Best products from r/Zeos
We found 116 comments on r/Zeos discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 377 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. VideoSecu 2 Heavy Duty PA DJ Club Adjustable Height Satellite Speaker Stand Mount - Extends 26.5" to 47" (i.e. Bose, Harmon Kardon, Polk, JBL, KEF, Klipsch, Sony, Yamaha, Pioneer and Others) 1B7
- Height adjustable from 26.5 inch to 47 inch (673mm - 1193mm)
- Side clamping top plate can adjust width from 5.5 to 11 inches (140mm-279mm). For width adjustment, #3 Phillips bit is recommended.
- The top plate can pan 180 degrees and tilt +/-10 degrees for level adjustment
- Adjustable screw-in rubber feet keep unit level on carpet or hard floor; Concealed wire management, Stability ensured
Features:
2. Fluance AVC Acoustic Two-Way Center Channel Speaker for Home Theater
- Bay Tree Publishing
Features:
3. Denon AVR-E300 5.1 Channel 3D Pass Through and Networking Home Theater AV Receiver with AirPlay (Discontinued by Manufacturer)
5 channel discrete amplification (Maximum power: 175 watts per channel)Simple, Denon Easy Connect speaker terminals.Stream iTunes music with Apple's AirPlay technology5 HDMI inputs, including 1 front panel, with 1080P and 3D pass throughAudyssey Bronze Built In for perfection in surround soundExperi...
4. VideoSecu One Pair of Side Clamping Bookshelf Speaker Mounting Bracket with Swivel and Tilt for Large Surrounding Sound Speakers MS56B 3LH
- A pair of side clamping speaker mounts
- Easy Install, 10 degrees up or down tilts adjustable and 360 degrees pan
- Clamp adjusts from 5.3 to 11 inches
- Supports up to 33 lbs; Cable management
- Heavy duty steel construction with wall plate cover. Standard mounting hardware and user manual included
Features:
5. BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
- Powered subwoofer with 12-inch injection molded long throw woofer; BASH designed amp
- Patented BIC "Venturi" vent eliminates port noise
- Adjustable crossover, adjustable volume control, automatic signal sensing
- Inputs for both Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital/DTS
- Backed by 5-year warranty
Features:
6. Micca MB42X Bookshelf Speakers with 4-Inch Carbon Fiber Woofer and Silk Dome Tweeter (Black, Pair)
- The MB42X is a demonstration of our designers’ love for the classic compact bookshelf speaker. Handsomely styled with simple contours and modern design cues, the MB42X is easy to place and blends into any room or decor. Its enhanced audio capability makes it a great fit with a wide range of usage scenarios, including living room stereo, home theater surround sound, office background music, or computer desktop sound.
- Compact ported enclosure houses a balanced woven carbon fiber woofer delivering enhanced transient and impactful bass, and a high performance silk dome tweeter for smooth treble and accurate imaging. Highly optimized 18dB crossover with Zobel network and baffle step compensation yields a transformed sound signature that is incredibly open, balanced, and dynamic.
- Magnetic front grill system is easy to take off and put on. Leave them off for an ultra clean front baffle with no grill holes to show off the incredibly handsome drivers. Full size 5-way binding posts provide the full complement of speaker wire connectivity options. Hex screws are used throughout for assembly.
- Home Trial, Satisfaction Guaranteed - Listen for yourself, try them in your home with your music. Place the MB42X along a wall or near a corner of the room for best results. They can be used on desks, book/wall shelves, or on speaker stands.
