Deciding on first time HT system

[MattN03]

Hello everyone. I'm a newbie to HT and working on a pretty limited budget but here goes. I'm thinking about using a H/K AVR435 receiver with the Polk RM6900 system. This will be used in a fairly small living room (guesstimating 18' wide x 14' deep with 10' ceiling). I'm wanting something that will be under $1500 total. I've found refurb factory direct H/K 435 receivers on Ebay going for around $400 and Crutchfield has the RM6900 on sale till March for $799. I'll need 4 speaker stands because there isn't a good spot to put the fronts without stands, then of course I'll need stands for the rear too. I also want to get a decent surge protector (something I should have already bought!). Any recommendations on surge protectors and Monster Cable speaker wire? What are your recommendations for this system idea so far? What am I missing or overlooking? Is there something I could do better for the same amount of money? Any suggestions on other stores to buy the products from?

I honestly don't know a lot about HT, but just want a decent first time system. Thanks!

[*Seby*-Polk-]

First...you must know the USE for yor home theater and the Percents.

If you uses your H.T. for 75% movies and 25% music (5.1 or 2 channel) is one thing.
If you uses your H.T. for 75% music and 25% movies is other thing.

For me, IMHO, are receivers with work best with music than movies or inverse.

Listen differents brands of receivers, different speakers and decide by yourself.

[jma9]

i would watch outpost.com for sales on the polk audio r50/r30/r15/csi25 speakers. you could get fronts/center/surrounds for about $350-400. i think that would be a better option than the rm6900. then add a decent subwoofer (i would recommend going with another brand besides polk). you should come in right around your budget and be extremely pleased with your setup. i have the r50/30/15/csi25 setup with an svs sub and love it. it sounds great and didn't break the bank in terms of cost. just wait for the sales on outpost.com (r50's - 79.99, r30's - 39.99, r15 - 39.99, csi25 - 79.99). you can't beat their prices. partsexpress.com sells pretty nice speaker stands at a good price too.

[tommyboy]

i would watch outpost.com for sales on the polk audio r50/r30/r15/csi25 speakers. you could get fronts/center/surrounds for about $350-400. i think that would be a better option than the rm6900. then add a decent subwoofer (i would recommend going with another brand besides polk). you should come in right around your budget and be extremely pleased with your setup. i have the r50/30/15/csi25 setup with an svs sub and love it. it sounds great and didn't break the bank in terms of cost. just wait for the sales on outpost.com (r50's - 79.99, r30's - 39.99, r15 - 39.99, csi25 - 79.99). you can't beat their prices. partsexpress.com sells pretty nice speaker stands at a good price too.

I agree with Jma about the r series. Buy the r-30 and 50s so you don't have to use stands and you would get better quality sound out of the bigger speakers. But just to let you know if you don't know already that the rm6900s come with their own wall mounting brackets so you won't have to buy stands for at least the surrounds.

[MattN03]

Thanks for the replies. I would say probably 50/50 between the movies & music. I honestly don't need something that is extremely loud, just something that sounds clean and strong in a smaller room. Will the speakers from www.outpost.com have the full Polk warranty?

[*Seby*-Polk-]

Buy the monitor series...Sounds really clean...trust me. Not as loud than Rti but same clean sound.

With pair of Monitor 60 and Monitor 30 ... CS2 and a sub ... you've got a great system.

;)

[tommyboy]

Thanks for the replies. I would say probably 50/50 between the movies & music. I honestly don't need something that is extremely loud, just something that sounds clean and strong in a smaller room. Will the speakers from www.outpost.com have the full Polk warranty?

Matt,

All speakers can be played extremely loud, that matters what reciever you have, the difference is how much distortion and what frequencies you hear out of the speakers. The polk rm6900s are great for satellites but are missing mid range. Thats why polk recommends running the speaker wire from the fronts to the sub so the subwoofer can pick those up. But a sub isn't really meant for that. Getting the R or monitor series, you will get the highs and mids from your speakers, and the lows from a sub. bottom line is, you get better quality sound at higher and lower volumes from the r and monitor series.

[MattN03]

Matt,

All speakers can be played extremely loud, that matters what reciever you have, the difference is how much distortion and what frequencies you hear out of the speakers. The polk rm6900s are great for satellites but are missing mid range. Thats why polk recommends running the speaker wire from the fronts to the sub so the subwoofer can pick those up. But a sub isn't really meant for that. Getting the R or monitor series, you will get the highs and mids from your speakers, and the lows from a sub. bottom line is, you get better quality sound at higher and lower volumes from the r and monitor series.

man, that makes complete sense! Thanks for the info tommyboy ;) Now if I can just find some places locally to listen to the R & Monitor series.

[MattN03]

Another question all. What is supposed to be the higher quality line-the R or Monitor Series?

[zombie boy 2000]

i have to agree with tommy on this...
my vote would be for a monitor line-up consisting of a pair of monitor 60's for the front, monitor 30's for the rears, and a CS1 (or poss CS2 for the center)
in regards to the sub, possibly an entry level Velodyne (or if you must stay with the Polk line-up, a psw12 -- although you'll find that many polk promos on-line and in-store offer a "free psw10" with speaker purchase)
these are a step-up from the R series, but if you're willing to go used (or with floor models from local dealers), then you might look into the Rti series, as these are even further up the food chain in the Polk pantheon
all this being said, i believe the satellites that you're considering to be overpriced and certainly an instance of style over substance (relative to Polk's other offerings, of course) :)

[tommyboy]

Another question all. What is supposed to be the higher quality line-the R or Monitor Series?

