(Part 2) 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.

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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.

Yeah, it can be difficult (see username). I was gonna suggest a refurb receiver from A4L, but while it’s normally $9 shipping to the mainland US, it’s $80 for Honolulu.

However, right now the Denon X1400 is only $400 (normally $600) and still includes Prime shipping to Oahu, so get on that right now.

For the subwoofer, I’d go Rythmik. I know their L12 is $539 plus $60 shipping to Oahu ($85 for priority shipping), not sure on their LV12R model. So depending on sealed or ported, you may wanna contact them.

So, let’s just call that $1100.

Wireless is not a native option, there is an adaptor for $100 though.

Surrounds can be <$100, so focus only on the front speakers.

For front speakers, I’d go with Emotiva (B1 + C1, or better C2) or HSU (they ship to Hawaii, but you’d have to contact them).

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You’d also need speaker wire, subwoofer cable, HDMI cables, and maybe speaker stands.

Speaker wire: Anything 18awg or lower really (lower is better, can be longer length with less signal loss). If you don’t want to be stripping wires and what not, I recommend and own GearIT’s braided and pre-terminated cables, but they are out of stock, but these look like a great alternative, you’d need 3 pairs for the fronts (use normal wire for surrounds). Now, since a roll of in-wall 100ft wire can be had for $50 or less, you can buy that if you want to save money and don’t mind the cheaper look and having to strip the wire (what I do in my cheaper setups, I splurged for my good setup). I also recommend Monoprice banana plugs (the semi-expensive cables I listed already have them).

Subwoofer cable: Amazon Basics or Mediabridge (on Amazon).

HDMI cable: I’d get these.

Speaker stands (if needed): I like this one (wire concealment and the top plate swivels to allow toe-in (so you have OCD-like tendencies like I do, it’s really cool).

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!

I had literally no idea MTX made home speakers. They were a popular car audio brand in the 90's and early 2000's but to hell with buying anything of theirs for home use.

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Compact speakers are easy. I have a very reasonably sized ( 9.7 x 14.2 x 5.4 in ) Cambridge SX-70 Center as seen here, that I would sell you for $100+shipping... but it is walnut. It sounds great, and is in perfect shape but I wanted something ported to better match my towers, so I've replaced it.

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For Compact Bookshelves the Micca MB42x for $89 a pair get my vote.

Compact subwoofers are harder, as good extension and output in a ported design requires cabinet space. Your $200 budget could get a Dayton Sub-1500, but thats a large sub. Could also get a BIC F12... but again, these aren't small speakers. To get any performance at the $200 mark... it's going to be a big speaker.

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As for the receiver, if you paid $250, I would return it and buy something from accessories4less and save the extra coin, or spend the same $250 and get a much better receiver.

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I like going with an AVR for many reason. If you can fit one then consider it. However, if it's going to be years before you expand then you might want to get a mini amp as technology will change in an AVR. Here is what I would do with $300 if it were me.

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AVR - Yamaha RX-V383 refurb $180 - Last years model but this will do fine for a while.

Speakers - Pick one

• Micca MB42X-C Renewed $50ea ($100)- Yep get two centers and turn them sideways. You'll get surprising bass for a smaller speaker.
  
• Micca RB42 $130 - Their new speakers with better bass than the MB.
  
• BIC DV62$120 - Larger speakers with a good low end. If you have room consider these.
  
• Pioneer BS22 $100 - Another favorite for entry level speakers. These have a less powerful tweeter than most and are larger than most for the size of drivers.

The system gets plenty loud to feel the walls vibrate and fill up the house if I so desire, but I rarely push it. It's great for movies. Edit: forgot to mention that everything comes from my Laptop -> receiver via HDMI.

Fronts: $40

Center: $30

Sub: $80

Rears: $50

Receiver:$40

Total: $240.

My main fronts are Bose Model 31's from the mid 90's. They are front ported with 8" drivers and 3" tweeters. They were absolutely falling apart when my uncle gave em to me so I replaced the woofers with some newer rubber surround ones. They sound surprisingly good for what they are, but the crossover doesn't match the woofer exactly. I've had these things for a long time. $40 for replacement speakers.


