Home Theatre Advice

[cdgreg]

Alright, as a follow up to the tv thread, we now have a tv and actually have some money left over to consider a home theater system. I'm knowledge-less when it comes to home theatre, so once again I'm looking for advice from you guys.

We ended up buying a Sony's KDL52VL150 52” BRAVIA VL-Series LCD TV. BJ's wholesale had their floor model on sale for $1,120 (down from $1,399) and I talked them down to $999.99 and the additional 2 year extended warranty on all parts, labor, failures, normal wear and tear, power surges, environmental damage, etc.

Not sure if this link will work but:
http://www.sonystyle.ca/commerce/ser...ductId=1006598

Here is the built in audio for the tv if needed:

Audio Specs
Audio Power Output 10W x 2
Speaker Configuration 2
Speakers (Total) 2

Audio Features
Sound Mode Clear Voice, Dynamic, Custom, Standard
Digital Amplifier Standard
Dolby Digital (for broadcasting)
SRSTruSurround XTA
Stereo System MTS
Auto SAP Yes
Alternate Audio (Digital) Yes
STEADY SOUND Automatic Volume Control YES
Auto Mute (on no signal) Yes
Audio Out Fixed

Inputs and Outputs
RF Connection Input(s) 1 (Rear)
Composite Video Input(s) 2 (1 SIDE/1 REAR (Selectable))
S-Video Input(s) 1(Side)
S-Video Detection Yes
Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Input(s) 2 (REAR) (1 FIX/ 1 Selectable)
HDMI Connection(s) (Total) 4 (3 SIDE/1 REAR)
Analog Audio Input(s) for HDMIâ?¢ 1 (REAR)
PC In (D-Sub) + Audio In (Stereo Mini) 1 (SIDE)
Analog Audio Input(s) (Total) 5 (2 SIDE/3 REAR)
Digital Audio Output(s) Optical Digital Output - 1 (Rear)
Audio Out 1 (REAR)
USB 2.0 1 (SIDE)
USB 1.1 1 (REAR) (Service only)
HDMI PC Input Yes

Unless it's a major no-no we plan on using our PS3 for dvds/streaming netflix and thus don't need a home theater system with a dvd player. As I said I know nothing, our budget is around $350-$400 at max.

I was looking online at Bestbuy just for an easy point of reference. Should we be looking for a low wattage sound bar/sub woofer combination such as the Sony Bravia model HTCT100 or a full blown 1000w 5.1channel with receiver such as the Sony Bravia model HT-SS360? Don't get me wrong, I'm not set on buying a sony home theater, I'm just using them as examples.

If we purchase a low wattage sound bar/sub do we need to also purchase a receiver? Is there a plus to using a separate dvd player instead of the PS3? Is there a plus to purchasing a sony surround sound or is mix and match ok? Will a 1000w 5.1ch with receiver sound drastically different from the sound bar/woofer? Thanks!

[aru]

why not look at systems capable of 7.1ch? PS3 is capable of outputting this.
Be careful in choosing a receiver that can handle HDMI. I made the mistake of buying one with "HDMI pass-though".

[Isiolia]

why not look at systems capable of 7.1ch? PS3 is capable of outputting this.
Be careful in choosing a receiver that can handle HDMI. I made the mistake of buying one with "HDMI pass-though".

It's become a lot more common for receivers to at least be able to pull the audio off of HDMI, but a receiver that actually does much of anything with the video signal will likely exceed his budget all by itself.

Unless it's a major no-no we plan on using our PS3 for dvds/streaming netflix and thus don't need a home theater system with a dvd player. As I said I know nothing, our budget is around $350-$400 at max.

I was looking online at Bestbuy just for an easy point of reference. Should we be looking for a low wattage sound bar/sub woofer combination such as the Sony Bravia model HTCT100 or a full blown 1000w 5.1channel with receiver such as the Sony Bravia model HT-SS360? Don't get me wrong, I'm not set on buying a sony home theater, I'm just using them as examples.

If we purchase a low wattage sound bar/sub do we need to also purchase a receiver? Is there a plus to using a separate dvd player instead of the PS3? Is there a plus to purchasing a sony surround sound or is mix and match ok? Will a 1000w 5.1ch with receiver sound drastically different from the sound bar/woofer? Thanks!

