Setting up the MidiLand MLi-490 is where the real challenge lies. Unlike the Labtec LCS-2514, there are tons of cords included in this box - so much so that it's actually very intimidating to people who would be unfamilar to setting up a complex speaker set. While this is a negative on MidiLand's part, it's also a positive. A positive because they took the extra care to give you every possible cord you will need to completely setup this set. Included in this setup are 3 10' RCA male-male cords, 3 21" adapter cords, and 16' rear-speaker wires. The cords are extremely long (which again, proves to be a positive and a negative here), so you'll be able to place these speakers anywhere - but you'll definitely need to tie up the excess.

And now onto the actual installation of the MLi-490. If you're a pro at configuring speaker sets, then you'll have no problem at all. However, this is where people who aren't quite as knowledgable fall short. Installation for me was extremely painful, not painless. The insufficient instruction "manual" was a mess - there was no way to clearly setup these speakers without devoting at least an hour to it. It was also confusing, mainly because the "manual" wasn't clear enough on specifics. It should be noted that there is a specific diagram on the back of the subwoofer on how to setup these speakers to Dolby Pro Logic, Sound Blaster Live! cards, and stereos. Regardless, for a new/mid experienced person trying to setup these speakers, forget about it. You'll definitely need help from someone who has a very good grasp on these things. Compared to the color coded wires, and 5 minute setup of the Labtec LCS-2514 speaker set, this is definitely where MidiLand fails - in easy installation for all users alike.

However, once I was able to finally get this speaker system completely setup, I was pleasantly surprised (and actually thrilled) with the sound quality of this system. Although it was hard to setup, the result for those who stick it out is very impressive. After only a few minor tweaks to the equalizer, this speaker set was definitely ready to test it's limits.

On to: The Test