The monitor series

The r series is an older model of the new M series. Its just right now you can get the r series at very cheap prices. I also personally think the r series sounds better but others say the R and M series are exactly the same so....

You can get the M20 for 130 a piece compared to r30 for like 80 a pair(if you can find them). Monitor towers (50s) start out at 200 a piece.

[zombie boy 2000]

sorry tommy to cut-in....
i believe the M30's can be had for 99 a piece :)
(though this may be regional?)

[tommyboy]

I know you guys are bias against circuit city, but right now the are actually doing a pretty good deal(I should prolly post this in my signature that I work at CC). You can get 2 monitor 50s, 2 monitor 30s, CS1, onk txsr503, and velodyne vrp 10" all for $1000. Now you can upgrade the reciever (which I usually tell customers when they are buying) but you are getting pretty much $50 dollars off each speaker. Now I'm not getting paid to tell you this or anything Im just trying to help :)

tommyboy

[MattN03]

I know you guys are bias against circuit city, but right now the are actually doing a pretty good deal(I should prolly post this in my signature that I work at CC). You can get 2 monitor 50s, 2 monitor 30s, CS1, onk txsr503, and velodyne vrp 10" all for $1000. Now you can upgrade the reciever (which I usually tell customers when they are buying) but you are getting pretty much $50 dollars off each speaker. Now I'm not getting paid to tell you this or anything Im just trying to help :)

tommyboy

Can you give me a link to this deal on their website? I don't see it listed anywhere.

[tommyboy]

Matt,

Its not listed on the website. only at a local store. These are usually for people buying a big screen who wants a home theater that comes in a package. Now if you go to the store they show an inifinty package(it is the primus series which i think is terrible) for a $1000 but if you ask one of the guys you want the polk instead, they can do that(I have rung this system up with the polks quite a few times so if they tell you they can't do it they are lying or they don't know how to ring it up).

[MattN03]

Matt,

Its not listed on the website. only at a local store. These are usually for people buying a big screen who wants a home theater that comes in a package. Now if you go to the store they show an inifinty package(it is the primus series which i think is terrible) for a $1000 but if you ask one of the guys you want the polk instead, they can do that(I have rung this system up with the polks quite a few times so if they tell you they can't do it they are lying or they don't know how to ring it up).

Can you just buy the speakers & sub if you have receiver you already want to use?

[tommyboy]

oh, you already have a reciever... I think it only works if you want the whole package... sorry

[zombie boy 2000]

actually, i just went to the web-site for you and priced these individually...
1070.00 grand total, so a savings of 70 (savings yes, but you might find yourself wishing you had gone a different route with the receiver)
i say this only because a decent high current receiver with pre-outs might better suit you if the desire to upgrade comes skipping down the street anytime in the future (near or distant)
harmon kardon receivers are very clean and warm sounding, and though their specs do not seem as "meaty" as onkyo's, their watts are what are known as "true watts" -- high current and efficient
all their newer (and semi-current) models with the exception of the 135 or 140 (in other words, 200 and up) have pre-outs which would allow you to add an amp in the future -- it is not my intention to derail your immediate plans with these added considerations, just trying to give your system more "potential" so when the bug hits to upgrade, you're well-equipped :)

[tommyboy]

polk monitor 50: 400 a pair
polk montitor 30: 200 a pair
Polk Cs1: 179
Onkyo txsr503: 299
velodyne vrp 10":250
=$1330. I don't know, I guess you just didn't add the reciever.

but you can get any reciever you want from CC (onkyo or HK) and you will get your discounts off the speaker. The system would be more than a grand but....

[zombie boy 2000]

my bad..
fuzzy math i guess :)

[zombie boy 2000]

oh..
and i don't have squat against circuit city, as they gave me a kick-arse deal on my monitor 70's and HK 240...
(fresh in the box, 340.00 each for the speaks and a cool 360.00 for the HK brand new in the box as well)
i haven't seen anything, anywhere rival the latter deal for that model harmon kardon :D

[tommyboy]

Matt,

You can get whenever you want but when i rang the monitor 50s up and they were $150( employee pricing is $142, even though I got accomodations directly from polk for cheaper...) and monitor 30s at $50, I personally thought that was a good deal (as long as you don't buy the extended warranties :D ). But if you already have a reciever , completly forget what i just said.

by the way, why doesn't my signature show up everytime i make a post?

[okiepolkie]

Matt,

Let us get a little more from you about your system.

What type of video connections will you be utilizing on the receiver?
What upgrade possibilities do you want to retain?
EX: Do you want to upgrade speakers within the next couple of years, or is adding an external amplifier something you might want to consider later.....
Would wall mounting be a possibility for the rear speakers?
What arrangement do you have your furniture/entertainment equipment in now?

I'll think of some more and get back to you later.