- Specifications: Woofer: 4" Carbon Fiber, Rubber Surround; Tweeter: 0.75" Silk Dome; Crossover: 18dB/Octave; Enclosure: Ported; Frequency Response: 60Hz-20kHz; Impedance: 4-8 Ohms; Sensitivity: 85dB 1W/1M; Power Handling: 75 Watts (Each); Dimensions: 9.5" (H) x 5.8" (W) x 6.5"
Features:
7. Polk Audio PSW10 10" Powered Subwoofer - Power Port Technology | Up to 100 Watts | Big Bass in Compact Design | Easy Setup with Home Theater Systems
- POWERED SUBWOOFER FOR EXTRA BASS & PUNCH – A 10-inch Dynamic Balance woofer & a uniquely configured directed port provides accurate bass with added depth that brings your music and movies alive. A perfect solution for your small-to-mid size room
- LOUDER CLEARER SOUND EVEN AT HIGH VOLUME – Enjoy a thrilling yet balanced music experience with rich, deep sound, even at low frequencies. BLENDS EASILY WITH ANY SPEAKER and plays the most demanding nodes effortlessly without any distortion
- DOUBLE THE AMPLIFIER POWER TO 100 Watts of Dynamic Power with its in-built 50-watt RMS amp. Sophisticated engineering with best in class resonance-free driver materials make this sub highly durable and FIT FOR EXTENDED USE
- EASY TO INTEGRATE WITH EXISTING SYSTEMS – Hook up this sub to the receiver and upgrade your music sound instantly. Features continuously variable 80-160 Hz crossover and 40-160 Hz (-3dB) frequency response
- A sleek detachable grille on the front, speaker and line-level inputs as well as speaker-level outputs on the back, and a Phase Toggle Switch for multiple subwoofers, make this sub cohesive and complete
Features:
8. CNE62287 100 Feet 16AWG Enhanced Loud Oxygen-Free Copper Speaker Wire Cable, CNE62287
- 16 GAUGE THICKNESS: This 16 gauge 99.99% Oxygen Free Copper speaker wire offers very easily connection for speakers to amplifiers or receivers. The thickness is just enough for resistance and electrical flow without the risk of overheating
- CUT AS DESIRED: The C&E 16awg speaker wire can be cut as desired for specific installation needs. If the plastic jacket is removed, the wire can be left bare or use wire crimp accessories to connect to stereo and speakers
- UNDISTORTED SIGNAL: The plastic jacket around the speaker wire helps to deliver high-quality undistorted signals to and from all of your audio equipment. This also helps with insulation
- USED FOR: This C&E 16awg speaker wire help properly set up any audio stereo, surround sound system, professional speaker, TV home theater and even a car
- CUSTOM INSTALLATIONS: You can use this speaker wire to pair with banana plugs, spade tips, or bent pin connectors to connect your speakers to your A/V receiver or amplifier with this C&E premium Series speaker wire
Features:
9. S.M.S.L SD-793II Optical Coaxial DAC Digital to Analog Converter Built-in Headphone Amplifier Black
- SMSL SD-793II decoder uses the top digital receiver chip DIR9001, it can receive 24bit/96K signals at the highest.
- SMSL SD-793II uses the classic match DIR9001+PCM1793+OPA2134 classic match, can reach a good sound
Features:
10. Fluance Classic Elite Series Center Channel & Surround Sound Speakers (Black)
- Center channel and surround speaker system for home theater and home audio applications
- Premium components ensure serious performance, natural sound and great reliability at an exceptional value
- Ultra high-end Neodymium tweeters provide accurate high frequency response; Ferro-fluid cooled tweeter for longer life
- Built-in keyhole slot wall mount hardware; Low diffraction flush fit removable front grilles for spacious imaging; Magnetically shielded to avoid interference with other video products
- Audio-grade MDF wood construction to reduce cabinet resonance; premium black ash vinyl veneer wood grain finish to compliment any home decor
Features:
11. Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Home Audio Bookshelf Loudspeakers (Set of 2)
ANDREW JONES. From speaker designer Andrew Jones comes a collection of speakers that bring professional-quality sound to your living room. These highly-acclaimed bookshelf loudspeakers deliver on sound, creating an immersive listening experience.HOME LISTENING. Whether you use them as stereo speaker...
12. Denon AVR-S510BT 5.2 Channel Full 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- 5.2 channel A/V Receiver with 70W per channel
- 4K Ultra HD/60Hz full rate pass through with 3 designated HDMI inputs and full HDCP 2.2 support
- Built in Bluetooth
- Dolby TruHD, DTS HD Master Audio
- IP control capability with the HEOS Link turns any stereo system into a wireless zone (HEOS LINK sold separately)
Features:
13. Mpow Ground Loop Noise Isolator for Car Audio/Home Stereo System with 3.5mm Audio Cable (Black)
- ELIMINATING BUZZING NOISE : Eliminating the buzzing noise, caused by ground loops which happens when the audio source and the speaker use the same power source in some car speakers / home stereo systems when using the Bluetooth receiver.
- WORKING PRINCIPLE : The working principle of this noise isolator is to achieve a clear speech/music by eliminating the current noise in some car speakers / home stereo systems.
- COMPATIBLE MODELS : Works with any portable device that has 3.5mm audio jacks, for your Car Audio System/Home Stereo, when grounding issues persist. Also used with a Bluetooth Receiver/Bluetooth Hands-free Car Kit in your Car Audio System/Home Stereo.
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE : Being so mini and light-weight (2.01*0.59*0.59 IN, 0.99 OZ), this little gadget does not take much space and can be easily taken away.
- NOTE: The Ground Loop Isolator connect to the AUX Jack in car to eliminate noise.You will enjoy good quality sound when use it with Ground Loop Noise isolator.
Features:
14. Micca MB42X-C Center Channel Speaker with Dual 4-Inch Carbon Fiber Woofer and Silk Dome Tweeter (Black, Each)
Balanced woven carbon fiber woofer for enhanced transient and impactful bassHigh performance silk dome tweeter for smooth treble and accurate imagingPorted enclosure delivers extended bass response with low distortionHighly optimized 18dB crossover for incredibly open, balanced, and dynamic soundCom...