The center is this Sony model I picked up from a cousin of mine for $30 when he upgraded. It matches the fronts better than I thought it would, much better than my old center.


I picked up a Cheap Polk Sub last year and it's the only purchase I regret, looking for a replacement. $80.


My rears are Micca MB42's I picked up from Amazon, pretty solid little bookshelf speakers. I spent about $50 on them.


The Receiver is a Denon Avr-791 I got from the same cousin for $40. He was going to just give it to me but he needed the money. One of the HDMI inputs went bad on him and he replaced it with a newer model, this one was collecting dust and now it works perfect for me (minus one input).


I do most of my serious music listening with my Philips shp9500 or Logitech UE6000 headphones.

> What do you think about 5-Channel Stereo? I'll have 5 or 7 speakers, and I wonder if sound coming from all of them, around the room, would be nice. Any thoughts?

I don't personally like it, but you're free to try it when you get it setup. You're not wrong if you do like it either, it's all personal preference.

> Do you think I could get a good quality receiver + 5.1 or 7.1 speaker set for up to $3,500?

Definitely!

I've spent a bunch of time listening to speakers in stores, and if you gave me $3500 right now, I'd go out and buy this:

• GoldenEar Aon3 bookshelf speakers for the fronts, $1000 a pair
  
• GoldenEar Supercenter XL - $800
  
• Polk FXI A4 bookshelf speakers for the rears - $400 a pair
  
• SVS SB-1000 subwoofer for $500
  
• Marantz SR7009 receiver for $800
  
  That'll clock in right at $3500 though you still need $50-$100 or so for speaker cables and such. The only downside is GoldenEar can be hard to find because they only sell in stores and not online. If you don't have a dealer near you, my next best speakers are the Monitor Silver 2's at $1050 a pair with matching center speaker for $800. If you wanted floorstanding fronts instead, you could drop down to the Monitor Bronze 5's which are $630 a pair on Amazon now, with a matching center channel which is only $228.

Another Fluance owner here vouching for some great speakers. With your budget, their mid to upper level line would do you great. Look into their speakers, skip their subs. I love my SXHTB (ultra budget route) which does everything I need for an insane value and even better sound. One or tiers above that and your talking some fairly well reviewed and respects set ups.

Read some reviews, that's how I could pulled in.

You could also check out Chanes or ELACs offerings. If I wanted to spend double to upwards of triple what I did, I'd be heavily checking both of these lines out for sure.

https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/index.php?route=module/productbundles/view&bundle_id=103311

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01DMNUKAG/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1483299862&sr=8-11&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=elac
(Minus the sub, your F12 is probably better)

As somebody who is learning to appreciate improved audio quality due to my foray into better headphones and audio interfaces for my PC, I am looking to find a decent set of speakers for my living room.

I just recently moved out on my own (a first for me), and have a relatively small amount of space to really make an optimal acoustic setup. The living room and dining room are connected in a somewhat open, L-shaped design, with the living room space being 11'x19'. I have sectional couch that eats up a lot of that space against the wall the main entrance is in, and the door prevents some space from being used in that corner as well.

Wit that being said, what would my best option be assuming I am willing to spend up to $1600? I listen to a variety of music, a lot of it vocal-heavy, and I tend to care more about music than television/movies. I would prefer something that is flexible and could perform well in a more open space in the event I move out. I was looking at this, but I have no idea how I'd set that up in the space I have or whether I'd just be putting a ton of overkill into a relatively condensed space anyway.

EDIT: To clarify, I don't necessarily think I would want that exact speaker system, and was looking at the form factor and logistics of placing the speakers.

