(Part 3) Reddit mentions: The best bookshelf speakers

Okay cool! I think a pair of neutral to warm speakers combined with a nice sub and receiver would be a great way to go.

I've got three speakers that I think would work well for you.

The first is a pair of HSU Bookshelf speakers. Unlike some other horn speakers, these are very neutral sounding. They do have a bit of fun dynamics as well, making them easy yet fun to listen to.

Next would be a pair of Ascend Acoustics CBM-170. These are neutral, but just a tad on the bright side in my opinion. However, they have a silk dome tweeter, so while they may be bright, they aren't fatiguing at all. Great all-around speaker.

Finally, the Elac Debut B6.2. These are super easy to listen to. They are just a tad laid back, but have tons of clarity somehow. They are really an impressive speaker. Everyone has done a review on them, so feel free to look around for more info. The HSUs and Ascends are harder to find a ton of info on since they're internet direct rather than just something you can get on amazon, but they're still great.

I said 'finally' with the Elacs, but I'll throw one more in just for good measure. Wharfedale Diamond 225. They retailed originally at $450 and now are $350, which is awesome. They're a very warm speaker, so I don't think they'll be what you're looking for since you said 'warm to neutral', but I just thought I'd throw them out there. They have an extremely sweet midrange though.

Anyways, you'll want to add a sub to those.

Disclaimer, I haven't heard this sub, but it gets rave reviews. The HSU subwoofers are supposed to be absolutely fantastic subwoofers. Clean tight bass that digs deep.

I really like Rythmik subs. The servo technology is really awesome. They can get low and sound great while doing it as well.

In addition, you'll need a way to power everything. Depending on what you spent on those, you'll have like $200-$300 left.

You don't want a chip amp. Something like a SMSL AD18 will work, but it won't sound the best. Chip amps distort a lot when you start to turn them up a little, which isn't what you want. They also struggle with dynamics and slam.

Something like a home receiver would be the best option for under $200. That range is kind of no-mans-land. Chip amps go up to about $150, and integrated amps don't start until $350. (Integrated amps are just amps made specifically for 2 channel music basically, rather than a receiver that does everything).

This Yamaha is the cheapest integrated amp you can get, and it will be better than a receiver or a chip amp.

And if you need speaker cable, just buy some in bulk, but I think you've already got some.

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If you don't think you'll want a sub (which is very possible, especially with these options) you will have a few more options.

You can get that integrated amp and a pair of Ascend Acoustic Sierras which are absolutely phenomenal speakers. They're just a tad on the warm side of neutral. They might even be just neutral. It's close, but they're good. All around just a fantastic speaker. They get down to 44hz, which is pretty low, so you'd probably be fine without a sub. I really like these speakers.

A pair of Wharfedale Dentons if you like the retro look. I haven't heard these, but they're supposed to have a very nice smooth presentation, a bit on the warm side. I'm not sure though.

Monitor Audio Bronze bookshelves. Again, I haven't heard these, but they're supposed to be pretty neutral. If you go up to the Silver series they apparently get better. Makes sense to me haha.

I'm a huge fan of these Wharfedale Reva towers. That being said, I haven't heard the bookshelf version of them, but I imagine they are fantastic. And, in my opinion, they're some of the prettiest speakers out there. Absolutely beautiful finishing on that wood. The towers are very neutral sounding. The bass is clean and tight. Vocals sound very natural.

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I threw a lot at you. Now, what would I get, personally.

I would go with a 2.0 setup for now, and save for a pair of subs in the future (yes, I said pair).

However, seeing as you currently already have a receiver, I might spend my whole budget on a pair of speakers and plan to buy a receiver in the near future when budget allows. If I did this, I would go with one of two things:

The Wharfedale Reva Towers would probably be my first choice.

Close to that would be a pair of Quad S-2 bookshelf speakers. Very close. The ribbon tweeter there is a lot of fun. It has the detail that a metal tweeter would have, but without the sharpness.

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Alright, let's say you want the whole system now. I would get the Yamaha Integrated, the HSU subwoofer, and a pair of HSU bookshelf speakers. They're just a lot of fun to listen to.

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If you wanted to go without the sub for now, it would be one of two options again.

The Yamaha integrated, of course with both.

For speakers, I would pick either the Ascend Sierras or the Wharfedale Reva 2 bookshelves. Like I said, I've only heard the tower Revas, but I can't imagine that the bookshelves would be bad after hearing the towers.

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Sorry for the wall of text.

How does this all look? Any questions?

> I'm ordering from amazon so worst scenario I can return it for free

I would have recommended Peter Tyson to grab the Q Acoustics. I’ve had great experiences with them and they’re cheaper than Amazon. But if you plan on possibly using the return option, then Amazon is likely your best bet in that regard.


> What cables do I require?

It depends on the amplifier. For my setup (Onkyo A-9010 + Mission LX-2, pretty bulky so wouldn’t work on a desktop), I assumed I needed banana plugs. But turned out I needed to biwire. May be the same with the Q Acoustics - at least it looks that way based on the inputs. Jack to phono could come in use when connecting your device to the amplifier, or you might need line in and line out. But you’ll definitely need separate wires/cables/plugs to connect the speakers to the amps.


To bi-wire, I made my own cables from a stretch of insulated copper wire, and didn’t use banana plugs at all. I just twisted up the copper ends and inserted them into the input areas. It’s confusing at first, but after doing it once, you’ll know how to do it for life. If this sounds like too much hassle for you, potentially avoid. But I think it's well worth the effort. Beware of snake oil in this particular area – overpriced copper wires that sellers will claim boost sound quality but really don't. Or if they do improve the sound, it's practically negligible.


> 3020 seems to have great reviews, it looks great too, I'm not sure if there's something else at the same price point which would go well with the AD18.


The thing about reviews is that they’ll tell you something is good or bad. But that’s another person’s experience/opinion, and there's always the possibility of ulterior motives (e.g. advertising, paid reviews, etc). So you never actually know until you try stuff out. Both the Wharfdale 220 and Dali Zensor were rated beyond the Mission LX-2. But a quick audition in Richer Sounds showed me that I actually preferred the Mission LX-2 by a mile. The Ultrasone Edition 8 headphones (don’t own, auditioned) seem to be universally hated on Reddit. But they absolutely click with me to the point where I prefer them over top reviewed headphones like the HD800.


> Solo6c at £75 in 2015 is competing with £150 3020 in 2019?


In short, taste is truly a subjective thing, and if you’re paying good money, you should naturally want your money’s worth in getting the best product for you personally at said price range. This isn’t necessarily what other people say is great. That £75 could be better than the £150. Or it might be worse off, but not enough to justify spending an extra £270 on a completely new setup. Ultimately, the ball is in your park. People on the internet can give you all the advice you need but as the old adage goes, it's much better to experience something once than hear about it a thousand times.


Edit: Just remembered you have a DAC, which will be very useful in offsetting the hissing/noise that typically come from cheaper amplifiers or active speakers. The SMSL AD-18 also doubles up as headphone amplifiers too so that future proofs your future DT1990 acquisition.