[MattN03]

oh, you already have a reciever... I think it only works if you want the whole package... sorry

I don't have a receiver yet, but have my eyes on a H/K 435 on Ebay (Factory diret refurb models). They typically can be bought & shipped for say $450 total (if you watch the bidding closely). If you take the $1500 total that I want (ie, budget! lol) to spend and subtract the $450 that leaves me with $1050 total to spend on speakers & a sub, A/V connections, and a decent surge protector for the stereo equipment plus my existing TV, DVR, DVD, and VCR. This is really what it boils down too. Can I find something decent for this budget? Everyone has given me some good info so far, so please keep it coming! :D

[MattN03]

Matt,

Let us get a little more from you about your system.

What type of video connections will you be utilizing on the receiver?
What upgrade possibilities do you want to retain?
EX: Do you want to upgrade speakers within the next couple of years, or is adding an external amplifier something you might want to consider later.....
Would wall mounting be a possibility for the rear speakers?
What arrangement do you have your furniture/entertainment equipment in now?

I'll think of some more and get back to you later.

I was planning on buying Monster Cable for all receiver to speaker connections (the house already has some Monster Cable run from my TV area to a back wall for the surrounds. I really don't plan to upgrade soon, but if the bug striked it would be nice to have that option. Adding an external amp isn't something I'll likely do. I'm looking at a refurbed factory direct H/K 435 receiver from Ebay as the power source. I have attached a couple pics of our current living room setup (TV is a Toshiba 36" for an idea of size). Hopefully, this will give everyone an idea of size and layout I'm dealing with.

[zombie boy 2000]

$450 is an excellent price for that receiver, and the 65wpc are nothing to be sneezed at (if you are still looking at the monitor series)
if it were a $100 or so more i might suggest getting a 235 (or even 335) and using the extra funds toward an external amp, but....
with the 435 you'll get a quality AVR that won't need an immediate upgrade
that is unless you're looking at the Rti series (used), as this will need more power to make 'em sing
remember, interconnects and cables are important (and you're certainly doing right by figuring them into your budget), but your speaker selection is considerably more important
if new, i still cast my vote with the monitor line-up
if used, now we're opening up a whole new can of worms ;)

[Skynut]

Some power conditioners to consider.
panamax
zerosurge
brickwall
surgex

Also don't forget interconnects in your budget.

[zombie boy 2000]

and don't say never on the external amp idea...
once you start researching, you'll find this to be arguably the cheapest and most beneficial upgrade
(i am assuming of course that this you are treating this purchase as a long-term investment)
the 435 will be good to go on this front, as it has pre-outs

[MattN03]

Some power conditioners to consider.
panamax
zerosurge
brickwall
surgex

Also don't forget interconnects in your budget.

What are power conditioners? Are interconnects the Monster Cable type connections?

[MattN03]

and don't say never on the external amp idea...
once you start researching, you'll find this to be arguably the cheapest and most beneficial upgrade
(i am assuming of course that this you are treating this purchase as a long-term investment)
the 435 will be good to go on this front, as it has pre-outs

I'm wanting all new stuff since I'm a newbie and don't want to be suckered into a worn out/bad speaker set :eek:

[Skynut]

If you want to read alot about power conditioners go here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=277384&page=1&pp=30
The thread is about 4 hours long in read time but it has interesting points.

[zombie boy 2000]

I'm wanting all new stuff since I'm a newbie and don't want to be suckered into a worn out/bad speaker set :eek:
i'm sorry.. i guess i should have better explained myself... i was thinking refurbed or b-stock...
but i'm with you, so forget the Rti's and take long hard look at the monitors if you want peace of mind (can't fault you for that :) )

[okiepolkie]

Nice TV, I've got the same one as a 32".

The reason I asked about the video connections has to do with the television most of all. If you would like to have video upconversion to component video, then I'd suggest getting a receiver with that feature.

I'll PM you with some of the details I've together for you so far.

[tommyboy]

I know I am kind of getting off the subject (sorry matt) but I noticed matt talking about monster speaker wire. If my signature would actually show up you could see what sysem I have... but when I bought my system, I looked to buy the 16 guage monster speaker wire and even at a discount, to me , was very expensive($60, 50 feet). So I went to home depot about bought RCA 14 guage speaker wire for $20. I just want to ask if anyone heard if this wire is crap? I always thought that with a system like mine, it really doesn't matter.

Just to let you guys know, I TRIED a search on the subject but everything was about rca cables (composite)not rca speaker wire.

[tommyboy]

after a post or two, we'll get back to your system matt

[MattN03]

I know I am kind of getting off the subject (sorry matt) but I noticed matt talking about monster speaker wire. If my signature would actually show up you could see what sysem I have... but when I bought my system, I looked to buy the 16 guage monster speaker wire and even at a discount, to me , was very expensive($60, 50 feet). So I went to home depot about bought RCA 14 guage speaker wire for $20. I just want to ask if anyone heard if this wire is crap? I always thought that with a system like mine, it really doesn't matter.

Just to let you guys know, I TRIED a search on the subject but everything was about rca cables (composite)not rca speaker wire.

No, that is a great question that I would like to hear also. I just "heard" Monster Cable is the best & a "must have" for a HT system. I currently use MC from my TV to satelitte receiver FWIW.

[MattN03]

Nice TV, I've got the same one as a 32".

The reason I asked about the video connections has to do with the television most of all. If you would like to have video upconversion to component video, then I'd suggest getting a receiver with that feature.

I'll PM you with some of the details I've together for you so far.

Cool, I'm interested in what you recommend!

