Reddit mentions: The best center channel speakers

A Denon receiver is definitely the way to go. Plenty of options, good price.

Alright, let's discuss your setup. $500 for each component is wierd. Don't look at it that way. $2k total is better. Some things are more expensive than others.

Let's dive in.

I'm assuming that this will be a movie/tv setup. For that, you want something with crisp, clear, and distinct highs. This makes dialogue extremely easy to hear.

I'm going to go a bit over your budget for my first recommendation.

KEF Q550 tower speakers. These will be your main speakers. Absolutely stunning clarity from KEF. These things really are fantastic.

KEF Q560c center speaker. Vocals will sound like real people with this. Absolutely outstanding. The clarity, resolution, and detail you will get is fantastic.

HSU VTF-1 subwoofer. This is an awesome home theater sub. Hits low, but does it with clarity and speed.

Alright, this goes a bit over budget (the subwoofer was on sale until last week and you woulda been closer. Sorry). Let's talk about it. Those towers are designed a tad different than a lot of towers. They are actually designed to not hit super low. This will allow them to focus on highs and mids. In return, you get extremely clear vocals, tight clean midbass, and they can get loud with little distortion. The center channel is the same. The subwoofer is from a brand you've probably never heard of, but they make fantastic subwoofers. There are tons of reviews out there if you want to read up on it. Steve Guttenberg absolutely loves that sub.

So, let's do one that is under budget.

Def Tech towers and a center. Def Tech specifically makes home theater stuff. I'm not into home theater, so I don't love their stuff, but it definitely is good. I've heard it and it is about what I'd expect for a home theater. They get loud, throw bass, have good clarity, look nice, etc.

With those, you'll actually have a bit more room in your budget for a subwoofer. The next step up in the HSU line would be a good match. It gets down to an incredibly 16hz, but again doing it with accuracy.

This setup is basically a home theater setup. The Kefs are more of a "hi-fi" setup that is being used as a home theater setup.

One more, just for good measure.

Elac Uni-fi UF5 towers. They're kinda in-between the kefs and the def techs. They hit lower, but they won't be as accurate and tight as the kefs.

The matching center there. This will give you very good vocals as well.

And then whatever sub you can fit into your budget.

Oh wait, I almost forgot.

You could do the classic Klipsch home theater. This is an extremely popular option, because Klipsch are designed for this. The large woofers make tons of bass, the horn loaded tweeter will really make the dialog pop, and the wide and flat center will give you a great center image right in the middle of the screen.

Once again, whatever sub fits into your budget here is what you could get.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Let's chat. If you look at my flair, you probably know what I'm going to say. I would pick either the Kef or the Klipsch. And honestly, even though I like Kef more for music, Klipsch makes absolutely fantastic stuff for home theater. If you aren't going to use this for music at all, I would get the Klipsch.

TL;DR: Klipsch stuff with a HSU subwoofer.

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.

After doing further research on your setup there, here is what I would recommend.

Screen: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00366MBAC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00366MBAC&linkCode=as2&tag=wwwpuresimula-20

Projector: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-VPL-HW40ES-projector-widescreen/dp/B00JRNQNG6

Receiver: http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-X2100W-Channel-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B00KLC5YPS/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789167&sr=1-1&keywords=avr-x2100

Center Channel: http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-ProCenter-Compact-Speaker/dp/B000TDCJHK/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789219&sr=1-6&keywords=definitive+technology

Front Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-BP-8020ST-Bipolar-Subwoofer/dp/B00422L3C6/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789254&sr=1-1&keywords=definitive+technology+8020

Rear Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-ProMonitor-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B000V41XII/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789297&sr=1-1&keywords=definitive+technology+1000

BluRay: Ps4

Rear Speaker Mount: http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-Pro-Mount-90-Black/dp/B001UAFJ0K/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789338&sr=1-1&keywords=definitive+technology+mount

Subwoofer (optional): http://www.amazon.com/Definitive-Technology-ProSub-Speaker-Single/dp/B000TDEM5C/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1411789390&sr=1-3&keywords=definitive+technology+800

Total roughly: $5,500

This is going to be a way better setup in my opinion. Now the reasoning behind why I chose this all.

Screen: Do you really want 135"? you will distort the picture more and it will not be as clear. The reason why i chose a grey screen is because of the windows behind your screen location. The grey will not reflect as much natural light giving you a better picture IMO.

Projector: Personal favorite, If you would like the Epson has good quality as well I physically have not seen it though.

Receiver: This receiver is going to preform way better with the speakers I have picked out. Denon specializes in movie like sound giving better lows and a cleaner sound in all.

Center, Front, Rear Speakers: The reason I chose Definitive Technology is because they have great sound quality and are meant for a more movie like atmosphere. The fronts I have picked out are their small tower speakers, If you want to step up you can do the 8040's which are a little larger or the 8060's which will probably be the largest I would recommend for your home theater location.

Speaker mounts, If you want to mount the rear speakers, those will work with the rear speakers.

Subwoofer: Now the reason why I say optional on this is because the tower speakers have two sub-woofers built into each. And they are fairly noticeable with the lows. If you want more lows I recommended a subwoofer up there for you.

I hope you enjoy the system I picked out, and it is right in the middle of your price range as well leaving you room for speaker wire and other things. If you want to physically hear these go to any Best Buy Magnolia store and just ask them, they should be set up at all locations.

Just my two cents, you could do the Best Buy $300 on speakers and like you said get whatever 5.1+ receiver elsewhere. Best Buy will price match Amazon if it's "shipped and sold" by Amazon. So for example you could get the Pioneer towers and center channel for around $300:

Pioneer SP-FS52 Andrew Jones Tower each $110 Amazon (x2 for $220) / $125 Best Buy (x2 for $250)

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-FS52-Designed-standing-Loudspeaker/dp/B008NCD2S4/

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/pioneer-5-1-4-floor-speaker-each-black/5086937.p?skuId=5086937

Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones Center channel $85 Amazon / $95 Best Buy

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI/

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/pioneer-dual-4-center-channel-speaker-black/5086891.p?skuId=5086891

Total if you Amazon price match = $305 before tax

EDIT: just be sure to factor in cables/speaker wire to total budget, and make sure everything will fit and has a proper place to be setup. and don't overlook a universal remote if that's an option/need. :)

EDIT 2: OK so this doesn't satisfy the need for surround. So you could throw in cheap surrounds for now as well. Top 100 Amazon satellite speakers, others on here may have cheap suggestions?:

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Electronics-Satellite-Speakers/zgbs/electronics/3236454011#1

EDIT 3: And here's the matching bookshelf speakers if you wanted to match them up for the surrounds, swap these in front as a cheaper alternative to the towers, or both... for pair $110 Amazon / $125 Best Buy:

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG/

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/pioneer-4-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/5086955.p?skuId=5086955

I ended up tightening my budget quite a bit on this new home theater, so some of my choices aren't as nice as what I had before, but I'm very happy with what I got in the end. I want to thank everyone who gave me advice in my last post here. It was all very helpful!

I went with a 65" Samsung 120Hz smart TV. I decided against getting the 240Hz because I couldn't see a difference between the two when looking at it, and the 3D makes my wife sick in any case. That saved me almost $500.

For the receiver, I took everyone's advice and opted away from the all-in-one set I'd been looking at. Instead, I got a great price on a Pioneer VSX-824 that I've been very happy with.

I know the Denon reciever is what everyone recommended, and it's what I bought at first, but strangely enough my PS3 didn't work with it. It worked just fine connected to the TV directly, and other devices worked with that HDMI cable and port, but the PS3 just told me to go fuck myself. A quick google search told me that it's a flaw in the way the HDMI handshake works with Denon receivers, so back it went.