Edit 2: From reading stuff, I've also got some more small active speaker recommendations that don't require amplifiers at a £270 price range for you to check out (Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor Speaker (£240), Polk Signature S10 (£100)). Also, the Cambridge Audio SX-50 (£150) is a small passive speaker around the same price and size as the Q Acoustics, which could be worth checking out if you want to give the amplifier setup a try.

>They sound good but I feel like the mids can be slightly muffled and the highs aren't particularly sharp and clear. The lower mids and bass are great though.
>
>I'd be willing to spend up to $400.

I recommend passive speakers and an amp or receiver:

For the best value, first look used for less cost then the following options, or get one part used and the other new.

Receiver/Amp: Refurbished with a 1 year manufacturer warranty.

• Stereo: ONKYO TX-8220 $135, or ONKYO TX-8140 $200.
  
• AV If also ever using with a TV even with just 2 speakers, 4K HDMI switching, high pass crossover for your speakers if ever adding a subwoofer. DENON AVR-S640H 5.2 $200, Audyssey Multi EQ room correction EQ speaker setup and HEOS wireless networking and smartphone app. Also has a built in phono stage/preamp phono input you can start out with and then add a better external later.
  
  Speakers: Speaker recommendations from AverageJoeAudiophile and r/HTBuyingGuide.
  
  Internet Manufacturer Direct can be a good bang for the buck with 30 day in home trials so you can try 2 or 3 pairs.
  
  
• 5.25" Emotiva Airmotive B1 $230. Folded ribbon high-frequency transducers.
  
• 5.25" Wavecrest Audio HVL-1, and order on sale at Ascend $80 each + shipping, budget Ascends. Front ported. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response. Great mids which many speakers lack. To me, comparable to KEF Q100s. As with most bookshelf speakers, best with a subwoofer.
  
• 6.5" Ascend CBM-170s $300 + $30 shipping. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response. I have these for their great mids which many speakers in the price range lack.
  
• 6.5" HSU HB-1 MK2 $280 + $60 shipping. Have a good low end if not getting a subwoofer at all or right away.
  
  On sale:
  
  
• 5.25" Infinity Reference 152 $140 refurbished, originally $350 MSRP or Boston A25 $150 bogo.
  
• 6.5" $200 a pair, JBL Studio 230 refurbished or Boston A26 bogo.
  
• 6.5" Klipsch RP-160M $340.
  
  Towers on sale:
  
  
• Pioneer FS52 $150 pair (note the long massdrop ship time).
  
• JBL Studio 270 $260 pair.
  
• Boston A250 $225 pair bogo.
  
  DIY speakers, build your own: Add around $50+ for tools and supplies. Kits includes pre-cut cabinets. Glue, solder, paint, assemble. Comparable to built speakers costing twice as much
  
  
• C-Notes $100 are a great starter DIY speaker.
  
  Speaker wire: Pure Copper Oxygen Free 16 Gauge Speaker Wire 50 ft. and self adjusting wire strippers, optional banana plugs to add. Or already with banana plugs, Micca or DFWCableConnection.
  
  Speaker stands: Dayton Audio SSMB24, Monoprice Glass or Monolith by Monoprice and Audio Advisor where most are also available at Amazon.
  
  Subwoofer:
  
  
• 10" Infinity SUB R10 Reference Series $399 $140 flash sale ends in 1 day.
  
  If going with powered speakers:
  
  
• Fluance Ai40 5" $170 on sale.
  
• Fluance Ai60 6.5" $300 adds a bit more low end, subwoofer out port, optical and USB inputs.
  
  Guides:
  
  Home Audio: Intro to home stereo systems • Zeos Tutorials, Diagrams and Videos • Guide to Home Audio • AverageJoeAudiophile's Guides • r/BudgetAudiophile
  
  Speaker Positioning: Speaker Placement for Stereo Music Listening • How to position your speakers for great sound

1. I would look at the Orb Booster $160 or the SMSL Q5 Pro because of the optical inputs (can use with a TV later on) and the remote. I also think they have tone control and a bit more power.
   
   
2. If you really want powered speakers go for it but I'm not the guy to help with that. I'm not a fan of powered speakers. Also if you go down that route you won't need the amp upgrade as they have their own amp.
   
   
3. I would consider getting an AVR if you can fit in your space. Something like this Denon S510BT refurb $180 would be a good option. Not only would you be getting more power but you would also get all the benefits of an AVR. (Better speaker control, room correction, better bass management, more inputs...)
   
   Here is a sample system that I would look at
   
   AVR/Amp - I've already linked some options for you to look at.
   
   Sub - I would honestly keep what you have but get the sub cable that I linked above.
   
   Speakers - Here is where it gets fun. Lets say you spent $150-200 on an AVR/amp you'll have about $300 to play with. Lets look at some speakers in that range.
   
   

• Boston Acoustics A26 $120 ea - I think these are on sale so think quick This is a good price for the A series
  
  
• Boston Acoustics CS260 $160 ea - Towers that are in your budget. If you have space consider these.
  
  
• Polk RTi A1 $205 - The RTi's were decent Polk offerings
  
  
• Polk S20 $300 - New line they sounded decent in the store. Worth a look
  
  
• Cambridge Aero 2 $220 or SX60 $230 - These are on sale currently
  
  
• RBH R5Bi $225 - great sounding books at a reasonable price.
  
  
• Affordable Accuracy monitors $210+SH - another internet direct company with really good books at a fair price.
  
  If you don't have stands consider getting a pair. Having speakers at the right height will really help out the sound. Also getting them further apart can really help out too. stands help you accomplish this.

I looked it up and you have dome tweeters so don't get anything with a horns such as Klipsch. However they are from a home theater in a box which generally speaking aren't great. My suggestion is you should get the center now but plan on buying the matching left and right as soon as you can. The issues you could run into with running miss matched from stage (LCR) is timber imbalance where sounds don't have the same volume or pitch so sounds traveling across your front stage could sound like aaaaaaAAAAAAAaaaaaaa. My suggestion is listen to some bookshelf speakers and find ones you like then buy the center that matches them. Here are some options I found on Amazon but going to local shops to listen would be best:

• Fluance XL7C they are a Canadian company and make products that are great for what they cost this is $10 over budget though
  
  
• Sony Core Series center known to be a smidge bright I believe in store at best buy
  
  
• Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones is a well regarded speaker designer and most of his products have a sound signature that's well liked
  
  
• Micca MB42X-C the cheapest you could go
  
  
• Polk CSR Polk is a good brand haven't heard anything about these however in store at best buy
  
  
• Paradigm Cinema 110 C heard good things about this brand don't know how their entry level stuff is
  
  I'd look up what the matching bookshelf speakers cost and factor that in as well.

Oh sorry, it's hard to not go all jargon-crazy sometimes.

