AOC, which is known for making monitors and other computing hardware, just took the wraps off its newest display. Though it’s stuffed with a few interesting features, there’s one in particular that stick out to us: the integrated speakers. Before you starting moaning and groaning though, just hear us out.
But first, the basics. AOC’s new display, dubbed the i2473Pwm, carries a native resolution of 1920×1080 on an IPS panel that’s LED back-lit. It also sports a 16×9 aspect ratio, maximum brightness rated at 250 cd/m2, and a 5ms response time. Nothing spectacular there, but there are no serious faults or blemishes from what we can tell from these specs either.
Port selection consists of a single VGA connection, and a pair of HDMI ports. We would’ve liked to see one or two USB ports here, but the i2473Pwm attempts to make up for that by including MHL, or Mobile High-Definition Link tech. MHL allows you to connect your smartphone or tablet to the monitor, and any image or audio that shows up on or plays through your mobile device will be shuttled through the display and its speakers.
As for aesthetics, the i2473Pwm is propped up by a sturdy black stand that looks like somewhat like a router, and connects to the display via an adjustable, black neck. The display is bordered by a thin-looking, silver bezel, and wears an AOC logo at the bottom. The i2473Pwm is by no means a head-turner, but it’s not unsightly either.
Now, back to the speakers. Most monitors that ship with built in audio have power outputs that typically range between 2 and 4 watts, and are usually unimpressive. However, the i2473Pwm packs a pair of 7 watt speakers. Though increased power does not necessarily translate to good performance, AOC says that these are Onkyo speakers. Onkyo is a respected brand generally known for making quality home theater devices.
So are these speakers guaranteed to deliver shockingly good audio quality? Not necessarily, but the fact that they’re made by Onkyo at least means that there’s a chance you won’t be reaching for your headset as soon as you un-box the i2473Pwm.
We reached out to AOC for an exact release date, but we do know that the i2473Pwm will sell for $249 once it launches.