(Part 2) Best bookshelf speakers according to redditors
We found 7,880 Reddit comments discussing the best bookshelf speakers. We ranked the 433 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
Thanks everyone. I'm glad to join the team and I think I've got a few ideas you will really enjoy. Currently mobile but I will update this post a bit later when I get home.
Time for a celebratory dram.
As requested, my build is below:
PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks
Type|Item|Price
:----|:----|:----
CPU | Intel Core i7-2600K 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor | $269.99 @ Newegg
CPU Cooler | Corsair Hydro Series H50 Liquid CPU Cooler | $49.99 @ Newegg
Motherboard | ASRock P67 Extreme 4 (B3) ATX LGA1155 Motherboard | $180.81 @ NCIX US
Memory | G.Skill Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory | $56.99 @ Newegg
Memory | G.Skill Ripjaws X Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory | $56.99 @ Newegg
Storage | Samsung Spinpoint F3 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $88.86 @ Outlet PC
Storage | Crucial M4 64GB 2.5" Solid State Disk | $62.99 @ Microcenter
Storage | Crucial M4 64GB 2.5" Solid State Disk | $62.99 @ Microcenter
Storage | Seagate Barracuda 3TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $149.98 @ NCIX US
Video Card | XFX Radeon HD 6950 2GB Video Card (CrossFire) |-
Video Card | Powercolor Radeon HD 6950 2GB Video Card (CrossFire) |-
Sound Card | Asus Xonar DG 24-bit 96 KHz Sound Card | $19.99 @ Microcenter
Case | Antec Nine Hundred Two V3 ATX Mid Tower Case | $123.84 @ Mac Connection
Power Supply | Corsair 650W ATX12V / EPS12V Power Supply | $114.99 @ Newegg
Optical Drive | Asus DRW-24B1ST/BLK/B/AS DVD/CD Writer | $19.98 @ Outlet PC
Operating System | Microsoft Windows 7 Professional SP1 (64-bit) | $130.20 @ Amazon
Mouse | Logitech G500 Wired Laser Mouse | $54.99 @ SuperBiiz
Keyboard | Ducky Shine Blue LED Cherry MX Blacks |-
Monitor| Viewsonic VX2439wm|-
Monitor| Yamakasi Catleap Q270 SE|-
External DAC| Behringer UCA202|-
Bling| LOGISYS Computer CLK12BL 12" Cold Cathode kit|-
Subwoofer| Dayton Sub-1000|-
Amp| AudioSource Amp-100|-
Speakers| Pioneer SP-BS21-LR 80 Watt RMS 2-Way Speakers|-
Headphones| ATH-M50S|-
| | Total
| Prices include shipping and discounts when available. | $1443.58
| Generated by PCPartPicker 2012-08-09 20:16 EDT-0400 |
Ducky on the old "desk"
more pics incoming... stay tuned while i find a real camera
Desk top and complete picture
nobody has explained their recommendations.
you don't get good volume on dialog because of crappy channel mixing from your TV.
that's not a dig on your specific TV... all TV's suck at this. in fact, most receivers suck at mixing down from 5.1/7.1 to stereo.
for any content generated in surround, something like 95% of the dialog volume is mixed to the center channel.
if you're listening on a pair of stereo speakers, you get to hear what the TV thinks is best, in terms of balancing the volumes between the channels.
folks here are recommending receivers that would give you 5.1 channel audio, and then also suggesting three speakers.
the three speakers are your Front L+R, and the all important center speaker.
receivers do a moderately good job of mixing all the surround channels to just the Front L+Rs, and if you have the center speaker, it will still get all of that delicious dialog.
your budget is a little tight, but doable.
https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv379bl/yamaha-rx-v379-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html $150
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009IUIV4A/ $60 for your front L+R pair
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ $50 for your center channel
-
check out your sound settings for anything called "normalization" or "equalization".
this will cap the maximum volume difference between the audio channels. so in effect it will reduce the loud parts, and bring up the volume on the quiet parts. this may be sufficient for you to like what you hear, or be sufficient for you to just get some nicer speakers and be quite satisfied.
if the "equalization" setting fixes the quiet/loud problem, but you just want more oomph, i would recommend
eris 4.5's https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GP56OYA/ $180
or
fluance ai40's https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ $200
both are self-powered, and need nothing other than a cable to connect them to your Tv.
i have eris e3.5's and they are simply great.
i have fluance floor speakers, and they're also great, so i would expect good performance on the ai40's.
ai40's come with more features - a bluetooth input option, and a remote to control the volume, source.
They remind me of AudioEngine A5s, which are excellent speakers.
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Premium-Powered-Speaker-White/dp/B005OSR1C8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1456943270&sr=8-2&keywords=audioengine+a5%2B
Sound waves have length based on their frequency, called wavelength. Higher pitched sounds have shorter wavelengths. Any sounds which reach a full wavelength within the distance from the driver to the edge of the baffle are reflected back to the listener and sound louder, and any which leave the baffle before hitting a full wavelength are not, and are quieter as a result. This is called "baffle step loss".
One way to minimize this effect is to spread it out - if the tweeter is the same distance from two sides (or even three sides, if it's close to the top), the baffle reinforces the same frequency range in every direction. If you offset the tweeter so it's a different distance from each edge, it reinforces a slightly different frequency range in each direction, giving it a smoother response across the frequency range. This sounds better on its own, and may also make it easier for the designer to incorporate a "baffle step compensation" into the crossover, toning down the reinforced frequencies.
Another reason it's done, in "MTM" or bigger speakers with multiple low-frequency woofers and a single tweeter, is to get the big drivers a bit closer together.
Now, tweeters aren't always offset on homemade speakers. There are plenty of designs with centered tweeters, and some sound very good. And sometimes they're offset on commercial speakers. It just happens that a few very common DIY designs, like the Overnight Sensations here, use offset tweeters. If I had to guess, I'd say that commercial speakers are either more concerned about symmetry for aesthetics, or are designed using more custom components that make the baffle step easy to deal with, while DIY speakers are more likely to worry about getting the best performance possible without tricks.
Hooly shit, my dude
4-6k is super overkill
A super beast boss of a PC could cost you up to 1-2k, VR setup maximum 1k, and other peripherals will probably total 200-500.
The thing is, that's if you're going for the "maximum ultimate gamer" setup. You can do it for way cheaper; I got a decent setup for less than 1k total.
That said, I'm going to give you some good advice to help get you started.
--------------
First, the PC.
Use the resources available to you at /r/buildapc or buy your own prebuilt. When going on this search, know the following:
Expect to spend around $600 - $1000 for a "basic" gaming PC, and around $2000 for a maxed-out top-tier PC.
-----------------
Next, the peripherals. You will need the following:
You can use a PS4 controller with your PC via bluetooth, a dongle, or a wire.
You also mentioned that you wanted a VR headset, so I'll cover that as well.
-------
The Monitor
The three most important features of a monitor are its resolution, panel type, and refresh rate.
Most monitors are 1080p (shorthand for 1920x1080) resolution, with 60Hz refresh rate. This is just fine for gaming, and it's probably what your ACER monitor is. If you choose to upgrade, I highly recommend prioritizing a refresh rate upgrade; for gaming, upgrading to a 120Hz, 144Hz, or 240Hz refresh rate will blow your fucking mind, even at the same resolution (1920x1080).
Here's a helpful site with suggestions on how to pick out a monitor and what monitors to buy. /r/buildapc also has a monitor buying guide.
-------
The Mouse
Selecting a gaming mouse is very personal; it's like selecting a weapon of choice with which to smite your enemies, and there isn't really much that makes any gaming mouse "better" than any other. Even wireless gaming mice have become responsive enough to be just as good as wired.
I recommend Logitech G Series mice, and if you want, here's a gaming mouse reviewer's top 40 picks to sift through, with some advice on how to choose the right one.
Do buy a proper gaming mouse, though; they're relatively cheap, and it makes a huge difference to your experience.
Use a mousepad, but any mousepad is fine. SteelSeries makes "premium gaming mousepads", if you're after that, but they perform no better than your $5 bargain bin mousepad with a cat on it.
------
The Keyboard
You'll be fine using whatever keyboard you have; it makes the smallest difference to your gaming experience out of any of the peripherals.
However, if you want the best of the best, you can get a proper "gaming keyboard" with mechanical switches. Head over to /r/MechanicalKeyboards/ to go pick one out.
---------
The Audio
You're pretty much on your own for this one.
Some good brands for headsets are Logitech, Corsair, and Razer, but beyond that I have no idea how to pick one.
For speakers, I have no idea what's good. I use M-Audio AV32 speakers, and they work well for me, but there's a whole world of speakers to choose from.
Regardless of what you choose or even if you use your own gear, make sure you have a microphone; it makes a huge difference playing multiplayer games, and you did mention you want to play with your friends.
----------------
The Headset
Here are the major options to choose from:
Oculus Rift S ($400)
Pros:
Cons:
HTC Vive ($500) (or its associated upgrades)
Pros:
Cons:
Valve Index ($1000)
Pros:
Cons:
I recommend the HTC Vive; in my opinion, it strikes the best balance between price and experience.
--------------
Hope all this helps!
In the future, I recommend /r/buildapc and /r/pcgaming for these types of questions; they'll be better-equipped to point you in the right direction.
Micca MB42x + SMSL SA50 + Chromecast = about $194. You'd also need some speaker cable, and a 3.5mm to RCA cable.
Fluance SX6 if you want to bump up the speakers.
I'll make a list of stuff you need. For the best "bang for your buck" in the $200ish price range.
-----------------------------------------
Speaker wire. Amazon Basics makes great stuff. If you want, you can get 100 feet of it for an extra $2 I think. You can get those monoprice banana plugs if you want. They just help if you're going to be switching speakers around a lot.
Simple wire stripper. Should work just fine.
Cable to plug it in. That'll just plug the amp into a computer. And that cable is amazing quality. For real. I don't know what it is about it, but the moment I touched that cable I knew it was special. This isn't a joke either. You'll understand when you get one. Trust me.
50 watt per channel amp. This thing will be more than enough. I just like it because it is open box, so cheap. The same one new on amazon is $65. If you want to order from amazon, you can just get the smsl sa-36a. Same amp, just 20 watts per channel. Which, again, is plenty.
[Here's that cheaper smsl amp] https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017W13OR0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_U2NSBbTRHGFS5). I've got a few of them. They're great. This is what I'd go for if the other one is sold out.
Cheap but good little amp. I don't have one of these because I'm not a fan of the looks, but they get great reviews and a lot of people really like them.
---------------
Speakers:
Miccas. These things are nice for that price. In this price range, you really won't be getting anything better unless you go DIY.
Fluance SX6. These guys are big, but they throw a good amount of sound and some pretty deep bass for a pair of bookshelf speakers. Careful, they're pretty big.
Pioneer. These things are decent, but I think the Fluances would be better for this price. The SX6s throw more bass, which is good if you're not getting a sub. However, these are smaller.
Fluance signature series. I know, you said your budget is only $200, but you said if you need to spend more, then you will. These will sound better than all of the other speakers linked, however, that's not why they're here. I put them here for two reasons. The first is that they're front ported. Most people that are new to speakers might put them up against a wall or close to it, not understanding that the port needs some room to breathe. These have front ports so that's not a problem. The second reason, just look at them. If you really care about looks, these ones are the ones. They're beautiful. (My opinion obviously).
Oof almost forgot. Pleaae don't place the speakers directly on your desk.
--------------------------------
That's a lot. I'll sum it up with my opinion and why.
Amp: smsl sa36a. For close range, you don't need anything with more power. This thing will do whatever you need for bookshelf speakers.
Speakers: micca mb42x. Why? Here's why: for this price range, you won't notice a huge difference in any speakers, unless you get some bad ones. So, get the cheapest ones you can. Later on, if you can afford to upgrade them, you'll probably want to do that. Then you'll have a pair of $80 speakers that you don't need rather than a pair of 130 speakers that you don't need. Another reason I would pick the miccas is because they punch above their price range. Most people say they sound more like a pair of $125 speakers rather than a pair of $80 speakers. So, for real, they're good. Also, they're the smallest of the bunch.
Or, build a pair of C Notes and get something way better than any of these.
Hope this helps!
Sure, they are $120 new.
Alternatives:
Powered/Active: 4" Edifiers start at $70. Edifier R980T or larger 5" Swan D1080-IV $140 or Fluance Ai40 $200
Amp+Passive:
$53 Bundle 6-1/2" 2-Way Bookshelf Speaker Pair and Hi-Fi Mini Amplifier
Mini amps:
Kinter K2020A $33. SMSL SA50 $67, Dayton Audio DTA-120BT $75, Micca OriGain $80 or $100 with USB DAC, more at Zeos AMP and DAC guide.
Speakers:
AverageJoe's Speaker List
Polk Audio T15 $50
Micca MB42X $80
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR 4" Bookshelf Speakers (Pair) $68 or if sale is over, PIONEERSP-BS22-LR $90
Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker $73
DIY C-notes $100
Clearance sale dual 5.25" Polk Audio Monitor 40 Series $100
Speaker wire and self adjusting wire strippers or basic.
Subwoofer:
Franklin Audio FPS10 10" 100 Watt Powered Subwoofer $90 with $10 off coupon
Disclosure: Micca sent these free for me to review. I have too many speakers so that doesn't sway my reviews. Micca has always been helpful before I started reviewing products and I am happy with the products I've purchased from them in the past; that does sway my review. Also, my video has affiliate links in the description that help to fund my channel. If you would like a link to the Micca RB42 that is not an affiliate link, here it is: https://www.amazon.com/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=rb42&qid=1554468373&s=gateway&sr=8-1
Here is how I got started:
Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers $40 refurbished
Micca MB42-C Center Channel Speaker $27 new
Denon AVR-1912 7.1 Receiver $75 used on Craigslist
The great thing about these speakers is you can order a $30 crossover upgrade from Micca and feel like you got brand new speakers.
You could also skip the center channel and get a subwoofer on Craigslist, instead.
The Polk system would be the best IMO, as it uses a standard receiver. That being said, the speakers and sub are junk.
$500 is a decent budget, you can do an entry level 2.1 for that money and it will blow all 3 of those kits out of the water.
https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs540bt/denon-avr-s540bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/bic-america-formula-12-475w-powered-subwoofer-black/4235056.p?skuId=4235056&intl=nosplash
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/
That puts you at $530. In the future you can move the RB42's to surrounds and get a better L/C/R setup.
With a $600 budget you should start with a 2.0 system then, if you want, add to it as the budget replenishes to flesh it out to a full 5.1 system. With that budget I'd start with this:
Receiver $240: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/marnr1403/marantz-nr1403-slimline-5.1-av-receiver/1.html
L/R speakers $172: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-3&keywords=infinity+primus
This will immediately be better than any soundbar (well, other than a $1500 Martin Logan soundbar) and is high quality and flexible. When possible get this subwoofer $270: http://smile.amazon.com/NXG-Technology-NX-BAS-500-500-watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008FSTU4G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873379&sr=8-1&keywords=nxg+bas500
Center channel $145: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Speaker-Center-Channel/dp/B0046A8R5A/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-10&keywords=infinity+primus
And finally surrounds $120: http://smile.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0044D3R7M/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1425873281&sr=8-5&keywords=infinity+primus
There is a lot of contention in the audiophile community about whether any quality amplifier sounds different from another. I've done much research and I've found that there are only accurate and innacurate amplifiers as well as weak vs powerful(able to handle strong electrical loads). In fact any receiver company worth its salt, Onkyo, Sony, Panasonic, Marantz will produce audibly similar amps. People recommend vintage products purport that for some reason new designs for amps are worse, bad sounding, or inaccurate. I've owned vintage amps; they are easier to repair and will last along time. They sound good but they also sound 'different' and to me that most likely means inaccurate. With every improvement in science and computing over the last 20 years, I don't believe we have produced worse or less accurate sounding electronics. Maybe accuracy is not what everyone desires.
For a general consumer I would recommend a digital receiver from a reputable company
Now this is BIFL. So I will give that recommendation:
Surround Sound:
http://bryston.com/9bsst_m.html
20 year warranty. Costs arm and leg.
http://us.marantz.com/us/Products/Pages/ProductDetails.aspx?CatId=AVSeparates&SubCatId=0&ProductId=AV7005
3 year warranty. Home theater moves fast so youll probably end up replacing it anyways.
Just stereo:
http://bryston.com/b60_m.html
---------------
My recommendation for a setup that would last you a long time would be:
The cheapest receiver you can find with Audyssey MultiEq(the best sound correction technology on the market):
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-1612-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B004U403WM
It is important to follow this guide when setting up MultiEq:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14456895
FYI: The maker of Infinity speakers, Harman International, is an incredibly well respected professional audio company. They know what they are doing.
For Front LR
2x
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Floorstanding-Speaker/dp/B0044D178S
Center(turn it on its side and angle it to you):
1x http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1318744500&sr=1-1
Surrounds:
http://emotiva.com/erd1.shtm
Subwoofer(I would get two and put one in the back center of the room and one in the center front):
http://www.overstock.com/Electronics/Bic-Acoustech-Platinum-Series-PL-200-Subwoofer/5070689/product.html
I have research if you doubt me or have questions. If you need something more in budget I can tailor the recommendation.
Not sure why my links came out all fucked up? Too lazy to try and fix it.
His.
Monitors: [Dell S2716DGR] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0149QBOF0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Triple Monitor Mount: [EZM Deluxe Triple Monitor Mount] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JG7G2E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s06?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Keyboard: [Corsair K70 Cherry MX Reds] (https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-K70-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B01ER4B8C8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1526665446&sr=8-2&keywords=corsair%2Bk70%2Bcherry%2Bred&th=1)
Mouse: [Corsair Scimitar Pro RGB] (https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Gaming-SCIMITAR-Mechanical-Buttons/dp/B013KK9JOO/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526665487&sr=1-2&keywords=corsair+scimitar+pro+rgb)
Mouse Pad: [Razer Goliathus Overwatch Mouse Mat] (https://www.amazon.com/Razer-Goliathus-Overwatch-Mouse-Professional-Grade/dp/B01DXVKEJY)
Wireless Headset: [Steel Series 800 Wireless] (https://www.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Lag-Free-Wireless-Transmitter-Surround/dp/B016YGMH9U/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526665568&sr=1-3&keywords=steelseries+h800)
Speakers: [Audioengine A5+] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OSR1C8/ref=twister_B00L3KRZS6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)
Speaker Mounts: [Audioengine DS2 Desktop speaker stands] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005STCILC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Desk Surface: [Ikea EKBACKEN countertop 98in] (https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80274864/)
Desk Drawers: Haha who am I kidding everyone knows that those are!
Lamp: [IKEA Hektar lamp] (https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40349376/)
Cable Management
[Raceways] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015EDVVU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s06?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
[Velcro zip ties] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E1Y5O6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
[Desk Grommet ](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MX5TH4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
[Cable clips] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075WWCN1K/ref=detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Pc build specs
Case: NZXT H440
Motherboard: ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero Z270 LGA1151
CPU: i7 6700k
RAM: G.SKILL TridentZ RGB Series 32GB
Power supply: Corsair RM series modular 1000W 80plus Gold
Power cables: Corsair custom sleeved in blue
CPU cooler: NZXT Kraken X52
Boot Drive: SAMSUNG 750 EVO 2.5" 500GB
HDD: 2TB Western Digital
GPU: EVGA 12GB Titan black
Hers.
Monitor: [Asus ROG Switft 34in ultra wide] (https://www.amazon.com/ASUS-ROG-SWIFT-PG348Q-3440x1440/dp/B01C83BE6U/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526666082&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Asus+-+ROG+Swift+34%22+IPS+LED+Curved+QHD+GSync+Monitor+-+Armor+titanium+Plasma+copper)
Monitor Mount: [VIV duial mount] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CUW5HDU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
Mouse: [Razer Naga Chroma] (https://www.amazon.com/Razer-Naga-Chroma-Programmable-Adjustible/dp/B01798WKTY/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526666200&sr=1-4&keywords=razer+mmo+mouse)
Keyboard: [Corsair K70 Cherry MX Reds] (https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-K70-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B01ER4B8C8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1526665446&sr=8-2&keywords=corsair%2Bk70%2Bcherry%2Bred&th=1)
Mouse pad: [Razer Goliathus Overwatch Mouse Mat] (https://www.amazon.com/Razer-Goliathus-Overwatch-Mouse-Professional-Grade/dp/B01DXVKEJY)
Wireless Headset: [Steel Series 800 Wireless] (https://www.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Lag-Free-Wireless-Transmitter-Surround/dp/B016YGMH9U/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526665568&sr=1-3&keywords=steelseries+h800)
Speakers: [KRK Rokit 5 ](https://www.amazon.com/KRK-RP5G3-NA-Generation-Powered-Monitor/dp/B00FX7MMRO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1526666262&sr=8-1&keywords=krk+rokit+5)
Desk Surface x2 : [IKEA Linnmon] (https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S39932699/)
Cable Management
Cable Rack: [IKEA Signum rack] (https://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30200253/)
PC Build specs
Case: Corsair crystal series 460X
Motherboard: ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero Z270 LGA1151
CPU: i7 7700k
RAM: G.SKILL TridentZ RGB Series 32GB
Power supply: Corsair RM series modular 1000W 80plus Gold
CPU cooler: NZXT Kraken X52
HDD: WD 1TB
GPU: GTX 1080 ti SC
All in the sidebar.....
https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/d1010iv
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NXAEPDC
https://www.chanemusiccinema.com/multimedia-desktop/hivi-acoustics/d1080iv
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0
SVS PB2000 sub -$800
Marantz SR5009 $420
Infinity primus center $200
Infinity primus towers $300 for the pair
Infinity primus bookshelfs $190 for a pair add another pair for 7.1
add another big subwoofer later for more oompf. the primus series represents pretty good value and they will play quite impactfully
then figure in another grand for a projector and screen
Here are some thoughts on this.
Here are a few options to consider.
B&W are great, but I feel they are overpriced just to be overpriced. Not like Beats/Bose or anything of course. I also feel that $2000 is just too damn much for a 2.0 (unless a sub isn't possible so you run like SVS Ultra towers), and you'd just be spending a shit ton on the center ($1250). They only go down to 50Hz (good for a bookshelf), that's a lot of frequencies to miss out on.
Definitely don't get the Klipsch sub, only 200w RMS and only goes down to 29HZ, too much for the money.
If wanting a 3.1:
Speaker calibration can make any system sound better; even if you get expensive equipment, Audyssey can work wonders. You could get the Denon X1300W (lowest model that will be updated to support Dolby Vision and HLG, the format cable companies will likely use) which is currently on sale for $400 or $320+~$10 shipping for factory refurb, if you go bookshelf option #2, you'd have >$350 leftover even if you chose the more expensive color.