PS3 works very well for Blu-Ray, DVD, Netflix, and so on. No need to use anything else for those purposes. It's actually one of the best performing, most feature-filled devices in its price range, and is commonly recommended on AV forums specifically for the usage you're describing.

IMO, the best route would be to try and do what you can towards a solid foundation to build on. A decent HDMI-capable receiver would be the best route. The switching capability is nice, and you can't get the better audio codecs over anything else from Blu-Rays.

Past that, get a pair of speakers if that's all you can afford after buying the receiver. Then add to it over time.

Consider going used for gear. It's typically far cheaper that way. HDMI receivers have only been real prevalent for the past few years, but good speakers will still sound good, 10, 15, 20 years later...so check the web, thrift stores, garage sales n' so on. You can wind up with some solid gear for cheap. Or, at least, -something- to hook up to a receiver n' make sound for the time being =P
A sub is almost always a nice benefit, but many speakers are fine without one. Also, don't get too wrapped up in wattage ratings on receivers - not all companies list the real sustained power, which is usually far less than the "100W/ch" or whatever listed.

So basically, I'd say to buy the best receiver you can fit into your budget + some used or basic speakers. It'll provide you a lot more room to grow, sound better for music, and so on. Sure, you may not have 5.1 or 7.1 sound off the bat, but quality 2ch is still pretty nice, and it'd just be a matter of buying more speakers as you can afford to.

Getting a full 5.1 setup at your price point pretty much would mean getting a home theater in a box or a 5.1 PC speaker style setup. Not my preference, though some people are happy with 'em...at least for a while.

[Auspice]

In the long run you'd be a hell of a lot better off getting your surround sound set up piece by piece. I've never been satisfied with the HT in a box bullshit. I REALLY like Onkyo receivers and got a great deal on a refurb one on their website a few years back and haven't had a single problem with it. I started my HT with only a receiver and two floor speakers and slowly added the rest of the system but now it's pretty beastly. Yeah, it cost me more than $500 but I'm glad I waited instead of going for something cheaper.

[kareface]

Don't get a soundbar, it's a waste of money if you ask me. At that price range you really can't get anything worth getting. I honestly think you should consider spending a little more on a nice 2 speaker system and an onkyo receiver and pick up the rest a piece at a time. For entree level I would suggest looking at companies like Axiom, Klipsch, Elemental Designs, Monitor Audio, KEF, Premier Acoustic & Jamo. You'll want to get your front 3 speakers from the same line of speakers so they match the best. Ideally you'll need to spend at least 200$ per speaker for the fronts.

You could also build your front speakers, there are a ton of good designs here:
http://www.htguide.com/forum/showthr...5&page=1&pp=35

For the price you can't really do better then a well designed DIY project.

[Mrf]

I'd have to agree with not going with the HTIB route. I bought an Onkyo HTIB HT-S7100 and within 6 months I was ready for an upgrade, luckily I had that thought in mind and that particular HTIB had a nice Onkyo TX-SR606 receiver that came with it.

So now I don't have an awesome system yet, but it's something I am comfortable with and slowly being upgraded.


Here's my current HT setup

TV: Samsung LN52A550
Receiver: Onkyo TX-SR606
L and R: Polk Monitor 60
Center: Polk CS2
Surrounds: Onkyo SKF-750XF (old Fronts from HTIB)
Surround Backs: Onkyo SKB-750X (HTIB)
Sub: Onkyo SKW-750X (HTIB sub)

Sony BDP-S360 Blu-ray Player
Original 60GB PS3
Xbox 360
Dish Network HD DVR

[kareface]

Yeah, if you do go with that route go with a onkyo package as the receivers are nice enough to use after and the cost of the speaker package is almost worth just getting the receiver.

[zoobernut]

If your budget is seriously only $350 I would skip surround sound and get a good pair of stereo speakers and a good receiver and build on that system over time. Any complete "home theater in a box" you get for that price is going to be a big pile of crap and an utter waste of time.

[Auspice]

I've got an older(I guess it is now at least) Onkyo 605 and it's fucking great for gaming. My brother built a massive 12" sub to go with a JBL center and two big floor speakers that he gave to me as a Christmas gift last year. I combined those with the JBL 8" Stadiums that I was using as front speakers to make a 5.1 setup. It's pretty fucking beastly even though it took 3 years to get it all together and totally worth the wait. I used to think the 4 JBL floor speakers I had put out enough bass until I got the sub and played Modern Warfare 2 on it. I still shit my pants when someone tosses a grenade at my feet with the volume cranked up.