15. Dayton Audio DTA-120 Class T Digital Mini Amplifier 60 WPC (Black)
50 WPC continuous into an 8 ohm load60 WPC continuous into a 4 ohm load (up to 100W peak, one channel only)Audiophile-quality sound with extremely low distortionFront-mounted 3.5 mm input and rear RCA inputsQuad mini binding posts accept bare wire or banana plugs
16. Fluance SXBP2 Home Theater Bipolar Surround Sound Speakers (Black Ash)
- Reproduce movie theater sound with immersive bipolar surrounds
- Bipolar radiation pattern for optimum surround imaging
- Premium components ensure serious performance, natural sound and seamless timbre to match with the Fluance SX Series and other high quality systems
- Expertly crafted engineered MDF wood cabinetry to reduce cabinet resonance, with a black ash wood finish
- Full lifetime parts and labor manufacturer's direct warranty with lifetime customer support
Features:
17. Klipsch Sub-12HG Synergy Series 12-Inch 300-Watt Subwoofer with High Gloss Trim (Black)
- Affordable 12-inch down-firing woofer produces best-in-class deep bass and output
- Precision matched BASH amplifier delivers 650 booming watts of dynamic power (300 watts RMS)
- Significantly extends the bass range, dynamics & performance of virtually any audio or home theater system
- Features line-level (RCA) inputs & speaker-level inputs for connection to any audio system,Frequency Response: 24Hz-120Hz +/- 3dB; Auto-on/off, variable low-pass filter, switchable 0-180 phase control and level adjustment for precise integration with any audio system.
Features:
18. Denon AVR-S500BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver With 4K Capability and Bluetooth
Built in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming5.2 channel; 140 watts per channel maximum powerUltra HD 4K 60 Hz video pass through; 4:4:4 Pure Color pass through5 HDMI Inputs/1 OutNew setup assistant with enhanced GUIEco Mode for reduced power consumption
19. Fluance SX6W High Definition Two-Way Bookshelf Loudspeakers - Natural Walnut
- Premium components ensure serious performance, natural sound and great reliability at an exceptional value; Bookshelf speaker configuration for full range sound in any application; Designed for use as front main or home theater surround speakers (External Amplifier Required)
- Engineered MDF wood construction to reduce cabinet resonance; Ultra high-end Neodymium tweeters provide accurate high frequency response; Ferro-fluid cooled tweeter for longer life
- Butyl rubber surrounds for increased durability and performance; Tuned bass port for controlled low frequency response and improved efficiency; 5-way gold plated binding post terminals for optimum conductivity
- Banana plug and speaker wire compatible connectors on all speakers; Low diffraction flush fit removable front grilles for spacious imaging; Magnetically shielded to avoid interference with other video products
- Premium crossovers feature Butterworth design for audio equalization; 18 gauge internal lead wire to reduce signal degradation
Features:
20. Fluance XLBP Wide Dispersion Bipolar Surround Sound Speakers for Home Theater
- Replicate the movie theater experience with immersive bipolar surround sound
- Bipolar radiation pattern for wide dispersion and optimum surround imaging
- Premium components ensure serious performance, natural sound and seamless timbre to match with the Fluance XL Series and other high quality systems
Features:
Hey Zeos! I want to thank you so much for your guide. I just started looking at making a home theater setup yesterday for the very first time and it was pretty daunting at first. After reading through your posts and several others at /r/hometheater I have it narrowed down to a couple of options and would appreciate some advice on the selections I've made. I apologize for the long post but I want to make sure I make the most informed decisions for my first home theater purchase.
I just purchased the 65" Samsung JS8500 and I have an Xbox One that will be my main bluray player for now with a focus on movies / games.
Through my research last night and going through your suggestions at the top of this thread, I've chosen the Denon AVR-S510BT.
My question is in regards to speakers. Last night I had decided on the Micca MB42X Bookshelf Speakers with the accompanying Center since it's my first system and I was thinking of trying out something cheaper for an intro setup which would be better than just my TV speakers.
Whenever I get into a new hobby I tend to start thinking of an intro setup and get sucked into the nice expensive parts because I believe in "buy once cry once". I'd hate to get the Micca's and then a year later want to upgrade them to something nicer anyways when I could have just spent a bit more and got something that would have lasted me longer.
edit after more reading and watching your videos I see you recommending the Elacs quite a bit, I know you mentioned they would be great for music and I loved how they sounded, is this the case with movies and games as well? My budget is pretty open if it's for the right items and I can afford the Elac 6.5"s or something in that similar price range like the HTD Level3's (loved that sound demo too) if they would really make the whole setup shine and last me for years to come.
If I do end up choosing more expensive speakers and could only purchase one or the other to start with, would you recommend a Center speaker or a Subwoofer like the BIC America F12?
Thank you so much in advance, I appreciate all the time you've taken to write up these guides and answer questions.