These are amazingly good for the price. The 8-inch woofer provides great bass, though they are a little larger than most desktop speakers.
http://www.amazon.com/Tripath-TPA3123-Stereo-Amplifier-Supply/dp/B008YBC172/
http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-TDA7492-Integrated-Tripath-Amplifier/dp/B00F0H8TOC/
http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2
http://www.amazon.com/Mordaunt-Short-Alumni-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B0049APO8U
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12
http://www.fluance.com/product/SX6_High_Definition_Two_way_Bookshelf_Loudspeakers.eng-12.html
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG
http://www.amazon.com/Fostex-PMO-4-W-4-Inch-Personal-Speaker/dp/B00CYNT8XG
http://www.amazon.com/Alesis-Elevate-Speakers-Elliptical-Waveguide/dp/B00F3F7OIS
New, you could consider the Monitor Audio Bronze speakers, or the Zensor 3's. There are also a pair of Monitor Silvers, which look to be in excellent nick, should you decide to reconsider your stand on used. You could pair it with the Yamaha A-S301 amp, or consider this Teac or indeed this NAD depending on the features you're looking for in an integrated amplifier.
$300 for 2.1?
Bookshelf speakers: Pioneer BS21
Amplifier: AudioSource AMP100 runs 50w at 8ohm. It will be plenty clear and loud.
Subwoofer: Dayton SUB-100 - 100w powered subwoofer
spend the rest on speaker wire and shipping. You're going to want to plug your source into the amplifier via a 3.5mm to RCA cable. Then wire the amplifier into the subwoofer. Wire out of the subwoofer to the speakers and that's it.
I have the same speakers & subwoofer, but a different amp (similar power rating). It sounds really good if everything is positioned well. Enjoy.
$260 for those Miccas is borderline ridiculous. You can get much better speakers for less. I'd prefer either of the below for significantly less money:
> I am looking into the Z625 right now.
Nope, no... no.
Don't buy Logitech, seriously.
Here's an alternative suggestion:
SMSL-50
Micca RB42's!
u/Polypeptide147 will be able to sing the praises of these speakers... the system I described will perform much better than those crap Logitech 2.1 systems.
Okay, fine, I went over your budget by $10... but I promise you, it's worth it! Friends don't let friends buy Logitech.
This is my grandpa's turn table that he bought sometime around the 80's and took to Ecuador. Asked my dad to bring it back to the states so I could have something to remember him by.
Did a little research bought a Pre-amp and set it up with these Speakers and i couldnt be happier with the sound im getting from them.
> Better than built-in TV speakers, cheaper than a 2.1 setup
That's not setting a high standard. If you have analog output from your TV, get a small amp for $70, and a pair of bookshelf speakers for $130, and you'll get far better sound quality than this soundbar.
So looking at this I assume your total Budget is about £300. If I were you, I'd recommend trying to up that budget just a little bit, to maybe £350. It'll open up another realm of possibilities. In the £350 budget, I'll always recommend a Yamaha A-S301, as it is arguably one of the best amps in the price range. If you're really settled on either the Onkyo or the Marantz, I would easily recommend the Marantz. In my experience with those two amps, the Marantz has a slightly richer sound. I'll admit I listened to the Marantz PM6005 not the PM5005, however tonally there is no difference between the two, just a difference in power supply.
There is always however the choice of buying second hand. This is an excellent way to get higher quality equipment at a lower price. This takes me nicely to my recommendation for speakers. Really, with very little contest in the price range, the Cambridge Audio S-30's reign supreme, at least in my opinion and many others. The problem is they're discontinued, so you'll have to find them on eBay. If you really want to settle for brand new speakers though, those Polk speakers look alright. I've never heard them myself, but the reviews look good, and the massive sale right now would suggest they'd be a good grab. Other possibilities you might not have considered are the Wharfedale Diamond 220's in Black or in Rosewood. These are excellent for the price, and they look really nice too! The Dali Zensor 1's are often recommended, though I've never listened to them myself, I've heard some excellent things. My final recommendation for speakers are of course the Q Acoustics 2020i. They are remarkably good for the price, and aren't too fussy about power supplying. All of the speakers I've mentioned thus far however will be able to be powered by the Yamaha A-S301.
Those are about all the recommendations I can think of, but if you're really settled on your current speakers and between those two amps, I'd say get the Marantz.
If you have any questions just send me a reply :-)
They already have a Logitech mouse.
Get a nice IPS monitor and a mech keyboard, that'll give you the most enjoyment for your dollar:
 
Acer G227HQL 21.5-Inch HD IPS Monitor $99.99
https://www.amazon.com/Acer-G227HQL-Abi-21-5-Inch-Widescreen/dp/B00JB6HCHI/
It's IPS and 21.5" @ 1080P, which gives you a nice, high pixel density.
 
Logitech G610 Orion Brown Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard $79.99
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CDYB8F6
It's Logitech, so it'll match your mouse, the Cherry MX Brown key switches will be a pleasure to type on and its just a white backlight instead of tacky RGB.
 
Then get a gaming mat for your keyboard and mouse:
 
Black Extended Gaming Mouse Mat / Pad - XXL Large $14.99
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014OOWMHQ/
Its big and no branding, so it won't look tacky.
 
After that, maybe some nice desktop speakers:
 
M-Audio AV32 | 10-Watt Compact Studio Monitor Speakers $79.99
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-10-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/
These will blow away your OontZ Angle.
I know it’s nothing special, but this is my macsetup! I work primarily on video editing projects, some Photoshopping, with some Wordpress website building sprinkled in there. But this setup is used mostly for generic browsing, YouTube/Netflix, and Plex server hosting.
So this is my setup that I’ve built over the course of 4 years.
Hard Drive Toaster - StarTech.com HDD Docking Station
Little sumo man was a gift from a friend. Custom R2-series astromech droid was purchased a trip to Disney Paris. And I name my external hard drives after characters in movies and TV shows that I enjoy.
Let me know if you have any questions!
I recently purchased a town house, after renting a room for several years. Didn't have any furniture other than the bedroom essentials, so I had a pretty blank slate to work with.
I realize the layout isn't ideal, given the lighting and open floor layout (opens up to the dining room and kitchen), but I was more concerned with having a good hangout environment than having the prefect viewing experience. The only other option was an above ground basement, which would have had the same lighting issue, though better acoustics.
The lighting isn't as bad as it appears in the picture, imo. I've never really had a problem with it, though I do spend most of my time relaxing in the evenings when there is no direct sunlight coming from those windows. Even then, the Samsung seems to handle it well.
EDIT:
Additional pictures of the cable management.
https://i.imgur.com/iPxbpNz.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/6pkdjpH.jpg
For the wall I used some 1/4" shaped wiremold from Home Depot. Sanded and spray painted it to match the existing 1/4" Round. For the rest of the power cables and such, I modified the middle drawer of an Ikea cabinet to hide them away and give me easy access. I'm still not quite sure what to do about the remaining outlet wires, but other than that there aren't any other visible cables.
EDIT 2:
Since I've been asked about pretty much every piece short of the coffee table, I figured I would update this post to consolidate that info. Most of these items I bought used or on sale.
TV - Samsung KS8500 65"
Reciever - Denon AVR-S720W
Speakers - ELAC UB5/UC5/UB5, Surrounds - B4
Subwoofer - Bic Acoustech PL-200 12"
Entertainment Center - Modified BESTÅ from Ikea
Speaker Stands - Sanus SF30 Steel Series
Couch - Corey Sectional from Havertys
Art - Patent Collections from Displate
Rug - [Safavieh Glacier from Overstock](https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Safavieh-Glacier-Contemporary-Abstract-Blue-Multi-
Area-Rug-6-7-x-9-67-x-9/14248766/product.html)
Bookshelves - Parthenia Etagere Bookcase from Wayfair
Coffee Table - Baxton Studio Wood/Metal End Table
I think you'll do better with some budget Micca speakers and a Denon S540BT. Please DON'T waste your money on that Yamaha sub. Don't get a sub for now and save up for a quality subwoofer that will likely outlive your speakers.
Here's my suggested list:
If you wanna go super budget, you could even just do 3 Micca OoO's for your front stage and it honestly wouldn't sound terrible.
We're gonna need your budget in order to help. But A 2.1 setup is definitley the way to go to upgrade ehar you have. Sell those. They are very popular. If you want strictly a computer speaker setup, a 2 channel amp is probably fine. My bestbuy has a really weak bookshelf speaker selection, but you probably at least have the pioneer andrew jones speakers. They are well reviewed. If you have a nice discount they might be a good idea. Also a simple rule is the bigger they are, the louder and lower they get.
/r/zeos has a good 2.1 guide and /r/budgetaudiophile has great extensive speaker recommendation list. If you want to really rock, the pioneers may not be ideal.
These yamaha are massive bangers to blow your face off.
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1421977443&sr=8-3&keywords=yamaha+speakers
2 of these would be good too. Smaller.
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1421977463&sr=8-2&keywords=infinity+primus
Smsl amp http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-TDA7492-Integrated-Tripath-Amplifier/dp/B00F0H8TOC
Sub http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015A8Y5M/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1421962220&sr=8-1
But read through the the zeos guide and the sidebars.
I agree, get a pair of the Fluance SX6 with an amp like the SMSL SA50 or the Lepy if you don't want to go over budget. This combination will blow anything else for 200 dollars out the water. You could add a subwoofer somewhere down the line as well.
I'm a noobie. The only speaker system I've had before is a [Logitech z623 Computer speakers] (https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/speaker-system-z623?crid=47) which was satisfactory until the subwoofer started rattling at high volumes and one of the speakers stopped working. I want to get a full set-up so I've been learning everything I can. I want a good set up for house parties, generally playing rap and electronic music. My budget is $250-500.
Willing to buy used, just always paranoid I'll buy something in bad shape.
These are the parts that I am currently contemplating buying:
Speakers -- I can't decide between tower or bookshelf. I have read that bookshelf speakers can be a better bang for your buck, so I would love some suggestions. Speakers are suppose to be the most important part of the set up so I've tried to pick out decent options, but very willing to go cheap if there are any good deals.
Bookshelf option:
Craigslist for Bookshelf
Tower options:
or the cheaper version
or dirt cheap option
Craiglist for Towers
Subwoofer:
This product seemed to be at a great price for its quality, so for now I think this is what I'm gonna get but very open to suggestions.
Craigslist for Subwoofers
Still doing research on DAC's, Amps and Receivers, probably just gonna go with a receiver for simplicity's sake.
EDIT: Wait can I just get these JBL LSR305 Professional Studio Monitor with the built in amps and then just have to buy a DAC? or would I still need a receiver if I wanted to add a subwoofer?
ZuAudio, Polk and several other companies have set there systems up that way. I have even been known to flip most speakers upside down. You just bring the woofer into the dominant position since more sound comes from that part of the speaker anyway.
As long as you aren't concerned with reflections off of a surface there is no determent to the sound. Try it.
Amp
NAD 3020 V2 ($399) has:
Turntable
U-Turn Audio ($309) have gotten good reviews from the few people I know that have picked one up. They look nice and do their job.
Speakers
This is way trickier and way more personal, I personally have had very good luck with used gear from Swans, Canton, Mirage, Chario and JBL that I would have never been able to afford new and have been very happy with. The only speakers I've gotten brand new recently were the Elac B6 and I enjoyed them too.
Some options with the rest of your budget ~$500
Wharfedale Denton 80th (~$500) Absolutely beautiful, review well, I only had a brief listen in person so can't entirely vouch but I liked what I heard
Elac UB5 (~$400) Very nice bookshelf, the concentric set up for the mid range and tweeter is nice and slick and fits a 3 way design into a bookshelf footprint nicely.
Monitor Audio Bronze 2 (~$500) Again, lovely design, enjoyed them when I auditioned them but ended up going with some used Cantons that time.
Marshal is a good brand of Guitar Amplifiers, but not the best. The WHO, for example, used Marshal Cases but put EARTH Amps inside. They had a sponsor deal with Marshal.
But £435 for a tiny Marshal Bluetooth speaker? You could by a Stereo Amp, add 8" bookshelf speakers, and add a Bluetooth Receiver for about $320
Avantree Bluetooth Receiver - $40 to $50 -
https://www.amazon.com/Avantree-Bluetooth-Transmitter-Receiver-Headphones/dp/B00LAZ6RTW
https://www.amazon.com/Avantree-Bluetooth-Transmitter-Receiver-Headphones/dp/B072BMF2LP
Yamaha RS202, 100w/ch Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth - $129 -
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_022RS202/Yamaha-R-S202.html?tp=47041
Notice the above amp already has BLUETOOTH Capability, so your don't really need the Avantree Bluetooth Receiver.
Yamaha NS-6490, 8", 3-way Sealed Speakers - $130/pr -
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA
More realistically -
Certainly your choice, but why buy a toy stereo when you can get the real thing for less money.
If want to connect the very substantial system to your TV for Movie watching, that would be an extra $20, which is still far less than the Marshal.
FIIO DAC Optical/Coaxial - $20 -
https://www.amazon.com/D03K-Digital-Analog-Audio-Converter/dp/B009346RSS
In reality, this is all you really need assuming you intend to connect to a TV as well as Bluetooth.
That is a full size, full power Stereo System, that is, yes larger, but a lot more versatile than a small single purpose Bluetooth speaker.
Start with a 5.1 receiver and 2 speakers and add the other speakers later.
This
https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/yamrxv383bl/yamaha-rx-v383-5.1-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html
Plus 1 pair of :
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2
Or
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-BK-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00IEDL8EM
Or
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG
Or
https://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-MK402X-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07TB1P7XJ
Or
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA
But surround is for TV/Movies - most who have surround sound listen to music in 2 speaker stereo mode
If mostly Music you could get a 2 channel receiver and a pair of speakers or Powered speakers which don’t need a receiver
This with any of the speakers above
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-STRDH190-Stereo-Receiver-Bluetooth/dp/B078WFDR8D
Or powered speakers
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1
https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1700BT-Bluetooth-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B016PATXSI
https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Bookshelf-Subwoofer-Bluetooth-Wireless/dp/B077Y6PHKQ
Elac UB5 is on sale over at Amazon for $400. I have to admit I too, like many others fell victim to the hype and became giddy and incontinent with excitement when they were released.
I mean, even Patrick Norton sounded like a Justin Beiber fanboy when he interviewed Andrew Jones for Tested. Squeee!
Unfortunately, I was of the 2 people that weren't blown away by the UE5 (/u/strategicdeceiver was probably the other). To me the super-innovative engineering (did you see the crossover inside the belly of this beast?) did not match the way the end-product sounded. It's a perfectly competent sounding speaker, just not one of the greats.
Having said that, it's a very good choice for folks looking for a decent pair of bookshelves for $400.
And having said that, there are other options with different sound profiles on sale right now for around the same price though, for example the MA Bronze 2 and the KEF Q300
For a credible 2.1 system without making 'too' many compromises, the lowest I can get you is about $375:
This will get you some darn good sound for the price and will give credibility to both music and movies.
Amazon has Infinity P163s on sale for $59 each right now. You'd need a receiver as well, but I'm using a pair for my rear channels (P363 tower speakers in the front), and it'd be hard to do much better for the money.
I think you are on the right path with your selections. The amp would be fine for any small to medium sized room listening.
I haven't yet heard them myself, but the measurements that Fluance release look OK, but very artifially flat looking due to the huge Y axis 50dbs would be more of a standard range, not the 120dbs that they are using.
I don't think the Teac's will ever come down in price again. That seemed like a one time event form what I can tell. But they are very good, I enjoy my pair a lot. Though construction quality is lacking when compared to other items in the price range.
My suggestion would be to look at the Infinity Primus line. The most well known and commonly reviewed of the bunch, and hit killer sale prices at least 1/3 of the year. Though currently out of stock, this whole line is very good for the money and I think you would be very happy with them.
For subs all the Dayton's are good for the money. I would get the biggest one that is in your budget and fits in your space.
If your computer has any sort of built-in sound card, and especially if it has an optical output, your money is much better off spent obtaining better audio equipment first, and computer cards second.
I would start out with an inexpensive multi-channel receiver, like this Denon. Pair that with these Micca or these Infinity speakers for a solid 2 channel start. Add a small subwoofer like the Dayton sub-1000 later on to round out the low end.
If you are in the market for a projection setup for your home theater, you should not be skimping on audio as much as you are. Don't bother with either of those systems you linked. They are bottom of the barrel systems with no way to upgrade in the future.
Your budget should really be more than $200-$300 for audio when you are putting together a projection home theater (or any home theater for that matter). You may want a decent receiver for about $200. And some of the cheapest speakers we would recommend would run you about $80 a pair. Maybe these or these for speakers. Add the matching center channel for either and you would be set. I would factor in another $100-$200 for a subwoofer if you want something decent.
If you can't increase you budget enough for all of that, we normally suggest to start off with a 2.0 system (2 speakers and the receiver) then expand as you get more funds.
Your friend sounds like he is just describing surround sound, there is no such thing as "3D" sound, just video.
Hopefully this helps!
I would change the speakers to one of the pioneer/jones variations.
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1382326142&sr=8-9&keywords=pioneer+speakers
These are down to $59 now. (pair) Go with two pair. Add matching center
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C21-Watt-2-Way-Speaker/dp/B004MF4S0M/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_y
That's a heck of a 5.0 package for about $200.
no need to match the brand of the sub to speakers. The key considerations here are...
1)The upper frequency range of the sub overlaps the deep frequency capabilities of the speakers to some degree.
2)The subwoofer is not grossly mismatched in terms of output capabilities. In other words, don't match a Triax subwoofer to tiny cube speakers..:)
Well, I'm really with Blizzrad - $75 isn't much a usable budget for anything (Neither is $150, really), but if you are dead set on making any change now, I'd ditch the speakers. Those Sanyo speakers are not going to be very good (that's a polite way of saying "garbage"). Alternatives in the rough price range is the Pioneer SP-BS21, $80.
Hey all,
Considering buying desktop speakers to replace my harmon kardon sound sticks for my PC.
So far i've narrowed it down to 2 sets. I already have a desktop amp and all so i'm good there...i hope...
My options are,
Pioneer SP-BS21-LR 80-Watts RMS 2-Way Speakers http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MEWZE4/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=18V7A25BWVMGD5B34BG6&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846
or...
Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers with 4-Inch Carbon Fiber Woofer and Silk Dome Tweeter
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009IUIV4A/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_i6?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=18V7A25BWVMGD5B34BG6&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846
I mostly listen to Electronic music with the occasional hip hop. I also play games quite a bit and watch movies. This set up would be for my computer in my bedroom.
Additional equipment i have currently is the Aune T1 with the Bravo V2...maybe V3...
Thanks in advance!
Any other suggestions welcome but i'm hoping to stay around $50 for the speakers.
What HiFi really likes the Q Acoustics 2020i, which I see on amazon.co.uk. IThe Dali Zensor 1 also gets very good reviews. A lot of options, really.
As for hooking it up to your computer, it's hard to say without knowing your gear. you can go au naturel with a straight analog hookup from your line out to an RCA input on your amp. You might need be regular RCA jacks or maybe a mini-to-RCA connector. Personally, I'd get a DAC and use a digital output (I prefer optical, but USB is most common) from the computer to the DAC, then RCA jacks from the DAC to the amp. Again, hard to say.
The 685s are B&Ws low end and still overpriced.
>Buy into the legend
Thats all you're doing with B&W, you're paying $650 for a name, not a $650 loudspeaker.
OP, check out these options
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RB-61-Cherry-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B0040LP6JK
http://www.amazon.com/electronics/dp/B0057X5KF0
http://www.musicdirect.com/p-15479-wharfedale-diamond-102-bookshelf-speakers-pr.aspx
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_760IMGB5C/PSB-Image-B5-Dark-Cherry.html
At $700 for a budget, here is what I suggest you do...
I personally use the Sony MDR7506 as they're pretty much a standard for basic monitoring. Crisp, detailed high end, tight punchy base. Comfortable for hours on end and if you take decent care of them they should last years with the only wear and tear being the earcup material flaking off a bit. They're definitely made for desk-use as they have a very long coiled non-detachable cable.:
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDR7506-Professional-Diaphragm-Headphone/dp/B000AJIF4E
There's also the Sony MDRV6, which are very similar, but apparently have a little more low-end.
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-MDRV6-Studio-Monitor-Headphones/dp/B00001WRSJ
__
As far as speakers go, I've been using the Audioengine A5+ for a few years now and have been very satisfied. Great sound and more power than I'll ever be able to use in my small apartment. They look nice too (I got a good deal on the white ones). They are powered speakers (opposed to the A5) and thus don't require a separate amp. They also come with a small remote for volume/mute:
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
For a DAC I use the Audioengine D1 plugged in through USB, which gives me higher quality audio and a convenient headphone out and volume knob:
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-D1-24-bit-Digital-to-Analog-Converter/dp/B006IPH5H2/
So since I did a lot of searching prior to purchase but couldn't find anything - to anyone else considering using the Ikea Fredde desk and the X34 together, the the monitor stand just barely doesn't fit on the raised shelf and so I had to screw a small metal plate to the back to accommodate the rear foot of the stand. It's a fine solution and I can't see the plate during regular use so it's seamless.
I'm super happy with the monitor besides some minor bleed in the corners but UNF I just can't get over that colour accuracy and encompassing view! With this addition to my setup I feel like I'm at max level, i.e. can't "level up" (at least not very far), with regards to my audio/video setup.
Anyone with a nice ultrawide monitor shouldn't skimp out on audio too! I see a lot of ascension posts featuring $100 Logitech speakers, which are fine but you can improve on audio as much as video! To anyone looking for an excellent performance to value ratio mid-fi 2.1 audio solution to complement their ultrawide I can't recommend this combo highly enough: Audioengine A5+ bookshelf speakers + S8 subwoofer.
EDIT: Forgot about headphones! My point still stands, don't be afraid to spend more for a better experience! I love my Philips Fidelio X2 for both gaming and movies. If you're in the market for some cans head on over to /r/headphones and ask for purchasing advice in the sticky.
Im not ditching my speakers any time soon. ;-)
Audioengine A5+ Active 2-Way Speakers (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OA3BSY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WhIzCb21Y1MC5
If your budget is really $1500 then by the time you buy the TV, furniture, cables, etc. you'll only have around $500 left for audio. At that price range a proper 5.1 setup is definitely out. Here is what I would consider:
Whats your budget and what do you want out of them.
A few months ago my budget was $100-$250 for desktop speakers...and after researching more and more I bought $400 speakers.