Any help/advice is greatly appreciated! :)

I wouldnt listen to this Uncle Erik fella about these speaker. JBL makes AWESOME home audio, one of the best IMO. Way better then Bose since Bose you just pay for the name. And anything above classical music sounds like absolute shit on Bose. I recently purchased a set of these for the fronts, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00167340Y , and this center channel , http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00166VDKS , And they by far blow my yamahas out of the water, and i know plenty of people with Bose speakers that drool over those bad boys. Not to mention Im powering them with a Denon AVR2308CI. But for that price, those speakers are WELL worth it and bad ass. If it was near me i would scoop those up in a heart beat, seeing as their equivelant models for 2011 go for 2k +!! These have a built in 200 watt woofeR? That ALONE is more then the asking price of $189. Good luck in your selections though

With that budget I'd opt for a 3.1 system. I'd also opt for better speakers and a better receiver. My choices:

Receiver $500: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxa850bl/yamaha-rx-a850-7.2-ch-x-100-watts-networking-a/v-receiver/1.html

L/R mains $480: https://smile.amazon.com/MartinLogan-LX16-Piano-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B0061LG5H4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1466179809&sr=8-5&keywords=martin+logan+motion

Center $360: https://smile.amazon.com/MartinLogan-Motion-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B0035FZ13I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1466179809&sr=8-2&keywords=martin+logan+motion

Subwoofer $570: http://www.rythmikaudio.com/LV12R.html

All top quality. The receiver is plenty good enough to stay with you until it is obsolete. The speakers/subwoofer should last for decades. The AMT tweeter on the speakers is sublime and the LV12R subwoofer is an incredible bargain and very, very nice sounding.

As an aside, a 5.1 system uses side mounted surround speakers not rear mounted (which would be a 7.x system and would require a minimum of 6 feet behind the seated position to work properly.) When the time comes that you want to experience full surround you can opt for a pair of Martin Logan Motion 4s at around $400 or save yourself the expense and pick up a pair of Micca MB42x speakers for $90 and have a very capable 5.1 system.

Move the HD5s to surround duty. 5.1 are usually sides, 7.1 adds rears. Speaker Placement for Home Theater

Then upgrade the 3 front speakers.

Speakers: AverageJoe's list, or r/HTBuyingGuides Speakers. Listen to what you can in stores. ELAC Debut 2.0, Polk Signature, Klipsch Reference Premiere.

On sale: Polk Audio Signature S20, Polk Audio Signature S15, Centers Polk Audio Signature S30, Polk Audio Signature S35. Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-160M $440, or refurbished for $370.

Most Internet direct speakers have 30 day in home trials so you can listen to 2 (or more) and send one back.

HTD Home Theater Direct $25 shipping with free returns on your first order.

Chane 1.4 $340 + $25 shipping. Flat panel leaf tweeters.

Ascend CBM-170 $300 + $32 shipping. Neutral sound with a flat frequency response. Best budget audiophile speakers I have found and own for under $450.

Aperion Intimus 5B $330 with free shipping and free returns baked into the price.

Airmotiv B1 $300. Free shipping baked into the price.

On sale/clearance:

3x Wavecrest Audio HVL-1, order on sale here $160 pair + shipping. A third for $80 horizontally as a center speaker.

Boston A26 $240. Boston A25 $200. A225 Center $180

Boston Acoustics 5.1.2 package $800.

DIY:

DIY Sound Group

Subwoofer: HSU 10" VTF-1 MK3 $425 shipped. Or also go larger with the Rythmik 12" LV12F front ported for $550 shipped when it becomes available next month (currently shown is the older rear ported version). The 12" HSU VTF-2 MK5 is $610 shipped.

Since you are getting a sub, you could crossover the speakers at 80hz. The Monitor Audio Bronze 2 would work quite well: https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92 $372

Bronze Center $224 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Center-Speaker/dp/B000GJEUP6

Unless you have researched it and are positive you want go with dipole/bipole speakers, I would go with the Monitor Bronze 1 $300 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00XW02HB0/

You can do much better for the sub. Get the Rythmik LV12F for $600

Total: $1500, and you get a better subwoofer.

Denon X1500H receiver for $300. If you want to jump up, you could look at the Denon 3000 series (not sure what the best deal is there).

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.

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

If you want nice finish, the Martin Logan LX16 in cherry are ~beautiful~. (Also on sale for $500/pair) Only problem is the center is like $700 since it's not on sale. They do have a $280 center with the same folded ribbon tweeter in black though.

