$2000 Home Theater Build!

[DeusExa]

Hey Guys, my first post here.

It's the Christmas season here, and the time for a new home theater setup. I currently have a Onkyo setup i got 10 years ago for roughly $1500, and these days, it doesn't seem to perform as well. Time for an upgrade, I think.

I have a 15 X 20" entertainment room, which I want to custom revamp my entire audio system, for roughly $2000 including receiver. I already have a 52” Toshiba DLP HDTV, and want something nice to go with it.
The setup will be primarily used to watch TV/Movies (using an HD-DVD player outputting at 1080P), and some music (mostly classical/soundtrack/trailer music).

I looked around for a few days, I chanced upon some RTi12 Polk towers, and can get them for around $600. (my friend got some better towers, and didn’t even bother opening these, so they are brand new). Heard these, and they really do sound nice. If there isn’t a better choice, I’m deciding to go with these as my fronts. What entire home theater price range do these speakers typically fit into?

That leaves ~$1400 for the rest.

I heard some good things about Onkyo’s TX receiver lineup…605/705/805. Which one is suited for my setup with RTi12s as the main speakers?

Assuming ~600$ for the receiver, that leaves $800, but I can go up to $1000.

How can I divvy up the rest for a subwoofer, center channel and two rear surrounds?

Oh yeah, I’m not really a basshead, so I don’t really need a crazy sub - tight bass would be nice.
How's velodyne compared to Polk for Subs? - I'm going to get sub/center/rears from Fry's, and they have a few Velodynes.

EDIT: -bought the RTi12s ($600) and PSW125 sub ($200) - need commenting on sub (30 day return)
-considering Csi5 for center (~$300)
-for rears, what's the difference between surround and bookshelves on Polk's website?

Thanks!

[BigAlbert333]

Interested? I'm selling this...

I'm considering selling my stuff if your interested? This is what I have...

1) Polk Audio CS400 Center channel
2) Polk Audio RT55 Bookshelf Speakers
1) Polk Audio PSW250 Sub w/ monster cable
1) Onkyo TX-DS747 5.1 Dolby Digital Receiver w/ manual and remote.

I am asking $700.00 obo

Wish I could post this in the FS section but you need to have 25 posts... this is my first one. I'm located in Torrance just few minutes south of Los Angeles... email me for pics... alberto333@sbcglobal.net

[Early B.]

Your budget is too small to purchase everything you want. Take your time and do it right.

I suggest purchasing the Rti12's. With $1,400 remaining, get a nice receiver ($600), a center channel -- either a Csi40 or Csi5 ($400), and some surrounds ($400). Eventually, you'll want a separate amplifier to power your Rti12's because a receiver won't give them the juice they need. You'll also need to budget several hundred dollars for new cables.

[Sherardp]

^+1 with Early B, I'd also take that TV set back and go front projection since youre in a dedicated room.

[AsSiMiLaTeD]

I'd look elsewhere for a receiver. Onkyo isn't bad, but I think you can do better - I'd spend a little more and look for a high current model, something along the lines of a NAD or Outlaw.

[mrbigbluelight]

The Csi5 is on sale on Amazon for $305.39 with free shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Performance-Channel-Speaker/dp/B0000SY4TA/ref=sr_1_20?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1198680620&sr=8-20

That price was in effect as of 9:00 am Wed (CST); with Amazon, the "You snooze, you lose" rule is quite often in effect.


So center channel for $305.39, plus $600 for the Rti12's (good price, btw), leaves you with $1094.61.

So far so good.


Fry's has the Rti8's on sale for $149.90 each, with shipping going cheap ($16.09 EACH to the Midwest).
NOTE: Buy each separately, shipping is cheaper that way ($53.30 if you were to buy both inone purchase).

http://shop1.outpost.com/{FUEemwRbqahGVfe2EKKjeg**.node3}/search?search_type=regular&sqxts=1&query_string=rti&cat=

So, figure $340 for a pair of Rti8's.