[Skynut]

Power conditioners are like surge protectors but the help clean the noise out of the ac power line.
That thread is long but does a great deal of question answering about the topic.
Interconnects are the rca cords that conect the components together. The cd/dvd/cassette/vcr player to the receiver or the amp.

+1 on the pre outs also.
When I got my onkyo it had pre outs and I didn't even know. Now I have an amp in my system because I finally had the money and the will to get one.
Sperates are the way to go.

[Skynut]

I got monster cables with my used speakers. the guy had them and threw them in on the deal.
If I did not get them for free I would probably be using 10 gauge home depot wire.
In fact I just bought 2 rolls of 10 gauge wire off e-bay for use in my bedroom rig.

[tommyboy]

so the guage is more important than the brand?

[zombie boy 2000]

+1 on the pre outs also.
When I got my onkyo it had pre outs and I didn't even know. Now I have an amp in my system because I finally had the money and the will to get one.
Sperates are the way to go.
and just a "heads up" that the onkyo 503 does not have 'em --
right now, they may seem mysterious at best and unnecessary at worst, but if you go snooping around this forum you'll find out how invaluable they are
trust me :)

[zombie boy 2000]

unfortunately, with Monster you're paying for the name (also, more than a few people here will tell you it's a racket run by an unethical corporation -- but there are a million and one threads tackling this issue)
in short... lower guage equals higher signal transfer
look at signal cables
blue jeans cable
cobalt
they all offer quality IC's at very reasonable prices

[MattN03]

and just a "heads up" that the onkyo 503 does not have 'em --
right now, they may seem mysterious at best and unnecessary at worst, but if you go snooping around this forum you'll find out how invaluable they are
trust me :)


So does the H/K 435 have preouts incase I want to upgrade with an amp later on?

[MattN03]

Will this system improve the sound of regular TV programming? Will the surround sound function work, are only DVD's incoded with 5.1, etc?

[zombie boy 2000]

absolutely to the pre-outs
as does the 335 and the 235 (and the more current models 340 and 240)
but that original price of 450 you quoted is outstanding, so i'd jump on that--
that way if you're eventually in the market for an external amp upgrade, you could possibly get a two-channel amp for your fronts (for rockin' the casbah sans surround sound) and push those rears and center with 65 wpc -- again, considering HK's high current, quite respectable
the only difference between the 435 and the 235 and 335 is a decrease to 55wpc for the 335 and 50wpc for the 235 -- good watts mind you, but since you won't find much of a price difference, spring for the 435
i don't want to distract you from your original inquiry though, how's your speaker search going?

[MattN03]

absolutely to the pre-outs
as does the 335 and the 235 (and the more current models 340 and 240)
but that original price of 450 you quoted is outstanding, so i'd jump on that--
that way if you're eventually in the market for an external amp upgrade, you could possibly get a two-channel amp for your fronts (for rockin' the casbah sans surround sound) and push those rears and center with 65 wpc -- again, considering HK's high current, quite respectable
the only difference between the 435 and the 235 and 335 is a decrease to 55wpc for the 335 and 50wpc for the 235 -- good watts mind you, but since you won't find much of a price difference, spring for the 435
i don't want to distract you from your original inquiry though, how's your speaker search going?

I'm just taking in all this info. I'm home from work part of the day having a alarm system installed in my house so I thought I'd take the time and start reading/posting more here.

How does the following sound?
F & R: RTi4
Center: CSi3
Sub: PSW303

[zombie boy 2000]

i haven't had a chance to hear the RTi4's for myself -- for whatever reason, i was dead-set on a pair of floorstanding speaks for the fronts (90% of the time they are used for listening to music in two-channel)
that being said, it is certainly not a "one or the other" proposition -- there are more than a fair share of "smaller speakers" (bookshelves, and even satellites, that would trump my 70's in a head-to-head); just check out the LSi9's for further proof
however, there are advantages in going with larger speakers (larger drivers and more of 'em), but you might find their size obtrusive
as for the sub -- just give a looksy to the velodynes or even the SVS if you can budget it

[okiepolkie]

To add to the speaker stand discussion, take a look at Racks and Stands (http://www.racksandstands.com/cats/All/Speaker-Stands-and-Mounts/Speaker-Stands/0C7.htm?refid=G03.stands+speaker&gclid=CO-T18HwnYMCFSdLSQodWEI4Lg).

Speaker stands that are able to be filled with metal shot or sand will help isolate the speaker from the floor-remember you want to move air, not the speaker itself.

The front speakers, with the RTi4's would probably need to be between 24-26" tall. If speakers are placed on stands in the rear, the stands would be best at 30" or above. Ideally, you want the surrounds 2-3 feet above your listening position.

[millerman 3732]

matt where in MS are you?

[MattN03]

matt where in MS are you?

Just south of Memphis, in Desoto Co.

[MattN03]

Another idea I just had was buying some at a time and building the system over a slighter longer time (ie, over the summer maybe). Would getting RTi8's for fronts be overkill or bad in a room our size as shown in the pics above? I was wondering about RTi8's for fronts, CSi3 for center, RTi6 for surrounds, and maybe a SVS sub (seems like everyone thinks highly from the other threads I searched on here today). Maybe I could buy the H/K 435 receiver and the RTi8's and a SVS sub and add the center and rears later in the year? Would there be a lot of difference between this setup and maybe the Monitor 50 fronts and similiar Monitor line rears & center?