So studio monitors are designed for mixing audio, as such they're designed to be very very accurate. The flat response means if you plot a line representing all the audible frequencies from bass to the highest treble the line would be flat, so no boosted bass or lowered midrange or any of those things people usually fiddle with knobs to do. Just dead accurate, which lots of people think they want until they hear it, mids and highs can get a little tiring to listen to and is sometimes considered not a "warm" sound.

B&W is Bowers and Wilkins, a very good brand and I just meant find some from the 1980's because they crop up for sale used from time to time and sound great (check craigslist for B&W, Mission, Elac, Mirage, PSB and Wharfedale). Other options that aren't used would be Cambridge Audio SX50's, Elac B6.2's, and Wharfedale Diamond 210's. (Tons of reviews of all of those out there) As for an amp, the SMSL SA50 is plenty for most people for normal listening levels.

As for a DAC, you wouldn't necessarily need one for active monitors, but you would definitely need some interesting cables like these shitty ones. One of the advantages of pro-audio gear is they use balanced audio signals which makes long runs of cable safe from electromagnetic interference/noise/hum, most people don't have runs long enough for it to matter in their house but they look cool and "pro". Also to actually have a balanced signal going through those XLR cables you need a balanced output, which is where a DAC with balanced outputs or volume controller would come in. Here's a cheap ok controller.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to talk you out of studio monitors, speakers are super super super subjective and if I encountered a set of studio monitors that really blew my skirt up I'd probably buy all the balanced cables and some huge volume knob to be able to listen to them and be happy as a clam. Just hasn't happened yet.

Thanks for the info.

​

There are a few decent active speakers in your price range, but not many with an optical input. So far for $200 and under I have only found the Edifier R1850DB. This is a great starting set of speakers. You can find them here:

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1850DB-Bookshelf-Speakers-Bluetooth/dp/B073W1R4XQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1541451470&sr=1-1&keywords=r1850db

​

Most active speakers in this price range will have RCA inputs instead and a lot of TV's will have RCA outputs to connect to them. If you have the option of connecting through RCA, other great options include the Edifier R1700BT and the Fluance Ai40. If you can spend over $200, some other good options would be the Edifier R2000DB for $250, the Audioengine A2+ for $250, the Kanto YU4 for $330, the Vanatoo Transparent Zero for $360(best on this list, IMO), the Kanto YU6 for $400, or the Audioengine A5+ for 400.

​

If you want to get a record player down the road, it is important to know whether or not you will want a turntable that has a phono preamp built in(this will limit your selection greatly) or if you want a turntable that requires and external phono preamp(this is most turntables and you will need an amp or receiver that has a phono preamp included). The reason I say this is because the Kanto YU4 and YU6 listed above already has a phono preamp built in, so that's one less thing you need to get down the road. The other speakers do not have this.

​

The Vanatoo's are probably the best sounding in the list above and have the most inputs if needed.

​

​

In this price range, you could also get an SMSL SA-50 and Wharfedale Diamond 10.1s:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A2QLGEQ/

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0079XG4TW/

The Wharfedales are a bit large for desktop speakers, but they're very good. The amp is 50W/ch, better than most powered speakers.

You'd still need a pre-amp, however. I don't know what's available there; I don't own any vinyl.

Edit: KEF Q100s are also available for $250. These are $550 speakers marked down for clearance after a new model was released. I have both speakers. The KEFs are in my home theater; they have great clarity and presence. They're a little dry, it's great for audio and video soundstage. The Wharfedale's are a little less accurate but warmer; I use those on my PC, where the nearfield experience is what I want. Both have excellent bass extension.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0047K3X1M/

nobody has explained their recommendations.

you don't get good volume on dialog because of crappy channel mixing from your TV.

that's not a dig on your specific TV... all TV's suck at this. in fact, most receivers suck at mixing down from 5.1/7.1 to stereo.

for any content generated in surround, something like 95% of the dialog volume is mixed to the center channel.

if you're listening on a pair of stereo speakers, you get to hear what the TV thinks is best, in terms of balancing the volumes between the channels.

folks here are recommending receivers that would give you 5.1 channel audio, and then also suggesting three speakers.

the three speakers are your Front L+R, and the all important center speaker.

receivers do a moderately good job of mixing all the surround channels to just the Front L+Rs, and if you have the center speaker, it will still get all of that delicious dialog.

your budget is a little tight, but doable.

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv379bl/yamaha-rx-v379-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html $150

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009IUIV4A/ $60 for your front L+R pair

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ $50 for your center channel

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check out your sound settings for anything called "normalization" or "equalization".

this will cap the maximum volume difference between the audio channels. so in effect it will reduce the loud parts, and bring up the volume on the quiet parts. this may be sufficient for you to like what you hear, or be sufficient for you to just get some nicer speakers and be quite satisfied.

if the "equalization" setting fixes the quiet/loud problem, but you just want more oomph, i would recommend

eris 4.5's https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GP56OYA/ $180

or

fluance ai40's https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ $200

both are self-powered, and need nothing other than a cable to connect them to your Tv.

i have eris e3.5's and they are simply great.

i have fluance floor speakers, and they're also great, so i would expect good performance on the ai40's.

ai40's come with more features - a bluetooth input option, and a remote to control the volume, source.

To give you some ideas of ways you can go with that price range:

Powered options: https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/T7V--adam-audio-t7v-7-inch-powered-studio-monitor

Great on their own, big drivers and good bass, I love ribbon tweeters especially for EDM. If you want simplicity and don't plan on upgrading these are a great option.

Passive: SMSL AD18 and something like HTD Level 3's or anything in that price range. Lots of options for bookshelves around $300-400. Some people (coughpolypeptidecough) will tell you passive is always the way to go but they're biased against active speakers.

DIY: Same amp and a pair of these:

https://www.amazon.com/HiVi-Bookshelf-Speakers-Near-Field-Speaker/dp/B0721ZQXDG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=hivi+3.1a&qid=1564116608&s=gateway&sr=8-1

They're on sale, I have a pair and they're fantastic. Very satisfying bass and will outperform speakers well over their price range.

2.1 setup: Stretching a little bit here. Lepai 2020ti to save a bit on the amp, then speaker wire to a Bic F12 subwoofer, then output that to something like Polk S20's or your choice of speakers around $200-250. Now you have a subwoofer and this will be the most different.

I have the Kanto YU2's on my desktop (A lil over budget) and they sound fantastic, especially with FxSoundEnhancer. Made them much louder and clearer. Alternatives are the audioengine A2+ which are a little more expensive but get a little louder. Both sound real good with EQ modifications.

I also have the Edifier R1280T (you can get them "renewed" for $80) and they are absolutely wonderful for the price and look great too, the only gripes is they don't have a built in DAC like the kantos and they're pretty big for a desk setup.

I like the bookshelf speaker setup for desktops instead of the tinny, no bass pc speakers that are usually under $100 and have tried a few before settling on the ones that look and sound good.

There's lots of options on turntables and given your budget it shouldn't be hard to get something nice. You may want to consider something with auto-start/stop and return given your uncle's condition. But there's a lot of great brands - U Turn, Pro-Ject, Rega, Marantz, Denon, etc. I'd suggest spending $250-$400 of the budget on the table. Wouldn't go much more than that. Let me know your thoughts on the automatic features and if you think that is a necessity and I can recommend something specific.

