Recommendations for a no0b.

Frraksurred

Frraksurred

2[H]4U
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Jul 25, 2008
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I'm currently using the typical Logitech Z-5500 setup, but I'm ready for more. I have one 30" monitor with another on the way and a third to be added in January (I hope). My plan is to build a 5.1 system around them that could later be expanded to 7.1 with a couple more speakers. HDMI switching would be helpful, but not mandatory. I'll have a seperate system for Home Theatre and music (unless I can find one that can switch between two speaker systems and maintain sound integrity).

Anyway, I've been out of the game for a while and am curious what you would recommend for good "bang for the buck" bookself speakers and receiver. I've been a fan of Rotel in the past, but really cannot afford them. I've given some thought to Arcam, possibly even Denon if I have to keep it inexpensive. Again, this is mainly for gaming, so high end audio is not a must. That doesn't mean I do not want good sound, but I'm sure you know what I mean.

Speakers are really where I am at a loss. I'm not familiar with bookshelves at all. Should they be magnetically sealed? Is it better to go powered with a seperate decoder then an all-in-one amplifier? B&W's sound good, but are not very effecient. KEF's seem to be ok, but I've not heard their bookshelves. I've even thought of Energy's with a decent R series REL for lows... The point is I'm open to suggestions and input. This will be my first 5.1 for computer that is not "inabox". The sound card is an X-Fi btw. Any guidance you can lend would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
 
Do you have a budget in mind? $500? $1000?

Paradigm Atoms at about $250-300/pr are a pretty good buy, and probably the best bang for the buck that I can think of.
Here's Stereophile view on them: http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/907para/

I'm not so sure about the center channel, maybe Paradigm's CC170, not sure though.

Audio Advisor has an Energy 8" subwoofer for $100 that might suit your needs, but I don't know the size of your room or what volume you'd listen to music/games.

eCost.com has like new refurb Denon's at great prices. You might want to check them out. Also if you don't mind used, Audiogon is a great place to get gear.
 
Quit buying 30" monitors and you could afford a nice setup lol.

Atoms can be had used on audiogon for under $100 so don't pay full retail on that.

Look to audio adviser clearance sales. They have good gear usually.
 
I haven't determined a budget yet. I guess I don't want to spend more then $1500 for receiver and speakers total.

Great suggestions! Being new to this (well, away for a long time) I was unaware of the sites you both recommended. Thank you both!

I was aware of Paradigm but have never heard them. I will look into them as they seem to review well every where. I prefer to avoid refurb electronics, but I still appreciate the heads up. I will definately check out audio advisor.

I'm still open to input if others have additional suggestions. Thanks again all!
 
Oh and Av123. Make certain they have something in stock. They are sold out a lot. They have Denon receivers for great prices if you call and ask. They do not advertise that so don't bother looking.

Their speakers are top quality for the $$.
 
Thanks Spaceman, I will do that.

After lots of browsing and research I'm really liking the Paradigm Titans. Paradigm in general for that matter. If I'm brainstorming aloud I'd say a pair of Titans up front, a CC-290 (or older equivelant) for center and possibly 2 to 4 Atoms for surround. I've found a Velodyne DPS10 sub I could get relatively cheap, and an older Paradigm PS-1000 as well. The 1k does not seem to have an LFE, so I'm leaning towards the DPS. Any thoughts?

I have not researched Arcam yet, but seen lots of Denons (including a 2807) I could pick up for under $500. I'll keep looking. I make myself research for at least 7 days before I let myself spend money, lol.

--

On room size: I'm building the room to suit in an unfinished basement, but the PC system will be sharing the room with a home theatre. Basically on one end of the room will be a small "room width" (12' to 14') x 8' x 1' (-ish) riser where the computer setup will go. There will be a false wall where the monitors and front speakers will mount. The two corners flanking the system will have closet sized stand outs, one with a mid-atlantic rack for the equipment and the other for access behind or media storage. Behind the office chair, at the side of the riser that faces the middle of the room, will be a half wall and second desk. Rear speakers will go here. A couch will sit on the floor ahead of it, projector on the ceiling above and a 90" to 103" screen on the adjacent wall. It is just me with a couple teenage daughters visiting every other weekend, so the two systems will not be getting used at the same time. I'm focusing on the PC system first because I use it the most. The HT will come after I recoup some money. I don't look for that to get done as fast, lol.
 
The Titans are alright but the Atoms have a better top end and midrange IMHO. See if you have any local shop that carry these speakers before you buy.

Due to the size of your room, I don't think 7.1 is really needed, I'd save the money toward better speakers/amps. I'd get 1 pair of speakers and a receiver aat first. That way you can sample the Paradigm sound before you're all in with $1500 down and a bunch of equipment you don't like.
 
Valid point 450. I agree listening to them first would definately be the way to go, but none of my local shops carry Paradigms (I've worked for them all). Klipsch, B&W, Martin Logan, KEF, Vienna Acoustics and Energy, but no Paradigms.

Nonetheless, we should probably keep in mind that this is for gaming, not music listening... and I am currently using Z-5500 "computer speakers". Even if the Titans / Atoms don't fit my tastes perfectly, if the price is right they will surely still be a noticable step up from what I have now. ;)

Appreciate your input all the same, thank you.
 
Kef, Energy, Vienna Acoustics will all do fine for what you want. I believe that the Energy setup will be most affordable. You can get the:

C-200 for mains

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ENC200

C-100 for center

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ENCC100

C-50 for rears

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ENC50

ESW 10" for sub

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ENESW

NAD T-744 receiver. Don't let the 50 watts per fool you. It is very powerful.

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=NAT744
 
The nad receiver looks very impressive, minus the 'old' technology. The EAR DSP really interest me..Does it have a headphone jack?
 
I'm looking at the new Pioneer SC-7!!! Innovative new amp design, and jitter reduction ciruity when using HDMI.. S&V loves it...2,200 though... At 1,500 I might bite..Or lower a few yrs from now.
 
kool bubba ice said:
The nad receiver looks very impressive, minus the 'old' technology. The EAR DSP really interest me..Does it have a headphone jack?
Click to expand...

Yeah it does. There is a cover plate over it on the left side. Good sounding receiver indeed. NAD and Cambridge own the affordable receiver SQ department. I do not recall using the headphone jack when I had one. I am certain it is acceptable though. They take their output seriously.
 
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