[Skynut]

My system was 3 years in the making before I had decent equipment to really enjoy my movies.
I started with RT2000's and a crapy rcvr. then I got the Onkyo rcvr. when I realized I was not doing my speakers any good. It took almost a year and a half before I got my Cs400i and FX500's. It was year of watching killer movies from my vcr before I could afford my Onkyo dvd player.
I have just been upgrading from then to now and there is really no end in sight.

I'm going out of control.

[okiepolkie]

I like upgrading a little at a time. I went through a similar step-up program as skynut.

[tommyboy]

Another idea I just had was buying some at a time and building the system over a slighter longer time (ie, over the summer maybe). Would getting RTi8's for fronts be overkill or bad in a room our size as shown in the pics above? I was wondering about RTi8's for fronts, CSi3 for center, RTi6 for surrounds, and maybe a SVS sub (seems like everyone thinks highly from the other threads I searched on here today). Maybe I could buy the H/K 435 receiver and the RTi8's and a SVS sub and add the center and rears later in the year? Would there be a lot of difference between this setup and maybe the Monitor 50 fronts and similiar Monitor line rears & center?

Matt,

I was in the same position as you are between the monitor 50s and RTI8s. But the bottom line was, If I got the Rtis and would had to buy at least an hk 435 or onkyo 703 and upgrade my surrounds (r15s). I just didn't have the money do to that :(. So I just got the 603 and monitor 50s and its sound very good. I plan about 5 years or so when I have some real money saved up, I will get a high end system, above the RTi series. But my point is, you get what you pay for, The rti series will sound better than the monitor series, it just matters if your willing to pay for it.

Just giving my two cents
tommyboy

[MattN03]

Matt,

I was in the same position as you are between the monitor 50s and RTI8s. But the bottom line was, If I got the Rtis and would had to buy at least an hk 435 or onkyo 703 and upgrade my surrounds (r15s). I just didn't have the money do to that :(. So I just got the 603 and monitor 50s and its sound very good. I plan about 5 years or so when I have some real money saved up, I will get a high end system, above the RTi series. But my point is, you get what you pay for, The rti series will sound better than the monitor series, it just matters if your willing to pay for it.

Just giving my two cents
tommyboy

Is the sound quality difference a lot-enough to justify the cost? Or does it come down to sound preference (or how sensitive your ears are-lol)? Should a H/K 435 have the guts by itself to power Rti8 fronts and the matching other speakers?

[zombie boy 2000]

Should a H/K 435 have the guts by itself to power Rti8 fronts and the matching other speakers?
IMO no... the RTi 8's would benefit immeasurably from an external amp -- though they'll sound mighty nice with the 435
if (and it's a big IF) you can get a deal on a 235 (or even 335) relative to the one you're getting on the 435, you could spring for one of those and go used on an external amp (check audiogon or the flea market on this forum)
+1 on the RTi 8's if your primary use is HT, you won't find the need to upgrade anytime soon on that front, but keep in mind that some think them a tad on the bright side, so musically... maybe/maybe not

[MattN03]

+1 on the RTi 8's if your primary use is HT, you won't find the need to upgrade anytime soon on that front, but keep in mind that some think them a tad on the bright side, so musically... maybe/maybe not

So what does "bright side" mean sound wise to a listener? That's a new term for me.

[tommyboy]

I have seen quite a few people on this forum use th HK avr635 with RTI speakers. Circuit city has this open box for $500 bucks (originally $1100!) and I was about to shoot myself when I saw that.J and r has it new for $660. If there is one thing right now I regret getting, its the onkyo 603.

Do you guys think it would be better(and cost less) to get just say the 335 or 435 and get a seperate amp for the fronts?

[tommyboy]

IMO no... the RTi 8's would benefit immeasurably from an external amp -- though they'll sound mighty nice with the 435
if (and it's a big IF) you can get a deal on a 235 (or even 335) relative to the one you're getting on the 435, you could spring for one of those and go used on an external amp (check audiogon or the flea market on this forum)
+1 on the RTi 8's if your primary use is HT, you won't find the need to upgrade anytime soon on that front, but keep in mind that some think them a tad on the bright side, so musically... maybe/maybe not

sorry, forget that last question, zombie pretty much answered that :)

[tommyboy]

So what does "bright side" mean sound wise to a listener? That's a new term for me.

means a little harsh

[MattN03]

means a little harsh

Is that talking about the highs or lows?

[MattN03]

IMO no... the RTi 8's would benefit immeasurably from an external amp -- though they'll sound mighty nice with the 435
if (and it's a big IF) you can get a deal on a 235 (or even 335) relative to the one you're getting on the 435, you could spring for one of those and go used on an external amp (check audiogon or the flea market on this forum)
+1 on the RTi 8's if your primary use is HT, you won't find the need to upgrade anytime soon on that front, but keep in mind that some think them a tad on the bright side, so musically... maybe/maybe not

Maybe I'd be better off getting something from the Monitor series at this point. I think anything with this caliber of product, will be much better than the $200 Sony surround sound system at Wal-Mart :p j/k

[tommyboy]

Maybe I'd be better off getting something from the Monitor series at this point. I think anything with this caliber of product, will be much better than the $200 Sony surround sound system at Wal-Mart :p j/k

When I had a onkyo HTIB and I thought it sounded awesome. The reason is because I really didn't listen to anything better than that... until I went to my friends house. He has the older RTI series (which i heard from some people sounds better than the new RTI) with two velodyne subs and its awesome. After going to his house, I wondered if I was better off using my tv speaker :) (HTIB is not that bad but its close) So I wanted something respectable and sounds good. And thats why I have what I have today.