I went with Pioneer speakers as well, hooking up a
pair of tower speakers for front left and right, a pair of matching bookshelf speakers for the rear, and the matching center speaker.

The subwoofer will have to wait, for now, but the plan is to purchase the matching subwoofer when we're ready.

Instead of the Harmony Ultimate, which didn't seem to get any good remarks, I opted for the much cheaper Harmony 650, which has made my wife very happy. No more frayed tempers about what button does what on which remote. I'm even buying my parents one for Christmas.

I'm hugely pleased with the upgrade over my previous setup, even if it's not everything it could have been. What do you all think?

You're limited on power (44w) and space (you say a sub is not an option) but want good bass for hip-hop or electronic/dance. I'm sorry my friend but you're in a bit of a hard spot.

If you want good bass you need either larger speakers (towers or large books) or a sub. If you don't have space for a sub I'm assuming you can't to towers. So you're back to larger book shelf speakers.

While good for their size the Pioneer BS22 aren't what you're going to need for rap/EDM. I love KEF speaker so the q300 do come to mind but I think I would go a different route.

I would go with two center speakers turned on their side. What you can do that? Yes, you can exactly that and you'll be happy with the results. I'm thinking something like two of these BIC DV62CLRS for $120 each. You'll be into it for $250 and you'll have a speaker that goes down to 38hz but is till a bookshelf. You'll be getting two 6.5" drivers so you'll be asking less of each one. You'll also get a bit more efficiency too. I have done this in the past and have been pleased with the results.

Long story short, my front left tower has a damaged tweeter and my google skills cannot find the replacement available for sale.

1. What is your budget?

I am open to spending up to $1500.

2. What are you looking for?

I want a new LCR and I think I am leaning towards floor speakers sa I have kids and bookshelves on stands seem WAY more likely to get knocked over. I COULD mount some speakers on the wall, but again... they might be likely to hang on to them. (Kids. Not Even Once.) Also I am NOT interested in ATMOS at this time.

All in I think I prefer the ease of use with the towers but I dont know if they are the best bang for the buck for me as my subwoofer handles the bottom end pretty well.

3. How will you typically be using the gear?

I use it for home theater (Movies and Games) 50% and music the other 50%.

4. What gear do you own?

• Denon AVR‑X2100W
  
• Pioneer SP-FS52 Andrew Jones x2
  
• Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones
  
• Pioneer (AJs) SP-BS52 Andrew Jones x2 (as rear surrounds)
  
• HSU VTF-15H Subwoofer
  
  5. What do you intend on using for a source?
  
  I stream Spotify Premium or use my PS4 for BlueRay, Games, Netflix and Youtube (mostly kids).
  
  6. What material will you be using your gear for?
  
  In order of importance I think I want movies, music and gaming. Lately I have been listening to a lot of
  
  7. Are you willing to buy used?
  
  Yes. My problem with used research is there are SOOOO many brands and models for me to lookup on a price/sound ratio that I quickly get inundated.
  
  All in I have been thinking about updating my setup for a while, and this tweeter issue is a perfect excuse.
  I have a buddy using the HSU 5.1 and it sounds great. Otherwise I don't have much exposure to a lot of other brands (and there seem to be a LOT of them).
  
  As of right now the following combinations have caught my attention:
  
  
• HSU CCB-8 x 3 (so matching center on its side) (also these are not out yet... so minimal reviews)
  
• ELAC B6 pair with C5 Center
  
• ELAC UB5 pair with UC5 Center
  
• ELAC F6 with C5 Center
  
• ELAC UF5 pair with UC5 Center
  
  What other speakers should I consider? Or is there a clear winner?
  

Yes, use the Sony STR-DE897. Looks like it has digital optical inputs form your TV or use analog RCA. You can upgrade to a 4K HDMI receiver later if desired.

Speakers: Add a matching center speaker now or later for better movie and TV dialog. The later side surrounds can be from many other brands and don't necessarily need to match the front speakers.

• Infinity sale: 5.25" Infinity Reference 152 $139. 6.5" Infinity Reference 162 $175. Either with Infinity Reference RC252 $179 center channel speaker.
  
• Klipsch sale: 5.25" RP-150M (Cherry) $289 or 6.5" RP-160M (Ebony) $349.
  
• Wharfedale sale: 5.25" Diamond 220 $249 or 6.5" Diamond 225 $349.
  
• 6.5" Ascend CBM-170 SE $299 plus shipping. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response. My speaker of choice for mostly music. Internet direct are a great value since they cut out the middleman and can compare to $500 speakers.
  
• 2 or 3x 5.25" Wavecrest Audio HVL-1, and order on sale at Ascend $80 each + shipping, "budget/baby Ascends" from the same speaker designer. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response. Best mids under $200 which many speakers in the price range lack. As with most bookshelf speakers, best with a subwoofer.
  
• 4" Pioneer SP-BS22-LR $99. Matching center to buy later Pioneer SP-C22 $99. Look for both of them used first.
  
  Towers:
  
  
• Jamo S 809 $249 pair walnut + shipping or Jamo S 807 DUAL $179 pair free shipping.
  
• BOSTON ACOUSTICS A250 $268 pair bogo.
  
• Emotiva Airmotiv T-Zero $399.
  
• 8" Mini Lore, Tekton Design $575.
  
• Dual 5" Tower Wharfedale Reva 3 $585 $1,500 plus $95 shipping.
  
  DIY Speaker Kit: Add around $50/75+ for tools and supplies if you don't have them. Kit includes pre-cut cabinets. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Comparable to built speakers costing two to three times as much.
  
  
• 5" C-Notes $100. A good low end for their size. Later add the C-Note Center $100.
  
  Subwoofer on sale:
  
  
• 12" Infinity Reference R12 $199.
  
  Speaker wire: Pure Copper Oxygen Free 14 Gauge Speaker Wire 50 ft, then 4 Ways to Strip Wire - wikiHow. Optionally add banana plugs. With banana plugs AmazonBasics buy 2 for a pair or custom DFWCableConnection and Blue Jeans Cable.
  
  Speaker Stands: Low budget Dayton Audio SSMB24 or Monoprice Glass. Sturdy 4 column Pangea Audio DS400 Heavy Duty Speaker Stands or 3 column Pangea Audio LS300 All Steel Speaker Stands can both be filled with lead shot, sand or kitty litter.
  
  Speaker Positioning: How to position your speakers for great sound and Speaker Placement for Stereo Music Listening.
  
  Guides:
  
  Home Theater as well as 2 channel music: r/HTBuyingGuides FAQ • How to Set Up a Basic Home Theater System - Lifewire • How to Set Up Your Home Theater Receiver • Speaker Placement for Home Theater • TV vertically centered at eye level while seated • r/hometheater
  
  Home Audio Guides: Intro to home stereo systems • What is a Phono Preamp? | Audio Advice • Introduction to Audio Components • Zeos Tutorials, Diagrams and Videos • r/audiophile Guide to Home Audio • AverageJoeAudiophile's Guides

sorry i forgot to add, im canadian so getting deals from canada is pretty hard /:

i don't really have a budget, but i would prefer to not spend too much money. im looking for value, and i don't want to spend any more than 400 bucks(canadian), but preferable i would like to spend less than that. if you think value lies somewhere above 400, then i don't mind getting it if the sound quality is improved by a huge amount

i'm gonna be using this for a playstation 4 pro, so i kinda want the hdmi input rather than optical or whatever

i also don't want to wait until black friday, as i have alot of free time now and i wanna set it up now.

when i look at all of these on canadian amazon, its just below 1000 bucks

https://www.amazon.ca/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG
https://www.amazon.ca/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI
https://www.amazon.ca/Dayton-Audio-B652-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B002RMPHMU
https://www.amazon.ca/Dayton-Audio-SUB-1000-10-Inch-Subwoofer/dp/B0063NU3AA
https://www.amazon.ca/Yamaha-RX-V377-5-1-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B00HZE2WW8

again, thanks for your help, its the first time in this sub, and my first time posting things on reddit haha (:

> seating for 8 persons

That means you have seating off to the side, likely diagonally, correct? What this means is that you should get bipole/dipole/radiators for your side-surrounds, and place them centered between each "row of seating" (if it's additional couches instead of seats, put them centered based on distance from furthest seating to closest seating), a pic/drawing of the room would help. Good ones that'll fit in your budget are these bipoles ($120) or its bigger brothers, this one ($150) or this one ($200, I have these, got them $100 on sale from Walmart, currently normal priced).

