Summary: Having owned and used Altec Lansing's MX5021, I can definitively say that these sound at least as good in all aspects. The drop from 90 to 58 watts is unnoticed; these speakers are capable of very loud, clear sound. As well there is no audible hiss when they are on but not in use. I use these speakers on a CreativeLabs SoundBlaster Audigy 2 Platinum. Due to the cheap price available from Tiger Direct, I decided to purchase these, otherwise the MSRP of $350 was too rich for my blood. I have heard many 2.1 setups, and for computers and/or smaller room settings these speakers are the apex. Highly recommended for those who want clarity and quality in speakers that rival the sound of nice stereo headphones.