For your first question the highs are bright

[zombie boy 2000]

Maybe I'd be better off getting something from the Monitor series at this point. I think anything with this caliber of product, will be much better than the $200 Sony surround sound system at Wal-Mart :p j/k

matt.. i think you're doing the right thing by researching your options first
be patient, every moment you spend investigating this site is an investment in your purchase
i own a pair of monitor 70's myself, and have been quite pleased with their performance
however, i can't help but feel that i was somewhat lucky, as i did not find this site until after i pulled the trigger (i use my gear for about 85% music listening, and i feel the 70's are a right fit for me) :)
now if i had been looking to get more into an HT set-up, i might be kicking myself for not doing the research on the RTi8's
and you're certainly on the right path...
and since i don't know whether or not it's already been said...
WELCOME TO THE FORUM!!!!

[tommyboy]

At least your not thinking of buying sattelites anymore ;)

Now the Only RTIs I have heard are the ones my buddy has(Almost 100%they are RTI70s). I'm not sure if they are comparable to the monitor 70s, but they have much cleaner highs and bass then the 70s(zombie this is nothing against your system, I am just going off what I've heard). I have never heard the RTI8s so I can't do a direct comparison to the monitor series. Maybe someone else on this forum can tell matt the differences when they heard a comparison.

[MattN03]

So will a HT system do much for me when watching my favorite sitcom or Saturday morning car show? Will regular TV shows (non HDTV) play in surround sound, or will that feature only work on DVD's?

[okiepolkie]

External speakers of just about any kind will enhance your regular television viewing. Unless you have high definintion, or premium channels, the signal will not be in Dolby Digital, however DPLIIx does a good job of formatting stereo into surround sound. At the moment, I'm just using a set of LSi7's as my front speakers without a center channel. The fuller range sound is considerably better than the small speakers in your/my television.

A lot of good suggestions so far. At least you will be making a somewhat informed decision :)

[MattN03]

External speakers of just about any kind will enhance your regular television viewing. Unless you have high definintion, or premium channels, the signal will not be in Dolby Digital, however DPLIIx does a good job of formatting stereo into surround sound. At the moment, I'm just using a set of LSi7's as my front speakers without a center channel. The fuller range sound is considerably better than the small speakers in your/my television.

A lot of good suggestions so far. At least you will be making a somewhat informed decision :)

What is DPLIIx? Does a H/K 435 have that feature?

[MattN03]

Ok, here are the 3 systems I've put together by reading here. All would use a H/K 435 receiver & a SVS PB10-ISD sub


High End: RTi8 fronts, CSi3 center, RTi4 rears,

Middle: Monitor 50 fronts, CS2 center, Monitor 40 rears

Entry: Monitor 50 fronts, CS1 center, Monitor 30 rears

I'm leaning more towards the middle of the road system. I'd probably still have to wait & buy some part of the system down the road in a few months, but would really like to stay as close to the original $1500 for a complete system as possible. I know each of these already surpass that figure however :o

I'm interested in hearing opinions & feedback.

[okiepolkie]

DPLIIx stands for Dolby Prol Logic IIx. Take a look at this link to learn a little more about it: http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-FgZG6Dddz69/learningcenter/home/hometheater_surround.html

It looks like the 435 has DPLII, but I'm not sure about IIx. There isn't much difference, and since you are going 5.1, there isn't a need for it anyway.

Choice 1 looks like your best overall system.

I think you will happier with the sound and quality for a longer period of time, even if you invest a little more money.

[tommyboy]

I think the middle range would be the fronts as monitor 60 or 70. I heard that the monitor 60 was the best of the monitor series (not from personal experience). So I'd say if you are getting the monitor 40s and CS2, get the monitor 60s or 70s instead of the monitor50s.

[MattN03]

I think the middle range would be the fronts as monitor 60 or 70. I heard that the monitor 60 was the best of the monitor series (not from personal experience). So I'd say if you are getting the monitor 40s and CS2, get the monitor 60s or 70s instead of the monitor50s.


mmm, I wonder why the 60's are supposedly better than the 70's?

[haveyouever]

Gents!,
What AV receiver would you recommend to drive a Polk Lsi array of speakers (Lsi15s, LsiC, LsiFX, etc.) and also have HDMI switching?

[MattN03]

Gents!,
What AV receiver would you recommend to drive a Polk Lsi array of speakers (Lsi15s, LsiC, LsiFX, etc.) and also have HDMI switching?

This may be better in a new thread, since this is one I started to help me decide on a first time HT system ;)

[Skynut]

This may be better in a new thread, since this is one I started to help me decide on a first time HT system ;)

Not jumping on anyone but you are right.



haveyouever Gents!,
What AV receiver would you recommend to drive a Polk Lsi array of speakers (Lsi15s, LsiC, LsiFX, etc.) and also have HDMI switching?