> I preferred the quality of Klipsch

As for your front 3 speakers, two options I have would be Klipsch, or the same company as those bipoles. For Klipsch, there are these bookshelves + matching center ($340); for Fluance, they don't have a matching center for their SX Series, so you can mix and match, or not get their SX Series, their most expensive series (Signature) bookshelves + center would be $350, so similar price to the Klipsch's, their 2^nd highest model line bookshelves + center would be $270.

For your back-surrounds, are you wall-mounting? If your are, you will want front-ported speakers. Ones that I can recommend are these Sound Appeals ($70), or actually Fluance's top 2 model lines, you can get the Signature Series ($200) or their XL7 Series ($150). You don't want dipole/dipole/radiators for back-rears, as the sound dispersion wouldn't be good (null zones or amplified zones)

Now, that brings us to the subwoofer. If you were talking like 3-4, maybe 5 people, you could just get 1 sub, however, since you are talking 8 people, you definitely want 2 subs. The reason for that is a subwoofer has sweet spots, and an 8-person seating area is definitely too large. With the speakers I recommended, if you went on the most expensive of my recommendations, that would leave us with ~$750 to play with. I would recommend two of these ($660 total) or two of these ($740 $865 total, too expensive).

Now, I'm guessing you'll also need speaker wire. I'd recommend getting at least 16 gauge (lower the # the better), and if you are going in-wall, get oxygen-free. Speaker wire is cheap, here is 100ft of 14 gauge oxygen-free speaker wire. Now, I'd also suggest getting open-screw banana plugs (likely wont fit on any speakers you are wall-mounting), just to save on some frustration with connecting the speaker wire to the speakers/receiver, I bought 2 orders of these ($16 total), they connect like this. You will also want 2 subwoofer cables (RCA's with better insulation), I bought 1 order AmazonBasics in 15ft for $9 ($18 total for you), they also come in 25ft ($20 total, so better safe than sorry). If you don't know how to place a subwoofer, here is /u/zeospantera's tutorial.

They are just ok but adequate for most people...

You'll find that buying what i have listed below would sound much better but obviously wouldn't have the same form factor...

Fronts (2x): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2S4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Rears (Sold as pair): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2LG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Center: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2EI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Sub: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0063NU3AA/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A385A0XNQBW8HY

Total around $600. If you wanted, you could invest a bit more into the front L/R channel speakers (or the subwoofer)

If you are looking for minimal trouble and just want a home theatre as easy as possible, you obviously would be giving up sound quality for something easier to work with. so the bose would work. Just go off your instinct :D Like the other mentions if you are happy with how the bose system sounds, then it would be a great deal.

I didn't get much input in /r/hometheater, so I am going to cross-post this here:


> I want to upgrade my home theater setup. I'd like to pick up some higher-end towers, and have been on the wait-list for the Chane A5RX-C's for 6+ months now.
>
> I'm curious if that is still a good upgrade path, or if I should be looking at other options? And if so, what?
>
> Current setup:
>
> L/R - BIC America FH6
> Center - BIC FH6 LCR
> Rears - BIC PL-66
> Sub - (1) BIC F12
> * Receiver - Denon E400 - 7.1
>
>
> Planned upgrade path:
>
> 1. Replace left and right speakers with tower variants and a matching center.
> 2. Figure out NAS vs HTPC and the universal remote situation.
> 3. Upgrade receiver to 7.2 and pull in another sub.
>
> Speaker upgrade options:
>
> 1. Upmarket BIC Americas -
> BIC PL-980 and PL-28II
> 2. Chane's top end tower and matching center -
> Chane A5RX-C and A2RX-C
> 3. Wildcard. Suggestions welcome! Accessories4less is local to me, so something like KEF Q700 or Q900 open boxes are on the table.
>
> Room is 18x26. Use is 60% music, 40% TV/gaming.
>
> I've been happy with the efficiency and clarity of the BICs. Definitely enjoyed the volume. I'm just looking to upgrade and in a better place financially than I was two years ago. Curious what I could get for a few dollars more.

First of all, thank you for a such a detailed post! You provided great insight and appreciate that.

Now - To be perfectly honest, I don't know too much about bipoles and dipoles to comfortably experiment with them. But I will try to educate myself further and research before I purchase the front 3 speakers. Do you have any floorstanding tower speaker recommendation for these?

The set up for the seating is simply 2 rows of 4 seats each, the rear seating row is slightly elevated on a step.

The media room in question is wired for a 7.1 set up (2 at the back wallmounted, 2 at the sides wallmounted, 2 at the front floorstanding, and the center speaker and sub in the middle front).

You suggested that I use 2 subs, but the room is only wired for 1 sub at the front. Would a larger subwoofer be a suitable substitute for two smaller ones? If so, do you have any recommendations that would work well in tandem with my receiver? Also, thanks for the video reference on the sub placement!

All wiring in the room is 14 gauge. I will look into the banana plugs, they look easy and convenient and i'll certainly pick up a couple of those when this is all said and done.

What do you think of this set up /u/homeboi808 ? I have to ask because you seem very knowledgeable in all this!

Receiver: Denon AVR-X3300W

Subwoofer: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-12SW-12-Inch-Front-Firing-Subwoofer/dp/B00MJ1YR8Y/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=X61GNYGX8Z19KA6JEN9B

Front Towers: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-26F-Floorstanding-Speaker-Each/dp/B00LMDYM6W/ref=pd_sim_23_19?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=8E24TMRWR6S9TGCZ6W1R

Center: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-250C-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00S4HA4GQ/ref=pd_lpo_23_tr_t_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=CW0N9DRTVFS8G4NZGHW9

Side Surround: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-250S-Surround-Speaker-Each/dp/B00S4HE1QA

Back-Surround: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-150M-Bookshelf-Speaker-Ebony/dp/B00RXHEIHE

If youre wondering, I prefer Klispch because I get a little 5% family discount on their products from my cousin. I would really appreciate your input!

Quick update. Speakers are all set, and they sound pretty good. I'm not an expert, and have nothing to compare them to, but I'd say that I got a good deal for $120. Dialogue in movies is nice and crisp, and the mids are quite nice too. I'm very pleased with my first foray into home theater.

Most definitely not returning them!

Thanks again for your help. I'm now looking for a decent sub and a center.

What are your thoughts on the Panasonics Pioneers?

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI/

and for the sub
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SW-8MK2-Designed-100-Watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008NCD2PC/

Edit: Pioneer, not Panasonic

You can get the same receiver you listed from Accessories4Less for $169. So that saves you $90

I would also take a look at the Dayton SUB-1200 or SUB-1500. Both are well reviewed, and several redditors have used them in budget systems lately, with very good results. Say you go with the 1500, that saves you $40.