That leaves you with $754.61 for an AVR/amps, etc.


EDIT Reading through some other threads on here, there's several good choices.

If you don't mind refurbished gear, Onkyo has their TX-SR805 - 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver on sale for $699.
There's also an additional 10% off for refurb purchases, but that 10% ends TODAY.
That winds up being about $630 with FREE shipping.

http://shoponkyo.com/detail.cfm?productid=TX-SR805&modelid=91&group_id=1&detail=1&ext_war=1

That leaves you with about $120 in your pocket for a carton of smokes and a case of beer.

Just throwing this out here for inspection, you could definitely do worse, you might/could possibly do better.

[DeusExa]

I just got a PSW125 from Fry's for $200. (subwoofer)

The PSW505 was the same price and also the DSW Pro 400.

IS the PSW125 better than the 505/ DSW Pro 400?...which one would you guys get out of the three?



FYI, I live in LA, and the room isn't really a home theater, just another living room (we have two), but an enclosed one with drapes over the bay windows (two adjacent walls are covered with drapes,).

I was going to go with some Monster cabling.......
I got my TV last year, so too late for return!

This will be my first custom build, so I think I'll stick with a mainstream company receiver...how are Yamahas and Pioneers compared to Onkyos?

Also, RTi8 towers for rear instead of bookshelves...is that really a good idea?

[Bill Ayotte]

I would go with a NAD for the reciever, they are a main stream company and are holy shit powerful. Don't let the small numbers on paper fool you, they are the real deal. I would look at a Pioneer elite as well...

[WilliamM2]

I'd look elsewhere for a receiver. Onkyo isn't bad, but I think you can do better - I'd spend a little more and look for a high current model, something along the lines of a NAD or Outlaw.

The Onkyo IS high current, and THX Ultra2 certified. Secrets tetsted it. and got a full 40 watts over rated power at clipping (173 @ 8ohm and 270 @ 4ohm).

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_14_3/onkyo-tx-sr805-receiver-9-2006-part-5.html

He won't be able to touch a NAD in his price range, and the Outlaw is very outdated.

[WilliamM2]

just got a PSW125 from Fry's for $200. (subwoofer)

The PSW505 was the same price and also the DSW Pro 400.

IS the PSW125 better than the 505/ DSW Pro 400?...which one would you guys get out of the three?


Out of those three? The 505. But personally, I would look elsewhere for a sub, as none of those even play as low as the Rti12's you are considering.

[BIZILL]

Out of those three? The 505. But personally, I would look elsewhere for a sub, as none of those even play as low as the Rti12's you are considering.

too true. too true.

[DeusExa]

What's around the price of a home theater setup that complements the Rti12 as mains?...just wondering....$3000?....$4000?...


Anyway, What's this against Polk subs XD? I'd like to have an all Polk setup...and I'm not really a basshead but lets say, what if I had to choose between these three...(Polk's offering $200 off subs promotion)..what could possibly beat these at $200..they usually go at least $400..

[Early B.]

What's around the price of a home theater setup that complements the Rti12 as mains?...just wondering....$3000?....$4000?...


Anyway, What's this against Polk subs XD? I'd like to have an all Polk setup...and I'm not really a basshead but lets say, what if I had to choose between these three...(Polk's offering $200 off subs promotion)..what could possibly beat these at $200..they usually go at least $400..

A sub is a speaker, so like any speaker, sound quality is most important. A cheap sub is likely to have less than stellar SQ. Return that sub and look elsewhere.

And don't limit your choices to mainstream receivers. There's better stuff to be had. We're trying to help you get the best quality gear from your budget, so take your time and do more research to avoid buyer's remorse.

Oh, and another thing, forget about Monster cables. There's much better stuff out there for the same chunk of change.

P.S. -- RTi8's would make great rear speakers. Fronts, too.