(Un)fortunately there are actual scientific measures for speakers and there is a significantly large jump from $200 to $400 generally
I bought Audioengine A5+ after deciding it wasn't worth it to pay $250 on speakers and know that for $400 I could hit that next plateau. Size is also a huge factor, it turns out it's pretty much impossible to get very high quality sound reproduction on smaller speakers. They can take the same speakers and shrink them perfectly and it will have a measurably lower sound reproduction quality.
First of all, before I give suggestions, let me just say it's definitely possible to find something better than what I'm recommending for less money if you go vintage or scour craigslist. However I don't have the knowledge to really help you with vintage gear. I know it takes time, patience, possibly repairs & finding parts, etc. Plus you need to know what you're looking for. And if you don't live in a huge city with tons of quality vintage hi-fi stuff on craigslist or floating around in goodwill stores, it could be a while. So if you want to go that route, maybe somebody around here could take a look at your local craiglist or something and help you out.
So with that being said, if you want to go new/newish, this is the exact lineup I bought for my first setup recently. It's all going to fall into the category of entry level/minimum for "audiophile" so it won't absolutely blow your mind, then again looking at your current situation maybe it will lol:
Project Debut Carbon DC (usually a $400 table, available for $300) here
You will see a lot of people recommend Project, Rega and U-Turn as the best entry level "audiophile" style tables. I am not a man of means so it worked for me. The DC is the upgraded version of the Debut Carbon with a better, quieter power source. Comes with an adjustable counterweight and anti-skate, which your LP60 does not have and the absence of which can cause damage to your records. Furthermore you can upgrade the stylus, the platter, I think the tonearm (?) down the road if you wish, when more money becomes available. It comes with an Ortofon 2M Red which is a solid budget cartridge.
Audioengine A5+ - lightly used $319
Very good powered speakers for the money, so you wouldn't have to spend money on a receiver/amp at this time. I've been thoroughly impressed with them.
Project Phono Box S lightly used - $161.50
Phono stage. Could maybe find one for cheaper that would be just as good, I don't know a ton about phono stages. Remember to set the gain to match your TT when you get it.
Total: $780
I know you said your budget maxed at $600, maybe wait another paycheck or 2 or find a different cheaper phono stage and/or downgrade the A5+ speakers to A2's which are bookshelf speakers if you're ok with that.
There are a lot of options out there, this is just what I ended up going with recently and I'm very satisfied. I've already upgraded the platter on the TT to an acrylic one, and will prob upgrade the cartridge next christmas as a gift to myself, thinking maybe the 2M Bronze. But this will absolutely serve and give you a huge increase in performance from day 1.
They are the Audio Engine A5+,
Here is the amazon link Audioengine A5+ Premium Powered Speaker Pair (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OSR1C8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DC6BzbBTDHRRM
White Widow shortly after completion. For all those who said the 3x 480s were ridiculous, ill have you know they are still overclocked and running strong 2 years later!!
Please comment and let me know what you think of the updates! I'm looking for a pair of speakers and definitely need to do some work beneath the desk.
Audio Engine A5's - Opinions?
Your need for acoustic panelling will largely depend on the furnishings of the room. If the room is mainly hard surfaces, with no carpet and with solid furniture, you might look into dampening. For your budget, however, you're really only looking at adding a thick rug rather than full-on room treatment options.
Basic advice: to play music from your computer you need a DAC, an amplifier (including a pre-amplifier) and speakers.
Computers have DAC's built in to their headphone outputs, but they tend to be of poor quality resulting in poor sound quality. Integrated amplifiers include a preamplifier built in, and tend to represent the best bang for buck.
For your budget, I recommend spending a decent amount on speakers, and only as much as you have to on the other components. Get a DAC like the HiFimeDIY Sabre USB DAC ($42), the Schiit Modi ($99), or the ODAC ($145). Amplifiers vary quite a lot with price and availability depending on where you are, but you might look out for the Marantz PM6005, the Rotel RA-10, the Onkyo A-9010, the Yamaha A-S300, or the NAD 326BEE or D3020. Note that some of these have built in DACs, so you might like to spend the extra and get a PM6005 (for example) and then you won't have to worry about getting a DAC.
That leaves about $400-700 for speakers, depending on how much you spend on your amp and how much you decide to budget. You can either go floor-standing speakers, or buy stand-mounted (aka "bookshelf") speakers. This is up to your personal preference. At your price point you tend (as a very general rule only) to get better mids and highs from stand-mounters, but better bass from floor-standers. Floor-standers include the KEF Q500 ($550), the Monitor Audio Bronze Series 5 ($314) and 6 ($424), the Wharfedale Diamond 230 ($699), or the Q Acoustics 3050 ($799). Stand-mounters include the KEF Q100 ($424) or Q300 ($649), the Monitor Audio Bronze 2 ($378), the Wharfedale Diamond 10.1 ($249), or the [Q Acoustics Concept 20] (https://www.amazon.com/Acoustics-Concept-Bookshelf-Speakers-Anniversary/dp/B01I46G1VI/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1484025379&sr=1-5&keywords=q+acoustics) ($430). There are many, many more speakers, and they make by far the greatest difference to the sound you will hear, so I strongly recommend you go to a bricks and mortar store and listen for yourself before deciding on a set. Remember that if you buy stand-mounters you will also need to buy stands to put them on.
You will also need cables to connect your computer to your DAC, your DAC to your amp, and your amp to your speakers. MonoPrice cables are good value. Avoid buying overpriced cables from HiFi retailers as these tend to be incredibly high margin items. Getting decent banana plugs on the speaker cables (if you can in your country) will make plugging and unplugging the speakers a whole lot easier.
Good luck and please let me know how you get on!
Assuming you just mean an overall budget of $800, here's a couple of options I'd suggest.
SPEAKERS
AMP
Amps can be found for cheaper at Accessories4Less if you're alright with refurb units.
Fluance SX6 Speakers for $65 at amazon.ca: https://www.amazon.ca/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=pd_cp_23_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=Z9NFF3C3PVKT3DHVSPJ1
Just connect it to a lepai amp and it'll work for PC. Really good deal and the third party seller seems okay. Note they are quite large though.
Fair enough.
​
With your budget I'd say something like this....
​
Receiver: Denon S540BT for $150 fro A4L
Subwoofer: Dayton Sub1500 for $198
​
that leaves you $120 to $150 for a pair of bookshelf speakers. Not the best budget in the world (prefer $300/pair) but for that range
Kilpsch R-15M's
Polk Audio TSi100's
If you can find them on sale the ELAC Debut 2.0's
​
They'll be slightly above $500 but not by much.
What the u/astrnght_mike_dexter said is correct.
The recever is decent, good enough for this price range.
A good stereo system will always sound better than a mediocre surround system.
$500 will get you some really nice bookshelf speakers.
https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Denton-80th-Red-Mahogany/dp/B00RDMZJ9U
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2
https://www.amazon.com/Acoustics-Concept-Bookshelf-Speakers-Gloss/dp/B00D8XYH32/
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Premiere-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B07G3D2C8S/
https://www.amazon.com/SVS-Prime-Bookshelf-Speaker-Pair/dp/B00PASUMV4/
https://www.amazon.com/Dali-Oberon-Bookshelf-Speakers-Walnut/dp/B07H2N5CNT/
https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q150-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B071P6KQZX/
This and these would be a start to a great system, or you could do the same receiver + these fronts and this center and these surrounds. The second set is my setup, actually. That's napkin math to $1k, and it's freaking solid. slightly not as good as the UB5s, but for home theater usage, that's less of a deal. If you want top end music performance too, I'd vote get the UB5s. I'm extremely happy with my B6s/matching center / surrounds.
Well, honestly, pretty much any set of speakers you will get would be a significant upgrade over the JBL.
If I had $200 for just 2 speakers I would strongly consider the Fluance ai40 they are normally $199 but on sale for $169 now. They are powered and would not require a separate amplifier.
The Infinity Reference 162 refurbished for $165 are another good choice. These are not powered.
The very well reviewed Micca RB42 the the current darlings of the budget audiophile world, they are $150ish but are not in stock for another month. These are also not powered.
You could also get this pair that was reviewed favorably by Joe n Tell on YouTube. Looks like you can get it for $154 if you get it from Amazon Warehouse.
Fluance Ai40 Powered Two-Way 5" 2.0 Bookshelf Speakers with 70W Class D Amplifier for Turntable, PC, HDTV & Bluetooth aptX Wireless Music Streaming (Black Ash) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YeyACbBT0W86W
If I were in the market, this 3.0 bundle: Chane A2.4, $697 + shipping Bundle saves $80. They are a MTM design (tweeter between two woofers). Are supposed to play very loud without distortion. Gives you three identical speakers and the center can be placed on its side. Personally, I wouldn't bother replacing these with floorstanding speakers later.
Spend $500-600 on a subwoofer (e.g., on sale $30 off. Hsu VTF2 Mk5, $567 shipped). If you want, you can add a second one later when budget allows.
Side surrounds: If you need something small and easily wall or ceiling mounted, NHT SuperZero 2.1, about $120/pair.
That leaves about $600 for a refurbished receiver from accessories4less and speaker stands and mounts.
I would just get a reasonably priced used surround sound receiver from Craigslist and then add a center channel speaker and left and right front speakers. Most of the voices will come from the center channel and you will be able to hear them really well.
The Micca speakers would do quite well and be cheap.
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable/dp/B009IUIV4A/
I would love to!
 
For the amp I am using the SMSL Q5 Pro as linked by /u/Hercusleaze and I am very happy with it. I bought it especially for the optical input and remote control to use with my xbox alongside my PC. A very good feature is a dedicated sub out, really makes adding a sub simple.
 
If you dont need all the fancy DAC built in I would highly recommend the SMSL SA36A, SA50, or SA98 depending on the power you want (this depends on how loud you want to get and what your speakers need).
 
For speakers I am using a pair of Micca MB42X-C in 2.0, although I got them for half off. Most people recommend Micca MB42X, a very solid all rounder at a good entry price. I set my brother with the Fluance SX-6 speakers, and he is really happy with them although they are bass heavy.
 
These options are solid entry level gear, and for myself I havent needed/felt like upgrading further. If you are looking for something a bit higher end I would suggest checking out the /r/Zeos guide lists or make a dedicated thread!
I'm not sure about best buy maybe check out their subs, you could crosscheck prices on subs/amps on amazon to best buy's prices. I'm about to drop a couple hundred on a 2.0 setup and buying a sub later on. These are the speakers I'm getting (and were recommended to me on this subreddit) Fluance SX6 with this Amp
Theres going to be a zillion different options. I personally use M-Audio for my desktop audio solution. They plug in to my motherboard audio out with a single cable and work extremely well. Different brands of monitors will have different sounds. I like to shoot for a relatively "flat" or even sound. M-Audio nails it in the price range. You'll need a bit of space for a larger bookshelf sized speaker though.
M-Audio AV42
I don't think it's worth it to spend any serious amount of money on speakers that size. They just don't have enough mass.
But you could certainly get something better than those multimedia speakers. A pair of these would certainly be a step up. They're not very good and I don't recommend them, but they're certainly much better than what you have. If you can't fit the 4" version, there's a 3" that you should be able to.
I have installed 4 NHT Superzero 2.1 speakers as surrounds on my 7.2 system. They do not go that low, but are really, really good speakers. They are selling for $63.43 ea. at Amazon. LINK
NHT SuperZero 2.1s! Can be had for $130 a pair right now.
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK
Do it!
I've been running NHT SuperZero 2.1 mini monitor speakers as my .2(front highs). They sound good and get the job done for me. Right now they are $67 each. I have them on mounts too pointed directly at my MLP.
NHT SuperZero 2.1 Mini-Monitor Speaker, Single, Gloss Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CKNOYWK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8QT1DbS03VSFG
For my birthday I got my first record player. Its a nostalgy peggy sue. Here is a link to what it is https://www.auna-multimedia.co.uk/Home-Audio/Record-Players/Suitcase-Record-Players/Nostalgy-by-auna-Peggy-Sue-Retro-Record-Player-LP-USB-AUX-White-Rose-Gold-Look.html
Anyway, the speakers that come installed in it are kinda meh and some of the records I have do not sound that great coming out of them.
I took my records to a friends house who has a really nice set up and his record player, through some sort of means, ends up coming out of a single bookshelf speaker. His set up makes every record he plays sound amazing.
So he recommended picking up a bookshelf speaker. This is what I got https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CKNOYWK/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza
The back of the speaker has 2 banana plug ports ( a positive and negative). The back of my record player has an output for RCA cables. So what am I missing or how to I hook up my record player to the speaker? I do not know much about electronics.
Got it. For TV and movies, I would recommend adding this center channel as there is a great sale on it (this'll put you near $250 with the receiver and bookshelf speakers). There is a better version with a crossover in it here if you want something a little higher quality, although it costs more. This center channel will give your shows/movies clearer dialogue, as a 2.0 setup can sometimes lose that detail.
With your living room open to other rooms, you will have to play with the placement of your speakers to make sure you are getting the best soundstage possible. There are lots of online resources, just google it or use the subreddits search function.
I'm the thrifty kinda guy.
Refurbished Denon receiver, 2 Micca bookshelves, a Micca center channel, and a Bic America subwoofer. About 700 bucks total. Sounds good enough for me. I know much better is out there but it's hard to justify the costs.
My Sennheiser HD598SE's are great ($150), and I have a FiiO E10K ($75) that they plug into at work, and at home I just plug them in directly since the onboard soundcard isn't too bad surprisingly on my motherboard. I have a Sony SRS-X5 bluetooth speaker plugged into the back of it as well. I have those cheap-ass sony ANC headphones (20 bucks at the time I bought them) and they get the job done at a cheap price for planes and for the AC unit blasting in my office (I know... killing me, 80db of white noise all day long).
I have a friend from work that spent 50,000 bucks on his setup. It sounds great, and it's worth it, but I couldn't spend that much on it.
I'm more of a headphone kinda guy. My next upgrade would probably be going all out on headphones. A pair of Sennheiser HD800's probably. That's in the far future, I got stuff I want to do around the house first.
These are my workout earbuds
They are a great value.
I have one in my amazon wishlist that I'm still doing research on. Consists of:
Dayton Audio Subwoofer.
Fluance Surround Sound.
Fluance Bookshelf Speakers.
Denon Refurbished Reciever.
It's definitely a work in progress. Still doing research but I'm trying to keep the price down while still getting great bang for buck.
Check out some of the recommendations over in /r/Zeos and posting this question in the /r/Hometheater subreddit. :)
I just recently ordered the Fluance SX6 speakers. I haven't heard them yet but they seem to be a great set of budget speakers. They are passive but you can get an amplifier that will drive them for very cheap. The speakers cost $130.00 USD. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
These are supposed to be quite good as well! http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1397965376&sr=1-1&keywords=micca+mb42x
You have many many options! I would lurk around the sub for a while to get some ideas. The suggestions that come to mind:
For speakers, going from lowest to highest price, I'd check out the Micca MB42x's, the Fluance SX6's, and the ELAC B5's.
The SMSL SA50 is a nice budget amp but (if you have the space for it) a used receiver is the best bang for your buck and will likely be more powerful.
I have the MB42x's. They're quite capable and will do just fine for me for some time. Just remember that there are so many options out there. Do your best to find the right setup for you.
Just to get started, I'd check out Zoes' 2.0 Desktop Suggestions list from his suggestions sub. His influence as a youtuber is a bit of a controversial topic on this sub but I'd say he has some good suggestions. Good luck and have fun!
Edit: I should also mention that it's always useful to demo equipment if you can. Hit up a local audio shops and demo some gear if you have the time.
Like the guy below said only get 2.0 at this price:
Denon S530:
https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs530bt/denon-avr-s530bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html
Fluance Bookshelves:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=twister_B075NQ9V2N?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Edit: Cost is $260, Or these Mica speakers for a little less:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0KIMAbACJDP4B
There are a lot of clear upgrades in that price bracket. Check out the following:
Just to name a few...
Well there's a few options for you here. There's these, which I have a highly recommend. Fluance SX6. Or a cheaper yet still apparently great set of Micca speakers that are quite a bit smaller. These both require something like this to power it, along with some speaker wire and maybe banana plugs. You could also get some powered Audioengine A2
's. Those shouldn't require an amp. Overall I would highly recommend taking the plunge into quality sound equipment. I myself would buy the fluance one's again but it's up to you. The cost is most definitely worth it when it comes to these speakers.
Also check out the Fluance SX6 $130 a pair. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heo66YtJO1w https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=lp_3028595011_1_10_twi_col_2?srs=3028595011&ie=UTF8&qid=1520018914&sr=8-10
They are the speakers labeled SR and SL in this photo. I dont know who gave you those, but call them stupid for it! Since you cant use them on their own without an amplifier, and even worse since they only gave you surround channel speakers (which dont really function on their own)!!! (ok dont actually call them stupid. after all its a gift)
If you want to use them, I would suggest getting two fluance fronts. If you want fulfill the 5.1 surround channel, you could also pick up matching fluance center and a cheap sub like this.
Oh and you'll need speaker wire. And a receiver like this. Overall, if you expect to use these speakers in their intended position, expect to spend minimum of $250 (New). If you wanna save some bucks, go on craiglist or ebay and look for some used receivers. they are dime a dozen and a great bang for the buck.
Monitors
>Dell UltraSharp 27" 4k "HDR" (sooo beautiful)
Acer KG240 24" 144hz
Speakers
>
Fluance SX6BK (Requires Amp/Stereo for power
PC
>NZXT ELITE
GTX 1060
Samsung 250 EVO
Corsair 650W
EVGA 16GB
i5 7600K @ 4.8GHZ
Corsair H100
seagate 2tb
Peripherals
>Razer Blackwidow Ultimate OG (2011 - cherry mx blues)
Razer Deathadder
Corsair Mouse Mat
Gamecube Controller
Mayflash Adapter
Desk
>2 Ikea Linnmon Table Tops 78" and 39"
Ikea Adjustable Legs
Ikea Shelf (used as 1 leg for smaller corner table)
Merax Racing Chair ($163)
ART
>
(FROM LEFT TO RIGHT)
photo shot on canon 6d and sigma art 24mm
my instagram
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=sspa_dk_detail_4?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B00IEDL8EMp13NParams
https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-F12-475-Watt-Subwoofer/dp/B0015A8Y5M/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1527581015&sr=1-1&keywords=bic+america+f12&dpID=516v3%252B2brCL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
And the Denon AVR you got. It'll sound great and you can add a center or surrounds later as you see fit. I've personally had all these items, and I liked every one of them when I had them. I'm still running the 510BT in my HT.
If you thought the RCAs sounded fine, then you'd probably be happy with the Blackweb. The electronics DM and I both agree that the new Blackweb soundbar is just the cheap RCA one in nicer packaging, so I doubt there's much difference.
But you do get what you pay for. If you save up, you can find a name brand used AVR on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for under $100. Spend another $100 on speakers (Something like this ) and you have a much better quality setup that you can upgrade off of in the future
I recently bought a pair of [Fluance SX6] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1) and a [SMSL SA50] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A2QLGEQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1) for my office and I love it! They're large though, 9.1 x 13.5 x 8.3 in.
The more I looked at them. Those speakers are surround speakers. The speakers below are the front ones for that make... So what do you think about those ones.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IEDL8EM/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1WPEQCN6WJKZG
Hmm...that price range...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0
I have the previous AV 40s and they sounded pretty good! I haven't heard much about the update
If you can up your range, maybe check out the Audio Engine A2+
TT (inc. preamp): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pro-Ject-Elemental-Phono-USB-Turntable/dp/B00FZ646ZO/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1463243395&sr=8-4&keywords=pro-ject+elemental
that leaves a little over 100 of your British dollars ('pounds' or something ) to find speakers to feed into. These will do til you can make the upgrade to fancier stuff. https://www.amazon.co.uk/M-Audio-AV42-Reference-Speakers-Professional/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1463243542&sr=1-1&keywords=m-audio
I have M-Audio AV40s, which I believe have been replaced with the M-Audio AV42s. I think they're a pretty great pair of monitors for the price. While they might not be the loudest you can get for that price I never go near full volume, and they have a really clean sound. They also have slightly smaller ones (AV32) for under $100 / pair.
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1541971574&sr=8-3&keywords=fluance+ai40&dpID=41399lao3aL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
I'm in a very similar situation. I too, am looking into some bookshelf speakers for light music production and listening. I have not purchased anything yet, but I can share my research here!
Micca PB42x ($80, powered, no sub-out)
Edifier R1280T ($100, powered, no sub-out)
Fluance ai40 ($200, powered, no sub-out) <-- the one I'm leaning towards
Fluance ai60 ($300, powered, sub-out)
You can always add a subwoofer later by placing it first in the signal chain. In other words, you would need a powered sub with a through output.
You should look for speakers with high sensitivity. The bigger the speaker, the less power you need to get loud. These would work pretty well, and you can add a sub later, or get one from goodwill.
https://www.parts-express.com/6-1-2-2-way-tower-speaker-pair-and-hi-fi-mini-amplifier-bundle--300-6532
&#x200B;
Here is an interesting setup as well for under $200
amp
Speakers
Subwoofer
I think this combo gets you the loudest and the most bass for the money.
&#x200B;
Here are some other products/routes to consider
$170+ refurbished receivers with Chromecast built in + either MB42X ($80) and MB42X-C ($70) or Sony SSCS5 ($150) or Micca RB42 ($130) or Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 or Polk S20 or Q Acoustic 3020 or more but those are just a few stand outs at their price point. Then you'll need speaker cable and assuming your not adventurous enough to strip wire and put banana plugs on yourself you can buy them pre made for pretty reasonable price. And yes this doesn't have Android TV but do you really want to replace your whole sound bar when Google kills Android TV for Google TV in a few years? (Because Google loves killing products people love)
if your wife likes the Q acouctics keep an eye out for the Micca RB42s. they should be coming back in stock mid august.
Link
Have you ever heard a pair of Klipsch speakers? Reason I ask is that they can be fatiguingly bright, especially when not using any room correction that might tame them down a bit. I had a pair of unpowered R-14 that I only listened to for about 15 minutes before returning them to Amazon.
I would recommend considering something like the Micca RB42 which have been highly praised to the point of consistently selling out as soon as they come into stock. Review.
You should keep an eye on this auction for Jamo C103 which are originally $1600/pair and sound incredible down to 45hz. Review If these end up around your price range, try and snag them.
Third option: Jamo C93 on ebay. Same tweeter as above, smaller woofer, will still fill a family room. Review.