Receiver: Onkyo TX-NR575 - $298

The Onkyo is nice because it hits a lot of of your needs - phono input, Aux input for iPod (and bluetooth capabilities for newer phones/ipods), and video sources. It also comes in at a fairly reasonable price point.

For speakers, take a look at the Wharfedale 225s. Great speakers at $500. Honestly, from what you've mentioned about space and the trailer, a bass unit (subwoofer) probably isn't necessary. These will put out enough bass for the space.


Very sorry to hear your uncle is in declining health, though. Sending all my best to you and him. You're a great nephew to even be thinking of something like this for him.

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers-Monitor/dp/B0741GJSJG/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=R1280T&qid=1567720945&s=gateway&sr=8-4

If you can do $80, I would go for these. This listing is for the refurbished, but the reviews seem pretty positive for the refurbished. The non-refurb are $100.

I got lucky and bought a non-refurb pair when they were on sale for $70. Awesome speakers, sound amazing imo. Would’ve gladly paid more for them.

At that level of budget, you simply don't have a lot of wiggle room. You'd be pretty much limited to stereo (2.0), and you'd likely have to get the most budget of budget speakers (probably Dayton B452's).

A better compromise may be a decent pair of powered speakers like the Fluance Ai40, Edifier R1280DB or Micca PB42X. Another option would be to get a mini amp like the Dayton DTA-2.1BT2 and pair it with passive bookshelfs like Micca RB42's or MB42X's.

There are other audio "solutions" out there, but nothing that we would suggest in good faith around here. My honest advise is to wait and save up for a more robust budget so you can invest in quality stuff that will last you longer.

noaudiophile review is critical of the SX6 without DSP correction but liked them after major adjustments (computer source): http://noaudiophile.com/Fluance_SX6/

Here is a comparison of Pioneer BS22 vs. Fluance Signature: https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/9erosl/speaker_shootout_fluance_signature_bookshelf_vs/

Based on my ownership experience, I would rank some of your options as follows: KEF Q100 > Polk S15 >> Pioneer BS22. In other words, the KEF and Polk are fairly close and are noticeably better than the Pioneers.

Here's another great choice, especially for the price, NHT SuperOne 2.1 at $252 CAD. I have had their smaller SuperZero 2.1, which have great sound quality. Much better than Pioneers IMO. These are acoustic suspension/sealed boxes and can more easily be placed close to walls, if that is a consideration for your setup. https://www.amazon.ca/NHT-Audio-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf/dp/B00LJX4HCY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1541084741&sr=1-1&keywords=nht+superone+2.1

​

Get a Audio Technica LP60 or whatever the newest version is, about $100. And a pair of $100 active speakers. There is a preamp in the turntable, and the speakers will power themselves. Instant glory for $200ish. This is a decent start without breaking the bank and having decent audio.
Don't worry too much about vintage or new or upgrading this or that for now. Make sure you actual enjoy the sound of records, the cost of new records, and the hunt trying to find your favorite artists. It's not for everyone. I had a busy who got into it, 100 records later, he's back to streaming cause of the ease of use. Take it slow, learn about the hobby and enjoy what you have, not what you want.

Consider open boxes on Amazon to save a few bucks on something newer.

Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black, Hi-Fidelity, Plays 33 -1/3 and 45 RPM Vinyl Records, Dust Cover, Anti-Resonance, Die-Cast Aluminum Platter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N3XJ66N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2BopDbQNCMP1J

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers, 2.0 Active Monitor System (Renewed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0741GJSJG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hDopDbM005QQS

Check these out. Go from there. Once you start understanding the in and out of the test of the stereo components start adding and upgrading as you come across a good deal. I would consider an actual amp next followed by passive speakers, don't hook the active speakers up to the amp, it'll sound bad and unlistenable. Then, add a cassette deck of you want plus a CD player, mini disc if you're a glutton for punishment.

Hope this helps, and gives you some pointers.
Last bit of advice..... Don't buy every dollar record at the record store/thrift shops. Look for music you actually will listen to. If your into modern stuff, look for it. If you're into classic rock, then do that. But if you're a rocker... Why would you buy some weird jazz album but some unknown that you'll listen to once only to find out it's not your style. Look up albums on online by bands you don't know and check their sound out first. It's okay to have a single jazz album or something you inherited, but save your money for stuff you like.

Cheers!

The Mod Team decided to place a more structured post on Black Friday deals. A lot of people are already invested in this thread so I will just sticky this here. Deals at some of the major retailers are likely to come and go often so it will be impossible to have this be fully accurate 100% of the time. If you have any deals you want to see in this sticky post feels free to message me(I WILL miss plenty of deals), otherwise you are still free to post below of course. Lastly, these are just good deals off of MSRP and I will generally post regardless of whatever personal thoughts I have on X, Y, or Z product. I will shortly add a few more categories beyond speakers.

Speakers:

Pioneer BS22 for $58 at Frys if you have a coupon code

Sony SSCS5 for $73 a PAIR on Amazon

Klipsch R-14M for $99 a PAIR on Amazon, Klipsch R-15M for $125 a PAIR on Amazon and Best Buy

Jamo C-103 for $129 a PAIR at Amazon KILLER Deal

Fluance Signature Series Bookshelf for $150 a PAIR on Amazon and Fluance. Keep watch for $99.

JBL LSR305 for $99 EACH on Amazon. At BH Photo same price but free isolation pads and no taxes outside of New York!

ELAC Debut B4 for $130 a PAIR on Amazon and ELAC B6 for $200 a PAIR on Amazon

Kef Q100 for $250 a PAIR from KefDirect

ELAC UB5 for $350 a PAIR on Amazon

Monolith K-BAS $180 EACH from Monoprice

Focal Super Bird for $250 a PAIR (BOGO) on Accessories4Les

Ascend Acoustics CBM-170SE for $330 a PAIR from Ascend and CMT-340SE for $548 a PAIR from Ascend

HSU CCB-8 Coaxial Speakers starting at $420 EACH or $764 a PAIR from HSU Research

JBL Studio 590 for $475 EACH direct from Harman Ebay. KILLER deal on these towers.

KEF LS50 for $999 a PAIR on Amazon and KEF Direct

Subwoofers:

BIC Acoustech PL-200 II for $250 from Amazon

SVS SB12-NSD for $400 from SVS Sound

SVS PB12-NSD for $500 from SVS Sound

Rythmik L12 for $509 from Ascend Acoustics and Rythmik Audio

HSU VTF-2 MK5 for $574 from HSU Research

Receivers/Amplifiers:

Sony STRDH130 Stereo Receiver for $85 on Amazon and Newegg

Denon AVR-S530BT refurb for $150 from Accessories4Less. Cheapest HDR-ready receiver you'll find out there.

Really you should check Accessories4Less.com if you're fine with good deals on Refurbished equipment.