Are tower speakers essential? If so, I'd personally recommend the Infinity Primus p363 for your L/R. Much higher rated than the BIC, with fewer build quality issues. There are reports of the BIC speakers being top heavy, poorly fitting vinyl veneer, and rattling grills. In addition, horn speakers tend to be a "love it or leave it" sound. Even at the higher price the p363's are at, is still a superior speaker, or you could wait to see if they go on sale again. There are two Infinity center channel speakers, one for $199.95 and one for $149.95. With the savings from the other components, you could get either one.

If bookshelf speakers are an option, that opens up a whole lot of speakers that are superior to the BIC, especially if you're crossing over to a sub. The Emp Tek r5bi at $225/pr new or $182/pr Scratch and Dent has a rabid following here, and very favorable reviews just about everywhere. The matching r5ci is also highly recommended. There are alternatives from Chane (currently backordered), Home Theater Direct, and plenty of other Internet Direct and Brick and Mortar options.

If you have to have horn speakers, but bookshelves are an option, I'd take a look at the Hsu Research HB-1 at $159 ea. Or Klipsch bookshelves.

Craigslist tends to be hit-or-miss depending on the area you're in. I'm in the Plains states (SE IA) and don't really see much on the used market. Someone closer or in major metro areas (Chicago, Seattle, LA, etc.) will have better luck. However, I'd stick to speakers unless you or a buddy knows electronics repair. You don't get any warranties buying used, so caveat emptor.

Last thing, I personally wouldn't buy Pyle products even if you held a gun to my head. I'd take a look at Dayton Audio, Monoprice, Home Theater Direct, or even Polk before I'd buy Pyle. The other option is to sink that money into the fronts for now, and buy the surrounds later. It's not like the holes are going to fill themselves in. The other thing to look at is Dolby Atmos. You could set up a 5.1.4 system using the in-ceiling positions, and use bookshelf speakers for the rear channel.

Now, this isn't a huge knock against BIC speakers. Many people have them and like them. I just think that there are better solutions out there, especially if you can use bookshelf speakers.

Awesome! That would be perfect. Thank you again for your help. It seems like I might not be able to get the Polk S20 speakers because the buyer isn't responding yet. So just in case, I think I found another really nice deal. All for just $200 he's selling...

Pioneer VSX-521-K
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-VSX-521-K-Receiver-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B004M8RPAY

Pair of Pioneer FS51 Floorstanding Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/pioneer-sp-fs51-lr-floorstanding-loudspeakers-discontinued/dp/b004h1m4no

Pair of Pioneer BS21 Bookshelf Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4

Pioneer SP-C21 Center-Channel Speaker
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C21-Speaker-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B004MF4S0M/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

That also leaves me enough money to buy a subwoofer like the Dayton SUB-1200. But the receiver is a different model then the one you suggested. I'm not sure if it's still good. Would that be enough to drive all those speakers adequately?

In your opinion, do you think that would be a nice sounding setup for movies and music?

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

Before the questions. The Onkyo speakers are a bit of a mystery. I haven't heard them personally but also don't know anyone who has. You will be the first guinea pig I suppose (50 reviews on amazon and 4.5stars).

1. Yes. There are certain aspects of 5.1 tracked movies that simply can't come out without one. The sub also takes any low frequencies your smaller speakers can't produce and deal with them (think center/rears more than your tower fronts). The beautiful part is the sub can always be adjusted if you think it is too much.
   
   
2. It is usually recommended to match the center to the front speakers so the timbre (sound signature) stays the same across the front as things move across. I just can't seem to find a center made by onkyo that matches the tweeter style (soft dome) of the towers you bought. So with that in mind I'd consider this Fluance center channel which at least based on looks has a closer matching tweeter and cabinet then the other onkyo offer. 3.0 is a thing you can run with out rears or a sub from the start. As for rears just look at the ones I list above. Any of those or any of the bookshelves in general will work and you can definitely afford a $99 pair with your budget and just get the whole thing done. (wire running isn't that hard!)
   
   
3. The setup should last. Onkyo has had iffy reliability as of late but it varies wildly between models and batches so as long as it doesn't die right away you should be good. If you don't like the speakers you would be hard pressed to find anything as big for $120 so keep them if you like them!
   

If you have a receiver you don't really need an amp or dac. I'd look at center channel options next. Once you have a center, then I'd look at rears. I'd recommend building it out piecemeal and saving up, as cramming 3 more speakers into $200 would be pretty hard, unless you just meant $200 per component. You're at 2.1, 3.1 is the next step, then save up and then get some new fronts and move the t15s to the rear. You'll probably want to replace the t15s eventually, but for right now just get yourself set up.

Here's a great center for $200 https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Debut-Center-Speaker-Black/dp/B07B4Q5LW2/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=elac+center+channel&qid=1563306052&s=electronics&sr=1-3

You can also look at the Klipsch centers (I love mine, have the RP model, but it's a bit above your stated price range, they make smaller centers that would work for you as well though).

I'm not sure how good it really is, but Amazon has a small Micca center for pretty cheap that could be an option depending on room size (I'd try to find expert reviews)

I see lots of commenters recommending high-end stuff which is understandable since you are building your own house and having a large dedicated space for a banging HT. A good 7 channel receiver plus a subwoofer powerful enough for your large room will add up to $1000 pretty quick. Heck, I'd reccomend two subwoofers for a space that large. I will probably get downvoted, but let me help you find some more budget friendly choices.

Receiver $300 - DENON
AVR-X1400H

Subwoofer $300 - Bic Acoustech PL-200 II

Front LR $200 - Fluance Signature Series

* Matching Center - $150

Surround and Rear Surrounds - Micca MB42X 2x$80

This puts you just slightly over budget. also factor in speaker mounts / shelves / stands, cables, etc.... There's obviously lots of options and everyone has their own opinions. Have fun researching, I hope this helps!

Soundbars are better than TV speakers, but dedicated speakers and receiver will always be better at any price point.

At $300 I would suggest getting better towers, and maybe squeeze in a centre channel for improved dialogue clarity.

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-FS52-Designed-standing-Loudspeaker/dp/B008NCD2S4

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI

The technology to create soundbars has existed forever, but companies didn't realize how much the average person will compromise on quality if they just lie to them a bit.

I just picked up this simple pioneer since it dropped 30 bucks recently, though it looks like it's back up as of today or yesterday. Still good at ~$100 though. I have some old ass but good bigass bookshelf Polks as my fronts, Klipsch bookshelf as my rears and a Yamaha sub so i didn't really give a shit trying to match, lol.

More to the point it had lots of good reviews, so I pulled the trigger when it was 66 bones. Happy I did. I too can now hear dialogue when I'm sitting in center of couch, lol.

I hope you don't mind I found some examples. Onkyo TX-SR444 $319. Monoprice 5.1 speaker set $150. Logitech Harmony Smart Control $70. This will get you something to setup and learn with and it should sound better than what you've had before with a ton more options. The Onkyo has great built in software and a mic to help do some automatic speaker calibration. You can also tweak it manually when you learn more. You can add rear speakers later if you want 7.1. If after a while you find the fronts/center aren't "full" enough you can add something like this and this. When I got started this really helped me out. Reading and research and asking questions helps a ton! Enjoy.

Others have mentioned it but it bears repeating. Those are low quality speakers. It is NOT worth investing in the equipment that you would need to drive them. Don't throw good money after bad. Start from scratch and get something significantly better.

• AVR: DENON
  AVR-S510BT - $169. Entry level receiver from one of the best brands available. A good and very affordable starting point.
  
• Front Speakers: Pioneer SP-FS52 ($129 each) & Pioneer SP-C22 ($99). Since you seem to like the look of floor standing speakers, these are good quality entry level speakers with a matching center. Total $357.
  
• Surround Speakers Micca MB42 - $69. Small bookshelf speakers that will get you to 5.0. I would consider these optional at this point, since you're on a budget.
  
