Budget 2.1 channel setup (1 Viewer)

[kyutaek]

I have Sony 36' HS510 HD ready Tube TV and Onkyo SR701. I will try to establish 2.1 channel first, and then add other surrounds later. What would you recommend for the initial 2.1 setup? My room size is 16x16. I will be more concerned about sound quality (from music CD or DVD) (about 60~70%) than surround effect (from DVD). I would also prefer a widely known name brand (rather than hidden pearl) which allows me to sell it easier with good value.
I don't mind either tower size or bookshelf size (what are the pros and cons of each?). I would like to set it up under $500. By the way, would it (the budget) not enough to have my receiver fully perform?

 

[Benihana]

The difference between floorstanders and bookshelves is that floorstanders don't need stands, which is about $50 right there, they will usually have lower extended bass compared to its bookshelf counerpart, and will sometimes have a bigger sound. Bookshelves have a smaller baffle and are made to sound best in the mid to high frequencies while having decent to little bass and bass extension. I would take a $300 bookshelf over a $300 floorstander speaker. $500 should get your started up pretty good, this is what i would suggest. Ascend Acoustics CBM-170 for the mains @ $328 a pair, and a Dayton DLS 10" subwoofer from parts express for $130, sometimes on sale for $89. Or you can stretch your budget a bit and get a Sony SA-wx700, wonderful music performer and good HT performance, an accurate sub overall. Should be $189 on most online websites. But usually better choices are made if you actually listen to them before you buy. I would also check out Epos bookshelf speakers, they came out with a $300 bookshelf pair that had a great review at http://www.stereophile.com/loudspeakerreviews/104epos/ . You can find a dealer from www.musichallaudio.com. Goodluck

 

[kyutaek]

Thanks for useful information. I got some further questions: considering the nature of the house structure (I am living at a townhome where the next unit is attached to mine), do I still need full 12" subwoofer? I knew that subwoofer is an important element for buliding home theater
for better bass sound. But how about center channel speaker? One of my friend told me that I would need center channel, rather than woofer because I only use it minimally due to the living condition and personal preference (I am not a big fan to listen music/sound in a high volume). Please advise(and/or correct) my opinion in this regard. Also, it would be great if you recommend any good center channel (matching 2 front speakers) around $500 or under (combined price with main speakers.

 

[ChrisWiggles]

look at paradigm for very good, and easily found/auditioned entry speakers.

As for center or sub, it depends on your preferences. If you can get a good triangle setup of your mains, they should achieve good center imaging, in which case I might be tempted to go for a sub instead. Depends on your situation and preferences of course.