You might be wanting to stay away from a home theater receiver which I can understand for space, but going with powered speakers really does limit your options. I would entertain looking at a smaller amp like the AD18 that includes bluetooth connectivity and optical for your TV.
EDIT: Would actually recommend playing your music off your TV => optical instead of bluetooth. Spotify connect/airplay is great and then other people can change the song using the TV remote.
Those cube speakers are ok for surround rear channels, but I would try to invest in a better receiver with hdmi inputs and a decent center channel when you can. I just replaced my left and right channels with these Micca's and it is a tremendous upgrade for the price. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07JC416LG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Replace at least the front stage with something bigger. It will change the whole experience. You don't have to spend a lot. Clearly you already spent all your money on the screen.
Three of these will do nicely.
Smsl a2:
http://www.amazon.com/SMSL-A2-Digital-Amplifier-Silver/dp/B014P5I8SG
Dayton subwoofer:
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_campaign=pla
Infinity p163 (each):
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32
You'll need cables. rca to 3.5 or rca to rca, an individual rca for subwoofer or extra speaker wire for subwoofer, speaker wire for speakers.
use the daytons for now, but most moderatly priced speakers will have 5 way binding posts.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0045NCB32/
stereophile review:
http://www.stereophile.com/standloudspeakers/1007inf/
You could do 2 pairs of the HTD Level 2 bookshelves and the center for $530. http://www.htd.com/Products/level-two-speakers
Emotiva 2 pairs of XRM 4.1 at $160 per pair, $320 total. The XRC 5.2 center channel for $180. Total is $500 even. http://shop.emotiva.com/collections/speakers?page=1
5 NHT Super Zero speakers at $100 each. Sold out currently. http://www.nhthifi.com/Bookshelf-speaker-SuperZero-2-1?sc=12&amp;category=3774
You could do 5 Infinity Primus bookshelf speakers at $85 each. http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1374608377&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=infinity+speakers
Polk Audio always has stuff you can fit into most budgets. Lots of choices here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&amp;Depa=0&amp;Description=ppsspolkmonitorseries&amp;cm_sp=BrandStore_-Polk-Audio-_-polkaudio%2f13-2614-_-http%3a%2f%2fpromotions.newegg.com%2fpolkaudio%2f13-2614%2f400x132.jpg
Affiliate/refer removed:
Link
My Lepai came with a 12v 2amp power supply. But, it's rated at 25watts/channel, so I found a 6 amp power supply and it pushes these speakers just fine without clipping (which it used to do with the stock power supply). I've bought 3 Lepais now and they all come with the 2amp power supplies, which is retarded, but what do you want for $20?
I would think that any bookshelfs would be an upgrade. The issue is the sub uses RCA jacks for the interconnect so you'll probably have to make some cables or sacrifice an RCA cable as most nice speakers use banana plugs or simply exposed wire. Also the amp in that system is only rated at 40 watts RMS (into probably 6 ohms) so even less into a standard 8 ohm speaker which is not very much.
What is your budget because there are a lot of options?
If you want a simple recomendation I would say get these if you want a cheap upgrade:
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1325217347&amp;sr=8-2
They are reviewed very highly and compete with speakers more than twice their price.
To be honest if you are serious about making music you are much better off with powered monitors than you are with shitty logitech speakers.
What's your budget?
This receiver is decent and indeed has a phono preamp integrated, so the only thing left to buy would be a pair of speakers. I recommend these: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0045US6DE
If your budget is tighter, then these: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MEWZE4
Edit: You didn't mention anything about the cartridge. This is an important piece of your setup.
Wireless speakers are not going to be cost effective and you'd still need a power source. Below is a setup for around $200 that would sound great. All you'd need to add is some speaker wire and either some wall mounts or shelves. (You might be able to find better deals with some shopping around.) Good Luck.
I've seen these as low as $49 a pair.
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1413466468&amp;sr=8-6&amp;keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones+speakers
OR
http://www.monoprice.com/Product?c_id=109&amp;cp_id=10906&amp;cs_id=1090603&amp;p_id=10800&amp;seq=1&amp;format=2
Receiver
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-STRDH130-Channel-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B006U1VH2S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1413466553&amp;sr=8-4&amp;keywords=2ch+receiver
something like this would be a much better buy. Those sonys don't have a great reputation. If money is tight these are better.
Hello fellow LP120 owner!
Your new turntable comes with a built in preamp, but you still need an amp to amplify the line level audio. Records necessitate a preamp, as the audio level is quite low compared to other sources, (i.e. CD player, iPod). In addition to boosting the audio signal to something your amp can work with, the preamp also applies RIAA equalization which more or less adds back in the low end.
Some of the older amps out there have a specific PHONO input, which is designed to do the same thing a preamp does. Almost all of the new amps on the market have gotten rid of these inputs, as "no one listens to vinyl anymore". You don't need one with a PHONO input though, you just need a good 2-channel amp to power your speakers.
If you don't want to spend much, the Lepai LP 2020 is probably the best bang for your buck. I'm using it right now with these Pioneer bookshelf speakers (very similar to yours) and they sound great. I don't have a recommendation for anything more powerful, but you won't really need anything more powerful unless you go with bigger speakers down the road. Don't forget to grab some speaker wire to wire it all up.
Have fun!
Alright, well, a refurb Denon 1612 will run you $170 (very good quality and good vendor), then paired with the Pioneer BS21 at $80/pair. If you can wait, Newegg typically runs sales on them for $50/pair.
Anywho, if you buy right now, you'll spend $250 for a system that will thwomp any soundbar. It'll also be very expandable, allowing you to add a sub (see Dayton subs for budget offerings) and surround sound when you want.
Hope this helps!
Can you use your vouchers in other Amazon stores?
Turntables in the US seem pricey. I would go for something like this at ~$200 ahead of anything I could find on Amazon USA.
To go with the Project, I think the Dali Zensor is the best small speaker around at the moment. Again, these are ~$200 cheaper in Europe than the US.
To complete my suggested European setup... I would pick this Cambridge Audio amplifier with a built in phono stage. It does slightly burst your budget, but it sounds nearly as good as a much more expensive Arcam amp and the smooth sound will flatter vinyl. Think of it as a designer knock-off.
I'm sure you can get a good DAC for cheap, you just need to look at a different brand. This one is 15 eur and appears to be the same as the Fiio. Google had trouble translating the page, but the reviews seem to be pretty positive.
It works the other way around too, with you getting better prices on stuff made in Europe. For example, the DALI Zensor 1 is 290 eur, and over here it's $390 (353 eur).
Take a look at this: http://www.stereophile.com/content/dali-zensor-1-loudspeaker
And: http://www.whathifi.com/dali/zensor-1/review
And its available on Amazon for $495 here: http://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0
Let me know what you think.
Well basically a set up is puzzle you can build up over time. Planar 2 is a solid table that you wouldn't need to upgrade for years, don't know if it comes with a cover though. It is a solid table built around delivering the best sound from the cartridge to the amp. Now one big part of how your records will sound is the cart, the one the planar 2 comes with is totally fine for start but you will want to upgrade it pretty soon. I would recommend you to take a look at this Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit. Mainly because it is more bang for the buck imo (electronic speed switch and speed control, carbon arm, acrylic platter and a way better cartridge), but that is totally an opinion.
Now for the rest of the set up I would suggest buying the preamp separate. For example this Cambridge phono preamp is a solid starting point. There are two reasons for this, you can easily switch it to a new one down the line and you can get some money back for it.
The second one is that you can start by getting powered speakers, for example these Audio engine A5+ and down the line upgrade to an amp and bookshelf speakers. Powered speakers are a totally valid option nowadays and these will give a detailed sound with the table. They are also way easier to get your cash back when moving forward.
What I linked up there is a pretty solid setup focusing in sound for a pretty rough 1000 when done trough amazon.
Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds
Audioengine A5+ Active 2-Way Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1501190690&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=Audioengine&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=AKR88PAWTQVN2
Bowers & Wilkins MM-1 Hi-Fi Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003R6U6HG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;colid=25INFPFI9SDAJ&amp;coliid=I1SRG4TS8V042N&amp;psc=1
Just to get going, you need powered speakers. Could be something cheap like this or something more high dollar like this.
After you've had it a while, there's plenty of upgrades and DIY improvements you can make, see this blog. But those aren't needed for starting. Enjoy!
These are some really nice speakers.
Audioengine A5 Plus Classic 150W Powered Bookshelf Speakers with Remote Control, Built In Analog Amplifier - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OA3BSY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fw1TDbZYJJNFG
Audioengine A2
Audioengine A5+
Polk Subwoofer
FiiP Digital-analog-converter
These are just a few of the entry level options. Don't take my word for it. I don't own any of these items. I just see them pop up from time to time as good entry-level options. Both pairs of speakers I posted are powered, meaning they have amplification built in. They wont require an external amplifier. Another option is to buy a pair of passive speakers, like these, and buy a basic receiver, like this, to power them.
Again, these are just some EXAMPLES. I am not recommending any of these items specifically, as I have not heard them. I am suggesting that you do some research and figure out what works best for your needs and budget.
You'll notice I also posted a subwoofer and DAC (digital-analog-converter). The subwoofer is going to allow you to hear the lower frequencies that those small speakers wont reach, which you might find necessary if you like drums. The external DAC will allow you to bypass the shitty DAC in your current source (a laptop, I'm assuming?). You'll be able to send a digital signal out of your source (provided it has a digital output) to the DAC where it will be converted to the analog signal that will go to the amplifier. It isn't necessary, but it will improve sound quality since the shitty DAC in your laptop or computer will be bypassed.
You should check out a pair of powered speakers. These are highly regarded.
So I recently bought the standing desk (with monitor arm and the mount for my desktop), as well as a new monitor. I'd like to add a few things to this setup. Namely a headphone stand, a phone holder/stand, and some speakers.
I've settled on the speakers. I'll be getting the audioengine a5+, but can't decide if I want them in white or bamboo.
I also can't decide if I should do the phone and headphone holders in white or bamboo/wood. Any recommends here? Thanks!
If you aren't tied to an all-in-one setup, you can use powered speakers instead of a receiver and passive speakers. Turntables require a phono preamp in order to correctly produce sound. Often it will be in the receiver or through an external unit. But if you are trying to reduce clutter, you can get a turntable with a built-in phono preamp.
Here are a couple of recommendations for a good quality setup:
Turntable:
http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP120-USB-Direct-Drive-Professional-Turntable/dp/B002S1CJ2Q
http://www.amazon.com/Denon-DP-300F-Automatic-Analog-Turntable/dp/B000FMNBXG
Powered Speakers:
http://www.amazon.com/Emotiva-Airmotiv-5s-Powered-Monitor/dp/B00JMQB1VA/
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Premium-Powered-Speaker-White/dp/B005OSR1C8
There is also the VPI Nomad, but it's a headphone only turntable. And if you wanted to get really budget and get the ABSOLUTE MINIMUM acceptable (debatable by some here) turntable / speaker package then you could go this route:
http://www.amazon.com/Technica-AT-LP60-Automatic-Driven-Turntable/dp/B002GYTPAE
http://www.amazon.com/Edifier-Exclaim-Bi-Amped-Speaker-e10/dp/B009XGH2HG
Disclaimer: I have not personal experience with any of the powered speakers listed here. I am only going by various third-party review sites. Amazon links are for reference only.
No. They sound great for what I use them for. Simple as plugging in to the back of the PC.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005OSR1C8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
If going new something like this will work nicely.
Phono stage: Schitt Mani
Amplifier: Yamaha A-S301BL
Speakers: KEF 300B which are currently on sale https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1478521897&amp;sr=1-6&amp;keywords=dali+zensor+3
are you thinking to expand to a 5.1 system in the future?
this would be my pick for a set of bookshelves around $400:
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=sr_1_7?s=aht&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1505270293&amp;sr=1-7&amp;keywords=elac
these are another good option:
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U/ref=sr_1_3?s=aht&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1505270413&amp;sr=1-3&amp;refinements=p_36%3A30000-40100%2Cp_72%3A1248879011
I have the bigger brothers the CMT-340SE and yep, they aren't lookers. I was typing a non-shitpost though so here:
Who knows what she thinks looks nice. show her the Klipsch RP-150M, HTD Level 3, Airmotiv B1, Polk S20, Kef Q300, and Q Acoustics 3020. She'll probably like one of them. Or maybe she'd prefer the look of tower speakers. A pair of Polk S55 towers are $200 each used straight from Amazon.
I recommend these:
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-15PM-Powered-Monitor-Black/dp/B01A7J534G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479322474&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=r15+pm+klipsch
https://www.amazon.com/U-Turn-Audio-Orbit-Turntable-Black/dp/B00YQ6B396/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479322533&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=u+turn+orbit
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/google-chromecast-audio-black/4532100.p?skuId=4532100&amp;ref=212&amp;loc=1&amp;ksid=b9026f1f-e325-4276-8133-249263fd9844&amp;ksprof_id=16&amp;ksaffcode=pg72903&amp;ksdevice=c&amp;lsft=ref:212,loc:2
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MCS2ZLO/ref=sxr_pa_click_within_right_1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=2329824862&amp;pf_rd_r=H70DTYPT16GTYCXQ2CFC&amp;pd_rd_wg=hShMQ&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-rhs-carousels&amp;pf_rd_t=301&amp;pd_rd_w=eQHOV&amp;pf_rd_i=speaker+stands+30&amp;pd_rd_r=GNYQHZ851XV5J0WVQ3D0&amp;psc=1
The Klipsch are a speaker system with a receiver built in.
This is a complete home music system and you wont need to buy anything else.
Or if you want to have separate components I recommend this:
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Elliptical-Counterweight-Anti-Skating-RT81/dp/B01F2EXIFM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479323335&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=fluance+rt81
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-R-S202BL-Stereo-Receiver/dp/B01EMQI2CU/ref=sr_1_3?s=wireless&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479323363&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=yamaha+stereo+system
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479323386&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=kef+q300
and speaker stands.
These are budget recommendations that will get you good sound and good quality. If you want to go crazy on high end stuff you will want to do more research on the audiophile sub.
BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers amazon
If you're set on the receiver, a pair of Bic DV84 for $140 each or a pair of Polk Monitor 60s for $160 each. Bic DV62CLRS center for $100 and DV62si for the rear at $110 for the pair. Bic F12 sub for $185. Maybe a pair of Fluance bookshelves for $180 a pair, and Bipolar for the for $200 for the rear, then find a center, hard to beat the bic for the price as far as a sub though. The Bic 84s, and Monitor 60s stand up pretty well to heavy bass, the F12 will add the necessary kick in the balls.
Not sure why you x-posted this to audiophile, with that budget the only way will get audiophile grade is if you can find the score of the century on craigslist.
Yeah I'd like to keep it under 200; although I'm not opposed to buying used (stereo gear seems to be like 20-30% of the new price). My garage is unfinished so it's only going to be set up on a bench in the back. I just couldn't stand the fuzziness and jazz with the jambox I bought to replace the other system so I figured I'd ask around. someone recommended these
https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1537553961&amp;sr=1-4&amp;keywords=bic+speakers&amp;pldnSite=1
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BQC7GNL/ref=psdc_537344_t1_B076XSBCCL?pldnSite=1
Honestly the Dayton Audio B652's aren't all that great. They're good for the price yes, but still far from accurate. If you have some extra cash I'd get these BIC America bookshelfs. They reproduce sound wonderfully.
A lot of people swear by the Andrew Jones pioneer http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008NCD2LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1457548297&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=31iDtHu2uBL&amp;ref=plSrch. Right now Amazon has them kind of high you can usually get them from $90-$100 and I hear they pair very will with the subwoofer of the same line if you need more bass. I have BIC dv62si http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00006JPDI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1457548450&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=bic+bookshelf+speakers&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51HPD0S3QBL&amp;ref=plSrch and Polk Audio monitor 40 http://m.newegg.com/Product/index?itemnumber=N82E16882290202&amp;nm_mc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-Mobile&amp;cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-Mobile-_-pla-_-Home+Audio+Speakers-_-N82E16882290202&amp;gclid=Cj0KEQiAsP-2BRCFl4Lb2NTJttEBEiQAmj2tbe0e9xxYi_WXGDW2JIHUuKk8HM7aUzrGfLfJGGingMwaArSo8P8HAQ&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds
I enjoy both of those for the $125-$150 price range.
The audiophile pages can help with picking out good priced vintage speakers that are probably much better for filling a bigger room and giving better sound.
For the price, I think the Pyle 8 channel amp that somebody posted is a great choice. Here's and Amazon link, a little cheaper than B&H. Seems to have good reviews, although I really doubt it's 1000w/ch. Probably something like ~150RMS. Pyle's okay, and GREAT when you consider the price. I've got a few stupid-cheap Pyle amps and speakers here and there and they're fine. Cool thing about that amp is that you could break the zones into different audio sources if you want.
I'd pair it with these - you might not even need a woofer.
When you set the system up listen carefully for clipping/distortion and label your nominal operating level and your 'ABSOLUTELY DO NOT GO LOUDER THAN THIS' level in big bright labels.
If you do end up getting a sub I second /r/CashKeyboard's recommendation to go with an active (aka Powered) sub, and remember placement is important for getting the most out of it.
Music Hall mmf 2.2 and either the pioneer bs-22 or these yamaha's http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA?ie=UTF8&amp;keywords=yamaha%20ns-6490&amp;qid=1463195316&amp;ref_=sr_1_1&amp;sr=8-1
. I also found a RS 300 used for 200$ so I'm thinking that over the 201 at this point.
Technical Pro DV4000 DVD receiver
Keiid CD receiver
Yamaha NS6490 large bookshelf speakers
Don't know why those are described as bookshelf, they are actually designed fur home theatre use. They have a terrible lie frequency response of 83hz. I would buy these for the same money. Much better frequency response.
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1415666636&amp;sr=8-8&amp;keywords=Bookshelf+speaker
> emotiva airmotive 5
https://www.amazon.ca/Alesis-Elevate-Premium-Speaker-Monitor/dp/B00IWRDU14/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_9?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=1YNABJRHQ3CWVRA3W7CF
or
https://www.amazon.ca/M-Audio-AV42-Professional-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_img_10?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=1YNABJRHQ3CWVRA3W7CF
Similar pricing? Better value or just go with
https://www.amazon.ca/JBL-Professional-LSR305-Studio-Monitor/dp/B00DUKP37C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1459360240&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Jbl+lsr305
yeah that's fair, space is always a factor. can you ballpark the rough dimensions of how much room you have? obviously the most compact solution is computer speakers, but like you said, you want something with better sound. there's smaller monitors, like these, so maybe these would fit better (there's also a 3" woofer variant, which is a bit cheaper and smaller). generally, Amazon reviews are quite truthful, so I'd buy based on that (plus secondary research) and get the best speaker that fits your space and budget
>how's [Edifier's] build quality
if I'm being 100% honest, I have no clue about that pair. a few years ago, I found a small (i.e. I think a 3" woofer) pair of Edifiers at good will. I tried them for a few hours, just to see if they were even worth keeping and they sounded good for what they were. but what I was most impressed with was their weight. most small speakers are light, but these ones seemed like pretty heavy. so at some point, Edifiers were built well. I have no idea if they still are, but the reviews are good
sorry I can't give you a more in depth answer or any proof to back up my claims, but hopefully I've given you enough info to find your way
I'd forgo an amp and spend your money on studio monitors + DAC.
Something like this plugs into your computer and outputs an analogue signal for either headphones or speakers.
Then, powered speakers like these. It will be a big upgrade from your logitech system, and fit your needs/budget. If you can find a used pair of M-audio AV-40's or bx5's, that would be ideal - this newer line seems to have poorer reviews.
M-Audio monitors.
http://www.m-audio.com/products/view/av42
https://www.amazon.de/M-Audio-2-Weg-Desktop-Referenz-studiomonitor-PC-Lautsprecher/dp/B00X741TB0/
They should rock your desk without a sub. If you want to add one, you can do so.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDznKrGDLhM
They also have the option of the AV32.1 which is a 2+1 system. Personally I'd probably go with the 42's, but that's just me (small and affordable subs tend to sound like shit, so I'd get the 42's and perhaps add a quality sub later if I felt it necessary.)
Check out m-audio they make some kind of $100 type things which are quite good
Eg
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_neva_mobile
Digital Foundry did a test with an i3 6100 (overclocked I believe to around 4.2GHz) where memory speeds great enter than the DDR4 default of 2133 did actually make a difference. Not a huge one, but noticeable. If you want me to link it, just ask and I'll go find it.
For the most part, RAM speed with a CPU that is not bound (i.e. 'Bottlenecked,' though I hesitate to use the term) won't make much difference. It is, however, considered helpful in PC's that are doing heavy CPU work regularly. It is definitely useful then!
If you're really set on a locked i7, then you can simply use the stock cooler. It won't look so good however, so maybe just pick up a basic 212 Evo? Will keep things very cool indeed.
There you go!
You could look at some active speakers like the M-Audio-AV32.
They might be a shade more than 50, but worth it
Are you me? Also SG, been researching on 2.0 speakers & only just half set my mind on T40 because sale and free shipping.
Mackie has distributors in SG actually and you can get CR3 for S$189 from City Music.
Amazon does free shipping for M-Audio AV32 and Micca MB42X if you hit above US$125 - probably can do so if you buy a couple of records too. Kanto speakers have been on Massdrop too and maybe you can wait for their deals if you're not in a rush - not sure if shipping would kill you though.
Here's the set
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2
Uturn orbit with phono preamp - 249 (https://uturnaudio.com/products/orbit-basic-turntable). Be sure to press the built in button for the preamp
SMSL AD18 - 145 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073F8Z565
Micca MB42x - 90 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2
Total 485
Is a baseline respectable system. There may be black Friday specials to bring the cost down a bit. The speakers are the weakest link here (though not bad), if you can pony up an extra ~200 you can get a much better pair (Emotiva B5, Kef Q100/150, Elac B5/B6, Chane A1.4, Klipsch RP-150m, etc.) EDIT: I also just noticed the Elac UB5 for $350 on amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2, they are definitely worth the extra cash if you can scrounge it. Also from a post below: https://www.turntablelab.com/products/denon-dp-300f-turntable-ortofon-2m-red-upgrade is a fantastic deal and a better deck.
ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speaker (Black, Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4sXnybEZKNY5J
$399.99 ($100 off)
Just grab these
Check this out at Amazon.com - ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speaker (Black, Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_psDRCbVYGQVFW
They go low enough a sub is optional but as usual is always recommended with anything.
Currently, $129.99 on amazon.ca and amazon.com (thats a first.).
edit: These
I'm looking into setting up a basic system. Budget is $300 USD give or take. Primarily these are going to be in my bedroom, apartment building, roughly 315x315 CM (10.3ft^2), but will likely get pulled out every once in a while to the living room, which is somewhat larger.