Hey Zeos! Not sure if this is quite the right thread for this, but thanks to you for the past several months I have been the proud owner of a Fluance SX-6 and Dayton SUB-1200 home entertainment audio system. I think it sounds great, and the SUB-1200 appears to be on a huge sale right now, so I was looking to get the same setup for my vinyl collection upstairs. As I was looking on amazon to find the sx-6, I came across this set of speakers which includes a center channel for not much more money whatsoever. Do you have any experience with that set? I certainly have the room in this vinyl collection room for a center channel, but I don't want to sacrifice the great quality of the SX-6s for a little more value.
Hi Zeos thank you so much for the guide! I am someone that knew nothing about starting up a good sound system and you have helped me tremendously. I am wondering if you can explain this one thing to me that I do not understand. I am coming down to the final debate of what receiver to get and I cannot choose between these two...
This one and getting the refurbished one: (I am always skeptical about used stuff and rarely never get refurbished but thanks to your guide saying refurbished is not so bad I am open to it.)
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-S700W-7-2-Channel-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B00JRTMOGS/ref=cm_cd_ql_qh_dp_t
Or this one and getting it brand new:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CALM12W/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AAK72K4OIWDXL
The S700W is a lot cheaper and from what I think I am understanding even better, while the X3000 is a few hundred dollars more and they both seem to have pretty much have the same features.. Is there something that I am not seeing and or not understanding why one might be better than the other? Which one do you suggest? I am only trying to start my sound system and for now it will only be used in my bedroom (only going to start with a 3.1) but I do want it future proof and be able to expand which is why I am going with a 7.2. So when I do move it out to a living room I will be able to add speakers. But I know anything will be better than the Philips sound bar I have now...
Here is the rest of the equipment I picked out:
Speakers: Micca MB42X Bookshelf Speakers and the matching center speaker.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E7H8GG2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_6?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AFKH6OU9WWNFS
Subwoofer: BIC America F12 12-Inch 475-Watt Front Firing Powered Subwoofer
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015A8Y5M/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
and then for wire I just figured the AmazonBasics 16-Gauge Speaker Wire..
Just throwing out all the items I plan on starting with to see what you think and open to suggestions because I am very un-knowledgeable with sound systems. This might be a stupid question but is there a difference between a used receiver and a refurbished receiver?
Thank you again :)
That thing between the bookshelf and the TV stand is a section of the wall that sticks out which is an access point for the house's main water valve. It sticks out about 6" and comes from the ceiling to about 3' down the wall. Nonetheless something can certainly be put underneath or in front of it. I will look into getting some speaker stands for the fronts to get them above the couch line and near center line with the display.
I will likely be sticking with the Onkyo receiver for a plethora of other reasons I won't bore you with. However, I've re-evaluated based on your feedback, had a chat with the purse strings, and we decided to go in deeper on the speakers, alotting a grand or so for the speaker setup. My speculative setup is now looking like the following options:
Sub: SVS SB1000 (~$500)
Front: BIC America FH-65B (~$200) or Klipsch RB-41 (~$300)
Center: BIC America FH6-LCR (~$100) or Klipsch RC-42 II (~$250)
Rears: A bit trickier, there is only about 7" clearance between the ceiling and the doorjamb for that one rear, as the room has a pretty low ceiling (7'5"). Therefore, of your suggested models it looks like the best option for that door position would be the Klipsch S10 (~$200), which has a height of 5.6" and should fit nicely.
Does this sound like a happier set of options than my first draft? My temptation is to go for all the Klipsch options because I love the aesthetics of them, but if I would be better served in the eargasm department by the slightly larger (and less expensive) BICs for front and center, I will go that route.
Let me know what you think, and thanks a ton for your advice. It is very comforting getting direct feedback from someone who knows what they're about in this area!
I have been putting together a 5.1 system, and was wondering if you would be able to take a look at it! Maybe something you would recommend other than what is here. This set up is a little more than I wanted to spend, but from what I have read about each piece, it seems to be worth it. Any advice is appreciated!
Denon S500BT
BIC America F12
Micca MB42X Center
Micca MB42X BookShelf
Fluance AVBP2 Surround
A few questions I have:
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).
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!!
Ah yes I forgot about the mic... So I guess I'll go for the X1s anyway and plug the mic into my motherboard with a jack extension cable and hope for the best.
Just to double check, if that causes a gound loop, a noise isolator like the Mpow one plugged between the X1s and the X2 would work fine right?
Thanks again for being so available, it's greatly appreciated.
Thanks for all the great info!
Any thoughts on the SMSL Mini 5 for a combined power and headphone amp? http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-Digital-Amplifier-Built-Headphone-Adapter/dp/B00LRK9VRU
I like having just one box on my desk that I can control volume from and plug my headphones into, but all the others I've seen with that were only 25WPC. This one gives that advantage, plus the power of the SA50. Would be great if it had an integrated DAC too, but I have yet to find a 50+WPC amp with DAC and headphone jack. But for now I can just run it off the sound card, and in the future throw in a separate DAC.