This is a hyjack, not something we like to see around here.
No big deal just start a new thread with your question.

[MattN03]

Not jumping on anyone but you are right.




This is a hyjack, not something we like to see around here.
No big deal just start a new thread with your question.

Exactly, no hard feelings. It just deserves it's own attention not buried in an existing thread. :)

[*Seby*-Polk-]

Ok, here are the 3 systems I've put together by reading here. All would use a H/K 435 receiver & a SVS PB10-ISD sub


High End: RTi8 fronts, CSi3 center, RTi4 rears,

Middle: Monitor 50 fronts, CS2 center, Monitor 40 rears

Entry: Monitor 50 fronts, CS1 center, Monitor 30 rears

I'm leaning more towards the middle of the road system. I'd probably still have to wait & buy some part of the system down the road in a few months, but would really like to stay as close to the original $1500 for a complete system as possible. I know each of these already surpass that figure however :o

I'm interested in hearing opinions & feedback.
In the next 3 months, i wish complete mi "entry level" system !!!! but...with a CS2 center instead CS1 and PSW 12 for Sub (I can get this famous SVS in my country :( )

Powered by Yamaha RX-V657 !!! Bye !!!

[MattN03]

In the next 3 months, i wish complete mi "entry level" system !!!! but...with a CS2 center instead CS1 and PSW 12 for Sub (I can get this famous SVS in my country :( )

Powered by Yamaha RX-V657 !!! Bye !!!

What are you planning for your other "entry leve" speakers?

[*Seby*-Polk-]

My original plan is complete a great entry level system.

It means: MONITOR 50 (pair) as fronts (i have)
MONITOR 30 (pair) as surrounds (have in next month)
CS1 or CS2 as central channel (mayebe in next 2 months)
PSW 12 for sub (I like it, but i dont know that i suposse great SVS brand) :(

This for entry level...(and sufficient for me and my economy) but maybe in few years i upgrade my system.. !!!! :)

Bye Matt

[MattN03]

I'm really leaning towards the higher end now & just piecing it together as funds allow. That seems to be fairly common here, so I don't feel to bad about that. I figured I would buy the H/K receiver & RTi8's first. In what order would everyone purchase the remaining sub, center, and rears to complete the system?

[*Seby*-Polk-]

Mmmm....in need some help about this question...

First bought the receiver and fronts, next dvd (Yamaha S-657). Now i don't know if must buy a surrounds or center first....

The sub...at the end. obviously.

[Joey_V]

I would go two routes:

Fronts, Surrounds, Sub, then Center.

Or...

Fronts, Sub, Surrounds, then Center.

[*Seby*-Polk-]

Ok Joey...I remember and consider this orders ;) Thanks

[Joey_V]

The reason why I put center last even though most of the soundtrack does go through the center is because of information loss. Without surrounds, there is no where for the "surround audio information" to go. Without a sub, there is nowhere for the "infrasonic audio information" to go.

Without a center, you still get all the information, but that's spread across both front speakers, creating the Phantom speaker. You still get the info, but your theater becomes seating placement sensitive.. meaning you may need to sit in the middle to simulate the "center" sound.

[MattN03]

I would go two routes:

Fronts, Surrounds, Sub, then Center.

Or...

Fronts, Sub, Surrounds, then Center.

I was thinking fronts & then a sub for enjoying music right away. Then add the center or surrounds. It would only be 3 to 6 months probably before I got them all anyways.

[Holydoc]

I was thinking fronts & then a sub for enjoying music right away. Then add the center or surrounds. It would only be 3 to 6 months probably before I got them all anyways.

Matt,

I like your logic. Front, Sub, Center and Surrounds. The sub makes a lot of difference in sound. A great center makes a world of difference in HT. Surrounds are nice ambience and carry the action around you.

[Joey_V]

I say surrounds then center.... but thats moi! Enjoy either way!

[tommyboy]

Hey matt

Its tommyboy again. So I read that you wanted to go more higher end with the rtis, have you decided what full system you want (besides the rti8s)?

by the way, there is no problem getting all the speakers at once, thats what credit cards are for :D .

[MattN03]

Hey matt

Its tommyboy again. So I read that you wanted to go more higher end with the rtis, have you decided what full system you want (besides the rti8s)?

by the way, there is no problem getting all the speakers at once, thats what credit cards are for :D .

I'm looking at RTi8 fronts, CSi5 center, RTi6 rears, and a SVS PB-10 sub.

[Joey_V]

I'm looking at RTi8 fronts, CSi5 center, RTi6 rears, and a SVS PB-10 sub.

I would go RTi4 for rears if you need to save a little.... unless you do much multichannel music, you probably dont need the RTi6. Of course, if the RTi6 is only a few $ more, then go for it.

[jma9]

mmm, I wonder why the 60's are supposedly better than the 70's?

check out the polk t90eb at tweeter. they are the european monitor 60's and are real wood. the price is $174.99 per speaker.

[MattN03]

I listened to some RTi10's in stereo mode last night at Fry's (w/o a sub playing) and they sounded superior to the RTi8's they had. The 10's played stronger & had better sounding highs IMO. When they powered up a Velodyne 10 sub, the difference wasn't as noticable and in surround sound they difference wasn't noticable. So in other words, I only noticed the difference between the speakers when in stereo mode w/o a sub. I will be listening to music in stereo probably 50-60% of the time with a sub. Is it worth the extra money for the 10's over the 8's? Any advantages/disadvantages between the two?

