Bose 123

Penny Compton · 05-20-2003, 03:33 PM

I am a new user to this forum and also to home theatre. I live in the Caribbean which is good most of the time, but sucks when you need to buy something electronic. I can however buy a Bose 123 system. This is from a different island and the salesman tells me over the phone that two speakers are capable of reproducing good quality surround sound. Sounds a bit to good to be true to me - does anyone know any better?

Lew Crippen · 05-20-2003, 04:32 PM

I think you mean the Bose 3-2-1 system.

Quote:

Sounds a bit to good to be true to me - does anyone know any better?

This falls into the category of ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it is’. This system has been around for some time and was designed to appeal to consumers who were interested in ease of setup, not in the quality of sound. With only 2 speakers plus a subwoofer of sorts and the DVD/CD player the concept was that you don’t have to worry about all the complexities of placing five or six speakers in a room (and also wiring the whole thing). IIRC, there was even an option for infrared to the powered sub.

There was some electronic gimmickry that was supposed to simulate 5 channel sound out of the two front speakers. This same kind of feature used to be available on some of the Dolby surround systems a few years back (for those who did not want to bother with the rear speakers). Basically it just used some reverb to simulate the sound coming from everywhere.

I don’t know the price, but almost for sure you can find a better system for the money. Most Bose systems suffer from a lack of mid range and lower bass.

Ted Lee · 05-20-2003, 05:17 PM

in a nutshell....skip it.

bose are *not* known for their audio quality. to be fair, i've never heard this thing, but i just can't believe it can (in any faithful way) simulate a surround system.

what other options are available to you? can you do mail order?

Pam W · 05-20-2003, 08:41 PM

Ted and Lew are right - Bose is overrated.

Pam

Penny Compton · 05-21-2003, 09:23 AM

Thanks for the replies everyone - you can tell I'm new to these getting the bose numbers round the wrong way! I aprpeciate the bose replies. I'm looking for a good quality system with the emphasis being on the sound quality for dvd's and cd's. The problem with mail order is the cost of shipping and then the 25% duty they slap on it when it gets here. The other choices I have are Yamaha DVXS60, Sony DAVC450, Panasonic SCDT100 and JVC THF9. Most of these systems are multi system (PAL/NTC) but apart from that don't know much about them. I won't be able to hear them before buying. The room this is going in is fairly large (25x35) with cathedral ceilings, if that makes a difference. Appreciate any help if you know about these systems - thanks

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Ted Lee · 05-21-2003, 09:34 AM

hi penny -

not being able to hear them first is going to be tough. i'm assuming you would have to pay the shipping charges if you decided to return anything? do you get reimbursed on the duty tax?

anyway, if those are your only other choices, and basing my decision solely on the brand name, then i would go with the yamaha - their stuff is pretty decent.

i would definitely stay away from the panasonic and jvc.

JamesHl · 05-21-2003, 09:46 AM

Those are all Home Theatres In a Box, just as the Bose is. Is there not a real stereo shop somewhere?

Penny Compton · 05-21-2003, 10:35 AM

Yes, the shop that I'm talking about is in St Martin and is set up for duty free shopping for cruise ship passengers. I was worried that trying to buy individual items would make it tough compatability wise - Right?? I really liked the Denon system that I saw was available from Crutchfield, and may well break down and pay duties etc. if you think that may be the best of the bunch.
Penny

JamesHl · 05-21-2003, 10:44 AM

Buying seperate components is the way to go, HTIB are generally more expensive for less quality. Everything is pretty much standard, it'll all work together. Denon makes some nice stuff.

Ted Lee · 05-21-2003, 10:56 AM

agreed. if you can buy components, do it.

denon is very high on my list. i may be picking up a 2803 soon myself.

if you're serious about going separates, here's my suggestions.

1. read the beginner's faq - this is a must for you.

2. when you're ready, post a question for each piece of gear. one for speakers, one for receivers, etc. that way you'll get answers specific to the component. if you post a general "what should i buy" type question, it's harder for us to focus and give you a straight answer.

3. also, be sure to search in the appropriate forums. i can almost guarantee any question you have has already been asked before.

4. take your time and do this right. you'll be much happier with your purchase...knowing you made the right decision.

Lew Crippen · 05-21-2003, 01:20 PM

Welcome to the forum Penny. While it is difficult to make these decisions without being able to audition the equipment (especially speakers) you will get some very good advice on HTF. A good many serious purchases have been made on new internet companies such as SVS (a forum sponsor) by members here without being able to listen to the speakers beforehand. After a bit of reading and dialogue here, and elsewhere, you should be able to make a decision with which you will be pleased.

To add to Ted’s excellent advice, I would add that it will be helpful for us to know the budget you have in mind.

I’m sure that you are aware that a good many of us en