Edit: Alternatively there's the truly awesome-looking Dayton DTA-120: http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-DTA-120-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B00HFG3FYA/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
Hey Zeo, could you go over my first set-up and see if everything would work together? Here's what I got so far:
Behringer UAC202 DAC
Sherwood RX-4109 105 Watt Stereo Receiver - Any opinion on this? It seems really good for the price but seems like a gamble from what I read.
Pioneer BS22 - I've heard the BS22s are very power hungry which is why I decided the above receiver would be a good match for it.
From my understanding it would go something like this:
Laptop <--DAC <--RCA--> Sherwood Receiver --> BS22
Is that correct? And would I benefit significantly from purchasing a subwoofer?
Zeos! I LOVE this subreddit and have just bought a house with a new dedicated theater room! I am very excited and would really appreciate it if you could look over my build and give me any suggestions. The price is somewhat flexible so if there is something that you think would really help me then please don't hesitate to ask.
Epson 8350------------------------------------------------------------1100
SMSL SA50 Amp--------------------------------------------------------70
Speakers-----------------------------------------------------------------250
Screen------------------------------------------------------------------236
Receiver-----------------------------------------------------------------250
BIC America F12 Subwoofer-------------------------------------------184
Total--------------------------------------------------------------------2090
Some of the prices may have changed but it should be fairly close... So how would you improve on this build?
Thanks so much!!
Edit: Formatting
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.
Hey Zeos,
I'm thinking of investing ~$250 into a 2.1 setup. How would you recommend allocating that money? I'm looking for good bookshelf speakers that don't take up too much space, this subwoofer, and i don't really know what I'm talking about with the amp.
I toyed with putting together powered monitors and a sub, but if I understand you correctly, a true 2.1 setup with an amp and passive speakers will outperform this setup.
I'm just not sure whether I should buy really nice bookshelves and the lepai amp, or a nice amp and decent speakers. And from there, I'm not sure what products would qualify as which categories.
Copy and pasted a question I asked another thread in this sub.
> Hello, /u/ZeosPantera I noticed that the Dayton Audio DTA-120 is no longer in your recommended list. IIRC you had it previously. I quite like mine, just looking for your thoughts regarding it as a headphone amp. specifically how well it will drive Beyerdynamic DT990 250ohm pro. My setup is PC->UCA202->DTA-120->DT990pro250 / B562
Also if you are interested in and/or enjoy in Dwarf Fortress check out the game /r/gnomoria. It is an Isometric Dwarf Fortress type clone, in active development. It is nearing 1.0 and has really come a long way, and while nowhere near as deep as DF yet, by the time 1.0+ rolls around it will have a lot of features, be quite challenging and quite a lot of !fun!, no clowns yet unfortunately, I would love to see the "circus" al la DF for more late game content in gnomoria.
It's my first dedicated DAC so I don't really have anything to compare it to. Sounds fantastic to me though. I'm running toslink to it from a Xonar DG.
I didn't really get into audio until I started watching your channel. Before that I always had Logitech 2.1's. I didn't realize those Micca's were gonna be so big when I got them and had nowhere to put them on my desk. Happened to find some awesomely cheap stands on Amazon though, just $40 for the pair shipped. Linky if anyone's interested. Not pictured is my Dayton Sub-1200 on the other side of the room.
Thanks for the vids. Keep em coming.
Thanks for the guide! I just want to make sure I understand everything.
I just bought the Denon AVR-E300. I'm looking to set up a 2.0 system for my TV, to eventually upgrade to a 3.1 and, when I get more space, a 5.1 system.
Per this post, the Denon acts as an amp, correct? So now all I need are two bookshelf speakers and the speaker wire (which you recommend be at least 14/2 Awg 250-Feet In Wall Speaker Wire)?
I have about a $200 budget for the speakers. Between the Micca and the Fluance it seems like you prefer the Fluance?
Hey Zeos, thanks for the post, as always.
I'm looking for desktop 2.0 setup, and already have the Fiio E10.
Would SMSL SA-50 and Fluance SX6 (now available in UK, yay!) work with it (and together)?
Btw sorry for not using your affiliate links. I would, if you managed to include them somewhere here, if it's worth your time :)
Also, I assume I should use the 3.5mm to 2RCA with the E10?
Thanks
Hey Zeos. Thanks for making this awesome subreddit. If I hadn't stumbled on to here I might have gone with a HTiB.
So now that you've inspired me to get surround sound how does this set up look to you.
The room is aprox. 18ft long and 15ft wide. I also use a projector.
Receiver: Denon AVR E300
Subwoofer: Bic America F12
Bookshelfs: Fluance SX6-BK
Center & rear: Fluance SX Series Center Channel & Surround Sound Speakers - http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Series-Channel-Surround-Speakers/dp/B009ZTGZOC/ref=pd_sim_sbs_e_4?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=1GXRGZXZ1TEV7RDXKSGD
Will this setup work in a room of my size?
Is there anything I should switch out? (my budget is: the cheaper the better)
Is there a set up guide you could refer me to?
Are the center and rears I linked to sufficient?