[kareface]

Someone brought this site to my attention, this is worth a look:

http://www.accessories4less.com/make...eceiver/1.html

It is factory renewed, but it does come with a 1 year warranty and lots of people buy receivers referb. There are also a ton of other good deals on that site.

[cdgreg]

Thanks guys, been working some late hours so I haven't had much time to keepup with the forums but I like the idea of startingto build a long term project. I'll check out the links tonight when I'm infront of my pc.

Yes, sadly the current budget is 350ish but my bday is coming up in march. So if I can start putting something together I can ask for individual speakers from people.

[Fisban]

If possible, i would suggest trying to save and double your budget. I would suggest:
Receiver: Onkyo TX-SR507 5.1-Channel A/V Surround Home Theater Receiver ~300$ at amazon
5.1 Surround System: Energy Take Classic 5.1 ~500$ at amazon (can likely find it cheaper else where) or Energy RC-Micro 5.1 System ~600$ at amazon

Energy are pretty highly regarded in the audiophile world as a great bang for your buck speaker. They are Canadian made and are pretty along par with PSB another highly regarded speaker company, imo, and personally what i own.

In fact, I recommend searching the Energy Website "http://www.energy-speakers.com/na-en/where-to-buy/" for a local dealer and go listen to them.

For about 800$ you will have a very nice home theater.

My current setup:
TV: Panny TC-P50G10
Blu-Ray: PS3
Receiver: Onkyo TX_SR505
Center Speaker: PSB Image C40
Fronts: PSB Image B25
Surrounds: PSB Image B15
Sub: Paradigm 10 (old, don't actually know the model name but still rocks)

Home Theaters in my opinion are always a work in progress unless you just have a ton of cash. I am starting to save up right now for when I plan to move in ~ 5 years to do a complete overhaul. My current system cost me around 2700$~ I am predicting my next system will be closer to 10k... For me its a passion!

If you are going to do it 1 speaker at a time look for a speaker/electronic liquidator store online, they usually have the best prices.

[Isiolia]

Home Theaters in my opinion are always a work in progress unless you just have a ton of cash.

Aye. I got one of these for Christmas, looking at redoing speakers over this year (stuff I have now I've had since '97 or earlier). Planning to build some similar designs to what kareface did once I get more woodworking experience. That's actually another way to go for price/performance, though the time/tools certainly play a large factor.

[kareface]

If possible, i would suggest trying to save and double your budget. I would suggest:
Receiver: Onkyo TX-SR507 5.1-Channel A/V Surround Home Theater Receiver ~300$ at amazon
5.1 Surround System: Energy Take Classic 5.1 ~500$ at amazon (can likely find it cheaper else where) or Energy RC-Micro 5.1 System ~600$ at amazon

Energy are pretty highly regarded in the audiophile world as a great bang for your buck speaker. They are Canadian made and are pretty along par with PSB another highly regarded speaker company, imo, and personally what i own.

In fact, I recommend searching the Energy Website "http://www.energy-speakers.com/na-en/where-to-buy/" for a local dealer and go listen to them.

For about 800$ you will have a very nice home theater.

My current setup:
TV: Panny TC-P50G10
Blu-Ray: PS3
Receiver: Onkyo TX_SR505
Center Speaker: PSB Image C40
Fronts: PSB Image B25
Surrounds: PSB Image B15
Sub: Paradigm 10 (old, don't actually know the model name but still rocks)

Home Theaters in my opinion are always a work in progress unless you just have a ton of cash. I am starting to save up right now for when I plan to move in ~ 5 years to do a complete overhaul. My current system cost me around 2700$~ I am predicting my next system will be closer to 10k... For me its a passion!

If you are going to do it 1 speaker at a time look for a speaker/electronic liquidator store online, they usually have the best prices.

Energy speakers aren't bad, but I think he'd be better off starting with a couple floor standing speakers with a nice matching center from one of the companies I suggested before. Also, energy's subs leave a lot to be desired.

Aye. I got one of these for Christmas, looking at redoing speakers over this year (stuff I have now I've had since '97 or earlier). Planning to build some similar designs to what kareface did once I get more woodworking experience. That's actually another way to go for price/performance, though the time/tools certainly play a large factor.