  That's a good entry level 5.0 setup for around $600. If you're on a budget, consider just getting the AVR and front left and right speakers for now. Add the center, surrounds, and a subwoofer of your choice, as your budget allows in whatever order you prefer. I can guarantee you it will sound better than any possible set up with you existing Sony speakers.

In-wall and in-ceiling are compromises in terms of audio quality. For the best sound quality for your money, I'd recommend discrete speakers out in the open. If you go this route, here is one possible build:

• Denon AVR with Audyssey, $200: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavre300/denon-avr-e300-5.1-3d-networking-receiver-airplay/1.html
  
  
• 2 Pairs of Pioneer BS22 (one pair for the fronts and one pair for surrounds), $254 total: http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG
  
  
• Matching center, $97: http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI
  
  
• Subwoofer, SVS PB1000, $500: http://www.svsound.com/subwoofers/ported-box/pb-1000
  
  Total: $1053 for a great value in sound quality, doing justice to both movies and music. The Pioneer speakers go on sale pretty often (the bookshelf speakers go for less than $100 a pair on sale and the center sometimes dips to $60) so you can definitely get it under $1000 if you're patient.

With your budget, if you don't want to go modular and add the pieces as you go along and get a 5.1 right away, think this seems like a decent package that you'll be very happy with for a good couple of years:

These Pionneer towers x2

And the surrounds

And center that go with the set

This sub seems very well liked around here

The amp you mentionned (I have had RX-V657 for years, very good) is also very good an will be plenty

rest on cables and stuff if you need, go to http://www.monoprice.com

All that should come in around your budget!

Cheers and have fun!

Here is what I would go for. I plan to upgrade to this sub and this 5.1 setup. I'll probably use my micca mb42x for rears though. They are currently my fronts. But the dipoles I listed look awesome. You can use most bookshelves for rears so you can easily adjust your budget accordingly. Some just mount on the wall easier than others.

Receiver $200-$250 new or refurb Denon

Fluance sx6 $130 (also in black)

Fluance center $80

Fluance bipole rears $120

Bic America Sub $180 or Dayton 1000 for $109

EDIT: So you can easily get this under $700 or even $600 depending on what kind of rears you want, or the sub. Even a cheaper receiver can be found depending on what you want. Also amazon has a great return policy so I almost always go with used in good condition. They give heavy discounts on refurbs just for an item that gets opened and returned.

OK well let's start with the basics - you will absolutely need an amplifier if you don't have one - the speakers you have selected (more on those later) are passive speakers.

Do you have a 4K TV? Do you have a TV at all? If not that definitely changes things. I for one have a 1080p TV and I'm not going to upgrade to 4K until adaptive frame rate and HDR specifications are finalized. Because of that, I decided to buy a used Marantz SR8002. I was able to pick up an amp that retailed at $2500 for $350 on eBay - and it's an absolute monster. Do I miss having new features like IP control and Audessey XT32? Of course. But since I don't have a 4K TV I can manage. Anyway...off topic. If you want a good 4K receiver I'm a huge fan of the Marantz SR6011 or SR6010. They both have Audessey XT32 and independent DSP-controlled subwoofer outs (i.e. the receiver doesn't send the same signal to both sub outs - it can adjust them to correct for room response - which should make a significant difference).

Back to speakers - I'm personally not a huge fan of the Klipsch sound - it's pretty harsh in my opinion. However, I am a huge fan of the new ELAC Uni-Fi line. You can get the UF5 Towers for $1000/pair and the UC5 Center for $350. But audition before you buy!

For 1000 you can do a lot better on the subs, in my opinion. You could do two SB-1000s (sealed) or two PB-1000s (ported). You could also do a single SB-2000 (sealed) or PB-2000 (ported) and still have some change left over.

Do you have a sonos system in the rest of the house? If you want streaming audio, you could use a Chromecast - it works with Spotify and other streaming services and costs $30 (instead of the $350 for the Sonos Connect).

Hey there! Long time reddit stalker, first time poster! Hoping I can access the font of knowledge here to validate my potential new home theatre setup. Here is what I am thinking.

Receiver: Yamaha RX-V679BL 7.2-Channel MusicCast AV Receiver with Bluetooth

2x Floorstanding Loudspeakers: Polk Audio Monitor-75T Four-Way Floorstanding Speaker

1x center channel speaker: Polk Audio CS10 Center Channel Speaker

1x powered sub: Polk Audio PSW505 12-Inch Powered Subwoofer

Would love any input, trying to stick to around ~1200$ neighborhood. 3.1 is fine for my needs now ( although I may expand to 5.1 down the line ). Any thoughts or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Nakdeyes

First off, get all your wires/interconnects from monoprice, cheaper and good quality.

For the receiver, I'd rather have this if 4k is needed: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx1200w/denon-avr-x1200w-7.2-atmos-full-4k-ultra-hd-a/v-receiver-wi-fi/bluetooth/airplay/1.html

if 4k isn't needed: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx3100w/denon-avr-x3100w-7.2-receiver-wi-fi/bluetooth/airplay/1.html

That 165 watt rating is pure fantasy, in a 7 speaker configuration you likely aren't going to get much over 25-30 watts per channel although that should be enough. If you have listened to those speakers and like them go for it, if not there are better speakers to be had in that price range. In the price range you are looking I recommend bookshelf speakers (on stands if necessary) as tower speakers in that price range simply aren't going to be that good. That said, for that money I'd get these: http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1458665534&sr=1-5&keywords=infinity+primus

with this center: http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Speaker-Center-Channel/dp/B0046A8R5A/ref=sr_1_10?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1458665534&sr=1-10&keywords=infinity+primus

and these for surrounds: http://www.fluance.com/surround-sound-speakers/avbp2-bipolar-surround-sound-satellite-speakers

Forget about a 7.2 system until you know what kind of room, you need at least 6' behind the seats for a 7.2 system to work well. As for subs, why dual? Those subs are mediocre at best, better to spend your money on one single high quality sub. My choice: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/stf-2.html

Leagues better than that Polk sub you chose and inexpensive enough that you can add a second if you really want to. Unless the room is rather large this sub should be sufficient. It is what I consider to be the entry level "elite" sub.

You can certainly go the super budget route and get something like that Pioneer set, but there are two main reasons I would advise against that:

• With a set like that, you're pretty much limited to what the set offers for the entire duration that you own that system. The minute you want to upgrade, you'll likely find that you want to start from scratch.
  
• Budget sets that come with a companion subwoofer don't typically offer a great subwoofer (usually pretty mediocre or otherwise terrible).
  
  And, to be honest, a little patience and some research will usually yield a longer lasting, quality system that you will be less likely to want to upgrade sooner. (One of the few exceptions to this would be the SVS Prime Bookshelf Surround set, which is highly regarded.)
  
  If you're gonna start with L/C/R, here are my suggestions around (and slightly above) $500:
  
  
• Polk S20 + S30 ($460)
  
• Q Acoustics 3020i + 3090Ci ($490)
  
• Elac B6.2 + C6.2 ($560)
  
• HTD Level Three Bookshelf + Center ($580)
  
• Chane A1.5 + A2.5 ($630)

>JVC RX-515V

Googling It - I can't any specs......it's early 90's. You just bought a New 4K TV - I figure you will wanna move up to a Modern 5.1 - at the Least. old JVc has 3 '90's era Dolby settings, no HDMIs, probally no optical input?, sub out? none of the New Dolby processing or whatever.

Does the JVC have optical Input.? If you wanna run BluRay or 4K Blurays you're gonna need HDMI 4K passthru OR go straight to the TV via HDMI but then back to receiver via optical for Sound..........some of the Newest TVs have dropped optical and everything is via HDMI ARC............