This is going to be playing a variety of music, TV and movies and potentially down the track being plugged into my PC, but that's a while of.
The challenge here is that I'm in NZ, and local offerings are generally over priced. I can order from amazon (and usually with decent/free shipping), and you can see what will ship here if you select "AmazonGlobal Eligible" under International shipping under search.
Not to mention power comes at 240v or so, and not the 120 or so that US voltage does.
For speakers I was looking at either of the 2 options, I've read good things about both but really I'm not to sure.
http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A
http://www.amazon.com/America-FH-65B-Bookshelf-Speakers-6-5IN/dp/B002ISTP8K
Amp is were I run into trouble, finding one that can ship here is proving to be... difficult, I was looking at these ones though
http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-DTA-120-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B00HFG3FYA
http://www.amazon.com/Dayton-Audio-APA150-150-Watts-Amplifier/dp/B000VKXLBO
Thanks
What's your budget? Based off your table (no hate, I have the same one), I'm going to assume you're in a similar situation as me. Pick one of these three up:
http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1451552816&amp;sr=8-17-spons&amp;keywords=cambridge+audio+bookshelf&amp;psc=1
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS22-LR-Designed-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B008NCD2LG
http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2
Honestly, I would do them from top to bottom but that is just preference. I would buy any of them any day, but I am partial to the top because I love the look, and the middle one because of the history behind the maker. The middle ones have an insane amount of cult following in the audiophile community because they were designed by a guy who designs speakers that cost 10,000+ a piece.
Here's what I picked up based on the Zeos 2.0 recommendation thread.
Here's what it looks like setup at my desk - LINK
After installing and setting up Equalizer APO on my system and tuning it by ear through a WIDE assortment of music, this setup sounds absolutely amazing. With the amp and Windows at half volume, it's loud enough to be heard throughout my 2-story house with no audible distortion.
Near-field performance at my desk, where my head it at the peak of basically an equilateral triangle based on where I sit in relation to the speakers, is absolutely astonishing.
I use this setup for games, music, and audio editing for video work I do. It's awesome all-around.
Throw a pair of stands in there like these and it's right at your $300 budget.
$99 : SMSL Q5 Pro Dac + Amplifier
$90 : Micca MB42X Speakers
If you can stretch your budget a little:
$130 : Fluance SX6
Future upgrade : Add a subwoofer
Skip the DAC, you don't need it unless your source's DAC is noisy. Used would get you better stuff, but it's harder to find and quality isn't guaranteed.
Speaker ideas: Pioneer or Fluance
Amp ideas: Topping or Audiosource
Add a Dayton sub-1200 when your budget increases.
Fluance SX6 High Definition Two-way Bookshelf Loudspeakers - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067OS0A/
Behringer A500 Reference Amplifier - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CZ0RL0/
Eventually I will get the DAC and subwoofer, but I think this is a good start.
I also need to purchase speaker stands and do proper acoustic treatment.
Hi all,
I'm going to pick up a U-Turn Orbit Plus: http://store.uturnaudio.com/products/orbit-plus-turntable
I already have speakers and a power amp, but I'd like to get a tube pre-amp for the turntable. My power amp and speakers are nothing special:
T Amp: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F0H8TOC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Fluance bookshelf speakers: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067OS0A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
So I don't want to spend too much on a tube pre-amp, especially since I'm guessing most of you will say a tube pre-amp will be overkill for the current quality of speakers. I don't mind building the pre-amp either, so if there is a cool kit out there I'd go for that too.
Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:
Link: http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12
This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting).
Here's what I would do to get a great sound system that will work for your ipod. This is much better than any ipod dock, but is not very portable.
The total is over $300 but will be much better than the bose system. You could find cheaper bookshelf speakers that will work too.
All of these are less than the AudioEngine A2+:
JBL LSR305, $240
SMSL SA-50, $68 plus any of the following:
Micca MB42X, $90
Pioneer BS-22-LR, $116
Polk TSi100, $150
For $200 you could go in a couple of different directions. Basically, either a decent entry level AVR with a pair of cheap bookshelf speakers, or a cheap stereo amp with a pair of decent entry level bookshelf speakers. If you could bump your budget up to $300 you could get a decent AVR and a decent pair of speakers. (Decent is relative, but I'm using it to mean a step up above "cheap".)
Examples:
Decent AVR and cheap bookshelf speakers.
Cheap stereo amp and decent bookshelf speakers.
My recommendation would be to see if you can stretch your budget to buy the Denon AVR and the better speakers. That would put you at $280 plus tax. If your budget really is limited then go for the AVR and the T-15. When you're ready to upgrade you will have the option to add a subwoofer, a center channel speaker, surround speakers, or better front speakers and move the T-15 speakers to the surround positions.
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I have a couple of Onkyo receivers from that era. One was my grandparents' and one was a Goodwill find for $10. They're not legendary gear by any means, but they're still better than a lot of what you'll find manufactured today.
I'll take my '80s Onkyo and a pair of decent bookshelf speakers over Beetz or Bose any day.
Speaking of bookshelf speakers, if you want a decent pair on the cheap, grab these guys. Even if you upgrade later, your setup will still work great in the garage or office.
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417692840&amp;sr=1-1-catcorr&amp;keywords=polk+bookshelf
After several months and hundreds of dollars I think I'm complete!
Turntable:
Kenwood KD-40R. One day I asked my dad if he had a turntable and this is what started it all. We found it in the attic, original box and in great shape. Replaced the needle and I was good to go. (Minus not having anything else, of course)
Speakers:
Sub:
Stands:
Receiver (hidden behind tv):
Cables:
Preamp:
Monitor Audio Bronze 2 Bookshelf Speakers - Walnut https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eC2gDbRQMP4Y2
Bronze .2s are definitely the best looking speakers at 500 or less!
Im enjoying my Monitor Audio Bronze 2's immensely. I see they are on Amazon right now for ~$375 new or $299 used.
https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1541175067&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&amp;keywords=monitor+audio+bronze+2&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51vdtRpHeTL&amp;ref=plSrch
They also look fantastic, but thats just my opinion.
Since you are getting a sub, you could crossover the speakers at 80hz. The Monitor Audio Bronze 2 would work quite well: https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92 $372
Bronze Center $224 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Center-Speaker/dp/B000GJEUP6
Unless you have researched it and are positive you want go with dipole/bipole speakers, I would go with the Monitor Bronze 1 $300 https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00XW02HB0/
You can do much better for the sub. Get the Rythmik LV12F for $600
Total: $1500, and you get a better subwoofer.
Denon X1500H receiver for $300. If you want to jump up, you could look at the Denon 3000 series (not sure what the best deal is there).
If you are interested in bookshelf speakers and can spot the extra $, I'd recommend Klipsch RB-61 II.
Reference series and 95db efficient, so they take very little power to be loud and clear. I own a pair in my secondary setup, and I really like them. They have 6.5 woofers, and for bookshelf speakers, they have really good bass response.
If you can't get much higher than $400, check out the Klipsch RB-51 IIs. Same line but with 5.25" woofers.
I'm sure there are other options, but I'm a big fan of Klipsch. Really nice products.
You'll get a HUGE upgrade in sound quality if you stick with a 2.0 setup and don't need either particularly deep nor prominent bass. Klipsch makes some great speakers for music and home theater applications, and are really sensitive so any good amp can drive them with no problem.
If you don't have a good surface to place them on, you'll also need speaker stands, or you can just avoid that and get floorstanding speakers. Polk Audio and Klipsch are still my first choices in that price range, as they both reach pretty damn low without a sub and are bright and detailed, going well with home theater applications. Either with an amp, however, might be a little above your price range.
Do some research. Poke around and read some reviews. You may not like bright speakers - it also may turn out that you really don't like the kind of fudgey Bose sound, either.
What sounds good to you?
The Yamaha NS-6490's may be a good option for that type of environment & will get plenty loud on that little Lepy.
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1494415214&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Yamaha+NS-6490
If you want really, really affordable, the Parts Express Lepy 2020TI + Dayton B652 bundle for $50 gets you good sound for stupid cheap. Or you can get that Lepy amp standalone, as it's a solid budget unit, and pair it with something like the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers, which are a great pair of bookshelf speakers for $100. The Klipsch R-15M are a great pair for a little over $150.
Also:
Sony SCSS5 - https://www.amazon.com/Sony-SSCS5-3-Driver-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00O8YLMVA $138
BIC Venturi DV62si - https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI $117
Polk S15, refurbished - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TJ4D2LZ/ref=dp_cr_wdg_tit_rfb $166
Yamaha NS-6490 - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00018Q4GA $130
Fluance SX6W - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00067OS0A $130
M-Audio AV42 - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0 $150
Or you could look for vintage, but bookshelf speakers tended to either be gigantic and heavy (like my Bozak B-201 or B-402, which are bookshelf speakers in name only) or sound weak.
So Im still a little confused about matching speakers and amps. These are the amp and speakers I am looking at: https://www.amazon.com/PIONEER-Bluetooth-Component-Receiver-Speaker/dp/B07HB482GW/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?keywords=Pioneer+SX-10AE+2-Ch+x+100+Watts+Bluetooth+Stereo+Receiver&qid=1554568930&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr0
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA?tag=audiorumble-20
The speakers have a nominal impedance of 8 ohms, nominal power of 70W, and max power of 140W.
The amp gives 100W per channel @ 6 ohms, and 45W per channel at 8ohms.
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So, looking at my system at 8 ohms, the amp would deliver 45W to the speaker, which requires 70W to run, so these would be incompatible? Im very turned around on this and am not sure if Im doing it right.
Someone suggested these to me haha http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00018Q4GA/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_s=center-2&amp;pf_rd_r=1DMSPPTEFXXCJRBH1MRM&amp;pf_rd_t=101&amp;pf_rd_p=1688200382&amp;pf_rd_i=507846 THEY ARE MASSIVE
Hey Zeos, thanks for the post, as always.
I'm looking for desktop 2.0 setup, and already have the Fiio E10.
Would SMSL SA-50 and Fluance SX6 (now available in UK, yay!) work with it (and together)?
Btw sorry for not using your affiliate links. I would, if you managed to include them somewhere here, if it's worth your time :)
Also, I assume I should use the 3.5mm to 2RCA with the E10?
Thanks
That's a pretty good budget actually. Personally, I'd recommend these speakers (unless you can find a nice old set at a tag sale or something):
Fluance SX6 High Definition Two-way Bookshelf Loudspeakers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_1RDgub0W483CF
I have the black ones and love them. Great for a stereo setup, enough bass for me although a subwoofer wouldn't hurt it's not needed IMO.
Receiver wise, there's plenty of options on eBay, Craigslist or amazon. I recently picked up an old Marantz for $120 that just needed new feet and some cleaning up, runs perfectly. I used to have an old pioneer sx too that I ended up giving to my girlfriend, cost me $70 and worked great. Realistically a really nice system can definitely be had for the amount you want to spend. My .02 is to get something that's going to sound good to you for as little as possible and then spend the rest getting records you'll enjoy listening to.
The sidebar has great information too if you haven't looked at it but ultimately everyone is different and prefers certain brands, etc.
Would these be any better? https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B00067OS0A&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Having a little trouble working out what additional things I might need for adding a subwoofer to my audio setup
Currently I have:
Fluance SX6 x 2 [(link)] (https://www.amazon.ca/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1464721749&amp;sr=1-4)
Topping TP21 amplifier (link)
If I'm looking to add a this to the mix and have the entire set hooked up to my computer. Would I need to buy anything additional?
I'd leave this comment on the subwoofer thread but that thread is archived.
I know the Acoustech PL-200 is obviously a step up from the BIC America F12, but is it that much of a step up? I'm gonna be living in a small room next year, and I will be using the F12 (with my Fluance SX6 bookshelves) for primarily music but also movies and gaming. Is the PL-200 really going to be that much better of an upgrade for a small room? I'd understand if I was planning out a HT but again, small room. And a lot of reviews for the PL-200 complain it's a bit too boomy for music.
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Definition-Two-Way-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=fluance+bookshelf+speaker&amp;qid=1559177983&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=fluance+book&amp;sr=8-5
Would a set of Fluance SX6's and a MartinLogan Dynamo 300 Sub sound substantially better and louder than my Logitech Z623 setup? The mids on the logitechs are super bland and the bass is muddy but boomy.
Also, what unit would I need to properly hook up the Fluances and sub to a 1/8" computer out?
Amp, Speakers
I'm a little confused if you're saying $500 for speakers alone, or the set up. Heres a list I put together for a friend who had the same budget. Hope this helps.
($200) http://amzn.com/B00B981F38
($10) http://amzn.com/B006LW0W5Y
($12) http://amzn.com/B005EZTUMU
($130) http://amzn.com/B00067OS0A
($130) http://amzn.com/B004LRPXAU
Edit: If you go this route, don't forget these.
http://www.amazon.com/Mediabridge-ULTRA-Series-Subwoofer-Cable/dp/B003FVYXY0/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_y
http://www.amazon.com/Mediabridge-ULTRA-Series-Y-Adapter-Inches/dp/B004EBX5GW/ref=pd_sim_e_4?ie=UTF8&amp;refRID=0HP63MCWR61GRJ58Y5BY
Hey, been having trouble deciding between similarly priced bookshelves in the $90-$130 range. Here are the speakers I'm looking at. I'll be using these for my 12' x 12' bedroom to listen to music.
Klipsch KB-15 - $130
BIC America DV62si - $105
Fluance SX6 - $130
Pioneer BS22 - $97(Probably the safest option , lots of nice reviews)
Polk Audio TSi100 - $130
Polk Audio T15 - $109
Honestly I could go on and on, there are a lot of speakers in that price range with good reviews on amazon.
I'm loving my Fluance SX6 speakers. The Micca MB42X is also a popular choice.
What about a set of these?
Fluance SX6 High Definition Two-way Bookshelf Loudspeakers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00067OS0A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_REDTub0XATVXB
Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00067OS0A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Amp:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F0H8TOC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
I don't need support for a turntable or phono, but a regular plug (or port) to plug into my phone (or play Bluetooth audio, no preference).
Thanks for the guide! I just want to make sure I understand everything.
I just bought the Denon AVR-E300. I'm looking to set up a 2.0 system for my TV, to eventually upgrade to a 3.1 and, when I get more space, a 5.1 system.
Per this post, the Denon acts as an amp, correct? So now all I need are two bookshelf speakers and the speaker wire (which you recommend be at least 14/2 Awg 250-Feet In Wall Speaker Wire)?
I have about a $200 budget for the speakers. Between the Micca and the Fluance it seems like you prefer the Fluance?
I need some advice.
I bought this Record Player and these set of speakers
Unfortunately, I overlooked the fact that these speakers dont come with volume control(I was looking at similar speakers that did and got them mixed up). What are my options here?
> Fluance
Interesting. I just found these and think I can pair it with this and a handful of speaker wire.
? and cheap. IN Canada.
What you think?
Hey guys, just purchased these Polk TSI 100s:
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12
I have a small studio apartment and don't want to have a giant receiver, but I don't understand how watts work with ohms so I don't feel comfortable buying one of those mini amps without asking first. I'd like to go pretty low on price, but could do up to $150 if it's got a lot of inputs or features. Any advice?
I am new to the home theater/audio hobby. I am looking to start simple with my new HT setup. I have a receiver, but am looking for new speakers. Can I start with just a front left/right? Are these viable options?
or
Any insight would be much appreciated!
Thanks.
You'll need a record player, wether that is by means of free or purchase, you most likely need an amp also, and speakers.
I would recommend the Audio Technica AtLp60. It's cheap at 100 bucks but gets the job done. Next get an amp. For both of these, look to Amazon. Pick up a used or open box Sony Strdh190. If you don't have one, get an Amazon card, use the gift card to help defray the cost. You could get a beans new amp for less that 100. I recommend this one cause it has a phono input. The AT60 I recommend has a preamp I believe, so you'll actually want to hook it up to input 1. But, this allows you to upgrade your turntable if you come across something better at a thrift store or from a friend later. Not all turntables have preamps, if they don't, hook it to the phono input. If they do, line 1.
If you choose to get into cassettes or CD, you also have inputs for those decks as you come across them cheap.
Speakers. With this setup, you'll want speakers that can handle the newer power levels of a modern amp. 100watts. 6 or 8 ohms. Something like a pair of Klipsch bookshelf speakers. The RM 15 I believe is a affordable, new, good sounding speaker. Or some Polks of the same power.
All this, and your set. This isn't going to be everyone's setup, but it gets you started, listenable sound, and upgradable. All this can be had relatively affordable. 100 for the turntable, 125 for the speakers, and less than 150 for the amp if you buy it new. Until you understand more about turntables, avoid used is my suggestion, buy affordable new, nothing to do but follow the instructions.
Sony STRDH190 2-ch Stereo Receiver with Phono Inputs & Bluetooth https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078WFDR8D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hgWnDb8R2HGM2
Audio-Technica ATLP60 Fully Automatic Stereo Belt Drive Turntable - (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008872SIO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_hhWnDbN5KDF61
Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00192KF12/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CiWnDb6W6STNP
Klipsch R-15M Bookshelf Speaker (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LMF41IY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WjWnDbS7BKBQS
These are all direct to Amazon links. Look in the used sections to get a deal on some of these and save a few bucks.
Someone mentioned it already also. Do this to love the music. Don't collect records to collect records, it's a rabbit hole of money. Just but the bands you like. Listen to an album online before you buy it to see if you'll like it if you don't know who they are. About the elusive 1dollar bin at the record store. Those records may or may not be in great shape, and do you REALLY care about polkas greatest hits from 1963? All your dad or uncles what they listen to and look for some of those records to rock out to.
Good luck. Hope this helps.
PS, my prices mentioned and names of equipment were approximate, go with what's in the links.
I'm more concerned with movies than music, plus I don't have a ton of room. After a bit of searching with your suggestions, I found these bookshelf speakers and this sub. Between the speakers and the receiver, it'll put me at $700, right in my budget.
Are there any cables or wires I need to pick up, or do speakers usually come with what is needed?
Ive got a couple more questions if you can maybe answer.
This is my center speaker: https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B000V2SEYQ
And these are my surrounds: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00192KF12?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Would I set the center as small or large? How about the surrounds? I went large and small respectively. I'm waiting on a YPAO replacement mic so I can run it as mine was damaged out the box. I have big tower Polk fronts those were obvious and I set them to large.
TIA for any help appreciate it
Hello I have a POLK PSW10 Subwoofer, along with two Polk TSI100 bookshelf speakers. I was told I would need an amp to power this system, so I was needing help figuring out what amp I should purchase. I do not have much money to spend ~ $100.
Links to what I have:
[TSI100 Bookshelf speakers](https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12)
[PSW10 Subwoofer](https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-PSW10-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=pd_bxgy_23_img_3/140-6661619-8896241?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002KVQBA&pd_rd_r=9f5ca9c7-d3db-4fea-baae-272fadfa5aa7&pd_rd_w=QHypg&pd_rd_wg=KYjo1&pf_rd_p=09627863-9889-4290-b90a-5e9f86682449&pf_rd_r=8YR47SERGPAK8V63FEWB&psc=1&refRID=8YR47SERGPAK8V63FEWB)
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Thank you
If you want something new and bookshelf sized, I recommend my Polk Audio TSi100's. Great sound in a small package.
Of course, you're better searching craigslist and hunting down a deal on some nicer used speakers, but those Polk's will get the job done for sure.
Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01EMQI2CU/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1519841814&amp;sr=8-2-fkmr1&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=yahama+stereo+receiver
Audio Technica AT-LP60B Turntable
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008872SIO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1519841897&amp;sr=8-3&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=turntable&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=41r7Qsa8SUL&amp;ref=plSrch
Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00192KF12/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1519841960&amp;sr=8-3&amp;pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&amp;keywords=polk+bookshelf+speaker&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=410nZ6jqYQL&amp;ref=plSrch
Sorry for the late response. This is definitely a budget setup but honestly it sounds awesome. I couldn’t be happier with this setup.
Hey! I could use some help with adding a subwoofer to my setup. Currently I run a Sherwood RX-4508 to Polk Tsi150 bookshelf speakers to play my vinyl. I wanted to add a subwoofer to the setup, so I added the Polk PSW303. Since my receiver doesn't have a dedicated subwoofer input, I simply connected it with speaker wire, just as I did with my speakers. When I play any record, the sound will play for maybe 4 seconds before the entire receiver shuts down (then I have to unplug it and replug it in for it to come back on). I have no idea where to start diagnosing the problem. Any advice would be appreciated- thank you!
My Onkyo TX-8020 receiver is no longer working (my stupid mistake) and I am looking for a decent replacement. $200-300 is my budget, I suppose. I currently have a pair of Polk TSi100 bookshelf speakers and a BIC F12 sub. I do intend on upgrading in the future, but most likely not to 5.1, so I'll be replacing the speakers first. Any suggestions on a decent receiver?
edit: I have my receiver connected to my comp via an ASUS Essence STX sound card. I don't know if this would influence anything at all.
What about these Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black)
http://amzn.com/B00192KF12
These Behringer EUROLIVE B215XL 1000-Watt 2-Way Pa Speaker System with 15 Woofer And 1.75 Titanium Compression Driver (Black)
http://amzn.com/B0023C6H64
These JBL ES20 High-Performance 3-Way Bookshelf Speakers (Black, Pair)
http://amzn.com/B00167340E
Or these Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Designed Bookshelf Loudspeakers
http://amzn.com/B008NCD2LG
This is so hard finding a right pair of speakers I'm about to give up.
My recommendation is do NOT get a sound bar! You can get much better sound for the money and bars are notoriously bad, even the higher end versions. If you can spend up to $500, I would get a pair of Monitor Audio Bronze 2's. For $200 less, you can pick up some KEFQ100s (I use the Q500s for gaming personally). These are both passive speakers meaning you will need an audio visual receiver to power them, but you can pick one of those up very cheap on craigslist. If you do not have an amp/avr to power these, I would get these:
Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q100-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B0047K3X1M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511213706&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=q100
AVR:https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V381BL-Receiver-Black/dp/B01BY7YOAY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511213787&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=rx-v381
If you already have an amp/avr *or can get one for free/cheap on craigslist, I would get these:https://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1511213758&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=bronze+2
Both of these options are highly regarded in the audiophile world and receive great reviews by reputable audiophile groups like WhatHiFi. The best part is if you decide to upgrade your sound system or want to use them for something else, they will be great stereo speakers that you can use somewhere else in your house. If you buy a soundbar it's use is limited and it provides very low quality imaging.