[tommyboy]

I listened to some RTi10's in stereo mode last night at Fry's (w/o a sub playing) and they sounded superior to the RTi8's they had. The 10's played stronger & had better sounding highs IMO. When they powered up a Velodyne 10 sub, the difference wasn't as noticable and in surround sound they difference wasn't noticable. So in other words, I only noticed the difference between the speakers when in stereo mode w/o a sub. I will be listening to music in stereo probably 50-60% of the time with a sub. Is it worth the extra money for the 10's over the 8's? Any advantages/disadvantages between the two?

wait... are you saying you are either going to get the rti 8s with a sub or the rti10s without a sub?

and what velodyne sub were you listening to?

If that is the case, it is better to get the 8s with a sub, unless of course you are getting the 10s and planning on getting a sub later

[MattN03]

wait... are you saying you are either going to get the rti 8s with a sub or the rti10s without a sub?

and what velodyne sub were you listening to?

If that is the case, it is better to get the 8s with a sub, unless of course you are getting the 10s and planning on getting a sub later


No, either RTi8 or RTi10's will have a sub with them-probably a SVS PB10. Fry's had a Velodyne PBS-10 (I think that was the model # anyways) they demoed for me.

[MattN03]

Ok, new receiver plans. I just bought a H/K 635 receiver on Ebay for $501. :)

[tommyboy]

No, either RTi8 or RTi10's will have a sub with them-probably a SVS PB10. Fry's had a Velodyne PBS-10 (I think that was the model # anyways) they demoed for me.

dps im guessing, no such thing as a pbs...:) . That sub is great for my system but prolly not good enough for the rti series. but about the RTI8s and 10s. You know everyone will tell you to get the 10s since you get a mid range and two 7 inch woofers and i will have to agree with them;)

tommyboy

[MattN03]

dps im guessing, no such thing as a pbs...:) . That sub is great for my system but prolly not good enough for the rti series. but about the RTI8s and 10s. You know everyone will tell you to get the 10s since you get a mid range and two 7 inch woofers and i will have to agree with them;)

tommyboy

Yep, I bet it was the DPS.

[tommyboy]

great reciever, I really wish I could return my 603 and get that reciever, 1100 dollar reciever for 500 buck, great deal!

[tommyboy]

was it new, even with my accomodations I could only get it new for $610. I wanted to buy it open box for 500 but it was pretty beat up...

[MattN03]

was it new, even with my accomodations I could only get it new for $610. I wanted to buy it open box for 500 but it was pretty beat up...

Do you mean the H/K 635? If so, it was a refurb directly from H/K. I just got lucky because they're going anywhere from $510-$630.

[tommyboy]

Do you mean the H/K 635? If so, it was a refurb directly from H/K. I just got lucky because they're going anywhere from $510-$630.

so much for your 1500 dollar limit;) . j/k you're building yourself a great system. A buddy of mine has the RTi70s (which is just an older RTi model) and they sound much better than my monitor 50s. you won't go wrong either way (with rti8s or 10s). just make sure you tell us what you buy:) .

[MattN03]

so much for your 1500 dollar limit;) . j/k you're building yourself a great system. A buddy of mine has the RTi70s (which is just an older RTi model) and they sound much better than my monitor 50s. you won't go wrong either way (with rti8s or 10s). just make sure you tell us what you buy:) .

Yeah, I'm blaming everyone on this forum for busting my budget! lol. I guess I'll just be saving a while longer to get everything.

[peteran]

Front: Monitor 40 $300.00 (about)
Surround: Monitor 30 $200.00 (about)
Center: CS1 $180.00 (about)
Sub: PSW 303 $300.00 (about)

Surge protector look into Belkin Pureav
http://www.pureav.com/power/
you can get it cheaper at Amazon or Buy.com. $200-300

Speaker stands
http://www.wood-tech.com/
check into their specials.

Receiver not sure if you are sold to the HK435 but I would recommend the onkyo 603 or 703

[MattN03]

Receiver not sure if you are sold to the HK435 but I would recommend the onkyo 603 or 703

Thanks for the suggestions! I just bought a H/K 635 however.

[AndyGwis]

I got a sweet deal on a system including the AVR635 and Polk 5.1 not too long ago. Matt, got the AVR new online for $600. . . then got the Monitor 60s (or Euro 90ebs as Tweeter has them) for $350/pair. Got Monitor 30s for surrounds at half price as well. . . $125/pair. Added the Csi3 for $199.

They threw in a $200 sub, PSW10, which I traded in for a new in box Mirage Omni s12 Sub (which I love, BTW). . . only cost me $200 out of pocket after PSW10 trade in.

Look into that. I have Monitor 60's, Monitor 30's, Csi3, Mirage Omni s12, and HK ABR635 all brand new in box with warranties for about $1500.

Watch out, though. I'm already looking into some separate amplification for my Monitor 60's. . . they sound great with HK635 as it is. . . but I'm sure could sound even better :)

AndyGwis

[MattN03]

The H/K 635 came in today!! I should have my RTi8's & a Panamax 4300 by next Wednesday if there are no delays. Woohoo!!! :)

[MattN03]

Here (http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38638) is an update on my system :D