Also side note, if you're avoiding Klipsch because of perceived lack of value, they own Jamo too. Also honestly, I have some Klipsch stuff and love it but their offerings in this price range are meh.

Also, cambridge audio is a good brand but they're primarily an AVR/Integrated amp/DAC company, I've heard good things about the bookshelves they produced though.

Wharfedale are very very nice, and whoever said the PSB alpha series isn't sonically on the same level as some of this stuff...like they're kind of ugly in black but they sound very good.

I prefer a center speaker for that reason but some people like 2.0/2.1 for Movies.

Used will be your Best Bet for 3.1-5.1. Craigslist, Facebook Market Place, Let Go, 5 mile - Hopefully you can Hear it/Demo it 1st if you find something.

About cheapest New ( Refurbished)

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv383bl/yamaha-rx-v383-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html

Plus

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Renewed/dp/B073ZL9MCX

Plus

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-C-Channel-Speaker-Renewed/dp/B073ZLCWD6

And add sub Later

Or buy a used receiver for $75-$100 and these speakers

I got you.

Here's your shopping list, mind you this is if you're doing a projector setup, which I would recommend:

Pioneer Elite AV Receiver: Pioneer VSX-LX303 9.2 Channel 4k UltraHD Network A/V Receiver Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CRMX1W1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UMIwDbQM7B540

Klipsch RP-500 M bookshelf speakers (pair) x2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RG8FC92/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_mOIwDbKCJDPH5

Klipsch Wireless 10" subwoofer x2: Klipsch R-10SWi 10" Wireless Subwoofer - Brushed Black Vinyl https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQFIP9F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zPIwDb259BH0C

Klipsch R-52C center channel: Klipsch R-52C Powerful detailed Center Channel Home Speaker - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FK41FGL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-PIwDbH0S8PWA

100 ft. Speaker cable, x2 just in case: AmazonBasics 14-Gauge Audio Stereo Speaker Wire Cable - 100 Feet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D5H8YNO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NQIwDb0N0EAFP

Banana plugs for your cable: Monoprice 24k Gold Plated Speaker Banana Plugs, Closed Screw Type (20 Pairs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072J5TYDY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uRIwDbMPRHTTQ

1080P projector: Optoma HD27e 3400 Lumens 1080p Home Theater Projector (Renewed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NBSBH76/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0RIwDbZB366SP

100" screen: Elite Screens Manual B, 100-INCH 16:9, Manual Pull Down Projector Screen 4K / 8K Ultra HDR 3D Ready with Slow Retract Mechanism, 2-YEAR WARRANTY, M100H https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008XGTXWE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_nSIwDbK0H9ENT

Mount if you need it/even can mount it: VIVO Universal Adjustable White Ceiling Projector | Projection Mount Extending Arms Mounting Bracket (MOUNT-VP01W) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01013QA86/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JSIwDbS90NGNW

And lastly fiber optic cable for your projector: ATZEBE Fiber Optic HDMI Cable 50ft, 4K Optical HDMI Cable Supports 4K@60Hz, 4:4:4/4:2:2/4:2:0, HDR, Dolby Vision, HDCP2.2, ARC, 3D, High Speed 18Gbps, Slim and Flexible Active HDMI Cable https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KG7C25W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aTIwDb44W24VG

If they will be wired in all the time, why is the built in CCA so important? I have re purposed all kinds of speakers with CCA's.


Master Bedroom - Using a free Bose Wave Radio that was given to me.

Girls Room - I bought these Logitechs for $3.50 at Goodwill

Other Girls Room - Got this Yamaha on Craigslist for $25. Hooked it up with a $15 T-Amp off Amazon.

Living Room - CCA hooked up to a $70 Craigslist Onkyo receiver and some $70/pair Polk Atrium 4's. And a $20 Yamaha Subwoofer. Wall mounted the outdoor Polk's in a room that gets some rough housing so not worried about them breaking.

Kitchen - Google Home for $110 when it was new.