Right, I think I've finally figured out what amp and speakers to buy. What do you think of a Pioneer NC-50DAB-B and Monitor Audio Bronze 2 speakers?
Links:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-2-Walnut/dp/B002LPTH92/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1497537265&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=Monitor+Audio+Bronze+2
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01M1MXTS8/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&amp;colid=1Q9VK43HAN4C&amp;coliid=I2HN3FK355B6BB&amp;psc=1
Hey guys. I have onkyo a-9010 amp and I would like to connect it to PC with the best result in term of quality of sound. At the moment it is connected from PC to cheap dac with optical cable, then from DAC to amp with cheap RCA cables. Sound is ok, but I wonder if it can be better by using other things. What do you guys recommend? My onkyo is UK model, there is no any optical input in opposite to EU version.
DAC: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Digital-Toslink-Converter-Adapter-Optical-Black-96-Khz-2-0ch/dp/B00KNNSKV0/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_23_bs_tr_t_1?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=CVXDZ7S5SB6DBBN85GHP
Amp: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Onkyo-A-9010-UK-Integrated-Amplifier/dp/B00SH2JSJW
Speakers: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-2-Walnut/dp/B002LPTH92
Since you already have an amp, you have lot of options. People love the KEF Q300 and the Monitor Audio Bronze 2, plus both are front ported, which is good if you'll be near a wall. There's also a lot of talk here about Elac, Wharfedale, DT, and so many others. Though the best deal is probably to buy used off of craigslist or ebay (local pickup).
I just saw this on slickdeals: Monitor Audio Bronze speakers 25% off
Bronze 2 Bookshelves (pair) [amazon.com]: $375 (normally $500)
link
Edit: I haven't heard these...I do have JBL 530 and am a bit underwhelmed by them.
Ahh good find! If you’re not familiar, camel camel camel is an amazing tool and you can set alerts to come straight to your email! Always be sure to check both amazon and 3rd party new if they have both :)
https://camelcamelcamel.com/Monitor-Audio-Bronze-Bookshelf-Speakers/product/B002LPTH92?context=search
I'll be upgrading my speakers. Right now, I'm thinking of two different options.
Any other suggestions?
I do have a sub, but Im talking about RB-51 and RB-61, which arent towers. The only difference I can see is that the woofer seems to get bigger and the frequency response is able to go lower. Frankly, I don't have an idea how much of an impact that would make, if any.
Save your money and do it right. You don't have to go crazy, but something like this would be great. I have the RB-61s and for home theater couldnt ask for more. Then add matching center, and surrounds, and good subwoofer. Take your time, spend just a little more and get something much better.
http://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Reference-Series-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411071176&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=klipsch+rb-51
How large is your bar?
For a small bar I would just use some nice Hifi speakers mounted to the ceiling.
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-RB-51-Bookshelf-Speakers-Dimensions/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=sr_1_27?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1540032535&sr=1-27&keywords=bookshelf+speakers
For larger rooms / bars maybe small flyable (ceiling mountable) speakers.
QSC K8.2
LD Systems Stinger 8A G3
Currently have a setup with Klipsch RB-51 IIs, but my roommate's taking them when he moves out. How would the JBL 305P MkIIs compare?
For usage, I'd like to have the speakers output my television's audio, and also connect to my chromecast audio. Would a Rolls MX42 Stereo Mini Mixer suffice for this? Is there any quality drop by relaying the signal through a mixer? Trying to avoid purchasing a receiver for this simple task.
Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040LG96O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427745650&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=klipsch+bookshelf+speakers&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=414t%2BYnZSWL&amp;ref=plSrch
^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?
I suspect that Bluetooth will eventually be replaced or upgraded by some other improved tech, so it's not really a BIFL thing. I'd recommend separating the bluetooth part from the speakers/amp. So in the spirit of this sub, I'd recommend something like this Bluetooth receiver.
Now you can invest in a BIFL speaker/amp setup that will serve you for the rest of you life and not just get thrown out when it breaks or Bluetooth stops being a thing.
This 2-channel amp is built like a tank and can be repaired if necessary since it's all discrete components. It will likely last a lifetime.
For speakers you have a lot of options, but try to get something from a company that will be around in the future in case you need to replace a tweeter or torn cone, etc. For example these bookshelf speakers.
What can you guys tell me about these speakers
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0040LG96O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427745650&amp;sr=8-1&amp;pi=AC_SY200_QL40&amp;keywords=klipsch+bookshelf+speakers&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=414t%2BYnZSWL&amp;ref=plSrch
I am really considering pulling the trigger, as these guys are in my price point
I meant rb 51 actually.
These:
http://amzn.com/B0040LG96O
Inifinity P163 - $85 each, $170/pair
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1310171855&amp;sr=8-1
Yamaha RX-397 - $194
http://cgi.ebay.com/Yamaha-Rx-397-Rx397-Home-Stereo-Receiver-SAVE-BARGAIN-/260772748218?pt=Receivers_Tuners&amp;hash=item3cb7445bba
I have a pair of P162s and the P163 isn't a major redesign, so I would assume their at least equally as good and the rx397 is a great, low power stereo.
That gets you in under your $400 budget.
The sticky text recommends a Muse M50 and whatever the best speakers you can afford after that. (so, like $60 for the muse and $120 on the speakers recommended elsewhere in this thread
I too have this receiver and pretty sure santa (the wife) got me these speakers
Can't vouch for them yet but I will after Christmas!
Also for $125 that seems like an excellent price for the Receiver. Last week I bought the same receiver for $140 (and that was after talking him down.) But to be fair the one I scored is in immaculate condition so I'm happy. Hopefully you'll be happy too.
Zeos,
Thank you for this guide. I am currently looking for a solid computer speaker setup.
I use the asus sabertooth z77 motherboard with on board audio:
Realtek® ALC892 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC
Would a DAC be better than the on board sound card? If so, what would you recommend?
I am considering the Swan M50, Swan M200mkii (no sub), or M-Audio AV40 (no sub), Creative GigaWorks T40 for the powered options.
Or
The Infinity P163bk currently $59 per speaker on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32
What amp would you recommend for the P163? I am considering the SMSL SA50. What DAC would you recommend for this setup?
Of those options, what would you recommend? Ideally this would be $100-$200 (can go a little over if worth it). I would like a setup where a bass isn't needed, it can lack punch, but I would still like to have some lower coverage.
Thank you.
> what speakers are really good for gaming?
What speakers are you currently using?
I'd take your $100 that you set aside for a sound card and put that towards an amp/receiver and a set of good bookshelf speakers.
For speakers, I'm currently using a pair of Infinity bookshelves with my main rig. Absolutely incredible sound. You will need an amp or receiver though.
Fwiw, I had some Infinity Primus P142 speakers (similar to this ) sitting around doing nothing and they're in my kitchen now with this amp and the system sounds waaay better than the cheap Sonos. I'm sure better than the more expensive Sonos too.
I thought about that, I guess I felt lazy and thought I can just make one purchase and get nicely matching speakers. I haven't seen many people recommend Infinity's on home setup, a lot of people suggested Klipsch. When I look at two speakers I can't tell what to look for. Is it the wattage? Most review sites claim wattage doesn't mean much these days since there isn't a standard. When I look at the Amazon page for P163's, http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0045NCB32 they don't even advertise wattage or any other specs. So how does one know a speaker is well matched with his AVR or match with other speakers properly? Thanks for the suggestion.
Ok thanks. I'm gonna go with the Pioneer speakers. However I found this version here:
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
They're 40 dollars and look exactly like what you suggested me. How are they different?
This is just over your budget:
http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-Natural-Stereo-Receiver-R-S201BL/dp/B00F0H88SY/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1410892531&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=yamaha+stereo+receiver
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1410892551&amp;sr=8-8&amp;keywords=pioneer+andrew+jones+speakers
About $219.
For a small, but nice setup I'd look for a nice pair of vintage bookshelf speakers or invest in a new pair of bookshelf speakers. Something like these Polks. Polks generally excel at mid range and high range definition. They would be very portable and not so bassy or large as to draw a lot of attention. Then, when you get space for a bigger system you could add a sub, some bigger fronts, and use these for rear surrounds. If that's too much money, Pioneer is my second goto for small, clear, cheap bookshelf speakers. They haven't changed what they do in decades, but they haven't needed to either! Good luck!
Awesome! That would be perfect. Thank you again for your help. It seems like I might not be able to get the Polk S20 speakers because the buyer isn't responding yet. So just in case, I think I found another really nice deal. All for just $200 he's selling...
Pioneer VSX-521-K
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-VSX-521-K-Receiver-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B004M8RPAY
Pair of Pioneer FS51 Floorstanding Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/pioneer-sp-fs51-lr-floorstanding-loudspeakers-discontinued/dp/b004h1m4no
Pair of Pioneer BS21 Bookshelf Speakers
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS21-LR-80-Watts-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B004MEWZE4
Pioneer SP-C21 Center-Channel Speaker
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-C21-Speaker-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B004MF4S0M/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
That also leaves me enough money to buy a subwoofer like the Dayton SUB-1200. But the receiver is a different model then the one you suggested. I'm not sure if it's still good. Would that be enough to drive all those speakers adequately?
In your opinion, do you think that would be a nice sounding setup for movies and music?
It's probably what you have driving them. Anyway, I have Pioneer SP-BS21-LR 80-Watts RMS 2-Way Speakers (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MEWZE4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_BDdLub1VH859Z powered by a Topping TP20-MK2 MKII TA2020 Class T-AMP Digital Stereo Amplifier https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00828UTE4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_CLdLub12T0DB0. I love it.
If I were to stretch my budget a bit, would these be a better option?
And for making stands, are there any specific materials I should use/not use? Any good guides out there?
Thanks for this guide /u/ZeosPantera !
I do have a question however since I am having a hard time finding the answer. I am looking for a receiver that can handle 4k HDR passthrough as well as ARC with 5.1 channels. Is there anything you would reccomend from Sony? I am open to other brands, but am not trying to spend more than 300$ I have a xbr800d and a ps4 pro.
For speakers I have these pioneer bookshelf speakers and a polkaudio psw10 powered by this yamaha s201 receiver.
For the center channel, I was looking at this klipsch KC-25 . Currently my set up is in my bedroom which isnt too big, maybe a 10x15 foot room. I'll probably end up picking the surround speakers sometime later.
If you're looking to upgrade on the cheap, I'd recommend either of the Pioneer bookshelf speakers designed by Andrew Jones (the 80 watt version; the 130 watt version) or the floorstanding version of that line. I have the floorstanding version, and I must say that the sound is fantastic for around $200.
And the subwoofer. Yes. That would put you just under $500. Just so everything is in one place:
Receiver:
http://www.amazon.com/Harman-Kardon-HK-3490-Receiver/dp/B00198F89A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1344836198&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=harmon+kardon+stereo+receiver
Speakers:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MEWZE4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&amp;smid=A1DDN16L5L3LOG
Subwoofer:
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SW-8-Watt-Subwoofer-System/dp/B004MF2ZG6/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_c
If I could do it all over again, this is probably the combo I'd choose.
Its either spend $120 now for crappy sound which you will probably replacr or slowly build a system that youll love for years.
Why not start off with a 2.0 system and purchase the others when you can enjoy it and have the $
Hi there!
I am seeking advice on what kinda amp i should be getting i am gonna use it on my PC and using it to listen music and for gaming mostly, my budget would be somewhere around 150€
I would be running: Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro & Dali ZENSOR 1
I have SoundBlaster card which should have SPIDF and digital I/O.
You could look at Wharfedale's diamond series speakers (220 or 225) to stick with the brand. Alternatives I also enjoy are Q acoustics 3020 or concept 20, Dali Zensor, Sonus Faber Principia 1. I would always recommend listening to a couple of different speakers before actually settling on a specific set though, maybe your tastes are completely different from mine. If there are no dealers near you, you could always try to select your top 3 in your price bracket, order all of them and send 2 pairs back ;).
As far as cheap amps go, I only tested a SMSL SA-60 which seemed a little weak with some bigger speakers (could've been a bad unit since I've heard so many good things about those little amps, who knows) and upgraded that to a Pro-ject Stereo Box S. I actually like the Pro-ject amp for small setups. (comes with a tiny remote and has 2 sets of RCA inputs). I found that I didn't need anything else with bookshelf speakers up to around 1.200€ after testing a couple of full size amps that were supposed to be "so much better".
Good Luck
Ich hab auch in der Schulzeit angefangen, sobald mehr Geld da is kann man dann richtig reinlegen. Wenn du zum Beispiel mal gute Regalboxen haben willst kann ich dir die DaLi Zensor 1 empfehlen. Für kleine bis mittelgroße Räume sind die echt verdammt gut (noch nie im größeren ausprobiert). Wobei ich wahrscheinlich als erstes den Spieler selbst verbessern würde weil gute Boxen auch immer dessen Schwächen präsenter machen.
Klipsch RP-150M
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RXHEIHE
ELAC Uni-fi UB5
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2/
DALI - ZENSOR 1
https://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0
Personally if you are looking to save money look around at garage sales some older home theater speakers will kill most today.
Whether any pair of speakers "needs" a sub is a matter of personal preference. If it were up to me, I would put the bulk of the $500 into as good a pair of speakers as you can find, and forget the sub. Here are some suggestions:
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U
https://www.amazon.com/DALI-ZENSOR-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1500916043&amp;sr=1-1-spons&amp;keywords=Dali+Zensor+1&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=A3PO6K6MJQ13RE
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Klipsch-Reference-RB-61-II-Bookshelf-Black-speakers-Pair-Black-/162594240096?_trksid=p2349526.m2548.l4275
Unless you're willing to push your budget up another couple hundred, I would stick with bookshelf speakers. Also, this is assuming you want to buy new. If you're willing to take a chance with something used, and you're patient, then all bets are off.
Alright, I can understand your dilemma. Let me begin by writing down your possible choices (all prices from amazon.de) :
Among these, I have personally heard only the Denons and heard good things about the others. My reason for recommending Denon SC-F109 is that they are the best speakers in their price class. Obviously, there is a lot of subjectivity involved in that statement. Your personal preferences, music taste and room acoustics also matters. For example, you would have to keep these speakers at some distance from the wall, about 12-15" should be enough. But that statement provides you with a reference. This means you could always order two (or even three) of the aforementioned speakers and audition them at your home, one of them being Denon. Then return the ones you do not like. But let me tell you in advance that speaker prices are not always a reliable indication of their quality. If you are not satisfied with any of these and are willing to spend a little more, your best bets would be:
Both of these are excellent speakers.
I just bought a system for way more, but is all from dali and im realy happy with them. There cheapest model is http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dali-Zensor-Speakers-Pair-Black/dp/B0057X5KF0. But tbh with "only" that much money i would look for a used setup, just listen to it before and all that.
Klipsch R-15PM vs AudioEngine A5+ for computer speakers, both are $399.
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-15PM-Powered-Monitor-Black/dp/B01A7J534G/ref=pd_ybh_a_3?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=BE1JVCEAQWE7D5Z6JKDA
vs.
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY/ref=pd_ybh_a_13?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=SEMGCA2V1JVB8P0RJSKJ
These are really really good: audio engine a5+ https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
Also a cheaper option with a sub is the klipsch promedia 2.1: https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-ProMedia-Certified-Computer-Speaker/dp/B000062VUO
You didn't specify your budget, with of course is the nub of it all. Here are two options that I know sound great, both about $600 give or take. For affordable-yet-awesome with a small footprint I like the audioengine A5+ active speakers (=amplifer and speakers together). You could then add a schiit mani phono preamp and you're done. Or, if you want a stand alone amplifier and passive speakers, it's hard to go wrong with the very nice Emotiva TA-100; great sound, lots of connectivity with high quality phono preamp, at a reasonable price, and connect it to a pair of Elac Debut b6 speakers.
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
you won't need an amp for these, just plug in and play. they should definitely be loud enough, and sound great
The overnight sensation MTM will go down to about 50hz, but they're taller than normal bookshelf speakers, the advantage of them being a kit is they will sound like much more expensive speakers when done
If you want something comparable for low end with off the shelf assembled then the Audioengine A5+ monitors might work for you, they can probably do 55-60hz on the low end
Just keep in mind that neither of those are going to give you lots a bass that you can really feel in your chest, it's just not possible with something that small
You will thank me (and this is mostly my set up)
for passive speakers
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-N22-Premium-Desktop-Amplifier/dp/B0049OI08W/ref=sr_1_10?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411009349&amp;sr=1-10&amp;keywords=audioengine
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-2-Way-Passive-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B002FJVTGI/ref=sr_1_11?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411009349&amp;sr=1-11&amp;keywords=audioengine
450 total
for passive
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Premium-Powered-Speaker-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411009349&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=audioengine
400 bucks
http://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-A2-Premium-Powered-Speakers/dp/B00DQMJE7E/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1411009349&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=audioengine
250
If you're looking for home theater inputs, I would forgo the stereo amp and look for a budget receiver for around 150-200 bucks.
Need advice for a PC Setup
I’m a fan of great sounding music, but by no means would I consider myself an audiophile. I’m a bit out of the loop when it comes to making an informed decision about new gear to accompany a recent PC build I just put together. I have a budget of $500.00 but am willing to step that up to $1,000.00 if the improvement in sound quality is worth the extra money.
From what I’ve read, it looks like active monitors suit my needs best. I have found a set of KEF X300A for $550.00 which look pretty good to me and have been reviewed quite well; however it looks like I won’t be able to run a sub with them. I do listen to pretty bass heavy music but I live in a condo that requires I keep the thumping bass to a minimum. Do any of you have experience with the KEF X300A’s? Alternatives that look like they might also suit my needs are the Vanatoo T1’s and the Audioengine A5+ which both appear to be well reviewed and have outputs for a sub woofer.
Any help or product recommendations would be much appreciated.
My second question is in regards to speaker placement. I ‘m running a three monitor setup which makes speaker placement a bit awkward as two of the monitors are right in the ideal placement. Do any of you have experience with this issue? Again any recommendations would be appreciated.
Damn really? I was looking at these, Audioengine A5+
Official:
https://audioengineusa.com/shop/poweredspeakers/a5-plus-classic-speakers/
Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
AudioEngine have a GREAT reputation. These are the A5+. This is of course just a suggestion but I have a pair for my office and they're wonderful bookshelf speakers.
You should know, that's a pretty nice turntable, everyone's financial situation is a little different, but I wouldn't cut corners on the speakers.
Cool. Amazon ships to Houston, TX! Buy away!
Snagged off Craigslist for $325 for the pair + $100 for the DAC. They're Audioengine A5+s.
They're the A5. The A2 are only 60w.
Link to A5 for the curious
I can find only fragments of the other thread you're referring to, but the TS-to-RCA cable is legit. It's not an adapter or coupler or anything like that. It certainly won't be the best connection option, but again, it works (it wouldn't damage the audio interface or the speaker), and it would cost far less than a pair of new monitors.
I looked at those speakers you have (or had). They're these? Those are more like bookshelf speakers, not active studio monitors. And $400 for the pair? You can do better than that for less money.
The JBL 305P monitors are another popular choice. They cost $150 each, and taxes/shipping could push the cost of the pair past your $300 budget. But both the Presonus and JBL monitors are fine choices.
I think these or the A2s.
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
If you want bookshelf audio, I have audio engine's for myself and some other people I buy for. They are great.
https://www.amazon.com/Audioengine-Active-2-Way-Speakers-Black/dp/B005OA3BSY
Fellow Panasonic plasma owner here.
You're gonna need a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to change the digital signal from the TV (over the Toslink cable) into an analog audio signal over red and white RCA cables. The way I see it you have 2 options.
Powered Speaker Option - $428
Digital conversion is a pretty mature technology. You don't need to spend any more than this on a DAC.
If you don't want a receiver, these are the #1 most recommended and well-reviewed powered speaker pair around.
Passive Speaker Option - $268
See above.
Not a home theater receiver just two nice big amplifiers and some basic switching capability. You can control the volume with your cable box remote or buy a cheap Harmony universal remote they're really fantastic.
One of the most highly recommended bookshelf speaker pairs to come around in a long time.
Sounds like you want Chromecast Audio plugged into some nice powered speakers, like these or these or these or these.
Edit: I'm not commenting on how well it'll work. I don't own a Chromecast. It just seems to work on paper for what you're asking.
After reading about motor hum issues I chose to go with the Pro ject Carbon Debut DC (with the acrylic platter upgrade), the ART DJ PreII preamp, and ordered these speakers (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005OA3BSY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1). Best of luck!
Looking to buy these speakers for myself soon
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B005OA3BSY/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1MDP7AFOR891V&amp;psc=1
I was just wondering would I need to buy a DAC? because I currently have the O2+SDAC from massdrop i use for my 6XX, would I be able to use the same dac if i need to? or can I just directly hook up the speakers to my PC as I do see a USB port ?
or if theres anything else I need buy
> are my tsi100 Polk audio speakers worth keeping
umm...not sure how we can answer that.
> Does it matter if the speakers are powered or not?
It matters in that it has an effect on what other equipment you may or may not need.
> What are some other great speakers you'd suggest with a $400 limit
Active or passive? :)
If you are looking for active speakers, the Audioengine A5's are an oft-recommended set at the $400 price point:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005OSR1C8/ref=twister_B00L3KRZS6?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Hello kind redditors! Should I get the Audioengine a5+ or Klipsch r-15pm. I did consider the JBL LSR305, however these are going to be on my desk with my turntable and desktop computer setup. I don't have a desktop amp, only a small phono preamp. Thanks!
https://www.amazon.ca/Audioengine-Premium-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B005OSR1C8?th=1&amp;psc=1
These are my speakers, I'm assuming they would be classified as powered.
I switched the switch on the back of my turntable before, and the sound was just extremely low.
I'm looking for desktop speakers in the 200-300 range. I currently use a FX Audio DAC-X6 for my Sennheiser CX300 and have a HifiMan HE-400 on the way.
You may have guess given my headphone choice: I'm more of a basshead than full audiophile. And I'm looking for the same in desktop speakers.
THE BIG CATCH: No dedicated sub. My downstairs neighbor is a **** so I'd like to get a pair of speakers that have decent bass out of the box.
I've been eyeballing the Kanto YU4 and the Audioengine A5+ because I'd rather not get a separate amp, but I'm not sure and wanted to hear some opinions.
thanks
What are your thoughts on the Audioengine A5+? I currently have a pair of M-Audio AV40s and am looking to upgrade. Are the Audioengines good or do you suggest something different? Thanks!
Audioengine A5s?
I plan on buying either these Kanto's or These AudioEngine Speakers. the problem i have is i have no clue what else i need in order to make these things work on my PC. i just want to be able to listen to music and my videogames. I currently have Sennheiser 598's plugged into a Presonus AudioBox USB but im not sure if i can also plug these speakers into that?