[Ricardo]

If I were you, I would:

-return the RTi12's, buy the RTi8's for fronts.
-for surrounds the RTi4's or the FXi3's.
-CSi5 for center channel
-Return that polk sub and spend a little more on the sub; you might not be a basshead, but for movies you will be missing a lot of the action if you don't have a good sub; look for SVS, or if you want to use those $200 for a Polk sub, get the biggest you can find.
The RTi line can be driven with a decent receiver with no problem. Any Onkyo or Denon at 100 WPC or more will make you happy.

[cfrizz]

What Onkyo do you have right now?

Whatever receiver you do get make sure it has preamp outputs for future upgrades.

From what I've heard Polk's new line of subs are pretty good if you want to stick with all Polk gear.

Welcome to Club Polk.

[kwikrnu]

What about a DMR-1 from emotiva They are on sale for $979 until they run out That was a $2000 receiver last year(5 year warranty, 125 watts per channel) or what I have a lma-1 and a lmc-1 they have for $750(125 watts per channel (6) with all channels running. Then got to ebay and check out polkdirect as a seller. They have been having some good deal on surround speakers polk rm6900 or the rm6800 which seem to be selling for around $400. I think it is a good deal for your price range. If you want more speakers try their rm8000t they are selling for like $400-500 the pair or the rm7400t which sells for less.
I could easily see you coming in at less than $2000. Of course you could get better stuff for more money.

[DeusExa]

Hey guys...found out that the 10-year old receiver I have is a
Onkyo A-SV610PRO

googled around..
From the 1993 Audio Equipment Directory :

125 watt per channel continuous average into 8 ohms from 20Hz-20kHz.
50dB headroom.
List price $630.
Multi-room remote capability.


good for its time...?...anyway, definitely getting a new receiver...How's the Onkyo SR805 for $700 flat?

-return the RTi12's, buy the RTi8's for fronts....why would I want to do that?


-for the RTi4's or the FXi3's, what's the difference between the two? (one's in the surround category and the others in bookshelves at Polk's website)

-preamp outputs for future upgrades....what's these?

P.s. - What's around the price of a home theater setup that complements the Rti12 as mains?...just wondering....$3000?....$4000?...

[cfrizz]

Preamp outputs are so that you can add separate amplification later on down the line. The Onkyo SR805 does have them. This will allow your speaker to operate to their full potential. A receiver can't do that.

[Ricardo]

-....why would I want to do that?



Because they are cheaper, sound as good (or better) excluding the punch, you don't need an amp to drive them right, and with a good sub you won't notice the difference.

[DeusExa]

The Polks I mentioned (subs) are all street priced at $3-400...not $200.

Also, I 'm not getting a Polk sub based on "Polk", but that I get $200 off any Polk sub at Fry's....and that seems to be a pretty good deal there....so the question is, is a $200 Polk sub priced at $4-500 a better deal than a SVS, eD, HSU sub priced at $300ish?

[Pepi28]

The Polks I mentioned (subs) are all street priced at $3-400...not $200.

Also, I 'm not getting a Polk sub based on "Polk", but that I get $200 off any Polk sub at Fry's....and that seems to be a pretty good deal there....so the question is, is a $200 Polk sub priced at $4-500 a better deal than a SVS, eD, HSU sub priced at $300ish?

No. Does that help you out?

[Pepi28]

Stick with the Rti12's. Get a pair of Rti4's, a Csi5 and an HSU sub. As for a receiver, I personally would go with a Denon or Pioneer (new or refurbished).

[MSALLA]

Those 12's are grat speakers but are power hungry. The only way you are going to stay even close to your budget is to hit the used market. Check audiogon.com for good deals on gear or e-bay but you need to be careful on e-bay. As everyone has already stated, that sub is not going to pull the low db to match those 12's. Take some time and don't rush it. You may want to buy a piece here and a piece there as you find deals but in the end you will be happier. Listen to the members on here as no one will steer you wrong. Think of it this way. This is a Polk site and they are telling you NOT to buy a Polk sub, whats that tell you. A good sub won't give you that "boomy" sound but a nice tight and low sound you should have and need for HT.