Source Devices:
HIFIMAN MegaMini High-Res Music Player for $99 from HifiMan

Audio Technica LP-120 Turntable for $229 on Amazon

Headphones:

Audio Technica MSR7 for $150 on Amazon

HifiMan HE400i for $219 from HifiMan

Monolith M560 for $150 from Monoprice and Monolith M1060 for $250 from Monoprice

Sites to Look At Outside of the typical Walmart, Best Buy, and Amazon here are some sites worth checking out for Black Friday deals:

RBH.com (Specifically their sales page is a bit of a goldmine)

Monoprice.com

KEFdirect.com (if you want to “evade” sales tax and check out the whole lineup)

Accessories4Less.com

AcousticSoundDesign.com (Website ain’t the nicest but some great packages)

Zeos!

I've been a huge fan for a long time. Thank you so much for all of the great videos and reviews.

I've been in the market for a 5.1 surround sound system for a while now. My room is roughly 15x15 with ten foot ceilings.

The other day I saw a sale on Adorama for a 5 speaker klipsch setup for only $1300. It included


Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-160M Bookshelf Speaker, Pair, Ebony

2 x Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F 2-Way Floorstanding Speaker, Single, Ebony

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-450C Center Speaker, Pair, Ebony

This seems like an insane deal so I grabbed it immediately but I see you haven't reviewed them. I noticed you recommended the RP-280f to someone here on reddit so I assume that means they're not gonna be bad.

So my question is, do you think I need a subwoofer? They seem pretty bassy but I won't really know until I get them. Secondly, can you recommend me a receiver for these? You've mentioned Klipsch's scary highs so I don't want a receiver that is overly bright if that will be an issue.

Thank you again so much!! I really appreciate all of your guides and information that you put out here!

Well I assume you already have an amp or receiver then? Those monitors are pretty common recommendations, but you could get some pretty insanely good passive speakers for $300.

Since you already have an amp, I'd take advantage of that if you want the most bang for your buck. For $300 you can get some REALLY nice passive speakers or some monitors that are simply solid. You are almost in Wharfedale diamond territory. Or some Boston Acoustics

And if you aren't producing I still think you wouldn't be taking full advantage of what monitors provide with xlr connections and whatnot. Even if you are producing, just use some neutral closed headphones..

Another common pair in that price range are the Audioengine A2 powered. Oh hey they even have a passive P4 version!

But you can get some kick ass passive speakers for under $175 even. Pioneer, Fluance, Yamaha, Infinity, etc. Then you will still have the budget for a subwoofer. Which is really what you need to make the whole system rock.

Yea absolutely 2 speakers sub and amp (a 2.1 setup,) could yield you fantastic sound, especially with an 800 buck budget, that's more than I have in my system. Kef has a great sale going in this holiday season, check them out. I am also partial to Wharfedales, you can get the Diamond 10.1 for 300 on amazon, and they will blow you away with their detail and clarity.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0079XG4TW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1450457546&sr=8-2&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=wharfedale+diamond&dpPl=1&dpID=31O2d8Ar8gL&ref=plSrch

Throw in a nice energy sub for 200 to round out dat bass.http://m.newegg.com/Product/index?itemnumber=82-269-020

The find a good amp and whatever you like for a source, and your system will make Bose sound like a bad joke.

You can take your budget even furthur if you are open to used components and take the time to scout out craigslist and the like.

Check out /r/budgetaudiophile for more component suggestions in the sidebar. I am very very partial to the sound of the Wharfedales, but there are a ton of other grwat speakers in the price range. Check out the PSB image 1b for a slightly more aggressive sound. Good luck and have fun, it's addicting!

I recently purchased a town house, after renting a room for several years. Didn't have any furniture other than the bedroom essentials, so I had a pretty blank slate to work with.

I realize the layout isn't ideal, given the lighting and open floor layout (opens up to the dining room and kitchen), but I was more concerned with having a good hangout environment than having the prefect viewing experience. The only other option was an above ground basement, which would have had the same lighting issue, though better acoustics.

The lighting isn't as bad as it appears in the picture, imo. I've never really had a problem with it, though I do spend most of my time relaxing in the evenings when there is no direct sunlight coming from those windows. Even then, the Samsung seems to handle it well.


EDIT:
Additional pictures of the cable management.

https://i.imgur.com/iPxbpNz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/6pkdjpH.jpg

For the wall I used some 1/4" shaped wiremold from Home Depot. Sanded and spray painted it to match the existing 1/4" Round. For the rest of the power cables and such, I modified the middle drawer of an Ikea cabinet to hide them away and give me easy access. I'm still not quite sure what to do about the remaining outlet wires, but other than that there aren't any other visible cables.


EDIT 2:
Since I've been asked about pretty much every piece short of the coffee table, I figured I would update this post to consolidate that info. Most of these items I bought used or on sale.

TV - Samsung KS8500 65"

Reciever - Denon AVR-S720W

Speakers - ELAC UB5/UC5/UB5, Surrounds - B4

Subwoofer - Bic Acoustech PL-200 12"

Entertainment Center - Modified BESTÅ from Ikea

Speaker Stands - Sanus SF30 Steel Series

Couch - Corey Sectional from Havertys

Art - Patent Collections from Displate

Rug - [Safavieh Glacier from Overstock](https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Safavieh-Glacier-Contemporary-Abstract-Blue-Multi-
Area-Rug-6-7-x-9-67-x-9/14248766/product.html)

Bookshelves - Parthenia Etagere Bookcase from Wayfair

Coffee Table - Baxton Studio Wood/Metal End Table

Yes. Get a solid integrated amp and a Chromecast audio. Not sure about the Polks but the Kef Q100 is a great speaker for the money.

https://usa.yamaha.com/products/audio_visual/hifi_components/a-s301/index.html


Is a decent amp, paired with the Kefs should sound pretty good for your budget.

EDIT:

https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Debut-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01DKDJRH0/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1522690673&sr=8-9&keywords=elac


These are a great deal too

You won't get the 5.1 experience right away, but you will get more quality, and the ability to build slowly to the whole experience. I think you would be shocked how good a 2.0 setup can sound.

Go to accessories4less.com, and look up the Denon S530bt. It's $150 and should work great for you.

Then maybe hit up Amazon and check out the Elac Debut B4

Theres your $300, and it's a great start toward a quality setup.

After that as money allowed, you could add a sub, then a center, eventually surrounds.

Think about it :)

I would go the passive route with a dedicated amp. It'll be easier to expand to 5.1 later. For your initial budget, try something like this.