It may be worth noting that I've only used the tv speakers/projector speaker. Never legit audio equipment.
Also I have no music needs, this is only for tv/movies & video games.
Thanks for your help man, I would be lost without these guides!
Heavy no on the sub, doesn't even reach 30Hz. If you want a Klipsch sub, you can get the one I have for $260, it's not the newer model, which is why it's much better value. For a comparison, mine vs 10sw. Mine is comparable to the 112sw, which is like $650.
Also, I think the Fluance XLBP is on sale now for $120 (normally $200), so it would be worthwhile to get that instead for your surround as it's much better for, currently, not a lot more.
I am looking to setup my first home theater system want to start out with 2.0 then eventually expand to a 5.1 setup. Just want to get some inputs. Thank you for the help.
receiver is this a decent receiver or should I spend a bit more for a receiver?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017AECEJI?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00
Speakers (having a hard time deciding between these 3)
very slightly leaning towers pioneer just cause I would want to get tower version and move bookshelf ones to the back. How does these 3 compare. I mainly will use it for movies and some music.
energy RC10
https://shop2.frys.com/product/7777388?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2LG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B008NCD2LG&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Fluance SX6-BK
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
I have a small college apartment and am hoping to buy a starter system for no more than $300. I have an AirPort express as well as plenty of Apple products to make good use of the AirPlay.
I don't need anything fancy as long as it works, as I don't think its a big challenge to fill an apartment as small as mine with decently loud tunes. That being said the cheapest combination of speakers, receiver and subwoofer you have listed would already be over my budget. Can I survive without the woofer?
EDIT: I should have looked around this subreddit more, I am reading more in your thread about building a 2.0 into a 5.1
EDIT 2: I have further assessed the situation. You recommend this receiver as the starting point, however given my budget is a bit smaller, would this one work as well? I would then get the suggested Micca MB42X bookshelfs unless you think these ones might be better (I've seen them on sale for cheaper than the Micca so I'd just wait for the opportune moment). I'm definitely a beginner in the audiophile department, so I'm not sure how many different inputs I need, but I would be trying to connect this to the TV + cable box, 2 consoles, and the airport express.
Awesome!! Thanks man.
In your video review of the SX6's you mention that they don't have a matching center, but in your write up you link these.
Just wanted to double check that the center and surround would match with the bookshelves. Thanks again Zeos!!
I just got back from vacation and was about to order the SA60 + MB42x but thought of another question after re-reading your post:
Also, if you have a referral link for this, I'll gladly use it. Your guides, reviews, and advice are all much appreciated!
Hi Zeos,
Setting up my first 5.1 system in my family room. I am on a limited budget. I wonder if you have a preference over the Yamaha RX-V379BL or the Denon AVR-S510BT receivers? Also I noticed this Polk sub-woofer wasn't listed, is it something to stay clear of? Right now I can get all of that for $420, does that seem like a good budget setup?
Hi Zeos,
I found a Polk Audio PSW10 on sale for 89.99 on Amazon. The reviews indicate that this is a good unit (4.5 stars, 1500+ reviews).
Is there anything terrible about this unit that I should be aware of?
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-10-Inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/
Also, on a somewhat unrelated topic - How do I thank you for all this free advice? I saw the Paypal link (and donated some $), but if you prefer getting a cool postcard from a distant land or something like that, let me know.
Hi Zeos. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge and taking the time to educate and answer others.
I bought this HTiB about 2 years ago before I knew anything about audio/visual equipment. Everything is in good working condition. I started stalking /r/audiophile, /r/headphones, and /r/hometheater and came across /r/zeos. Reading up on your posts about 2.0/2.1 and 5.0/5.1 systems has made me think whether I should change my setup.
I'm currently using my system for watching streamed TV/movies and also for listening to music streamed from my android/computer to my Chromecast. I do not have a DVD or Blueray player. However, this is in a small room, about 11'x20'. Note that the TV/couch orientation uses the 11' distance and not the 20' distance. After looking at your diagrams for a 5.1 system, I noticed I have absolutely no room behind my couch since my couch is right up against the wall. This makes me think I'm not really taking advantage of a 5.1 system. I'm also not planning to upgrade the room size for another 3-5 years.
Would you suggest trying to sell the HTiB and starting from scratch with a 2.0/2.1 system? Will I see a notable upgrade from my HTiB? And since I use this for TV/movies, would it be advisable to get something with multiple inputs (like one of the 5.1 receivers) rather than just one of the amps you have listed above?
So I'm looking at this set: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EI6XVAC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A3PO6K6MJQ13RE
And this for my sub:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N41IV58/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=AKR88PAWTQVN2
This is my receiver:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YAO43YG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
I don't think you've ever done a review on any dali so any opinion on them? Am I spending the money wisely? I would like to spend under $2.5k for all of these excluding the receiver.
I ordered an bic america f12. However, i saw a great deal for this sub so I decided to return the f12. Amazon said that since it is hazardous material, I can keep the f12 so now I have 2 subs. Should I use both of them or one?
