i can't speak about the vortex box. i have a squeezebox duet though, and love it. you could definitely plug computer speakers into the receiver, provided you have the right cable... L and R rca outputs on the back. a cheap amp (used) and some decent speakers would be better tho. my biggest complaint of the squeezebox is the lack of functionality on the remote. it's very basic and only has a few commands. i wish i could manipulate the playlist more once i have songs added. also, wireless is a temperamental technology... so its nice to have a backup (cd player/turntable).