Eric_Philips

Music Only

I know this is HT, not stereo. So, if you are going to tell me not to post here; please be kind. Besides, I'm very grateful for everyones help w/ helping me with my Paradigm setup. My neighbors are not so grateful.

I'm interested in setting up a 100%, 2-channel setup for a formal living room (no tv).

I have two questions:
- To sub or not to sub? I do listen to a wide range of music so basic extension is important to me. The second important thing is for quick sharp bass; my Paradigm PS1000 is slow and boomy.
- Which speakers? This will probably depend on question no. one.

My budget is flexable, but I'd like to keep it under 2k.

Thanks,
Eric

MikeTrotter

For subs under 2000,there is a wide range.What have you auditioned so far?What is the max size enclosure your looking for?

pond

Eric_Philips

Nothing withing the last year and a half. Should I even be looking at subs if I am looking for 100% music? What subs (type and/or brands) perform better for music?

DanaA

First off, don't worry at all about posting here. It's about speakers, not just home theater speakers.

I'm a little confused. Are you talking 2K for just a sub, or for just speakers, or for the whole setup?

As far as musical subs, Adire has a good reputation in this regard, as does ACI. I'm sure there are more, but this will get you started. I use a Hsu sub and like it, but probably will eventually end up with an ACI, just because I love the company and their products. I will disclaim that I haven't heard either firsthand, but am going by what others have said. Both are internet only companies and thus it is hard to audition. But, that's the risk I took with their speakers and I'm floated on cloud nine with the joy I get listening to them.

ACI is closed for revamping the next few days, but I'll link them anyway. I will say that the front speakers I have and enjoy so much are the Sapphires. Do a search here and at other forums and you'll read a lot of great things about both their speakers and subs. DO NOT rely on just what I have to say.

Anyway, a link: ACI LINK

Jason_Me

A sealed sub with a low Q (.577 is ideal) is generally the best bet for music.

Eric_Philips

I wanted to keep the whole setup under 2k. That is why I was considering speakers that can handle a wide range of music w/o the sub.

ChrisWiggles

I personally would buy better speakers and skip the sub. But, since i am going with a HT setup, i got an SVS, and i find it very valuable to have with music, so now I'm torn. I still think i'd put that $ towards better speakers, but it's a tough call. I think you should go do some auditioning, and see what you like.

Again, is that 2K for everything? just speakers (and maybe sub)?

What equipment do you have already? We don't want you to end up with some GREAT 2K speakers, and some crummy old cd player+reciever that won't do them justice.

You'd be surprised, some speaker can crank out very solid amounts of bass, such that you may be satisfied without a sub (depends on your listening preferences).

As for your paragidm setup, I'm confused. You're building a second 2-channel only setup? Well... I guess i asked more than i answered, but we'll all be able to help you more this way anyway. :b

Jeff Aguilar

I would go for some used Martin Logan SL3's for main speakers. These do not need a sub for music, I might still want one, but it does not need one. You can find them used for about $1,500 to $1,800.

Jeff

Steve_D

The entire 2 channel setup for $2K or just speakers for $2k? How big is the room? Can the stereo set-up dominate the room (probably not in a formal living room)?

Chris makes great points...I wouldn't hook Maggies up to a receiver in a small room that you use for other purposes, for instance.

Eric_Philips

I've somehow spawned some confusion.

I have a very nice Paradigm HT setup in my basement, I use that room 100% for movies and Monday night football.

I'd like music on the main floor in my living room, I have no TV in there; I will never have a need for anything beyond 2 channels. So, I'm looking for a full setup minus a CD player for under 2K. I'd personally prefer to not have a sub if there is a set of speakers that will due the trick.

Is my price range too far out of whack?