Office - Google Home for $75 deal at Walmart.


All works perfectly with multiroom and didn't spend more than $25 on any of the CCA's. So total cost for all six rooms was ~$540 total including all speakers and CCA's. Cheapest room was $23 with $20 CCA and $3 goodwill speakers. Most expensive was living room at $185 (reciever, polk speakers, subwoofer, CCA). The other benefit of not having it build in, is when the speaker dies you just swap it out.

Thank you for the advice about the same series. I guess I lucked out with my spontaneous purchase then as I believe these are all the same series. I also forgot to mention I did get a sub-woofer as well. So the whole setup is like this. Think this will be pretty decent for a first timer?

Polk S15

Polk S35

Polk PSW505

And the reciever

Onkyo TX-NR575

Get this http://www.amazon.com/MartinLogan-Motion-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B0035FZ13I it's an amazing center channel extremely clear and probably the best bang
for your buck

Hmm -- I tend to agree, but also wonder -- are there decent center speakers that are roughly soundbar-sized that could mount with the TV like soundbars can?

Just did a quick search. Maybe something like this, if it could be mounted below the TV and move with it -- https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Signature-S35-American/dp/B01LW8H3NX

And then yes, two small bookshelf speakers.

I don't think i need the full home theater setup with surround sound, but really just want some good sound for TV, Xbox, echo dot, and I'm interested in getting a record player. Would all of this go through the receiver? Is this the setup you have?

Center speaker

Bookshelf speakers

Looks right. I would honestly rather pay the extra 40 and get brand new on amazon, but you can get amazon certified referb for that same Ebay price. And I trust amazon more than ebay.

Klipsch RP-250C Center Channel Speaker - Ebony (Certified Refurbished) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072JN7RMV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_BbQ2AbC7T4J84

It's not really my business, but if he wants quality sound he should think about how his glass art is displayed. Any significant bass is going to be a problem if a little 6.5" will cause them to shatter. If he doesn't have the room for decent audio, he should really consider sticking with the headphones and possibly upgrading to a nice headphone amp.

I'm not trying to be a stick in the mud here, but getting decent bass out of, most probably, a 3.5" driver isn't really a thing.

His best bet, IMO, is running 2 of these guys on their sides. They come in at 5.4" wide each, but stand about 14" tall and 9" deep.

https://www.amazon.com/3-Way-Center-Channel-Speaker-Walnut/dp/B00XLOPBS8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522137018&sr=8-1&keywords=cambridge+audio+center+channel+speaker&dpID=31g7n65xqQL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch


You would obviously need a small amp of some sort. And they are also way over budget. But considering your list of wants, you kind of have to compromise at size, bass, or price.

Well you're going to want to get a Klipsch center since you've got Klipsch towers. No way around that.

The R25C is the matching center to those towers but honestly I think it's small and undersized. The R52C would be a better choice.

Now since the R52C is $200+ you're not left much room for what I'd consider "good" subwoofer range. But if you can squeeze just over your budget the BIC PL 200 II for $300 (does go on sale at times) would be the absolute minimum I'd recommend.

Note the BIC isn't going to get you all the way down to 20hz it peaks at 50hz (110db range) and falls flat on it's face after that, 84dB at 25hz, so basically 8x loss in output (every 10dB is double).

Not to dissuade you but just trying to level set expectations is all. Usually $500 is where you want to be in just the subwoofer but not everyone can spend that kind of money so there has to be compromises and total output and performance in subwoofers is where that compromise happens.

I was actually considering getting a Klipsch center channel, this one:
https://www.amazon.ca/Klipsch-RP-450C-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00S4H1QWW/

I can't get a solid read on the Klipsch love/hate in this sub. Seems like there are many people in both camps, firmly entrenched. I love the look of the speaker for sure, I'll need to find a way to listen to one before buying.

I got a JBL studio center, and it's surprisingly good, most realistic center I've heard even after trying several others in your price range. I bought used/second-hand via Craigslist for $85.

Mine is similar to this - but this is a lower model. If you buy used you could get an even better model for cheaper most likely.