I saw the KEF Q300 in black listed on Amazon last night before the deal was active (no price displayed yet). Someone just posted the active deal and it's pretty freaking good and going fast!
I'm not sure $800 is enough budget for tower speakers unless you would buy Klipsch or Andrew Jones Pioneer. Most good tower speakers which wouldn't really need a sub and would be audiophile quality are something like $550 each.
I would get bookshelves and a subwoofer, and you can upgrade them in the future if you wish. For the bookshelves, do something like this:
KEF Q300B Bookshelf Loudspeakers - Black Ash (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CE3LG9U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_xwLDzbT9SB2WF
Or, slightly cheaper:
Klipsch RP-150M Bookshelf Speaker - Cherry (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RXHEH8Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LHLDzb4SG7WJF
Wharfedale - Diamond 220 (Walnut) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P15KDCO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9RLDzbZ86871K
DALI - ZENSOR 1 - Bookshelf Speakers in Light Walnut (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0057X8796/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VSLDzbP0MK16M
And for the sub:
SVS SB-1000 – 12”, 300 Watt DSP Controlled, Sealed Box Subwoofer (Black Ash) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF88C0M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LDLDzbRASPMQT
This puts you over budget by $100 if you go with the KEFs and $35 if you go Klipsch (which would be significantly louder, more V shaped sound (bass and treble, less mids), but less detailed). I haven't heard the wharfedales or dalis in person so I can't comment on their sound. So, I would start with just the speakers and then decide if you want a sub or not, if you do, continue saving.
Edit: some tower options that are less than $800:
Klipsch RP-250F Floorstanding Speaker - Ebony (Each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S2N4BDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.LLDzbFH56BVV
Monitor Audio Bronze Series 5 2 1/2 Way Floorstanding Speaker - Each - Black Oak https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XW22VY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cQLDzb7WQ7KE9
ELAC - Debut F5 Tower Speakers (Each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014GSEPY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TQLDzbEY4CHAQ
https://www.amazon.com/KEF-Q300B-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00CE3LG9U
kef q300's just went on sale on amazon
Denver here also. I have three picks for each.
Speakers:
Integrated amps:
Or this one, harder to find but nicer: http://m.ebay.com/itm/TEAC-Reference-AI-501DA-90watts-ch-Integrated-Amp-192kHz-USB-DAC-AI501DA-silver-/112167013703?nav=SEARCH
If you want everything around $1,000 here's a decent plan.
Receiver Denon 1500 for $300 https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx1500h/denon-avr-x1500h-7.2-ch-x-80-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html
Subwoofer Bic PL200 II for $300
https://www.amazon.com/Bic-Acoustech-PL-200-II-Subwoofer/dp/B074131NKS
Front L/R NHT SuperOne (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00LJX4HCY/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=nht+super&amp;qid=1566675258&amp;s=electronics&amp;sr=1-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzTTRER1RCUVk0NUdWJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODc2MDc4MUVCNDJUT0VHSjlDMyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjkwNzU3VUFISldVUFowWllOJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==
Center NHT Super Center
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-Super-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00QHDC32C/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=nht+super&amp;qid=1566675307&amp;s=electronics&amp;sr=1-4
Surround L/R (2 of them)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=nht+super&amp;qid=1566675307&amp;s=electronics&amp;sr=1-5
With a bit bigger budget you would still want that receiver. Bump the subwoofer up to the SVS PB-1000 (most likely). And end up with a lot of different speaker options to consider.
I have NHT speakers and have been very happy with them. This would work for you.
NHT Super One for your left and right ($206 /pair)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperOne-2-1-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B00LJX4HCY
NHT Super Center ($130)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-Super-Center-Channel-Speaker/dp/B00QHDC32C
NHT Super Zero for your left and right surround ($120/pair)
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK
HSU VTF2-MK5 12" Subwoofer ($509)
http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-2mk5.html
Yamaha RX-V485 Receiver ($350)
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V485BL-5-1-Channel-Receiver-MusicCast/dp/B07CF9H3KW
Total is $1315 leaving you some money for shipping of the sub, some speaker wire, and banana plugs.
Based on what you and others said, I am planning on this. I'd like your thoughts...
Front and sides: NHT SuperZero 2.1, $115/pair
Center NHT SuperCenter, $151
Martin Logan Dynamo 500 (Found a refurb for $180)
I use the NHT SuperZero's as my surround speakers. They work great and would match the SVS. https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK
If you've got the room, you could step up to the NHT SuperOne's for even more output- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LJX4HCY/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&amp;pd_rd_i=B00LJX4HCY&amp;pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_p=a54d13fc-b8a1-4ce8-b285-d77489a09cf6&amp;pf_rd_r=0N5NSP6D7FK8TDZ6695Y&amp;pd_rd_wg=Spz7Y&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pf_rd_t=40701&amp;pd_rd_w=1jx7X&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&amp;pd_rd_r=01391427-af81-11e8-861c-cd06ea1130b1
Small speakers with good audio for your PC? Might I recommend NHT SuperZeros, I just got a pair myself for using on my PC, upgrading from an RC Micro kit.
It's 100$ a pair. So 200$ for a stereo setup and paired with a half-decent subwoofer, you can have quite the little system brewing.
http://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK
As said below, you will need an AVR or amp though.
What's great about the SZ is their size...really it's kind of amazing. It's like half-way between small Sat speakers and full bookshelf speakers, and yet has the quality of most full size bookshelf speakers. SuperOnes are their upgraded brothers, with a bigger frequency range, but 50$ more ea, and slightly larger(Still not as large as full size bookshelf though, they fit on desks nicely.)
These NHT have been on sale under $60 each. They are sealed so maybe not as much bass as your Daytons.
https://www.amazon.com/NHT-SuperZero-2-1-Mini-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B00CKNOYWK/ref=sr_1_23_sspa?hvadid=77653134151722&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvqmt=e&keywords=nht+zero&qid=1574460005&sr=8-23-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFLUTJRNzM0NThWUUkmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA0NzAwMzFJSFdCTkpITlc1UEomZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDU4NDEyOTEzV1BTTVlUTUdMTkkmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9tdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
I would go the MB42X with a cheap amp and just forego the sub for now. It gives you an upgrade path without being locked in.
People telling you it doesn't have good bass are comparing to actual speakers, and not tiny crappy computer speakers like the Promedia 2.1. I have some NHT SuperZero's that are basically designed to not have any bass (you're supposed to use them with a sub), and they still have more bass than those crappy 2.1 computer speakers.
The tiny sub that comes with the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 isn't gonna do much for you.
What would be a good amp to power these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00CKNOYWK/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8
With the source being a 2010 MacBook Pro?
No more than $100, preferably less
Plenty of companies offer space saving solutions. What about in wall speaker systems? Virtually no footprint. Ease of use? Again, plenty of capable satallite/ sub HTIB.
Since Bose refuses to offer Specs for their lines of audio, I am unable to provide hard data to back up these folling claims. However, I do have a calibrated measurment microphone with audio analysis software and would be willing to test any of these and compare.
> Soundlink Mini2 199$<enter>
JBL Flip 3 Splashproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker = 85$ simillar size/sound quality with water resistance
> Acoustimass 3 Series V 199$
total price= 140 which is still under the bose. the benefit of this system is the subwoofer cone is larger and powered, unlike the acousitmass sub which is a 6 inch paper passive subwoofer.
>Acoustimass 10 series V 999$
10 inch powered subwoofer 129$
2 of these 76.87 x2
center
total= 360 i promise it would perform on par with the acoustimass system. if you wanted more power you could easily get a better subwoofer. keep in mind they are better build quality the acoustimas are paper cones.
2000 range would be the invisible in wall system. probably all the way to atmos.
These are just examples. Keep in mind these builds are to equal to the performance of the products by bose.
There are some smaller speakers out there that would be a large sonic improvement without taking up a ton more space and/or being aesthetically displeasing. A couple of examples at different sizes:
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00E7H8GG2
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM?th=1
https://www.crutchfield.com/S-HYDr9GSyppK/p_701S803BL/Jamo-S-803-Black.html
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_701S81CBL/Jamo-S-81-CEN-Black.html
Let's say you could find someone to buy the speaker for $70 (~half the price new).
You could purchase 2 pairs of these and connect them in parallel or series.
What I'm currently hoping for is another lightning deal on this that drops the price to at least half, then I'll order another MKIII crossover from Micca and use them for a decent 2.0 setup.
When your budget is small, whether out of necessity or self-imposed, you get creative. Sometimes it works out.
Ultimately, I'd like to build the Amiga tower speakers.
Here is the desk:
https://imgur.com/gallery/6HhvL/new
You can see the receiver on by the TV in this album:
https://imgur.com/a/MSqrT
in a few days the desk will have those Micca speakers by the tv and my ultrawide/portrait as seen here:
http://imgur.com/gallery/wVBdT/new'
OH, I'm also gonna get the Micca center channel..
http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=sr_1_8?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1462156184&amp;sr=1-8&amp;keywords=micca
This comes in at $415 and would probably sound considerably better than most htib:
Reciever:
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/onktxsr343/onkyo-tx-sr343-5.1-ch-x-65-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html
Center channel:
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1472958351&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=micca+center
Speakers, 2 pair:
https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B009IUIV4A/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1472958258&amp;sr=8-3&amp;keywords=mica
Subwoofer:
https://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-10-Inch-Powered-Subwoofer/dp/B0002KVQBA/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1472958408&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=subwoofer
I was looking at that one, but considering it's so much newer than the BAs I have, would it make much difference to even get the same manufacturer for this? I was also eyeing this speaker which got great reviews: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HH2GINM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_8mctzbY8MBZYH
Atmos is a configuration that uses a traditional surround sound setup (5.1 or 7.1) in addition to speakers in the ceiling. There are significant technical details that are different, but all you need to know is that it uses in-ceiling speakers.
Take a look at this site https://www.dolby.com/us/en/speaker-setup-guides/index.html. It will give you some info on what the speaker setup differences between traditional surround setups (5.1, 7.1) and atmos setups (5.1.X or 7.1.X) are. The speakers you have right now would ONLY be used for the in-ceiling speakers (the .X part of the setup).
If you want a 5.1.4 setup (5.1.4 overhead speaker setup in the guide I linked), which takes advantage of 4 of your in-ceiling speakers, it's possible on your budget, but obviously won't be the best around.
Receiver
Front L/R speakers
Center speaker
Surround Speakers
Subwoofer.
This fits into you budget of $500 receiver, $200 on speakers, and $200 on subwoofer. It is pretty much the lowest quality speakers/subwoofer you can get that are still respectable. But you will probably be just fine with it.
You'll also need speaker wire, subwoofer cable, etc., which will run you another $75ish maybe.
Thanks for your reply and advice. The all in one system was inherited when I bought my house. The previous owner installed two ceiling built-in speakers for the back left/right of the 5.1 setup. If I can confirm that those speakers are 4+ ohms, I am considering doing a full replace on the rest, so getting:
[Dayton Audio SUB-1200] (https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629)
[Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers] (https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B009IUIV4A?th=1)
[Micca MB42-C Center Channel Speaker] (https://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM?th=1)
[DENON
AVR-S530BT 5.2-Ch x 70 Watts Bluetooth A/V Receiver] (https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrs530bt/denon-avr-s530bt-5.2-ch-x-70-watts-bluetooth-a/v-receiver/1.html)
Assuming I can check the two built-in ceiling speakers (which are a lot newer than the philips setup) and confirm they will work does that list make sense?
Oh my mistake, I see why... On amazon.ca, a pair of MB42X is $133. And the centers are $63 each, but they're actually the non-X version (MB42-C) so that's why it's cheaper: https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-MB42-C-Channel-Speaker-Tweeter/dp/B00HH2GINM/
Amazon. If you look at the Q&A, the top one asks if it's a pair, and the listing says "each"
So considering that for the same price of these https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-BK-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=Fluance+sx6&amp;qid=1563132722&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1
I could get the Klipsch
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/klipsch-reference-series-5-1-4-340-watt-passive-2-way-bookshelf-speakers-pair-black/6241808.p?skuId=6241808
I don't think I'll be picking up the center for a bit and when I do I won't mind picking up the klipsch center even if its $100 more than the fluance. Are the Klipsch a better buy overall? Also, can my receiver power them?
Fluance SX-6 Black Edition. Got them on sale when they first came out as no one knew about them I guess. Love'em.
Yep it's the same receiver. Accessories4Less is pretty much just an awesome store. It's a solid receiver. Can't really go wrong there for your first setup. You could pair it with these Micca MB42X's for $89, or go for these Fluance SX6-BK bookshelves at $130. Both are solid recommendations, and you won't go wrong with either choice - just pick which suits your budget best.
I'd recommend a simple 2-channel receiver like one of these for $150-200:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F0H88SY/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EE18O7W/
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/onktx8050/onkyo-tx-8050-80watts-x-2ch-network-stereo-receiver/1.html
and bookshelf speakers like one of these for $60-120 a pair:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DKPJSIM/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E7H8GG2/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008NCD2LG/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B014HR6CQ2/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0021L9BOC/
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IEDL8EM/
The 2 Onkyo's have better connectivity options, especially the 8050. You can easily add a bluetooth adapter to any of these for less than $20 if you want to stream music. Same for adding a USB network adapter if you want to connect wireless to your network. Personally, I'd forget about using a sub in a garage setup because it will be very boomy but I guess it depends on what you're after. Either way I'd start without on and add it later if you don't like the sound of the speakers alone.
Get a used stereo receiver with phono input and a pair of these. https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-BK-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1500648843&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=fluance+sx6-bk
Anybody have opinions on the SMSL SA-60?
Lots of you seem to like the SA-50 but in canada it's ~$50 more and 1-3 weeks shipping on amazon.
&nbsp;
I'm looking for an amp for some Fluance DS6 from canada if you have any other suggestions.
Hey all, I'm upgrading from a borrowed all in one turntable to a U-Turn Orbit. I'm going to pick up the Art DJPre II for the phono preamp and a set of M-Audio BX5 D2's. Now, I've got a pretty tiny room (7 1/2' by 11') which really limits my speaker placement options but I still want to create a not-shit soundstage if at all possible. I'll probably be listening most of the time from the floor or in bed. I have no idea where to place my speakers. So my questions are:
Are there any other speakers in that size range that I should know about (aside from the Audioengine A2+s)?
Do I need any extra cords aside from what is included with the speakers/preamp/turntable?
Am I screwed due to my room size?
Here is a diagram of my room and some pictures to help explain—
Picture sort of related. I was going to get an amp and a set of Flaunce SX6's but I really have no room right now. I'll be moving in the fall so perhaps I'll do that set up then, but for now, I'm going this route.
Any help at all is appreciated. Thanks!
Now I may sound completely dumb but I want to know 100% sure. When using the RCA to 3.5mm cable, does your computer know what speaker to throw each sound? Like left and right? I figure it would like a headset, but want to be 100% positive.
After reading some reviews and videos I was thinking about going with these: http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-BK-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers-Black/dp/B00IEDL8EM/ref=cm_cr_pr_pl_footer_top?ie=UTF8
I am looking to setup my first home theater system want to start out with 2.0 then eventually expand to a 5.1 setup. Just want to get some inputs. Thank you for the help.
receiver is this a decent receiver or should I spend a bit more for a receiver?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017AECEJI?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00
Speakers (having a hard time deciding between these 3)
very slightly leaning towers pioneer just cause I would want to get tower version and move bookshelf ones to the back. How does these 3 compare. I mainly will use it for movies and some music.
energy RC10
https://shop2.frys.com/product/7777388?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008NCD2LG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B008NCD2LG&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=wwwpuresimula-20
Fluance SX6-BK
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM?psc=1&amp;redirect=true&amp;ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
This is as loud and crisp as you'll get for $250:
Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IEDL8EM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
Sub: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0063NU3AA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1
I've used this setup before. It's more than enough wattage to fill a large room with loud clean audio. Even when it's packed with bodies. Don't expect it to completely fill an entire floor of a house or a large basement though.
Like u/seanfisher5 said maybe the Fluance SX6 for $120 http://amzn.com/B00IEDL8EM That's a great low budget system that u/tonyviv mentioned above also. I have that SMSL SA-60 and it kicks ass for a small amp.
well i was using some logitech 5.1 (surround sound) speakers which i sold for £40 on ebay to go towards my new speajkers. Richer sounds are a great shop imo and they always give you help and advice so i would look at the speakers there .
I got the Monitor Audio MR1s and there is so much difference between my old ones, crisper highs/treble and over all clearer sound, its very hard to explain how they sound better but trust me.
Types of speakers:
There are mainly 2 types, powered and non-powered.
Powered: They have a built in amp and plug into a wall socket for power and then go straight into your PC, they are easy to set up but some people like to have a separate amp (im also new to this so im not to sure why)
Non-Powered: They are just speakers and on there own cant produce sound as they dont have any power, which is where the amp/amplifier comes in. The amp just gives the speakers power so that they are able to produce sound and connect to a PC ect.
the bigger the speakers the bigger the amp needs to be to give it enough power.
I would go to richer sounds if you have one near you and ask for a demo for some speakers around £100 if you can and im sure you will notice a difference. Also watch some videos about audio and why some speakers are better than others.
Im also very new to this, i got my first pair 2 weeks ago.
These are some good powered speakers that will probs beat cheaper multimedia ones on the cheap:
M-Audio AV32
M-Audio AV42
Mackie CR4
These are some good non powered speakers and amps on the cheap:
MORDAUNT SHORT M20 AND SMSL SA-36A
Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 AND SMSL SA-36A
BTW the amp ive chosen will power them on a desk but might not be great for a big room.
Hope this helps :)
So you think quality doesn't vary between cheaper and pricey monitors?
My room isn't really that small, but walls are mostly covered with acoustic foam + some DIY stuff that prevent echoing and else.
Do you think any of these would be good?
Behringer MS16
Behringer MEDIA 40USB
M-Audio AV42
Great suggestions here. I will add some of my naive thoughts. I think, in addition to getting inputs from folks here, you should try out the speakers you shortlist. For instance, I really enjoy the mids and highs of the KEFs while I find the Klipsch a bit too bright, but you may feel the opposite. That said, i think Fluance makes some really nice affordable speakers:
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1
If you go down the passive route and looking to buy a budget amp, you can pick up the $500 Klipsch Powergate for $150:
https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-PowerGate-Amplified-Wireless-Gateway/dp/B01N0A7PH5
It's a steal at that price. Take a look at the review here:
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/review-and-measurements-of-klipsch-powergate-dac-amp.7376/
For passive speakers, maybe try to find a used pair of KEF Q100 on CL or the other suggestions already made here are equally good.
These $30 Dayton Audio speakers are good too:
https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-b652-6-1-2-2-way-bookshelf-speaker-pair--300-652
Hello all,
After doing a bunch of research on here and other subs, I decided to buy a set of Fluance Ai40 speakers (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07CLDGXX1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1).
I connected them to the back of my PC through the provided RCA cavble (using the provided speaker wires). It worked well with my TV but when I connected them to my PC I can hear a bunch of noise coming through, especially when I play games (it's almost unbearable during gaming actually).
Any time I click on anything, move the mouse, or the PC does anything at all, I hear the noises that it makes coming through my speakers.
Is there anything I can do to change this? I've tried plugging the speakers into a different outlet (everything is plugged into the surge protector (a high quality tripp-lite) and it didn't change anything. It seems to be from the RCA cable but I'm not sure.
I really like the speakers themselves so I don't want to have to return them.
Thank you all for your time.
TL;DR: Computer beep-boop noises coming through speakers' RCA connection, what do?
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SMSL AD18 and Micca rb42 would be a good desktop setup. The amp has a headphone output you can also use, Bluetooth if you ever wanted to listen to music off your phone and a controller if you're away from your desk. Easy upgradability for future reference. The speakers produce good bass on their own which is great because that sounds better than having a desk between you and a subwoofer.
https://www.amazon.ca/SMSL-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN
https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=rb42&amp;qid=1567082055&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1
Looking for a speaker amp for my newly bought Micca RB42s that got back in stock on Amazon. I want to be able to listen to them from very quiet to nicely loud, but not ear bleeding. My budget is up to, but preferably less than how much I spent on the speakers. $~150
The speakers will be near-field, probably on their sides, in front of me under my monitors, so I probably don't want/need an Amp that can push them to their full 100w each.
I currently have desktop computer with a Modi/Magni Schiit stack used for my Sennheiser HD650s with the pre-amp on the Magni going to the powered Bose speakers I am borrowing. The plan is to have the suggested speaker AMP to get the signal from the Magni's pre-amp output and replace the Bose speakers.
The source is my Modi/Magni Schiit stack attached to my computer, as mentioned above, and I will be using them for music, tv, movies, games, and the youtubes in varying amounts.
Can probably buy used if a good deal pops up and isn't a hassle.
Sorry for all the questions.. really appreciate your answers, you've given me more detail than anybody I've talked to at the audio/video stores I go into. Can I buy you a beer somehow? :)
I have one final question I think... my wife chose a TV Stand/Media Console to house all this stuff, and I only have 5.67" of height for the center speaker, so unfortunately that rules out the Dayton Audio set, as well as the Pioneer set I brought up earlier.
So I'm looking at one of two options, first this Micca setup:
Micca MB42X for Front L/R and Rear L/R
Micca MB42X-C for Center (5.3 inches tall, fits my needs)
~$330 CAD for the set of 5 speakers, not bad!
https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Tweeter/dp/B00HHFBEK6
(Instead of the MB42X, maybe the RB42? https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ Seems better reviewed, would add $120 to the price to do those front and back, or just $60 more to do those in the front and still have MB42X in the rear)
(Another option is just to get 5 MB42X-C's?... Or 3 for the front and 2 MB42X at rear)
or this Polk setup.. only other decently priced one I found with a small center.. but this center is much smaller than the Micca:
Polk Audio TL2 for Center
https://www.amazon.ca/Polk-Audio-Speaker-Center-Channel/dp/B0043M667M
Polk T15 for Front L/R and Rear L/R
https://www.amazon.ca/Polk-Audio-T15-Bookshelf-7-25-Inch/dp/B002RJLHB8
~$458 CAD for the set of 5 speakers
(Another option is the T300 set for $150/pair. Shaves $40 off the overall price, not sure if there's much difference there. https://www.bestbuy.ca/en-ca/product/polk-audio-polk-audio-t300-100-watt-bookshelf-speakers-pair-t300/10166613 )
I'm not a big fan of the look of the TL2 Bookshelf speakers.. so went for the T15/T300 instead.