• Denon 5.1 receiver, $150: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavre300/denon-avr-e300-5.1-3d-networking-receiver-airplay/1.html
  
  
• Dayton SUB 1200, $109: http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629
  
  Now if you want to go after the full 5.1 immediately, you can almost afford it right now, and this is an excellent option in its price range: http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA
  
  
  If you want to build up to an audibly better system down the line, you can just go with a pair of bookshelf speakers currently and upgrade later down the line. Some nice options that would fill out the rest of your budget:
  
  
  
• Wharfdale Diamond 10.1 http://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-DIA101-CHR-WHARFEDALE-DIAMOND-CHERRY/dp/B0079XG53W
  
  
• Chane A1rx: http://www.chanemusiccinema.com/chane-loudspeakers/A1rx-c
  
  
• Ascend CBM-170: http://ascendacoustics.com/pages/products/speakers/cbm170/cbm170.html
  
  
• Definitive Technology SM45: http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-SM45-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B005XXMMG4
  
  
• Hsu HB1: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/hb-1.html
  
  
• Boston M25: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/bosm25b/boston-acoustics-m25-2-way-5-1/4-bookshelf-speaker-black-each/1.html
  
  
• HTD Level 3: http://www.htd.com/Products/level-three-speakers/Level-THREE-Bookshelf-Speakers
  
  
• Dali Zensor 1: http://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0

I don't think you should go 5.1. It is possible to setup gaming with it... but I've never done so, successfully.

My suggestion? Go 2.0 for now, add a good subwoofer later.

Klipsch RB-51's

Topping MX3

Hook up via optical. As a bonus, this will be an exceptional headphone amp and DAC, too. Also save a few bucks to buy stands or angled foam bases for the speakers to angle them off the deck.

Use this setup for now, and save up money to buy a decent subwoofer... BIC PL200 at minimum, or better yet, an HSU, REL, or SVS unit.

Probably not. There's a handful of amps out there that will drive both, but they're generally pretty pricey. Does your headphone amp have speaker out?

And yeah, a home theater receiver would have a speaker amp.

Bookshelves are generally passive. There's a lot in the $300ish range that are quite nice

http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/hb-1.html
http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/products/speakers/cbm170/cbm170.html
http://www.chanemusiccinema.com/chane-arx-loudspeakers/A1rx-c
http://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-DIA101-CHR-WHARFEDALE-DIAMOND-CHERRY/dp/B0079XG53W
http://www.amazon.com/KEF-C3-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B001HV9A1G/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410138114&sr=8-3&keywords=Kef+bookshelf

If you've got a DIY streak in you, http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-B2031P-Ultra-Linear-Reference-Monitor/dp/B000LQ2ABK/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1410138018&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=behringer+truth+2031p are great - but you need to open them up, redo the seal in some places, add some more acoustical stuffing, and so on.

Very interesting. Two affordable speaker kits with a -3dB down to ~40hz (so, there is probably audible output down into the 30s) which is deep enough to be considered full-range for most purposes.

I don't typically post DIY stuff here, despite having built about 10 DIY kits myself. BUT, these are interesting kits because they appear to require much less DIY'ing than typical DIY kits. The crossovers are already built, so I think there's no soldering required. Looks like you can just screw things in, glue the box together, and you're good to go.

Looks like there's a real minimum of DIYing actually required here... appears to be no soldering required. Just connect everything together, screw the drivers in, glue the box together, and you're good. (Or so it seems.)

3-way kit with dome midrange and ribbon tweeter (on sale for $174)

2-way kit (on sale for $124)

The guys on PE's Tech Talk forums are excited because there are a couple hundred bucks worth of drivers in each kit.

HiVi has some pretty detailed info for these and other kits on their site.

Perhaps /u/HiviSpeakers-Michael can talk more about these and/or answer questions...

I am looking for a pair of bookshelf speakers that will be mounted up on a wall at a slight downward angle towards my head. I am currently looking at the Wharfedale Denton, but I was wondering if anyone had any other recommendations. I am not looking for crazy bass, just solid highs and mids. These speakers will be used to listen to a lot of indie rock, emo rock and punk as well as being my everyday computer speakers. Any help would be awesome!

Budget: I have a soft budget of about $500. Obviously the cheaper the better, but if it goes a little bit over then I won't turn it away.

probally couldn't run a sub:

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=Fluance+ai40&qid=1563142455&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

​

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Performance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable/dp/B07MH2X3CP/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Fluance+ai60&qid=1563142475&s=gateway&sr=8-2

comes with a sub:

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Bookshelf-Subwoofer-Bluetooth-Wireless/dp/B077Y6PHKQ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=edifier+350&qid=1563142505&s=gateway&sr=8-1

​

Theses several Dac/Amp combo or separate DAC plus Amp combo to run Passive speakers but Not sure which would be Best to also run a Sub........if you used the sub woofers Hi Inputs/Hi Outputs you could run a sub off any of the amps.

Topping MX3 Dac/Amp has a sub output and will run 2 speakers (depending on speaker - not strong enough for some speakers like Micca RB42). I run a Topping MX3 with a pair of micca MB42Xs but with your Budget you could get Better that I'm Not familar with.

​

the Audiengine A5 has rca outputs so you could run a powered sub with them. Sub - you have many Choices but they can get expensive. A5+ plus an RSL Speedwoofer ($399) would be NICE or AudiEngine sub - but at a Desktop I'd think just about Any 8'-10' sub would be Plenty.......

.are you wanting an external DAC or run off the computer soundcard?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_laXF5aoJLQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P19E63fXtlA

For $1k you are looking at probably having to compromise somewhere. I would suggest going second hand as you will get considerably more bang for your buck. Letting us know where you would make it easier to make suggestions as not everything is available everywhere. If you don't care for bass then you will get better value with stand-mounters. I would just go for a speaker that isn't bright and maybe get an old EQ unit to trim off the top if you find it annoying later.



Basically you are looking at:

Speakers: $350 (i.e. Wharfedale Diamond 10.1).

Amp: $300 (hopefully something decent, second hand with a built in phono-stage)

Turntable: $300 (second hand again)

Stands and cables: $50 (second hand for stands and Monoprice for cables

Save your money and do it right. You don't have to go crazy, but something like this would be great. I have the RB-61s and for home theater couldnt ask for more. Then add matching center, and surrounds, and good subwoofer. Take your time, spend just a little more and get something much better.
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Series-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411071176&sr=8-1&keywords=klipsch+rb-51

$700 for sound?

If you are hyper conscious of space to the point of compromise, try a soundbar, but if you have room to spare and want something more serious, with $700 I say get an entry-level Denon AVR like: https://usa.denon.com/us/product/hometheater/receivers/avrs510bt (usually around $200)

And then with the remaining money get a decent subwoofer for bass: https://www.polkaudio.com/products/psw125 around $300, or get one of the smaller ones if you have a small room)

And finally with the last $200 just grab something simple like: https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B000V2UBS8

And then some like, 16 gauge speaker wire and whatever hdmi cables you need from monoprice.

Later on, upgrade to super fancy stuff if you find you like how this sounds.

Hello, fellow Canadian!

DO NOT BUY THIS SYSTEM. You can get a MUCH better system for $25.49 more.

Check this out:

ELAC F5 Towers - $839.98

ELAC B4 Surrounds - $269.99

ELAC C5 Center - $319.99

BIC F12 Subwoofer - $295.53 (incl. shipping)

Sub-Total: $1725.49

I would recommend just getting ELAC B5s or B6s for the front speakers and you can save a couple hundred dollars more (which I might put towards a better subwoofer or a second subwoofer).