If willing to buy open box (I have for all my speakers without issue from authorized sellers on Amazon/Ebay)..

You could do the Klipsch Rp-150M for about $250

The center RP-250C for $240

Klipsch R-14S for surrounds at about $230

Thats gets you to about $750, throw in the cheapest 9 Channel AVR and you are now at about $1500. Id spend whatever money left on Subs. That leaves you with a very good 5.1 system that can easily be upgraded to ATMOS once you find out if you can do ceiling speakers.

Thanks! I see it is on sale for $400, is that a good price or should I wait it out?
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q200C-Center-Channel-Loudspeaker/dp/B00CE3LGZY

I'm looking at getting some used speakers, and this is what I've been able to come up with in my area, either Boston Acoustics rs260 ($300), OR Sony ss-b1000, ss-cn5000p, and sa-w2500, all for $150.

I hear that Sony speakers are not all that great, but that these are good enough for the price. I'd rather not spend twice the money if I can get by well enough with the Sonys.

Any input?

If you want everything around $1,000 here's a decent plan.

Receiver Denon 1500 for $300 https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx1500h/denon-avr-x1500h-7.2-ch-x-80-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

Subwoofer Bic PL200 II for $300
https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS

Front L/R NHT SuperOne (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00LJX4HCY/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675258&s=electronics&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzTTRER1RCUVk0NUdWJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODc2MDc4MUVCNDJUT0VHSjlDMyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjkwNzU3VUFISldVUFowWllOJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

Center NHT Super Center
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-Super-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00QHDC32C/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675307&s=electronics&sr=1-4

Surround L/R (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=nht+super&qid=1566675307&s=electronics&sr=1-5

With a bit bigger budget you would still want that receiver. Bump the subwoofer up to the SVS PB-1000 (most likely). And end up with a lot of different speaker options to consider.

Thanks for the feedback! I'll definitely hold back on the subwoofer at first, and reconsider Polk - now looking at Fluance. Also will keep an eye on Canuck Audio Mart for some used deals (not in any rush).

---

Thought on these options?

• [Fluance Signature L/R] (https://www.amazon.ca/Signature-Bookshelf-Surround-Speakers-HFS/dp/B01A5UB4JU) ($270 CAD)
  
• Fluance Signature Center ($230 CAD)
  
  VS.
  
  
• KEF Q150 L/R ($400 CAD)
  
• KEF Q650c Center ($850 CAD) (this is a bit steep for me, would wait a while to get/look used)
  
  VS.
  
  
• ELAC Debut B6.2 L/R ($340 CAD)
  
• ELAC Debut C6.2 Center ($330 CAD)

Here's how I'd spend $3000:

AVR - Denon AVR-S910W $350
Subs - 2x SVS PB1000s $950
Mains - KEF Q100B $450
Center - [KEF Q200CB](http://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q200CB-Center - Channel-Loudspeaker/dp/B00CE3LGZY) $500
Surround/Rear - 2 Pairs Micca MB42X $180
Total: ~$2500. Enough left over for stands, cables, banana plugs if you want them, etc. That AVR supports Atmos and DTS X so you can substitute the rear surrounds for some ceiling speakers if you'd like.

This 7.1 system is $752:

Receiver, $180: Onkyo TX-SR383;

Front Left & Right, $196: NHT SuperOne 2.1;

Center, $138: NHT SuperCenter 2.1;

Subwoofer, $138 with $10 off coupon: Dayton SUB-1200;

Surround and Rear Ceiling Speakers, two pairs $100+: various options, Dayton Audio

​

A good alternative to the NHT front 3 speakers are Polk Audio S15 and S30 - cheaper than NHTs if you buy refurbished. New on Amazon for $180 and $230, respectively. Refurbished from accessories4less.com (out of stock now, but would be $140 and $140) or the ebay Polk Audio Direct Store https://www.ebay.com/sch/polkaudio/m.html?_nkw=signature (they have the S15 for $140 now but S30 not available).