Hello,
I am buying the ATH-AD700X and I'm really new to all this. Do the headphones benefit from having SMSL SD793 AMP/DAC other than having the plug on your desk and the volume control.
I really don't know even the basics.. from what I've gathered, headphones with high impedance benefit more from an amp. The AD700X only have 38ohms.
Also I'm big on gaming, so I'm going for the most detailed sound.
What are your thoughts on the new series of Denon receivers for 2013? I was looking at a Denon 1613 for $329, but stumbled across the Denon E300 (which is, according to what I can find, the replacement unit for the 1613) for $399. For factory refurbs from A4L the price difference looks to be about $249 to $215
The main differences appear to be increased wattage per channel and a more updated suite of web functionality (smartphone remote apps, Spotify, etc). Despite this, neither unit has wireless internet connectivity out of the box. Whether it would end up costing an extra $70 or possibly $35, is the 'updated' variant worth the extra money in this case?
First, thanks for your contributions. Your guides are very useful for quality entry-ish level equipment.
I'm currently running a 2.0 setup for my computer, SMSL SA50 + Teac L-H265B. I'm just left with choosing a sub. Any thoughts on this for $200?
I should add, budget isn't really an issue as long as it's justified. Would most people even be able to discern a difference between SVS SB1000 vs the Klipsch or Dayton Sub-1200? The setup is for a small room (12x10) , but may eventually be moved a bigger room (15x15).
Hey Zeos, I'll likely be posting about this in a few different places, but I got the S.M.S.L mini DAC SD-793II for christmas. I've played with it for a couple hours, and I'm starting to think I got a defective unit.
The biggest issue is that everything sounds great at first, and then after about 40 seconds everything starts to sound like crap. The volume drops to about 25% in my left ear, it stays about the same in my right, but the clarity is gone. If I turn it up past halfway, the distortion becomes disgustingly bad.
So this first issue, where the sound shifts to my right ear and the quality takes a dive, goes away if I quickly turn the device off and then on again. It returns in another 40 seconds, but turning it off and then back on again fixes the issue for those few seconds.
The second issue I'm having is the slight hum that's in the background, it comes almost entirely from the left earcup. If I touch the device, the hum becomes louder. It's exactly the sound you get when you turn an amplifier way up and then touch the tip of the signal/input cable. It's as if I'm grounding the signal with my hand I'm giving off interference of some kind.
The third issue is that I get nasty scratchy static whenever I adjust the volume knob. I wouldn't be super shocked to learn that that's normal but the other issues make this thing unuseable for now.
Input: Optical audio straight from my motherboard (windows 10 PC).
Let me know if you need any other info, thank you so much!
How is this system for around a $1500 beginning 2.1 system. Is there anything better for the money I can buy in that budget?
SPEAKERS
SUB WOOFER
RECEIVER
I'm leaning towards the following:
Towers
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-T50-Theater-Standing/dp/B013LIN5W2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1464921420&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=polk+t50
Center
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B0018QROM2/ref=pd_sim_23_4?ie=UTF8&amp;dpID=310-vc0k7EL&amp;dpSrc=sims&amp;preST=_AC_UL320_SR320%2C320_&amp;refRID=0KEK71K2FCKEXECZ3QJS
Sub
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-10-Inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_2?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=05VHEM90X8A7PTNZZT4K
While 2 of 3 of these tops Amazon's #1 list on those categories I wanted to get more input.
Thanks for this guide /u/ZeosPantera !
I do have a question however since I am having a hard time finding the answer. I am looking for a receiver that can handle 4k HDR passthrough as well as ARC with 5.1 channels. Is there anything you would reccomend from Sony? I am open to other brands, but am not trying to spend more than 300$ I have a xbr800d and a ps4 pro.
For speakers I have these pioneer bookshelf speakers and a polkaudio psw10 powered by this yamaha s201 receiver.
For the center channel, I was looking at this klipsch KC-25 . Currently my set up is in my bedroom which isnt too big, maybe a 10x15 foot room. I'll probably end up picking the surround speakers sometime later.
I found another post where you recommended this - https://www.amazon.com/Mpow-Ground-Isolator-Stereo-System/dp/B019393MV2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1477489703&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=mpow+isolator&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=zeos-20&amp;linkId=0c9e535eaed206c5b6d1b336e26b3557
Thanks for all you do man, I am a fan of yours now, been watching your videos for the last 20 hours.