If the speakers are in Decent Shape I'd get the New receiver First (be it Used, Refurbished or New) with more power (most likely) and see how they Sound and go from there. You'll probally upgrade Everything eventually- I'd start with the receiver..........

OR

- Go ahead and Get New Speakers and see if the JVC Drives them, since Sony Speakers are Generally Sub Par - Gotta Start Somewhere........

I'd go Pioneer Sp-fs52 Floor Standing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oVljZGOJUE&t=17s

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/pionspfs52/pioneer-sp-fs52-5.25-3-way-floorstanding-speaker-black-each/1.html

https://www.frys.com/product/7327244?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

matching center - https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Spc22&qid=1563690495&s=gateway&sr=8-1

Surrounds - https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=spbs22&qid=1563690524&s=gateway&sr=8-3

or

Fluance Elite (Pioneer Andrew Jones and The Fluance Elite are The Best Sounding Budget Speaker packages out threre - gonna Spend More $ to beat them.....)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016OQ17FU/ref=twister_B07KMKVGZS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SXHTB-BK-Definition-including-Floorstanding/dp/B009ZT3Z86/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=Fluance+elite+5.0&qid=1563690406&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

​

if you just want 2 channel stereo Music and feel the receiver is in Good Condition- just Find some Better Speakers it can Drive........

If you Want Badass home theater for your New Tv - you're gonna want a modern receiver and probally all New speakers eventually.........

Hey /u/ZeosPantera,

I first wanted to say you are the fucking man. This subreddit has been so incredibly helpful in figuring out my audio system. Additionally, I was wondering if you could provide your expertise for me.

My fraternity is currently getting our house back in a few weeks, and we have money to spend on home improvement (in this case, an audio system for the large common room). I'm looking for a system that can double as both a home theater sound system as well as speakers for a large, loud party. I assembled a list of components and was hoping you can recommend any changes. This is the list so far:

Receiver - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B7X2OV2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Center - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015A8Y3E/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Front speakers (tower) - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ISZEV2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_7?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Rear speakers - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CRMKJTQ/ref=ox_sc_act_title_6?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1WPEQCN6WJKZG

Subwoofer - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015A8Y5M/ref=ox_sc_act_title_8?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

These are the ones you listed as being loud enough to play music on as well. Will these products fit the bill for my needs (home theater, large frat party)? Also, these extras to set up the system:

Banana plugs - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0090CVJZ4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

RCA cable - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003FVX9FO/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1DCPNQKKEISZB

Copper wire - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00APEG9MO/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Is there anything I'm missing in order to set up the system? Thank you so much!!

I'm Gonna recommend the BIC FH6-LCR for your left, right, and center speakers. They offer great bang for the buck and get LOUD pretty easily. These cheap Sound Appeal speakers may work fine as your rears. If someone disagrees, let them chime in.
For your sub go with the Rythmik LV12 or any comparably priced sub from reputable subwoofer manufacturers.
This leaves a bit left over for speaker wire, speaker stands you may need to purchase, and can pretty easily be modified to full 7.1 if you insist on it.

EDIT: I placed a large portion of the budget on the sub because I believe that what most people want from a surround sound system is clear dialog, loud volume, and deep bass that can pressurize a room.

If you have access to a Frys in the USA, this is probably the best you can do for a new system:


Pioneer BS22 x2 pair (they go on sale each month for $68 a pair)

http://www.frys.com/product/7327224


Pioneer Pioneer SP-C22 (on sale at AMAZON for $80)

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI


SVS PB10 $500 (OR grab one from HSU, Rythmik, Outlaw, etc)

https://www.svsound.com/products/pb-1000


Frys also sells a Klipsch 15" powered subwoofer for around $400 when on sale.
Hint: If you have the room, and patience for the next Frys sale, that 15" Klipsch is probably the best bang for the buck HT sub around.


That leaves 250+ for a receiver, depending on the sub you choose. Accessories4less, Frys sales, Bestbuy sales all have good to great deals on receivers if you have time to wait for a sale.

LR: Elac Debut 2.0 6.2 bookshelfs

C: Elac Debut 2.0 6.2 center

Sub: Bic America F12 or Dayton Audio Sub-1200

AVR: Something here. Whatever fits your budget and has the features you need. Make sure that if you're going to be streaming music to get one that is at least wifi compatible or networking (ethernet jack). I personally can recommend the Yamaha RX-V483. If that Yamaha is too expensive then go with a Denon with comparable features.

Stands: (If you don't already have a surface to put your LR on) Monoprice monoliths (24inch or 28inch, depending on ear height at listening/watching position) or Monoprice glass

If the price comes out to be too much then go with the Dayton sub and a cheaper AVR.
You'll also need some speaker wire, a wire cutter, and possibly some silicone hemispheres


That is a 3.1 to start. I think you'll be very happy and impressed with it. Given some time and some saving you'll be ready to upgrade to some surrounds. Delayed gratification is always worth it in this game :)

Well I would suggest the Denon AVR-S530BT for a receiver at $140 and then probably stick to a 2.1, 3.0 or 3.1 and build it up slowly. The ELAC b6.2 are on a great sale for $150 right now and the center for $170, they get recommended a lot and are a great value with the sale. That doesn't leave much for a sub though. Typically the cheapest sub that gets recommended are the daytons, the 10 inch one runs about $100. Whatever speakers you look at make sure they are front ported so you can wall mount them

> I did compare the paradigm monitor se's to the monitor 7s, and the monitor se sounded much more bright and lively.

The I suspect you like a more forward sounding speaker as the Monitor 7's are pretty neutral sounding. The Elacs dont have the crisp highs youre likely after.

These Monitor Audio MR1's may be another well priced option for you.

Also, a pair of these stood up and used as L/R channels would offer you a good value. Fluance should have more of that sound youre looking for.

HP N40L with 4 x 2TB WD Greens + 60GB SSD for boot, and a Synology 1513+ with 5 x 4TB WD Reds. N40L was a black friday sale 2 years ago for $250 including windows home server 2011 and a 250G drive, and one of my friends won the 1513+ from a raffle and only asked for the tax liability for it($300 + buying 5 drives for it). Peeking in the picture is a Denon 1912, Polk Monitor 70 II, and a BIC America center channel. Oh and my Uverse DVR :p

After watching your reviews again for the speakers in question, I think I may have arrived at a conclusion. I'll probably go for the SX6s just due to the fact my room is larger. Reading through other threads, I see that you now recommend going with the this center rather than the set released after your video review. How big of difference will I see between these? Will the rears have a big enough presence if they are placed on the rear wall about 6 feet away or would I be better off going with these babies? I like the wood version of the SX line, it makes them stand out and are different than the normal black.

Can you recommend a wall mount that will handle the SX6s? Thinking of tip-over safety for toddlers and crawling kids.

Thanks for listening to me think out loud in these posts.

Without a lot of info, but assuming you want to keep it all pretty basic, this is my best shot. Before taxes you're at $687, but you could downgrade the sub to the Sub-1000, or skip the rear channels altogether for now. You'll need some speaker stands for the front, mounts for the rear, speaker wire, etc. So, not a perfect list, but here we go:

• Cheap but good receiver
  
• Decent L/R
  
• Matching Center
  
• Subwoofer
  
• Rear Channel

Thanks for the feedback.

I read on r/zeos that it's best to match the brand of the center speaker with the surround. Do you agree? On Amazon this Polk center channel speaker has great reviews and in my budget.

Amazon Warehouse's "like new" deal are supposed to be just that... Like New. Only the box may be damaged (from removing shipping labels).

------------

• https://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000656811
  
  >Used – Like New or Open Box
  
  >An item in perfect working condition. Original protective wrapping may be missing, but the original packaging is intact and in good condition with minor damage possible. Instructions are included.
  