Sorry I wrote all that without directly addressing your question, but that Polk package is bad value (even though it's on sale) and the included subwoofer is a pile of steaming shyte.

So, for pairing speakers with a receiver, pretty much anything works. Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha are the most recommended brands here.

Gibby's Electronics sells the Denon X1300 for $399.99 (b-stock) but they're out of stock. They also have the S710W for $399.99 (b-stock, I don't get the pricing), which is probably your best option unless you're willing to wait for b-stock to come in for the X1300.

You'll probably want to look into speakers then an amp in that order. Speakers tend to be the most subjective and personal piece of the setup, so get those squared away, then figure out what to drive them with.

For speakers, check out:

• Pioneer SP-B22 ($129/pair)
  
  
• PSB Alpha B1 ($299/pair)
  
  
• Wherfdale Diamond 10.1 ($299/pair)
  
  
• Klipsch RP-160M ($399/pair)
  
  
• Polk RTi A3 ($399/pair)
  
  
• DefTech ProMonitor 1000 ($439/pair)
  
  
• B&W 686 S2 ($499/pair)
  
  
• PSB Imagine Mini ($499/pair)
  
  I'm partial to Bowers and Wilkins myself.
  
  For integrated amps, look at:
  
  
• Pioneer Elite A-20 ($299 on sale right now)
  
  
• Onkyo A-9010 ($299 also on sale)
  
  
• Yamaha R-N301 ($299) or for a bit more A-S301 ($349)
  
  
• Cambridge AM10 ($349 – analog inputs only)
  
  
• NAD C316BEE ($379 – analog inputs only)
  
  
• Cambridge 351A ($399 – USB DAC)
  
  
• Harmon Kardon HK3700 ($349 – USB DAC)
  
  
• Onkyo A-9050 ($399 on sale – includes phono preamp)
  
  
• TEAC AI-301DA ($399)
  
  
• NAD D3020 ($399)
  
  With a simple computer and two bookshelfs setup, I really like the NAD D3020 or its bigger brother, the D7050. The Cambridge 351A is probably one of the better options in this range, however.
  
  Also, you might find you like powered speakers like Audioengine A5+ ($399) and HD6 ($749). AE has a great sound and features a built-in DAC. If you can demo them, see what you think.

If you are interested in bookshelf speakers and can spot the extra $, I'd recommend Klipsch RB-61 II.

Reference series and 95db efficient, so they take very little power to be loud and clear. I own a pair in my secondary setup, and I really like them. They have 6.5 woofers, and for bookshelf speakers, they have really good bass response.

If you can't get much higher than $400, check out the Klipsch RB-51 IIs. Same line but with 5.25" woofers.

I'm sure there are other options, but I'm a big fan of Klipsch. Really nice products.

Halp!

I found a JVC L-A55 Direct Drive Turntable and am looking to get the best sound possible for $500-600, I don’t know if I should spent the money on speakers, or speakers and a new cartridge, or some other combination.
I’d also like to connect the speakers to my television if possible.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Also, I have no idea if I need an amp, please don’t judge me too harshly.
These are the speakers I was looking at, if that matters.
Thank you again!

Polk Audio Signature S15
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LVWWZS0/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Polk Audio RTI A1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V2UBS8/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_7?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AKR88PAWTQVN2

Klipsch R-14PM
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075JRF295/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_9?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Q Acoustics 3020
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TR7I1EY/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_11?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3EWOB9ML2A8ST

JBL 305P MKII 5"
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BZ6QS6M/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_14?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A25IRTXJ3Y3DFH

Well, honestly, pretty much any set of speakers you will get would be a significant upgrade over the JBL.

If I had $200 for just 2 speakers I would strongly consider the Fluance ai40 they are normally $199 but on sale for $169 now. They are powered and would not require a separate amplifier.

The Infinity Reference 162 refurbished for $165 are another good choice. These are not powered.

The very well reviewed Micca RB42 the the current darlings of the budget audiophile world, they are $150ish but are not in stock for another month. These are also not powered.

> are my tsi100 Polk audio speakers worth keeping

umm...not sure how we can answer that.

> Does it matter if the speakers are powered or not?

It matters in that it has an effect on what other equipment you may or may not need.

> What are some other great speakers you'd suggest with a $400 limit

Active or passive? :)

If you are looking for active speakers, the Audioengine A5's are an oft-recommended set at the $400 price point:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OSR1C8/ref=twister_B00L3KRZS6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I have NHT speakers and have been very happy with them. This would work for you.

NHT Super One for your left and right ($206 /pair)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00LJX4HCY

NHT Super Center ($130)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-Super-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00QHDC32C

NHT Super Zero for your left and right surround ($120/pair)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK

HSU VTF2-MK5 12" Subwoofer ($509)
http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-2mk5.html

Yamaha RX-V485 Receiver ($350)
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V485BL-5-1-Channel-Receiver-MusicCast/dp/B07CF9H3KW

Total is $1315 leaving you some money for shipping of the sub, some speaker wire, and banana plugs.

Solid budget. I am a firm believer in "do it once, do it right" if you have the means.

Your turntable choice is great and there's nothing really on your Craigslist that would be considerably better.

Receiver, Sansui G6000, this will serve you well for many years
http://knoxville.craigslist.org/ele/5335665853.html

Speakers, now this is where it gets a bit tricky, your local Craigslist has nothing that really stands out. The only ones that caught my eye were the JBL 4311B, now these are designed as near-field monitors but they do work fine for general purposes as well. Some people do claim that monitors can be fatiguing, but I have not had that experience myself. They beauty of these is that classic JBLs don't really depreciate, so if you do not enjoy them, you would be able to sell them without much / any loss.

Failing that, something like these Wharfedales will be great http://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Denton-Anniversary-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00RDMZJ9U

Probably the best premade speakers you'll get at your pricepoint;

http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/products/speakers/cbm170/cbm170.html

But I'd go very simple DIY. All you need are at least 2 clamps and some glue, and some wirenuts, or preferably a soldering iron for the crossover, and enough room to build them.

https://www.amazon.com/HiVi-Bookshelf-Speakers-Near-Field-Speaker/dp/B0721ZQXDG

Bi-wiring doesn't do anything when used with a single amp. You don't have a bunch of amplifiers waiting around to get used, and even if you did, they are running of the same transformer so it won't get any louder. Bi-amping can do some good things though.

ART DJII is probably the best, and most adequate, solid state phono preamp under $300, and it's $50. After that you'd go for the Lounge Audio LCR Mk3.

I've got a AVR-510BT in my HT. It does everything it supposed to, and does it well.