Nice, you should post your progress once you start. A tip, map out all of the initial cuts of the MDF sheet before going into the store and you can have them dice it up for free to save you the trouble. You might have to trim them down a little after, but it's a lot easier then trying to do it at home if you don't have the equipment to cut the sheet easily yourself.

Also, for any DIY speaker guys out there I have been talking with someone putting together a set of Clearwave Dynamic 4T's and those things are monsters. They aren't as clear at the statements, but man are those impressive looking towers. Here's a link to one of the build threads on HTguide:
http://www.htguide.com/forum/showthread.php4?t=31689

[Isiolia]

Nice, you should post your progress once you start. A tip, map out all of the initial cuts of the MDF sheet before going into the store and you can have them dice it up for free to save you the trouble. You might have to trim them down a little after, but it's a lot easier then trying to do it at home if you don't have the equipment to cut the sheet easily yourself.

Heh, yeah, I may. As I mentioned in another thread, I'm building some Tritrix TLs as "practice" - somewhat stalled out atm due to the holidays, but I'm hoping to get back to 'em and finish soon. Honestly, has a lot more to do with me being finicky than anything else - I could probably get them assembled and making noise in an hour or two, it's cosmetics I'm hung up on XD

I do have a table saw, albiet a crappy one. No way I could actually cut a full size MDF sheet, but the half-size "handypanels" are workable.

Those speakers look like quite the endeavor to build. Statements do too, but at least those are right angles n' all that. I definitely wouldn't try doin' that without getting some parts CNC'ed (like in that build thread).

[Stiker]

I'm actually looking at getting a receiver/speaker set myself for my place. Looking at 5.1 options and I've set a budget of around $1000 and thus far have found this:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Klipsch+...rd116400050002

I know ideally the front speakers should be cabinets, but unfortunately the configuration for the room it will be in won't allow it. I've read Klipsch is pretty good at making smaller speakers that deliver quality sound.

Thoughts?

[kareface]

I'm actually looking at getting a receiver/speaker set myself for my place. Looking at 5.1 options and I've set a budget of around $1000 and thus far have found this:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Klipsch+...rd116400050002

I know ideally the front speakers should be cabinets, but unfortunately the configuration for the room it will be in won't allow it. I've read Klipsch is pretty good at making smaller speakers that deliver quality sound.

Thoughts?

Rejected. At that price point you could to SOOOO much better. That receiver is crap and those speakers are overpriced. I'll see if I can fit something together for you here in a sec, just gotta finish up an email.

[Fisban]

I would suggest against buying any speakers from big box companies (ie Best Buy) like kare said you can do better for less elsewhere.

I suggest anyone really interested in building a Home Theater head over to "http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/" and check out the speaker and Home theater in a box forums.

Make sure to following posting formats if you are asking for advice on what to buy. They will want to know things like room size, what you already have, how much you will be listening to music vs movies/tv etc...

Really a great resource.

Also Monoprice.com is your friend never buy cables from any big box company as well.

Striker - For receivers check out http://reviews.cnet.com/best-av-rece...ent;contentNav

They usually have some pretty good reviews.

[zoobernut]

Paradigm! Paradigm! Paradigm!

Look into Paradigm. They make amazing speakers and their entry level ones are not too expensive. One of the best values when you look at cost vs. quality of any speaker company I have listened to.

http://paradigm.com/en/paradigm/fron...1-2-2.paradigm

Check out their Cinema series.

[Stiker]

I would suggest against buying any speakers from big box companies (ie Best Buy) like kare said you can do better for less elsewhere.

I suggest anyone really interested in building a Home Theater head over to "http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/" and check out the speaker and Home theater in a box forums.

Make sure to following posting formats if you are asking for advice on what to buy. They will want to know things like room size, what you already have, how much you will be listening to music vs movies/tv etc...

Really a great resource.

Also Monoprice.com is your friend never buy cables from any big box company as well.

Striker - For receivers check out http://reviews.cnet.com/best-av-rece...ent;contentNav

They usually have some pretty good reviews.

Thanks for the links. Yeah, I doubt I was going to buy at Best Buy, but I'm just getting a general idea of what to get. I've checked out CNET as well and it's been a decent starting point.

And yes, Monoprice is amazing, I haven't bought cables from anywhere in quite a while.