  ------------
  
  Its still covered by their 30 day return window, and you can return it 100% free. If they don't give you the option, call them and get it taken care of! Bezos is still disgustingly rich enough, even after his divorce settlement, to pay for return shipping on an item they mislabeled.
  
  But, of course, if there isn't another one in that price bracket, maybe keep it and just fix it - only you can make that call. But at least call them to politely complain, and maybe they'll comp you a month of prime or free Amazon music or something for your troubles.
  
  It seems they have 6 more - but they are now listed as "Used - Very Good"
  
  

• https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000TDCJHK/ref=dp_olp_all_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=all
  
  

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/

Receiver: Denon X1300W - $319 at A4L.

Fronts: BIC DV64 Towers - $115.75/ea at Amazon

Center: BIC DV62CLS - $104.89 at Amazon

Subwoofer: BIC F12 - $195 at Amazon

Surrounds: BIC DV62si - $119.95/pair at Amazon

I just did a setup similar to this for my basement (except I went with cheaper Daytons for surrounds so I could experiment with 7.1). I have to say, these BICs are absolutely fantastic for the money, and the whole system really came alive after running Audyssey.

Upstairs I have the Pioneer FS52/C22/BS22 setup, and the BICs are far better in my opinion. That Pioneer setup gets recommended a lot as a good entry-level setup, but in my opinion it just isn't that fantastic. The FS52 towers are great for music, but the center is lackluster and sounds "empty" in comparison for movies.

a lot of manufacturers make dedicated center channel speakers, with a pair of woofers, and meant to be set up horizontally so it fits better below the TV.

there's not an actual difference between speakers based on their use - between main channels / surround / centers. you can use any speaker for any position, as long as you have sufficient wattage and the right ohms for your amplifier.

designed centers are arguably better because the dual woofers will put out more volume than a single woofer in a regular bookshelf speaker. this is accomplished by wiring both woofers in series in the center speaker - so you have 2 x 4ohm speakers, which present an 8ohm resistance to the amp. most bookshelf speakers are also 8ohm. so your amp is happy, and you're getting twice the volume, so you're happy :)

for example

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/

or

https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Signature-Two-Way-Channel-HFC/dp/B01A5TNHWS/

I have two of these

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-FS52-Designed-standing-Loudspeaker/dp/B008NCD2S4

and the matching center channel

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI

and love them. They are inexpensive and sound pretty good and the reviews on the boards are decent as well. Since they are a bigger speaker they will give you a little bit better depth than the book shelf.

If you think you will be wanting to add speakers within the next two to three years, I would go ahead and buy a 5.1 receiver. You can get 5.1 receivers at very good prices. To save money you could look into a refurbished Denon or other brand:

http://usa.denon.com/us/product/pages/refurbishedproducts.aspx?catalog=denonna_us&catid=refurbishedprocat(denonna)

There are also other great sources for refurbished products that carry warranties.

If I was buying a 5.1 system, I would also consider going ahead and adding a center channel speaker. I have found that it is easier to watch movies at a lower volume and hear the dialogue so long as there is a center channel speaker. You would be running a Left, Center and Right speaker setup to start. And then just add a Subwoofer and Left and Right Surround later.

Here are some good budget center channel speaker suggestions:
http://amzn.com/B000I7U1OK

http://amzn.com/B00009WBYJ

http://amzn.com/B00006JPDG

SVS PB2000 sub -$800

Marantz SR5009 $420

Infinity primus center $200

Infinity primus towers $300 for the pair

Infinity primus bookshelfs $190 for a pair add another pair for 7.1

add another big subwoofer later for more oompf. the primus series represents pretty good value and they will play quite impactfully

then figure in another grand for a projector and screen

Onkyo TX-NR676 - $339.00.

Polk T30 center channel - $89.99

Polk PSW10 10" subwoofer - $99.99

Polk T50 towers for the front speakers - $89.99 x2 = $179.98

Polk T15 Bookshelf speakers for the rear surrounds - $59.00 x2 = $118.00

Total: $824.98. Throw in ~$70 for sales tax and another $30-40 for audio cable and $5 for an HDMI cord. You can save $60 by switching the front towers for T15s.

The Onkyo can be expanded to 5.1.2 for Atmos, and supports DTS:X as well. 4K passthrough and it supports every audio format up through Atmos. It's a fantastic AVR, especially at that price.

EDIT: fixed link for T50 towers.

Hi, I'm looking at buying these Klipsch Reference Speakers for $100 with a promo code. I'm currently using a Sony STR-K840P amp with stock surround sound, and a Polk Audio C10 center speaker. Will the bookshelf speakers sound odd paired with another brand/type of center speaker? I'm not sure the sound difference between the two, but I'm very happy with the center speaker, and was hoping not to spend $150 on the bookshelf speakers that pair with it. Thanks in advance!

It's common. The speakers move to create sound and when they are new everything is tight. When they loosen up and move more freely they sound better. If you read reviews on speakers a lot of people talk about the difference after 50-100 hours of use. I think there's a Polk audio center channel that should fit and has great reviews.

Polk Audio CS10 Center Channel Speaker (Single, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018QROM2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_54hUzb6WVE9DB

Sounds like you might be very underwhelmed with the setup only 250 can get you. Especially with the setup you already have. But if these can make it up to you maybe a 2.0 system would be a good start and work from there later on.

Scroll through these bookshelf speaker for some good ideas. The kef q150, jbl stage, wharfdale diamond, polk signature 15, Elac debut b5.2. All good starts to a system.

https://www.crutchfield.com/g_37900/Bookshelf-Speakers.html?tp=186&pg=3&o=d#&price=60-300

Or

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-Andrew-Designed-Floorstanding-Loudspeaker/dp/B0798YNCQ1/ref=zg_mw_3236453011_14?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=61BTSNTW87Z8RRTK3QP4

Or maybe this 3.0 starting point and get 2 Floorstanding speakers and a sub later and move the bookshelf ones to the rear for a full 5.1.
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI/ref=pd_aw_sim_23_1/141-7821185-1647945?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B008NCD2EI&pd_rd_r=80a2854b-12b5-40ff-8f99-58c7f4b43b2e&pd_rd_w=UUvP7&pd_rd_wg=lXjps&pf_rd_p=dfdb1da3-5e85-40b8-aca6-1f16b6aad03b&pf_rd_r=V91T78W06QSB4VJSJKAC&psc=1&refRID=V91T78W06QSB4VJSJKAC

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG/ref=pd_aw_sim_23_2/141-7821185-1647945?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B008NCD2LG&pd_rd_r=80a2854b-12b5-40ff-8f99-58c7f4b43b2e&pd_rd_w=UUvP7&pd_rd_wg=lXjps&pf_rd_p=dfdb1da3-5e85-40b8-aca6-1f16b6aad03b&pf_rd_r=V91T78W06QSB4VJSJKAC&psc=1&refRID=V91T78W06QSB4VJSJKAC

In commercial theaters with height channels, the speakers are pointed backwards a bit. It's hard to find images that illustrate this, but you'll see it in AMC's new Dolby Cinema theaters. Depending on the slope of your ceiling and the proximity of the speakers to the couch, it might not be ideal, but it's rare to have a 100% ideal theater room.

I read earlier today on this sub about Speakercraft's AIM series. If you have the money for it, then it might make sense to replace the JBLs with those. As far as alternatives for the other speakers, I'm not really sure. BIC America's Acoustec speakers are approximately the same color if you decide to run them without a grille (of that's really important to you), but they use horn tweeters, so they likely have the same level of brightness as Klipsch. I'll check the buying guide for another one that I don't remember the name of and report back.

Edit: Checked the guide.