[DeusExa]

hit the used market........for what things?? receiver?..I thought Onkyo SR805 was enough..($700)


Anyway, Besides the Polk RTi12 fronts, I've decided to get a CSi5 center ($300),
undecided on rears, and undecided on sub.

What are better rears, the FXi or RTi, and does ANYONE know the difference between
"bookshelves" and "surround" for rears (on Polk's website)

After much consideration, I've finally decided to look at a non-Polk sub..w00t w00t?
From brands talked about, now which eD, SVS, HSU sub is the best for less than $300? (my sub budget)

Remember, I'm NOT a basshead (the RTi12s already dip into 18Hz), no booming bass for me -
I'd like to hear deep, clear bass in movies, and primarily HT, what i'm using my audio system
mostly for.

[Early B.]

From brands talked about, now which eD, SVS, HSU sub is the best for less than $300? (my sub budget)

Remember, I'm NOT a basshead (the RTi12s already dip into 18Hz), no booming bass for me - I'd like to hear deep, clear bass in movies, and primarily HT, what i'm using my audio system mostly for.

You'll need to budget a bit more than $300 for a sub "to hear deep, clean bass...".

[DeusExa]

"Deep, clean bass" in the $2000 home theater system respect...XD

And what's the difference between sealed and ported?

[MSALLA]

hit the used market........for what things?? receiver?..I thought Onkyo SR805 was enough..($700)


Anyway, Besides the Polk RTi12 fronts, I've decided to get a CSi5 center ($300),
undecided on rears, and undecided on sub.

What are better rears, the FXi or RTi, and does ANYONE know the difference between
"bookshelves" and "surround" for rears (on Polk's website)

After much consideration, I've finally decided to look at a non-Polk sub..w00t w00t?
From brands talked about, now which eD, SVS, HSU sub is the best for less than $300? (my sub budget)

Remember, I'm NOT a basshead (the RTi12s already dip into 18Hz), no booming bass for me -
I'd like to hear deep, clear bass in movies, and primarily HT, what i'm using my audio system
mostly for.


Those 12's are power hungry. Your going to want an amp to drive them. You won't find a good sub for 300.00.
Surround speakers are the rear speakers in a 5.1 or the side and rears in a 7.1.
You can use bookshelves or towers.
The onk is a good unit with pre-outs to hook up an amp for the 12's or all your speakers. As far as FXi or rti for the rears, others on here would know better then me.

[DeusExa]

Those 12's are power hungry. Your going to want an amp to drive them. You won't find a good sub for 300.00.

what amp...receiver not enough?

No good, basic eD, SVS, HSU sub around $300?

[Ricardo]

what amp...receiver not enough?

No, if you want to get something decent out of those woofers.

No good, basic eD, SVS, HSU sub around $300?

No.

As someone suggested earlier, if you swap the 12's for the 8's you will:

-Not need an external amp
-Save some money to put on a decent sub ($600-800)
-Have a great HT system.

[cfrizz]

You will get more bang for your buck buying a used amp from Audiogon. Your receiver will do just fine in the meantime.

There is no rule that says you have to buy all of it at once. Get what you can now & save more for the rest later.

[jdhdiggs]

If it was me and that budget ($1,400 ish) I would get the first Onkyo that is HDMI compliant and a sub. That's it for that budget. To me, that's the biggest bang for the buck. In fact, I would do my best to stretch that budget to get an SVS 12+2 or Ultra and the SR-805. If you setup the system right, you won't need the center channel.

Then what I would do, as budget permits is:
Buy right and left surrounds
OR
Buy the center
Then buy the other from above
Buy a two or three channel amp for the 12's/center
by the surround backs.

Frizz's advise isn't bad either and if you hold on to the old onk, then I'd personally dump the rest into the sub. Save the remaining speakers for later.

[WilliamM2]

Get the Onkyo 805, a set of FXi3's or Rti4's for surrounds, and the Csi5 for the center. You can always add an amp later if you feel you need it.

