x-ls encore vs insignias?

[zerga]

Hey I was wondering how much better the x-ls's are as opposed to the insignias? I know the cost difference is ~200, but is it really worth it? I don't really care for the aesthetics, I mean I do but it isn't my biggest reason, so the wood finish on the x-ls's isn't going to do it for me. In terms of pure sound quality though, would I experience a huge difference? I'm probably pairing this with a dayton sub.

One other thing is I also need to buy a reciever. I know a lot of people recommend the Onkyo sr505, but the HDMI is audio only, not full audio/video. It is kind of an inconvience for me as I plan to setup other components via HDMI. I was wondering if there were any other comparble recievers in that price range or if I should just ignore that factor. Thanks for any help!

 

[spaceman]

think about if you can afford $400-500 for a system and I would say get this used:

Panasonic XR-57 Awesome dac and great amp. Hard to find used sometimes b/c they are the bang for the buck receiver for entry level stereo. I believe that hdmi is fully enabled but I never used it so....

Ok speakers. AV123 has forums full of used av123 speakers. Again, bang for the buck, xls series is very much a great deal.

So try and get the xr-57 + whatever xls speakers + sub you can afford and prepare to have your head melted lol.

 

[Nicolaskl]

I own the original X-LS and I've heard the Insignias several times and I'd say the upgrade is worth it, they're great speakers.

Used can be a great way to go also. I'm actually thinking of selling my X-LS setup but I live in AK so I doubt it'd be financially appealing due to shipping.

As far as whether you should ignore the HDMI issue that's pretty much personal preference. For me, I thank god for HDMI and video switching every single day. My wiring is already a rats nest nightmare, I couldn't imagine if it each of my 7 HDMI cables suddenly became 35 cables worth of composite audio/component video. But I also have a shitpot of sources compared to a lot of people.

 

[Mr. Wolf]

I've listened to the Insignias and thought they were pretty good compared to my Klipsch Promedia 2.1 system. I bought a pair of x-ls originals that were excellent; much better than the Insignias. I now have the x-ls Encores and they sound (and look) even better than the originals. The Pan XR57 is every bit as impressive as you've read in these forums and elsewhere. I was skeptical of the XR57 until hearing it power my Encores. I think it's a fantastic receiver for PC audio.

Back, to the x-ls... AV123 frequently runs sales of discontinued and/or B-stock speakers at great prices. In February, they were selling NEW original x-series for as low as $149/pair of black x-ls up to $189/pair of palisander x-ls. Check their website and forums often for early info on when the next sale is scheduled.