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First Speaker Setup

L

Lusker

n00b
Joined
Sep 12, 2011
Messages
24
Hey guys,

So I'm wanting to upgrade my speaker system on my desktop from a basic Logitech 2.1 setup. I've never messed with piecing together a new speaker system though, so I'm completely clueless. From what I've gathered so far, I know I'll need a receiver, bookshelf speakers/monitors, and possibly an amp and/or preamp. I just ordered an ASRock Z68 Professional Gen 3 and 2 XFX 6950's to run in CrossfireX, if that makes a difference on the sound system.

I'm looking at the KRK Rokit 6's (or the KRK R6's if having passive speakers is a better idea). I have no clue what would be a good receiver to buy, nor do I know anything about amps or preamps.

I've got a budget of roughly $1,250 on this build, price can fluctuate a little bit.

I really appreciate your help, gentlemen. Reading around on the forum has done a lot to help me learn about the newer computer hardware.

Lusk

Edit: I'm looking to start out with a 2.1 or 3.1 setup for now, and adding in the surrounds later.
 
1.2k will get you a decent setup.

I'd go passive at this point, but thats just me. I'd look for a set of bookshelves around $350 or so, whether used or new from any reputable audio brands. I could suggest some popular ones, like paradigm, B&W, klipsch if you like bright sounds, totem, wharfedale, tannoy, and the list can literally go on forever. Search around, more importantly, head to audio/HiFi stores and give them a listen, decide on one, and then select one to buy.

For subwoofers, anything from the big sub companies: eD, epik, HSU, or SVS.

For your budget, this would work http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-1.html

and the rest with a reciever from amazon, like this, and you're good to go.

The rest of the $50, use at monoprice for speaker wire and banana plugs.
 
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Thanks so much for the reply, Empty_Quarter. I've got a few questions for ya.

Since I'm going passive, shouldn't I also look into an amplifier? Or am I missing something?

What gauge speaker wire would you suggest for a home theater setup? And the banana plugs just go on the end of speaker wire and connect directly to the input of the subwoofer/output from subwoofer to speakers, correct?

Thanks again for the help.
 
I would go with a denon poa-8300 its a 3 channel power amp they can be had for around $350 on ebay or some audio forums. theres a parasound pre amp on ebay for $39.99 bin then add your speakers and wires. best thing with the 3 channel power amp is you can use 1 channel for a center or for a non powered subwoofer
 
A receiver typically includes the amplifier. Overall, a receiver would be the best option for you, has everything you need, and meets your budget.

For wire, go 12 guage, its not like it costs much at monoprice (50ft is more than plenty for a 2.1). That's correct about the banana plugs. Banana plugs are not really needed, but its convenient, and doesn't cost much either. The only other type of cable you would need is an optical cable.

Oh snap, forgot, a subwoofer cable too.
 
Figured the receiver would include an amplifier of some sort, but the receiver you linked me to is only putting out 50W per channel (total of 5). Think that's going to be enough? 50W per bookshelf and an active subwoofer, so I won't have to worry about the sub.

Optical cable's too easy. Should have like 3 of them laying around the house.

Guessing a subwoofer cable will need to be a little bigger than typical speaker wire?

Sorry for all the questions; I'm just trying to learn as much as possible.

Edit: Also, about the banana plugs... Does it matter whether they're open or closed screw type? Noticed the open is a little cheaper, but I don't know what the difference would be.
 
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50W per channel, while on the lower side compared to its competition, is fine. I am certainly out of the loop when it comes to receivers these days. Haven't looked at them since I was in the market for one in years, so there should be someone else who knows whats the best bang for buck receiver these days. I just suggested the marantz simply because of its slim form factor, but if size is no issue, there are certainly other options.

The subwoofer cable is essentially a single RCA cable, like this: http://www.monoprice.com/products/p...=10236&cs_id=1023603&p_id=6306&seq=1&format=2

The only difference between open and closed banana plugs is looks. Open banana plugs are a little easier to put together, but closed looks much cleaner in the end.
 
This might stretch the budget but here are some ideas if you have the room.

Receivers:

Onkyo TX-NR708 Refurb($369 + Shp, 4 ohm speaker support and multichannel pre-outs): http://www.accessories4less.com/mak...Channel-3-D-Ready-Network-A/V-Receiver/1.html
or
Denon AVR-890 Refurb($289 + Shp, 6 ohm speaker support): http://www.macmall.com/p/Denon-Consumer-Electronics/product~dpno~8811680~pdp.gidicci
I recently received my AVR-590 refurb from here and it looked brand new in box outside of the printed/stapled manual and came w/ all the accessories. Works and sounds great.

Sub:

Emotiva Ultra 12($379 w/ Free Shp): http://emotiva.com/ultra_sub12.shtm

Speakers Suggestions:

Aperion Verus Grand($299 Ea + Shp): http://www.aperionaudio.com/product/Verus-Grand-Bookshelf-Speaker,268,89,804.aspx

Energy RC-10($269 Pr w/ Free Shp): http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/features/542469405/energy-rc10
With or Without
Energy RC-LCR($339 Ea w Free Shp, matched center for RC-10s): http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/features/542600578/energy-rclcr
 
While keeping in consideration your source and power are far more important than your actual speakers (to a certain degree), my first question for you is:

Do you want a basic 2.1 setup, or do you want a surround setup?

If you're just going 2.1, there's no need for getting a receiver, especially if this setup will only be for music.

What will your sources be? (Dedicated CD player, computer, etc.)

What will this setup be mainly used for? (that is, music listening, movies, games, etc.)
 
Do you want a basic 2.1 setup, or do you want a surround setup?
I want to start with a 2.1 setup, but eventually expand it out to a 5.1 or 7.1 setup.

What will your sources be? (Dedicated CD player, computer, etc.)
Sources will be my computer, tv audio output, and Xbox 360.

What will this setup be mainly used for? (that is, music listening, movies, games, etc.)
Mainly used for movies and music listening.
 
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