being saturated with the just average speaker sounds, it was time to take the next leap in the evolution of PC sound,"" said Mark Vena, Director of Desktop Product Marketing for Compaqís Consumer Products Group. ""The PC sound systems in the market today were just that, PC speakers. With Klipsch and Lucasfilm THX Certification and 400 watts of power, Compaq has stepped over the bar into the world of full theater surround sound. The gamers will love the surreal surround and three dimensionality of the sounds in a game.""T. Paul Jacobs, Executive Vice President, Klipsch, L.L.C. explains, ""As more and more people become Internet savvy and since Web technology grows exponentially on what seems like a monthly basis, there is a real demand for better sound reproduction. The time was right for Klipsch to join with Compaq and Lucasfilm to bring the first THX-Certified speakers to the PC world, particularly because advances in audio design have allowed us to manufacture a small speaker that has the powerful performance expected of all Klipsch products."" ""THX Certification means ëbest in classí performance for many of the worldís most respected home theatre products,"" said Monica Dashwood, General Manager THX Division. ""THX is excited that we can now extend this assurance or superior performance to speakers designed for multimedia applications. For the first time, customers looking to enhance the sound quality of their computer systems can expect the same íbest in classí quality that THX home theatre customers have enjoyed for nearly a decade.""Key Features And Benefits - THX-Certified performance for ""theatre-quality"" sound from film on DVD - High power five-channel built-in amplifier offering 400 watts of total audio power using advanced BASHB (Bridged Amplifier/ Switching Hybrid) design - Four MicroTractrix horn-loaded two-way satellites with pedestal feet - Dual 6.5-inch subwoofer drivers operate in a single sixth order bass-reflex ported enclosure- High output levels, up to 110dB peak SPL at the listening position - Full speaker controls for overall levels, surround channels, and subwoofer volume- Discrete preamplifier/control pod for the cleanest sound reproduction through direct path interface - Elliptical shape of satellite cabinet is not only an aesthetic benefit, but also reduces the negative effects of internal standing waves within the enclosure The new Klipsch v.2-400 speakers are exclusively available now through the Compaq and Klipsch Web sites or through Compaqís ""Built For You"" kiosk program, which allows consumers to custom configure their Presario PC, at over 9,000 retail locations across the U.S. About KlipschWith corporate headquarters in Indianapolis and manufacturing facilities in Hope, Arkansas and Huntington, Indiana, Klipsch was founded in the 1940s by audio pioneer Paul W. Klipsch. Klipsch manufactures and markets a full line of audio and home theatre loudspeakers, and through its Professional Products Division produces professional sound and commercial cinema audio systems. Corporate headquarters are at 8900 Keystone Crossing, Suite 1220, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240. The company can be reached at 1-800-KLIPSCH or visit www.klipsch.com for more information.