At first, the wattage measurements may seem a bit puny, but they are more than adequate. These wattage numbers are measured in RMS, root mean squared, so these are sustained watts, not peak power during transient periods of high sound energy, like an explosion or cannon shot. Still, listening to these speakers at maximum volume could cause long term hearing damage, so don't take the low numbers lightly!

A well-stocked panel

Just a port in back

Installation

For analog sound, color-coded front and rear speaker connections are included, in black and green. Many sound cards use this color motif to distinguish the front and rear channels (but unfortunately and ironically, the SBLive! does not). The regular speaker cables provided for hooking up the satellites were sufficiently lengthy, allowing me to place the satellites in the corners of the room.

Simplicity is key

Cambridge suggests that the subwoofer be placed in the corner of the room or up against the wall, for maximum bass response. This is the standard rule for subwoofer placement. Because of space constraints, I placed the sub next to my monitor. Later I found out that the satellites are shielded, but the sub is not. Fortunately, the magnet is weak enough not to cause distortion when placed in the correct orientation, but it's best not to take chances.