Curious if you have any opinions about which to pick.. I'm leaning towards the Micca because they fill the shelves better and the reviews online seem to be decent, and the tiny TL2 center from Polk is... tiny.
To pair with all this I have a Polk Audio PSW10 subwoofer.. which gets alot of hate around here but seems more than powerful enough for my needs. Got it last night and hooked it up and I'm running it at about 10% on the gain dial and it's more than enough for what I need.. will probably piss off my neighbours (semi-detached home) even at that level.
Again, thanks for your help, really appreciate folks like you that take the time to answer threads and help people out with their questions.
EDIT: All the above said.. after listening to a dozen reviews or so on the Micca line-up.. I think I'm leaning towards either:
Long post, sorry... rambling a little as I go back and forth between options.
I love those shp9500's, before upgrading my speakers I ran swan m10's. Def worth the upgrade IMO. This setup is killer, you can wait for a DAC upgrade but I would make it a point to upgrade sooner rather than later, if you don't already have one that is.
Speakers: $150 Micca RB42
Amp: $115 SMSL SA98
These are pretty small. I heard the bass is decent enough you Won't need a subwoofer.
https://www.amazon.ca/Micca-RB42-Reference-Bookshelf-Speaker/dp/B07JC416LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=micca+rb42&amp;qid=1569936619&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=micca&amp;sr=8-1
I have some old logitech z4's @2.1 and they are boss! Are you doing this for a desk or a home theater setup? I personally think 2.1 is all you need for a desk setup. here are some good options:
Klipsch
M-Audio
Might I recommend consulting this mans guide. (American prices) The list is a little dated, but his opinions are respected. His youtube has many more recent reviews.
Otherwise, from personal experience, I use M-Audio Av42s. I think they're decent, but something with a larger driver would be preferred.
/u/dogeatdawg linked good resources below. I produce music, and I gotta say, the best bang for your buck is getting a pair of M-AUDIO monitors: https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-20-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
You could also add a subwoofer to that setup if you're super concerned about bass, but I've never had to worry about that (and I'm a bassist!). These things get insanely loud and they produce crystal-clear, faithful audio pictures.
Thanks for the help, I've had a few recommendations for Yamaha gear so will look into that.
I quite like the look of the recommended Micca purchases in the original text of this thread, unfortunately it doesn't look like there is any way to ship to the UK. I have, however, spotted these on Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00X741TB0
A few pals have said good things about M-Audio, would you recommend this product?
Thanks again
also these if you can throw the extra money
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-20-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TB0
Some M-Audio monitor speakers are cheap, check [these] (https://www.amazon.co.uk/M-Audio-Reference-Speakers-Professional-Creation/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=s9u_wish_gw_i4?_encoding=UTF8&amp;colid=1PCP9HQHG676B&amp;coliid=I34UT1O3ZZVH68&amp;fpl=fresh&amp;pd_rd_i=B00X741TB0&amp;pd_rd_r=74RW439VB8DQ9DKG5QM1&amp;pd_rd_w=LU7qS&amp;pd_rd_wg=lEk0F&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop&amp;pf_rd_s=&amp;pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&amp;pf_rd_r=7GQC13HQD7G5X2VSJ1DB&amp;pf_rd_t=36701&amp;pf_rd_p=26de8ef0-2ad7-412c-8634-6cd03b7b73e2) out
Sorry for the delay. Those are m-audio av42
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NQHQDb0XTZB5K
Hey guys, my old set of Klipsch Promedia 2.1 speakers just died. I've been out of the loop on speaker technology for a while so I need some advice. I don't do production and I only play games and listen to music, but I do enjoy good quality sound. I also enjoy bass but I could never use the Klipsch at full capacity or it would blow out my eardrums lol. These speakers would be on a desktop, and I'd say my budget is $200 but I'll splurge a little more if the product is worth a premium.
That said, it seems like another set of Promedia's or the Logitech Z623 are the popular gamer choices, but then I looked deeper and saw that some users recommend powered speakers instead.
I'm not really sure where to start with those, but below are some recommendations based on what I've researched. How could I compare these speakers apples to apples? I'm a noob when it comes to audio knowledge.
M-Audio AV42 (Couldn't find AV40 in stock):
https://us.amazon.com/M-Audio-Reference-Speakers-Professional-Immersive/dp/B00X741TB0/ref=dp_ob_title_ce
M-Audio BX5 D3
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-BX5-D3-Production-Recording/dp/B01J66YEU0/ref=pd_sbs_147_img_0/132-9931273-2241557?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B01J66YEU0&amp;pd_rd_r=a50dceed-5410-46e7-b3cb-7bc6bdce1686&amp;pd_rd_w=01y28&amp;pd_rd_wg=BjCZY&amp;pf_rd_p=5cfcfe89-300f-47d2-b1ad-a4e27203a02a&amp;pf_rd_r=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E
PreSonus Eris E4.5
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-BX5-D3-Production-Recording/dp/B01J66YEU0/ref=pd_sbs_147_img_0/132-9931273-2241557?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B01J66YEU0&amp;pd_rd_r=a50dceed-5410-46e7-b3cb-7bc6bdce1686&amp;pd_rd_w=01y28&amp;pd_rd_wg=BjCZY&amp;pf_rd_p=5cfcfe89-300f-47d2-b1ad-a4e27203a02a&amp;pf_rd_r=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=Q2B9PDF9JMV364Q4W38E
You could do worse than these:
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-10-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=sr_1_105?s=pc&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1469387267&amp;sr=1-105&amp;keywords=computer+speakers
At that price you should look at the M-Audio AV32 instead. Also visit /r/budgetaudiophile for some other ideas in that price range.
You're not going to do much better than 50€ speakers for 70€. Maybe the M-Audio AV32 but those aren't 2.1, just 2.0 (which is fine), they're also almost 90€
The Microlab FC330 might be an improvement?
You can't go wrong with any of the models from this line. They sound great.
http://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-AV32-10-Watt-Compact-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1464136179&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=m+audio
Would I still need an amp if it's powered? I'm looking at this right now:
https://www.amazon.ca/M-Audio-10-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=pd_sbs_23_4?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=ZZDEJ0C9ST5CKVF2ME14
So basically I should just buy an RCA to audio jack cable and it will work?
I got some small studio monitors that I love. M-Audio AV32 | 10-Watt Compact Studio Monitor Speakers with 3-inch Woofer (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_qC9CAbHRPT49C
I'm looking to buy a nice pair of speakers, preferably audio monitors and I'm looking for a nice sound throughout.
These are some I found and I was wondering on people's opinion:
Been eyeing this for a while
A better version of the same(?)
Doesn't look too bad?
I think my friend had these
Sorry for the weird titles lol but I really want to buy some nice monitors for my somewhat low budget XD
I assume you meant "This" is for your PC :) These powered speakers are from [this] (https://www.reddit.com/r/AverageJoeAudiophile/comments/3uoksp/i_have_xxxxx_to_spend_what_should_i_buy_bookshelf/) post and look like they would work for you. Has an AUX input in the front to connect to your PC easily. $82.77 right now on Amazon which looks to be a couple bucks above its average price.
More than adequate for the price -- 4" would be better, but half again more money than your budget
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-10-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537730417&sr=8-3&keywords=m-audio+speakers&dpID=51Eug2H5D3L&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
&#x200B;
Update (Wednesday). I got to look at some things. I see if I get 2x of the cable you linked, they could go into this amp with sub-out. Didn't look hard yet, that was the first one I saw with sub-out.
Then those cables would go into whatever new bookshelves I get. Something like these? Again... have to do some more research here.
Didn't get to look into the AVR yet =/ But thanks again for your thoughts so far!
Thanks a lot! I haven't purchased the T15s yet. Is there another similarly priced set of speakers that I could get instead that would allow me to avoid getting an amp? I'm in college trying not to break the bank. The cheapest amp on the list would work for me but Amazon says that it would take as much as two months to get here.
Edit: Maybe these?
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-20-Watt-Compact-Monitor-Speakers/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1519971409&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=m%2Baudio%2Bav42&amp;dpID=51PA3B6npwL&amp;preST=_SY300_QL70_&amp;dpSrc=srch&amp;th=1
this is the 89$ pair, I might've bought this one I forget. Anyways, the m-audio studio monitors that I think I have cost 150$
I hope you are able to answer your questions, if you have any other ones you can hit me up here or on soundcloud, I'm DAKthe!
I just perused the Amazon listing for that item and (unless I'm wrong) it doesn't have an input, so no, I don't believe you will be able to use it.
But even if you COULD use it, I would suggest not. The sound that comes out of that will be okay, but you're not going to get any kind of hi-fi sound out of it. At best it may sound somewhat better than playing an MP3 or other digital file.
If you're on a budget, these M-Audio speakers have been generally well reviewed on this subreddit and they're only £69.00. As the sidebar cartoon says, vinyl is an inconvenient and expensive hobby. If you're not ready to spend at least £200-£300 to get into the hobby it's probably best to wait to save up until you have that much money available.
My soundbar just caved in (i used it for music because I'm poor AF) but Christmas is coming up and girlfriend/parents asking me what I want. Mainly listen to folk and Rock. Price range is about £60 to £120ish. Will mainly be used in the kitchen. Would prefer a single system as oppose to parts
https://www.amazon.co.uk/M-Audio-Reference-Speakers-Professional-Immersive/dp/B00X741TKG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1478182248&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=Micca+PB42X
was thinking about these
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00X741TKG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1465141360&amp;sr=8-2&amp;pi=SX200_QL40&amp;keywords=m+audio&amp;dpPl=1&amp;dpID=51%2B4uSLzlZL&amp;ref=plSrch
Try these or these.
Long story short, my front left tower has a damaged tweeter and my google skills cannot find the replacement available for sale.
1. What is your budget?
I am open to spending up to $1500.
2. What are you looking for?
I want a new LCR and I think I am leaning towards floor speakers sa I have kids and bookshelves on stands seem WAY more likely to get knocked over. I COULD mount some speakers on the wall, but again... they might be likely to hang on to them. (Kids. Not Even Once.) Also I am NOT interested in ATMOS at this time.
All in I think I prefer the ease of use with the towers but I dont know if they are the best bang for the buck for me as my subwoofer handles the bottom end pretty well.
3. How will you typically be using the gear?
I use it for home theater (Movies and Games) 50% and music the other 50%.
4. What gear do you own?
5. What do you intend on using for a source?
I stream Spotify Premium or use my PS4 for BlueRay, Games, Netflix and Youtube (mostly kids).
6. What material will you be using your gear for?
In order of importance I think I want movies, music and gaming. Lately I have been listening to a lot of
7. Are you willing to buy used?
Yes. My problem with used research is there are SOOOO many brands and models for me to lookup on a price/sound ratio that I quickly get inundated.
All in I have been thinking about updating my setup for a while, and this tweeter issue is a perfect excuse.
I have a buddy using the HSU 5.1 and it sounds great. Otherwise I don't have much exposure to a lot of other brands (and there seem to be a LOT of them).
As of right now the following combinations have caught my attention:
What other speakers should I consider? Or is there a clear winner?
You could also take a look at ELAC's UniFi UB5's that just recently released.
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1466263702&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=elac+unifi
They're available for pre-order on Amazon.
I'm looking to build a semi-affordable home audio system this year. I'm gonna start buying components with my tax money, so it's time to seek some quick suggestions. I am pretty much set on the turntable and receiver. And I have narrowed my speaker options down to 3 final contenders. Basically I need help deciding which of these 3 speaker setups will sound the best for my personal taste (music only, no movies. Mostly stoner rock, doom, classic rock, hard rock, blues, reggae, funk... you know, mostly bass heavy rock).
The turntable I chose is the U-Turn Orbit Custom with acrylic platter and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge.
The receiver I chose to go with this turntable is the Onkyo A-9050. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009JBZFVK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RsWMybSP4ZYZR
Now onto the speakers. My budget is $500 but I can go over a little bit. This setup will be in my living room which is smallish to regular in size. Also, I have hardwood floors if that matters. Sooooo... Which of these 3 setups will sound best with this turntable/receiver???
Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks everyone!
I'm sorry, life picked up real fast and I have been too busy to do the research. I did check your Craigslist after originally planning on some extreme floorstanders, a dedicated amplifier with receiver, until I realized in your situation it would likely be better to get bookshelf speakers and a subwoofer.
So, with that in mind, here are some ideas (I'm recommending new b/c it is the easiest, but this could also give you some ideas/a general perspective on price per component and etc.):
Speakers: Elac UB5 - some great sounding, resonably priced bookshelves. They have the neat feature of having a co-axial tweeter, meaning the tweeter is mounted inside the midrange's cone, which helps blend the frequencies together (particularly important for vocals)
Subwoofer: SVS SB-1000 - This thing is both crazy enough to supply some serious low end, while still refined enough for a small room. You certainly won't need any more bass with an option like this :)
Amplifier/reciever: There are many suitable options here, and for your price range being able to hook up your TV for home theater should easily be possible. A really nice Denon can run you $500 but comes with many features. The only one I see missing is "pre-outs" which are used to hook up bigger and badder amplifiers, which you probably won't need.
That's just one part-ed out system, that would sound excellent and last you many years. Typically the only thing that becomes obsolete is the receiver when new standards (like HDMI) become available.
EDIT: You'll also want a USB DAC for your laptop, such as this Schiit Audio DAC which will sound leagues better than the headphone jack on the laptop.
Just sayin', you should buy these soon if you're going to get a pair of speakers. Get them and a power amplifier, which if you decided to get the speakers I'd be MORE than happy to recommend https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black-x/dp/B01CRYWVG2
What is your experience with speakers? Cuz if you been driving a prius and immediately want to go to a bugatti veryon, without knowing why it is better than a ferrari or lamborghini, you are really wasting a lot of money. And audiophile realm is bullshit. Audiophile requires experience not a billfold. Sorry for the mini rant, but alot of inexperienced people buy equipment that is wasted on them lol.
I have not heard the Buchardt in person yet. But i believe zeos said the larger ones werent that good on a desk but the larger ones are fucking huge so it makes sense. Im guessing after shipping they are going to be a little north of $1000. Right now I would pick up the unviersally acclaimed ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 currently on sale for $400.https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=pd_lutyp_simh_2_1?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B01CRYWVG2&amp;pd_rd_r=B9XH2J9NAFSN6TV2SD5J&amp;pd_rd_w=QW0KL&amp;pd_rd_wg=Ydd70&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=B9XH2J9NAFSN6TV2SD5J
or the jbl 530 while you can still get them for $600. I believe they are discontinued the the price will sky rocket to 800 easy. https://www.amazon.com/JBL-Studio-530-5-25-Inch-Bookshelf/dp/B00622STI0/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1479984218&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=jbl+530
I have the jbl 530 and the SVS Ultras ($1000) and on a desk i prefer the jbl 530. They have amazing imaging on a desk.
Behringer a500 will power anything you through at it so not much to say on that.
I am gonna say schiit stuff is good (but i am having trouble with my modi 2 uber having usb error which is currently pissing me off) but you are paying a premium to being made in the USA. The magni 2 is a fine amplifier, it has served me well to power my my hifiman he-400 and mad dog pros.
For a preamp I would just go with a SCHIIT SYS i believe.
Then i just realized, what sound to you prefer? Netural, bright or bass? lol
But if you get the elacs or jbls with the rest of that equipment, i believe you would have a fantastic starting kit to become a proper audiophile. Down the road you can upgrade any piece of the kit and you will know why it is better.
And what is this desktop setup for? gaming station or workstation? cuz with the money you save if you go with cheaper speakers, i reccomend picking up a sweet 4k monitor/tv too lol.
They're $399 now, prices don't last long these days. xD
https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Uni-fi-Bookshelf-Speaker-Black/dp/B01CRYWVG2
ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speaker (Black, Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CRYWVG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_LoDTAbFEFAR5H
Receiver and subwoofer choices are solid. Leaving around $700 for LR and Center. Lots of choices with that budget. A few possible contenders.
LR Elac UB5 - $400
Elac UC5 Center - $350
or
Ascend LR CBM-170 / C CMT-340 - $568
or
Ascend LR CMT-340SE / C CMT-340 - $838
or
LR Dali Zensor 3 / Dali Vokal Center - $760
Hey all! Im investing in my first real pair of speakers to be used for a 70/30 split between movies/music. Ive narrowed my choices down to 3 speakers. I live in a small apartment so being able to perform at loud volume isn't a priority, but clarity at low volume would be very nice. Current budget for a pair would ideally be at or under 700$, but willing to go much higher if they will last me for a long time. Any comments are welcome!
I was looking at theses.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CRYWVG2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Video linked by /u/Velfarr3:
Title|Channel|Published|Duration|Likes|Total Views
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Z Review - ELAC Uni-Fi UB5 (They are Awaited...)|Z Reviews|2016-10-03|0:14:16|666+ (86%)|100,956
> Get Unified.. Today! [http://amzn.to/2dqIPEJ] (Buying...
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^Info ^| ^/u/Velfarr3 ^can ^delete ^| ^v1.1.3b
https://www.amazon.com/Fluance-Bookshelf-Amplifier-Turntable-Bluetooth/dp/B07CLDGXX1
...lurk for a BF sale, but worth finding a bigger budget if that what it takes.
https://www.cnet.com/news/fluances-200-stereo-bluetooth-speakers-sound-is-almost-too-good-to-be-true/
But why? Those are great if you don't have an amp or receiver but you have a perfectly good amp in that old Denon. Your $150 will go further if you buy the best passive speaker possible.
At $150 there are some good passive speaker options.
Polk Audio Monitor 40 Series II are a good choice and shouldn't sound thin without a subwoofer. $104 on Newegg right now. https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882290202
JBL Arena B17 https://www.amazon.com/JBL-Arena-B17-Black-Bookshelf/dp/B072MYY7KD/
BIC DV62si https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI/
Bic Acoustech PL-200 Subwoofer - Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OFXV5IO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_p43azb6KPQWXD.
Add these...
BIC America Venturi DV64 2-Way Tower Speaker, Black (Single) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00011KLOI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_H83azbPJTWW6M
And these...
BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JPDI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_m93azbQ5KSMEM
Can't find the center channel model right now, will post later. Edit found it! BIC America DV-62CLRS 6-Inch 2-Way Center Channel Speaker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009WBYL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_k79azbVHSM7VV
They sound incredible!!
this might be a good small sub for u
https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=8248
I own the BIC's big brothers, the DVI 62s and they are great.
https://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-DV62si-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00006JPDI
I own a pair of BIC America dv62si speakers. They're a little larger than typical bookshelf speakers but they sound great and are very efficient.
The price is good as well
About 15 years ago, I acquired some BIC bookshelf speakers which I've been very pleased with ever since. I used them for my DJ monitors for a long time and now they reside in my living room for my front L/R channels (considering buying their center channel too). I can't speak for their current models, but they seem to have decent reviews. Around $100 on Amazon.
Does anybody have advice for passive speakers for the following setup? I have a Pioneer VSX-524 receiver (https://www.cnet.com/products/pioneer-vsx-524-av-receiver-5-1-channel/) and a U-Turn Orbit Basic record player. I'd like to spend ~$150, and it should be from Amazon because I have a gift card. I figured passive would be the way to go because I already have a receiver. I'm in Baltimore, if that matters. I had my eye on these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPDI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AED492BX4II6G&psc=1, but wasn't sure if they were okay for the money, or if there was a better option. Thanks!
Alright, so I'm just starting to get into speakers/audiophile type stuff and I'm a complete novice to the whole thing, so hang with me. I just want to get a decent setup for a decent price so I found these BIC America dv62si's on Amazon for around $75 (including shipping!) so I was pretty psyched on that.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00006JPDI/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_1?pi=SL500_SR419%2C500&amp;refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN
It said they recommend an amp that pushes 10-150 watts, so I just bought a cheap Lepai lP-2020A+ but people say that they really only push like 10w per channel because of they power adapter? I think they fixed it though because mine looks different than all the old reviews that say this, but then again i'm really not sure and I don't really know. I just don't want to underpower the speakers just because I'm on a budget. Here's a pic of the one that came with mine - http://imgur.com/QaddeUp
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0049P6OTI/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_7?pi=SL500_SR500%2C208&amp;refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN
Also I have a 2 Sony SA-W2500 sub woofers given to me. I was wondering if there was anyway to include one into this setup? It plugs into the wall and I think that I can just wire it through its in-out ports on the back and it would power itself? Would this sound any good in this setup? Also my room size is 12x9 ft
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000OL3QTW/ref=gp_aw_ybh_l_2?pi=SL500_SR200%2C200&amp;refRID=0GR9EGR0QVEKMW5PNBHN
Thanks a lot :)
AKG K240S headphones, FiiO E10 USB DAC/headphone amplifier, MacBook Pro 13" laptop.
Can't wait to get my Onkyo receiver and my KRK ST6 speakers hooked back up. Also just ordered a new Lepai amplifier and some BIC America DV62si's to try!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0049P6OTI/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPDI/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00
Just wanted to share, cheers!
Also, thanks for all the awesome advice and help from everyone @ /r/audiophile -- I've been working on my system(s) and have already learned a lot from y'all!
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=ns-6490&amp;qid=1563314895&amp;s=electronics&amp;sr=1-1
If you have the space. No ports in the back so you can put them against a wall if you want. They are big though. If they're really far apart you probably want to set them up to all play in Mono. Modern receivers could do this but I'd have to read some manuals to make sure so IDK on figuring out the amplification.
This would be best as a gift :
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-System-Bluetooth-Technology-GTK-XB72/dp/B07PBFKXW9/ref=sxin_0_ac_d_pm?ac_md=4-2-QmV0d2VlbiAkMTUwIGFuZCAkMzAw&keywords=sony+bluetooth+speaker&pd_rd_i=B07PBFKXW9&pd_rd_r=78ee09fb-cec9-465f-98a6-7d60015fab7f&pd_rd_w=JVPdS&pd_rd_wg=eZKmZ&pf_rd_p=64aaff2e-3b89-4fee-a107-2469ecbc5733&pf_rd_r=HDCYMB8KJMHEMGTPENWZ&qid=1564251469&s=gateway&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Also,you could always also choose to gift these together,would last a lifetime of sound,way greater value for money.I would get these but where Im at but import costs more.anyways,these are way better value for money IMO :
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-NS-6490-Bookshelf-Speakers-Finish/dp/B00018Q4GA/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1MLPWO3G99XBY&keywords=polk+t15&qid=1564251543&s=gateway&sprefix=polk+t1%2Caps%2C363&sr=8-5
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Amplifier-Receiver-Integrated-Speakers/dp/B076P2VS9H/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=amplifier&qid=1564251573&s=gateway&sr=8-6