HSU and ED have good entry level subs for around $400. You got an excellent price on the 12's, I would not return them.

[mwaarna]

If you want the best, and your on a budget you cant have it all at once.

I started about a year ago and my initial setup was as follows:
Polk Lsi9's gray market 700
HK 235 AVR 250 used
Outlaw Audio 750 5 channel amp 600 used
+ cost of cabling and av rack i was around 2k.

Then i saved up for a few months and purchased a LSIc Center channel for 400.

A month later i got my bonus and purchased a SVS PB12+/2 1200

Then 2-3 months ago i purchased LSI FX rear speakers

And my latest purchased was a new Pre-Pro with HDMI in and Out
Onkyo Pro 885 for 1450 shipped.

Currently I am saving up to buy a new amp with XLR inputs in the spring.

[Wesley Snipes]

DeusExa, where did you find the RTi 12's for $600? that sounds like a great deal. I am looking at RTi 10's for $693 CAD. I hope they are in canada. Thanks.

[DeusExa]

To blade XD, I got them at Fry's Electronics in California...they will be discontinued after all sold out, since the new 2008 models will come in (from what I heard, not much of a difference there, besides cabinet remodel) FYI, the 2008s are selling for ~$800 apiece.

http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/receivers-separates-amps/133423-anyone-know-where-i-can-find-specs-receiver.html

From this post, i found out that the Onkyo A-SV610Pro wasn't a receiver, it's a integrated amp...if that means anything to you guys....It sounds fine enough (I only have two RTi12s set up right now)...Will the Onkyo SR805 Receiver really make a difference, and a $700 dollar difference at that?

For subwoofer,
The point is, I 'm not very good at discerning low frequency sound, since my old system didn't even come with a subwoofer (5.0)...and i don't know if I'll be able to hear the difference between the Polk and the online subs...and the budget is still around $300 or so...Hsu, eD, SVS..what's the best sub I can get for that price?..and will they outstrip a PSW505 by a long distance? Like a VTF/STF Hsu...

However, If I get a Onkyo SR705, I can boost my sub budget to $400..or is that just totally stupid of me..

What are better rears, the FXi or RTi, and does ANYONE know the difference between
"bookshelves" and "surround" for rears (on Polk's website)..so far, no one knows....???

LOL, I'm feeling kind of reluctant to spend $300 on a CSi5 when I just spent $299 on a RTi12...

[DeusExa]

bump

[DeusExa]

Oh yeah...could I use my old integrated amp as an amp for my new speakers, along with my new Onkyo SR805 were I to get it? Onkyo A-SV610Pro

And I'm going to Fry's in a hour to return the PSW125....and later on getting a Hsu/SVS...good choice?..or should I get a PSW505 for $200..

[cfrizz]

You will do great going for a Hsu/SVS sub. You could also check out Outlaw audio for one of their subs.

I think after all this time you would be better off getting a more updated receiver. Later on you can add the amp.

Don't skimp on the center channel, it carries most of the movies.

Most recommend getting the fx's if it is a 5.1 setup. If it is a 7.1 setup they recommend getting a pair of fx's & rti's.

[DeusExa]

Alright, back from Frys.....returned the PSW125, got the PSW10 for free, (will keep it for a couple of days, since its a free sub, and try to sell it later and get a Hsu/SVS...how's the BIC H-100 compared to the Hsu/SVS entry models?)
......and when I was on my way out, I saw the Onkyo TX-SR805 for $699, and snagged it...seems like I'm getting good deals from Frys...RTi12 for $300 each..805 for $700...oh yeah, will I need the 3-year anytime return warranty for $70?

Alright....seems like I will have to dish out $300 for the Csi5..anyone find a better price, please TELL ME!!!

It will be a 5.1 setup...so FXi?...which one?


And, also, what's bi-amping?...will I need it for my RTi12s? Do I need to get another amp? Is that why it's called bi-amping?

Thanks guys (and gals!)