Alright, I decided on
Projector: http://www.amazon.com/Optoma-HD25e-3D-Home-Theater-Projector/dp/B00E19RFFO
Screen: http://www.ebay.com/itm/92-Panoview-Graywolf-II-Home-Theater-Projector-Screen-/130375719111
Receiver: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004ZP72MU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B004ZP72MU&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Central, Left, and Right Speaker: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2EI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B008NCD2EI&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Shelf: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2LG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B008NCD2LG&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Rear: http://www.fluance.com/product/Fluance_XLBP_Wide_Dispersion_Bipolar_Surround_Sound_Speakers.eng-111.html
Subwoofer: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015A8Y5M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=B0015A8Y5M&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Does that all sound right for a 7.1?
everything is here now im looking for a speaker stands would these be good? http://amzn.com/B000VRREPG i dont plan on mounting on the wall so stands are a must
I am currently in Nairobi Kenya where Home Theater In a Box system is the most available option. Those who own receivers have them shipped. I am planning to build on a home theater and import the set up bit by bit. Intending to start from 2.0. My eventual system will be something similar to this.
Receiver
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-S500BT-Receiver-Capability-Bluetooth/dp/B00JR6GJLW/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1409331948&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=denon+avr+s500bt
Fronts
http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SXHTBFR-BK-Definition-Floorstanding-Speakers/dp/B00A9ZHXGU/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1409331805&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=fluance+SXHTBFR-BK
Center
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&amp;field-keywords=fluance%20XL7C-DW
Surround
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&amp;field-keywords=fluance+XLBP-DW&amp;rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3Afluance+XLBP-DW
Subwoofer
http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-DB-150-Frequency-Powered-Subwoofer-Dark/dp/B00IEAOD1K/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1409332476&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=DB150-DW
What do you think of this set up? Please critic it and offer possible set ups similar to or closer to this budget considering that i will have to ship everything to Nairobi Kenya.
I'd leave this comment on the subwoofer thread but that thread is archived.
I know the Acoustech PL-200 is obviously a step up from the BIC America F12, but is it that much of a step up? I'm gonna be living in a small room next year, and I will be using the F12 (with my Fluance SX6 bookshelves) for primarily music but also movies and gaming. Is the PL-200 really going to be that much better of an upgrade for a small room? I'd understand if I was planning out a HT but again, small room. And a lot of reviews for the PL-200 complain it's a bit too boomy for music.
What's your opinion on the Polk Audio PSW10 ?
does this http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015A8Y5M?pc_redir=1405048009&amp;robot_redir=1 will work instead of http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004LRPXAU/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B004LRPXAU&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20 if i take the exact same other component
I have narrowed down the choices for which set of rears to buy. Which one should I go with?
Klipsch S-10
Klipsch B-20
Micca MB42x
Hey /u/ZeosPantera what are you recommendations for small speakers? I have limited space to put them and I was looking at the Audioengine A2+
Edit: I have about 5.5" between the edge of my desk to my mouse pad and I have this dac/amp
Not sure if this is still an active post but thought I would post here before submitting a new post to r/hometheater
I have done some research and ended up just getting a receiver and a pair of bookshelf speakers. I was wondering what you, and everyone else, thought about what I got.
-Denon AVR-E300
-Klipsch Reference RB-61 II
-Monoprice 14AWG Speaker Wire
-Sanus Speaker Stands
I do notice that the bookshelf speakers are not capable of hitting the low bass notes in some songs that I listen to. Is there a sub that you can recommend that would work with my setup that will not be too overpowered but still able to fill a decent sized room. I was looking at getting the Klipsch SW-112 Subwoofer but was unsure if it would be too much for the bookshelf speakers. I do plan on keeping everything and eventually going to a 5.1 surround setup.
Here is the setup I went for in a small room. This is for a desk setup in a 11x14 room. Couldn't be happier for about 250$.
Speakers: 90$
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E7H8GG2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Amp:70$
https://www.amazon.com/SMSL-50Wx2-TDA7492-Amplifier-Adapter/dp/B00F0H8TOC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1454215590&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=smsl+amplifier&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=zeos-20&amp;linkId=97458c4923f86af9ecf53e1a566a6fca
Sub:81$ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KGA6A8A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Wire:8.50$
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-16-Gauge-Speaker-Wire-Feet/dp/B006LW0WDQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1454214218&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=speaker+wire&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=zeos-20&amp;linkId=50aa0e85d9168eed8d40f824e4203a64
https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-109436-Copper-Speaker-Banana/dp/B0097JLQVC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1454214342&amp;sr=8-17&amp;keywords=speaker+cable&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=zeos-20&amp;linkId=2fe231768f52ad0ca86e94f394a83fca
Plugs 10$
https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-109436-Copper-Speaker-Banana/dp/B0097JLQVC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1454214342&amp;sr=8-17&amp;keywords=speaker+cable&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=zeos-20&amp;linkId=2fe231768f52ad0ca86e94f394a83fca
Thanks for the awesome guide. The matching center you recommend with the Fluance SX6 comes with rear speakers and isn't sold separately. I was thinking of getting the SX6 for front and the AVBP2 bipoles for rear. Would it be a step down to use the SX satellite rears instead?
Alternatively I can get this Fluance AV center channel or maybe this one since it actually has reviews but I'm worried about mixing different sets. Will the timbre match? What do you think I should do? I'm so tired of obsessing about this :P