On the slightly cheaper end, there's the Pioneer Andrew Jones series. Pioneer makes good speakers, but stay away from their receivers; Pioneer is owned by Onkyo now, and that brings Onkyo's build quality issues with it. Denon, Marantz, Yamaha, and Harman/Kardon are the companies that you should look at for receivers.

Bookshelf, Center, Tower

On the slightly more expensive end, there's the aforementioned BIC America speakers. Bookshelf, LCR (Left/Center/Right), Tower

r/hometheater and good luck. $500 is not much for surround sound.

​

This is about as good as good as it gets.

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-PK52FS-5-0-Theater-Speaker/dp/B00IRH0QMA

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG/

https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C22-Designed-Channel-Speaker/dp/B008NCD2EI/

https://www.fluance.com/signature-series-hi-fi-5-0-home-theater-speaker-system-with-bookshelf-speakers-black

https://www.fluance.com/sx-series-high-definition-surround-sound-home-theater-speaker-system-black-sx50bc

​

I recommend upgrading your subwoofer too.

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629

>I appreciate the help. Holy crap those prices... I think I payed $150 for the sub and traded an old bycicle for the bookshelves. A new rc 64 looks more expensive than my whole set up, lol. But the info is useful. I'll keep an eye out for anything similar on Craigslist or in the pawn shops

The RC-62 ll is $279 shipped by Amazon. You're wheeling dealing skills aside that's not expensive at all for a matching MTM. If you can find a BIC PL28 ll that is also a good match for Klipsch's horned design and a bit cheaper as well.

Nope, way to expensive for your stated budget and doesn't even get you a good subwoofer which was at the top of your list of wants. If you like the Klipsch horn loaded sound signature

5 x Bic FH6 LCR https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-FH6-LCR-6-5-Inch-Frequency/dp/B0015A8Y3E/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=bic+fh6+lcr&qid=1571267350&s=electronics&sr=1-1 $545

Rythmik L12 http://www.rythmikaudio.com/L12.html $549

A good budget AVR on sale https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/onktxsr383/onkyo-tx-sr383-7.2-ch-x-80-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html $199 (including approximate shipping)

Okay, that gives you a system that is VERY efficient and capable of concert levels of output AND gives you enough room in the budget to add that second sub...which would be ridiculous in that small room. Lol, you will FEEL it. You also have enough room in the budget to add a tactile transducer if you really want to shake your seat. If you aren't fond of the horn loaded sound, I can give you a lot of other options but of course you'll lose a little efficiency. I can post a FR chart for those speakers if you are worried about the quality. This the EQed in room response with a bit of a high end boost for old ears, lol https://imgur.com/pYT7D7M

Budget around $600

Type 5.1 surround sound

Setup Desktop PC

Uses gaming, watching movies, or listening to music

Room dimensions not quite sure. About 10' by 12'


Idea #1
Center speaker: Pioneer SP-C22 Andrew Jones Designed Center Channel Speaker

Front/Rear speakers: Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers

Subwoofer: Polk Audio PSW10 10-Inch Monitor Series Powered Subwoofer


Idea #2

Energy 5.1 Take Classic Home Theater System

Specs:
My mother board: MSI Z87-G43
My graphics card: EVGA gtx760
Running windows 7 home premium

Questions:

• What is the best system for my pc?
  
  
• What kind of receiver will I need?
  
  
• Will I need a soundcard?
  
  
• What kind of speaker wire will I need?
  
  
• What kind of issues do I face?
  
  What I would like:
  
  
• true 5.1 surround sound when playing games and movies
  
  
• surround sound when playing music (stereo from the front speakers and rear speakers mimic the front speakers)
  
  edit: formatting

I would not try to make that movie vs music differentiation for speakers in your budget range.

If you would like speakers that can play loud for house parties for $220, these will: https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-FH6-LCR-6-5-Inch-Frequency/dp/B0015A8Y3E/

Or look for a used pair of Klipsch bookshelves with 6 or 6.5" drivers. They won't play quite as loud as those BICs, but will be louder than those Pioneers and, IMO, sound better.

Then for a sub, Dayton Sub 1200 or even better if you can afford it: Premier Acoustics PA-150 (check Ebay)

Yep, these will work well with the Yamaha. You'll want to get the matching center channel. The BIC F12 is the best budget sub that'll reinforce the Infinity's well.

Hi

I'm hoping someone here might be able to help me with a home stereo problem. I'm still quite new to this tech.

My wife got my a center channel speaker for my home stereo setup for my birthday, but I didn't realize that it's 6 ohms. (this one to be exact https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2EI).

However, my receiver only accepts a minimum of 8 ohms.

Is there a device that I can buy to convert the 6 ohm impedance to 8 ohms. Preferably, I'd stick two speaker wires in on one side of a box and two more on the other side, and the conversion would happen in between. Not sure if the problem is that simple, though.

Or do I have to ship this speaker back to Amazon?

If so, can anyone recommend a good center channel speaker in the $100 range?

In my experience, the most important part of your setup is having 3 matching speakers for the front sound stage (left, center and right). The goal here is for all 3 speakers to blend together, so when sound pans back and forth, it sounds the same.

You're best bet might be to replace the front 3 speakers with 3 in the same series.

On a quick look, you could go with These Pioneer front speakers with This Matching center. for a total pric of about $200 for all 3 speakers.

Or for a little less, you could go with these Micca speakers with This matching center for about $160 for all 3.

You could probably sell those 2 Bose front speakers on ebay and make it close to an even swap while boosting your sound quality.

Seriously check out /r/hometheater

But be warned, that place can be dangerous.

Here is my current set up:

AVR : Sony 7.2

Center : Klipsch RP-250C

Fronts : Klipsch R-14M

Rears : Klipsch R-14S

Sub : Bic America 12

I deff spent less than $1000 and I love my set up. One thing that saved me a lot of money was buying open box on Ebay from an authorized seller. The other nice thing about piecing it together like this is that you can very easily upgrade one set of speakers over time.

Here's what I would do if I was purchasing right now, this is assuming the room isn't huge and you aren't sitting a mile away from the TV. Some of these are some decent sales.

TV: 55" TCL TV ($380)

AVR: Denon S530BT ($150)

Sub: HSU VTF-1 MK3 ($430 with shipping)

L/R: ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2 ($250)

Center: ELAC Debut 2.0 C5.2 ($190)

Surround L/R: Micca Covo-S ($45)

Speaker Wire: Amazon Basics 14 Gauge ($16)

​

Total: $1461

​

Probably will go a bit over $1500 with tax, but I think this would be an extremely impressive first home theater and is what I would do if I was starting fresh with that budget.

For HT in general, the center channel is the most important speaker by far, and the Fluance SX6 only have a very entry-level center (this thing); the Pioneer matching center is very probably quite a bit better (especially if you go with the Philharnmonic versions) and it was reviewed by Audioholics, measured well

If it were me, I'd skip the sub for now (it can always be added later easily) and go 3.0 with Philharmonic Pioneers (bookshelf & center versions) or 3x Wavecrest HVL-1.

EDIT: Of course Chanes or any other myriad of higher-end speakers are better but then for $300 you're starting with 2.0 and adding center/sub/surrounds later. It's up to you whether you want to wait for better quality.

Subwoofer – $249

Front L-R - $750 pr BIC Acoustech PL-980L-PL-980R

Center Speaker – $199 BIC Acoustech PL-28II Center Speaker

Surrounds — $239 pr BIC Acoustech PL-66 Surround Speakers


Best Buy does sell BIC America – just the crappy ones. See if they will order these and price match Amazon. I haven't done the calculations but I think that brings you right in at 1200+ the sub. Or see if you can sell your Best Buy GC. All the speakers have 5-7 your warranties and should last you 15+ years. IMHO