[solidus28]

If you can use a cherry CSi5, here's one for 175
http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=61451

[mrbigbluelight]

^^^^^

Get it. Now. Right now.

Not later.

Now.


:)

[DeusExa]

OK, replied...

repeating meesage, just in case:

Alright, back from Frys.....returned the PSW125, got the PSW10 for free, (will keep it for a couple of days, since its a free sub, and try to sell it later and get a Hsu/SVS...how's the BIC H-100 compared to the Hsu/SVS entry models?)
......and when I was on my way out, I saw the Onkyo TX-SR805 for $699, and snagged it...seems like I'm getting good deals from Frys...RTi12 for $300 each..805 for $700...oh yeah, will I need the 3-year anytime return warranty for $70?

Alright....seems like I will have to dish out $300 for the Csi5..anyone find a better price, please TELL ME!!!

It will be a 5.1 setup...so FXi?...which one?


And, also, what's bi-amping?...will I need it for my RTi12s? Do I need to get another amp? Is that why it's called bi-amping?

If I could use my old integrated amp as an amp, how would I hook it up to pwer my RTi12s?

[SKsolutions]

Mid sized HSU would take care of that room nicely for HT, and at around 300$ used. Good tone for music too.

[DeusExa]

how's the BIC H-100 compared to the Hsu/SVS entry models?

[DeusExa]

how's the BIC H-100 compared to the Hsu/SVS entry models?

[Sherardp]

Bic is an ok Sub, it cant compete with the SVS, Epik, Ed stuff. I read your entire thread, and it sounds like youre putting together an awesome setup. Youre almost there, however dont skimp out now. Get your CSi5, and a great sub. You dont have to go all out spending 1500-2000 bucks, but you should look into the SVS PB12+, Epik Castle, Ed A5-350. They exceed your budget however they all will sound great and give you clean, tight bass as said before. The subs youre dealing with now, will only give you Boom and not the nice, low and articulate bass, and will take away from what youre trying to accomplish. Just my thoughts and congrats on those excellent deals youre finding.

[DeusExa]

thanks Sherardp and everyone - this has been a great learning experience for me!

-this guy on ebay wants to sell me a TAD-AE SW150 for under $300...I've never heard of it..the guy has good ratings...but I don't know anything about the sub...

Ok, looked at Hsu/eD/SVS again,...seems like the Hsu looks better physically (my family is big on looks...)..and the three companies seem to be equally good....so, I might go with Hsu...Which one is the best for the price?...VTF, STF?

Will they hit a lot deeper than the BIC?

[WilliamM2]

-this guy on ebay wants to sell me a TAD-AE SW150 for under $300...I've never heard of it..the guy has good ratings...but I don't know anything about the sub...


It's questionable. Accoirding to TAD's website, it is supposedly a $1299 sub "On sale" for $399! But it's always on sale. The other speakers also have inflated regular prices, and are always on sale:

http://www.angelfire.com/biz/bizzyb/AURALECSTASY.html

You don't have to get a sub right away you know. If you don't get a sub that can keep up with the rest of your speakers, you will just be disapointed.

[DeusExa]

has anyone heard it before?


Yeah, that's what I've been thinking...will the Hsu drop lower..under $300?
I might go with Hsu...Which one is the best for the price?...VTF, STF?

Will they hit a lot deeper than the BIC?..is that the main difference?..deepness?


oh yeah.....5.1 or 7.1....if I go 5.1, prob FXi5, if 7.1, prob Rti4....
room is 15" X 20", 8" ceiling...mostly enclosed.
So, either more speakers, or a passive bi-amp of the fronts (RTi12)

[DeusExa]

Also, a used (guy says 5 months) Csi5 for $175 + $25 shipping and used FXi5(pair) for $280 + $25 shipping....good deals?

[Gizmo99]

Also, a used (guy says 5 months) Csi5 for $175 + $25 shipping and used FXi5(pair) for $280 + $25 shipping....good deals?