​

This may be the easiest way for you to get to where you want to go for under $500. Don't forget that you'll need the right piece of furniture (craigslist) and/or speaker stands plus speaker wire. I don't know anything about remotes.

Refurbished AV receiver with 5.1, HDMI, 4K.

Dayton Audio speakers:

Subwoofer.

Mains.

Rear.

Center.

Most AV receivers have a calibration mode and come with an external mic.

In the absolute worst case you can do fronts and rears in ceiling but I cannot recommend EVER an in-ceiling center. That needs to be an external speaker as close to the display as possible since that is where all the dialog comes from.

If you have a receiver already just grab the 8" Micca's for the ceiling 4 and something robust for the center which you are going to be relying on.

In a room that size the F12 is your best bet.

Some smaller discounts on these.

Wharfedale Diamond 225 - 350$ (musicdirect - free shipping, no tax)

Emotiva B1 - 273$ (amazon)

Emotiva C1 - 229$ (amazon)

How important? The KEF Q200C is $500, which is a lot more than I want to spend on a single speaker.

Bookshelf speakers won't have a volume problem.

http://www.ascendacoustics.com/pages/purchase/advisor.mv#bottom

CMT-340 SE x3 is $834. They selling matching stands for $180.

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Premiere-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B07G3D2C8S

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RP-450C-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00S4H1QWW/

$1050 for the Klipsch RP L/C/R. Would need to add stands.

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_946PBKBA/SVS-Prime-Bookshelf-Premium-Black-Ash.html

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_946PCTRBA/SVS-Prime-Center-Premium-Black-Ash.html

$850 for the SVS Prime L/C/R with bookshelf units.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/bowers-wilkins-600-series-5-passive-2-way-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/6290632.p?skuId=6290632&intl=nosplash

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/bowers-wilkins-600-series-passive-2-way-center-channel-speaker-black/6290634.p?skuId=6290634

$1200 for Bower and Wilkins 600 series L/C/R.

There is a sale going on right now in the R 52C on Amazon btw https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-52C-Powerful-Detailed-Channel/dp/B07FK41FGL

Here are some options that match your Description:


Orb Audio Mod1 price: $260 - Full Match


Sonos One (Gen 2) price: $200 - Full Match


Olafus Outdoor price: $180 - Full Match


Klipsch R-52C price: $180 - Full Match


Edifier R1700BT price: $150 - Full Match


Source: BudgetSet


^(if you find this reply useless, downvote for removal.)

Based on what you and others said, I am planning on this. I'd like your thoughts...

Front and sides: NHT SuperZero 2.1, $115/pair

Center NHT SuperCenter, $151

Martin Logan Dynamo 500 (Found a refurb for $180)

Have you looked into this?
https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Signature-S35-American/dp/B01LW8H3NX

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-610F-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B07FKCNZ4C/ref=sr_1_38?keywords=klipsch+home+theater+speakers&qid=1550524505&s=electronics&sr=1-38

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-52C-Powerful-Detailed-Channel/dp/B07FK41FGL/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=klipsch+center&qid=1550524561&s=electronics&sr=1-4

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-120SW-Subwoofer/dp/B07FK2WNW4/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=Klipsch+subwoofer&qid=1550524624&s=electronics&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-TX-SR373-Channel-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B06XVGCBZ4/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=5.1+receiver+HDMI&qid=1550524666&s=electronics&sr=1-4

I second the Fluance signature series which cost $350 or you could step one series down to the reference series for $270 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FRIKN6G/ and https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JAO01XM/

Elac Debut Series 5.1 System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DMNUKAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ACXrybS5X7FD7

you could go with the Elac Debut 5.1 but it would put you closer to the $1500 when you add in a receiver

You can demo the Ultras if want to actually compare and see if they're even worth the upgrade. My opinion would be to get the matching center for the RP-260F, the RP-450C and a 2nd subwoofer. I can understand wanting to step up but IMO, even at 2500, you're hitting diminishing returns.

Now if you really just don't like how the Klipsch sound, then moving on to different sounding speakers doesn't necessarily have to cost more. I'd add ascend acoustics to your list to check out.