You get what you pay for.

Bose has been the leader in sound technology since the late 60's. They are most noted for being able to produce mind numbing sound in a very small package. The Acoustimass system is no different. The real question is, "is it worth the high price?" And how does it compare to other systems out there.

Why is it so expensive? Part of the answer is that little tag that says "Bose" on it. On a lot of speakers have different names, but most are clones of all the rest and even made in the same factories. Bose is different. Bose uses proprietary design that the other guys have tried to copy but haven't been able to. One look at the cubes and you know it's like nothing else out there. The cubes are bi directional. They provide sound to the back and front of the room. The Acoustimass module is more than a powered bass, it assists the cubes with sound depth. Set up is clearly explained however it can be a bit confusing for the novice installer. Wall brackets are not included, but I bought 5 brackets for $20 at Walmart and they worked fine. If you are not going to use the supplied cables, I suggest you purchase their wire module, it saves a lot of time and headache.

As with any speaker system, placement is critical. Get these things in the wrong place and your sound will suffer. Use the supplied chart and experiment before permanently attaching if you can. Be sure to get proper dry wall screws or anchors. These speakers weigh only 2.5 lbs but they vibrate a good amount and over time this will cause your screws to wallow the dry wall.

I have heard a lot of complaints about sound quality, but upon further investigation, have found cheap, substandard receivers are the problem. It makes no sense to pay what these things cost then hook them up to a $100.00 receiver and expect miracles. Granted, I am an audiovideophile, my set up in one room is worth over $10,000.00, but I can crack the wall paint!! Not suggesting you go that far, but go ahead and spend a little extra and get a good receiver.

Now to the cost. The Acoustimass 16 series II costs $1,299.99 on the Bose site. It is on sale for 10% less as of this writing. Bose also has a payment plan that anyone with a credit or debit card can use, it'll cost you about $250.00 up front, then around $100.00/month for 12 months, no credit check and no interest. You cant beat that. There are other systems out there, Polk has one that they say retails at $1,200.00 but you can get it every day for $600.00 or less, these tactics are used to make you think you are getting something for nothing, your not! Bose has kept it's prices basically the same through the years. It's kinda like driving a Escort or a Cadillac, both will get you there, but the Caddy gets you there in style and babies you along the way. The Bose system simply has no equal in this price range.

If you are looking for uncompromising performance and unsurpassed sound quality, this is the system for you. It is by far not a budget system, but is absolutely worth the high price tag.