I've been searching for CSI5 as well but considering they were selling brand new ones a while back for 225 (onecall?). I dont know if 175 is a good offer.

But then again, CSI5 are hard to find.

[DeusExa]

How are the new a series compared to the csi?

[DeusExa]

hey guys - should I trade in my RTi12 for some LSi15s? (same price)

i have an Onkyo 805...and prob won't get an amp...

[cfrizz]

Then don't get the LSI's!

They sound better but require an separate amp to get the full potential out of them & to also not damage themselves trying to get power out of a receiver that it doesn't have.

[tonyb]

Crap,I'd get an amp for the 12's too.

[WilliamM2]

hey guys - should I trade in my RTi12 for some LSi15s? (same price)

i have an Onkyo 805...and prob won't get an amp...

If you can get them for $600 a pair new, like you did the 12's, buy them. They may not sound their best on an 805, but they will still smoke the 12's.

[MSALLA]

hey guys - should I trade in my RTi12 for some LSi15s? (same price)

i have an Onkyo 805...and prob won't get an amp...

I hate to say it, but no matter which of the 2 speakers you use, you need an amp. You don't have to rush out and get one right this second. But I would keep an eye out and jump when you find a good deal. You should at least get a good strong 2-channel amp for the fronts and you could run the rest off the AVR. If I were you I would stick with the Rti's as the Lsi's really need power to come alive.

[DeusExa]

How are the LSi15 compared to the RTi12 for HT?
(I can get either for same price)
Will an Onkyo 805 decently pull it off?

I will passively bi-amp using the back rears to the fronts....

[halenhoang]

deusexa, you really should look into this site for you receiver. www.accessories4less.com there you will find lots of onkyo receivers at very low prices.

[halenhoang]

also, in my opinion.. the lsi is in a different league then the rti lineups. for the money, its very tough to beat the lsi line, regardless of brand. if u do get the lsi, they are 4 ohms, so make sure the receiver is capable. i recommend separate processor/amp when powering the lsi line, you will be amazed at what you are missing.

[cfrizz]

The LSi's can do it all better than the RTI series, if properly powered.

Your biamp scheme is still coming from the same amp on the receiver which will already being overworked as it is!

You run the risk of putting your receiver into protect mode & shutting down. But more importantly, you run the risk of damaging your speakers.


How are the LSi15 compared to the RTi12 for HT?
(I can get either for same price)
Will an Onkyo 805 decently pull it off?

I will passively bi-amp using the back rears to the fronts....

[DeusExa]

To halenhoang - i got my 805 for $699 new....and it can go down to 4 ohms.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=957110

Cfrizz - the 805 is a decent receiver..right? It seems to be underpowered for the LSi15...but it won't like break them...right? Just won't give me full potential.

I just want to know what would give me better sound wihtout an amp for right now - the Onkyo SR805 with RTi12 as fronts, or LSi15 as fronts

P.S. I found out that the LSi15 are actually $100 cheaper..not same price $500 vs $600 for RTi12..

[cfrizz]

If you turn up the Onkyo too loud for too long, then YES it could. You could easily fry a tweeter before the Onkyo's protection circuit kicked in.

So if you insist on getting the LSI's then keep the volume down.

While the Onkyo is a good receiver, it is not really equipped to run 4ohm speakers (No matter what it says in the manual!)

What the Onkyo will do, is restrict the current that the speakers will demand when needed for loud passeges in music & movies as to not over tax the receiver. If the receiver is overtaxed it will shut down. (Hopefully before you burn out your tweeters in you speakers.)

So for better, fuller, sound, without an amp, you would be better off getting the RTI's until you can afford an amp. If you want to sit on top of the LSI's in order to hear them sound pretty good without worrying about volume, & protection circuits kicking in, then get the LSI's. Just watch how loud you turn them up.

[DeusExa]

How loud is too loud in this case......room level? (on the Onkyo, -10dB is medium to me for music)

with an amp budget of $2-300....which one would I be better off with again?