Great suggestions here. I will add some of my naive thoughts. I think, in addition to getting inputs from folks here, you should try out the speakers you shortlist. For instance, I really enjoy the mids and highs of the KEFs while I find the Klipsch a bit too bright, but you may feel the opposite. That said, i think Fluance makes some really nice affordable speakers:

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1

If you go down the passive route and looking to buy a budget amp, you can pick up the $500 Klipsch Powergate for $150:

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-PowerGate-Amplified-Wireless-Gateway/dp/B01N0A7PH5

It's a steal at that price. Take a look at the review here:

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/review-and-measurements-of-klipsch-powergate-dac-amp.7376/

For passive speakers, maybe try to find a used pair of KEF Q100 on CL or the other suggestions already made here are equally good.

These $30 Dayton Audio speakers are good too:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-b652-6-1-2-2-way-bookshelf-speaker-pair--300-652

Having a Sony TV has zero impact on whether you get Sony speakers.

For Pioneer, the left, right, and center speakers combine will cost you $192:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2EI/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2LG/

For Sony, the left, right, and center speakers combine will cost you $296:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O8YLNRS/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O8YLMVA/

For reference, if you wanted the floor standing options for either it will be an extra $100-150 in either case.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O8YLL8E/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0798YNCQ1/

I will assume you will go with bookshelf speakers for now and the Sonys. That means that your AVR, speaker cable, left, right, and center channels combined come to about $500.

That leaves about $500 for a subwoofer. That is a nice chunk of change for a really nice subwoofer.

First, are you certain you want a premium subwoofer like that? Second, are you concerned that you may disturb your neighbors in an apartment building with a subwoofer?

Personally, I would save my money and get the BIC America F12. It is an absolutely excellent subwoofer for $200 and is likely already overkill for your needs:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015A8Y5M/

Hey guys,

I currently own an Audio-Technica AT-LP120USBHC, and I'm looking for an amplifier and two passive speakers to pair it with.

I've gotten a lot of help from the user sharkamino, and I've narrowed it down to a few choices, but I'd like to hear about which of these should I go for and why:




Speakers:


1.Polk T15 Black - 155€ or $173


2.Tannoy Eclipse 1 - 159€ or $178


3.Cambridge Audio SX-50 - 170,99€ or $191


4.SONY SS-CS5 - 175€ or $195


5.MONITOR AUDIO MR1 - 180€ or $201


Receivers:


1.YAMAHA A-S201 B - 180,90€ or $202


2.PIONEER - Stereo Amplifier - A-10-K - 188,99€ or $211


3.CAMBRIDGE AUDIO TOPAZ AM5 - 195€ or $218


4.SONY STR-DH190 - 199,99€ or $222 or


5.YAMAHA Stereo Amplifier R-S202D - 206€ or $230


6.DENON Amplifier PMA-520AE - 208€ or $232


7.PIONEER-A-10AE-S/B Integrated Amplifier - 211€ or $236


8.ONKYO Amplifier A-9010 Black/Silver - 217,99€ or $243


9.PIONEER SX-10AE-B Stereo Receiver 100W/BT - 218€ or $243



Even though the links above are from Amazon US and UK, the prices are from a local store in Portugal, where I intend on buying the setup.

Thanks in advance guys,

Have a good weekend!

Well, if you were looking for two channel I would do something like either this Yamaha or this onkyo. For speakers that would leave you 150 ea, for something like these wharfdale diamond speakers, which are a part of a larger series so you could expand them in the future to use these for surrounds and get a larger set like the Wharfdale 230's

If you want a surround sound system, you could always just pick a receiver like this Yamaha RX-V379BL or Denon AVR-S510BT

Hey, as long as your happy with it that's all that counts. I wish I would've started my audio journey back in college. If you're looking for a nice little desk setup check out the Edifier R1280Ts. You can usually find them on Amazon for around $79 cert. refurbished and they are great starting point.

Alright. Here's my recommendation, then.

https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Denton-Anniversary-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00RDMZJ9U/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1481516111&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=whafedale+denton

https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V481BL-Receiver-Black/dp/B01BY7YPBC/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1481516219&sr=1-3&keywords=yamaha-rx-v481

They'll probably like the old-timey look of the Wharfedale Dentons. They'll sound great with classical music. They don't need a sub.

The Yamaha has enough power to push the Wharfedale Dentons, has both Air Play and Bluetooth, and isn't very expensive.

Total is around $900. You might find a better price on the speakers. They were a hundred dollars less about a month ago.

For my birthday I got my first record player. Its a nostalgy peggy sue. Here is a link to what it is https://www.auna-multimedia.co.uk/Home-Audio/Record-Players/Suitcase-Record-Players/Nostalgy-by-auna-Peggy-Sue-Retro-Record-Player-LP-USB-AUX-White-Rose-Gold-Look.html

Anyway, the speakers that come installed in it are kinda meh and some of the records I have do not sound that great coming out of them.

I took my records to a friends house who has a really nice set up and his record player, through some sort of means, ends up coming out of a single bookshelf speaker. His set up makes every record he plays sound amazing.

So he recommended picking up a bookshelf speaker. This is what I got https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CKNOYWK/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza

The back of the speaker has 2 banana plug ports ( a positive and negative). The back of my record player has an output for RCA cables. So what am I missing or how to I hook up my record player to the speaker? I do not know much about electronics.

Not quite, these are what I have.

Yamaha Receiver

Bookshelfs

Center

OP might have the center speaker you linked though, but theirs seems to have ports on each end.

And yes, that can all run through the receiver. So instead of plugging your XBOX into HDMI 3 (for example) on your TV, you plug it into HDMI3 on the receiver. Then you switch the input on the receiver to that input when you want to play. The same way you would on the TV, except the TV always stays on the same input.

Bottom line, spend the money on the receiver. If you can't afford high end speakers at first that's fine, but I would recommend not skimping on the receiver as that ties everything together.

Suggested 5.1 setup:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BLGUKEI/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF88C0M/

http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-P363-Three-way-Floorstanding/dp/B0046A8R3M/

(plus the matching bookshelf and center)

However, I prefer stereo to surround. I'd much rather have two fantastic speakers than 5 cheap ones. Your front speakers are the most important aspects of any system (surround or not), so going stereo and adding surround to it guarantees you have a great base to build around. I'd recommend:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BLGUKEI/

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF88C0M/

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/bowers-and-wilkins-6-1-2-2-1-2-way-floorstanding-speaker-each-black-ash-vinyl/1290564.p

Or, if you really want high quality sound (with potential to add sub):

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BLGUKEI/

http://www.amazon.com/KEF-LS50-Mini-Monitor-Gloss/dp/B00EPDMDZ8

You should look for speakers with high sensitivity. The bigger the speaker, the less power you need to get loud. These would work pretty well, and you can add a sub later, or get one from goodwill.

https://www.parts-express.com/6-1-2-2-way-tower-speaker-pair-and-hi-fi-mini-amplifier-bundle--300-6532

​

Here is an interesting setup as well for under $200

amp

Speakers

Subwoofer

I think this combo gets you the loudest and the most bass for the money.

​

Here are some other products/routes to consider

1. Jamo s803
   
2. Fluance SX6
   
3. Fluance AI40 - These require no other equipment which is nice.
   
4. Rockville - Straight up budget dj setup