(also, could I use my old Onkyo integrated amplifier i mentioned a few posts earlier) It's 10-years old.....~$700 in its time..puts out 125watts per two channels...
http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/receivers-separates-amps/133423-anyone-know-where-i-can-find-specs-receiver.html

[Poee7R]

I will put my vote in for the Lsi's and the Onk. Just spend 300 or so on an Adcom 555 or similar and you'll be golden.


Dave

(disclaimer; There are other amp's in that price range from Carver, B&K, Parasound etc... but I believe the Adcom will still give you best bang for the buck in this case. And it meets cfrizz's minimum of 200 wpc :p)

[WilliamM2]

If you turn up the Onkyo too loud for too long, then YES it could. You could easily fry a tweeter before the Onkyo's protection circuit kicked in.


That's true of any speaker he buys.

So for better, fuller, sound, without an amp, you would be better off getting the RTI's until you can afford an amp. If you want to sit on top of the LSI's in order to hear them sound pretty good without worrying about volume, & protection circuits kicking in, then get the LSI's. Just watch how loud you turn them up.


Nonsense, the Lsi15 will sound better than the Rti12, even without an amp. According to Polk, the 12's require more than twice the power of the Lsi's. Handle twice as much too.

[DeusExa]

Great. I'm going to see if I can snag a pair of LSi15s tonight!

Oh yeah, I'm not getting the amp anytime soon (give me a couple months)...is it okay if the 805 powers the LSi15 + rears(FX or RTi4)/fronts(CSi5) for a few months until I get a $200 amp?

[Sherardp]

If youre going LSi15s then you need to also pick up the LSiC to at least have your fronts timbre matched(same tweeter etc, same sound). And you should consider the rest of your setup be of the LSi series as well.

[Davidpsalt]

Great discussion here ... thought I would slide in to get some advice.

I have a Denon AVR 4800 which pushes 120 Watts per channel for 5.1 and is capable of doing 7.1 if I add a two channel amp. I am planning on adding a mated 2 channel amp to drive the mains - looking at buying the Rti10's or Rti12's. Am considering buying a Csi5 for the center, Fxi5's for to 7.1 side surrounds and using my exising RM5000 satelites for the rears. Any comments/suggestions? Approve or disapprove?

[Davidpsalt]

Comments are welcome

[louieeg]

I'm in the exact same position you are. I'm rebuilding my ht through fry's clearance items...haha. fry's also has the fxi3 on clearance for $150, if still available. I chose to go with rti10, fxi3, psw505. i will most likely add the csi3 in the future. you can get the csi3 from amazon for $160 shipped.

[DeusExa]

Hey guys - unbelievable - snagged two cherry LSi15s (last two) for $237 each at the Burbank Frys in CA - sound is entirely different than RTi12, slightly less punch, much better sound overall.

Also picked up CSi3 for $199 to get myself over $499 for the free sub, which I intend to sell off....should I keep the CSi3?...or get CSi5 (sold out)

You're right...the timbre matching is different - the CSi3 sounds a little too bright compared to the LSi15...

Anyway..I have an Onkyo 805...the LSi15 runs at 4 ohms? can I make it run at 8ohms..something to do with metal jumper maybe? ( all my other speaks center+4 rears) run at 8.....I'm running the onkyo at 8 ohms...will it damage the LSi15s?

should I keep the LSi15?.....$237 each...I also have the RTi12s.. $299 each.. .right next to them in the room...
I might get a 2-300$ amp....but that's later...

[WilliamM2]

You're right...the timbre matching is different - the CSi3 sounds a little too bright compared to the LSi15...


The LSiC would be the center to go with the 15's.

should I keep the LSi15?.....$237 each...I also have the RTi12s.. $299 each.. .right next to them in the room...

Why keep asking the same questions over and over? Keep the speakers that sound best to you.

[Poee7R]

I want a pair of $480 LSi 15's. Damn you fry's, damn you. :mad:


Dave

[Sherardp]

+1, keep the ones you like both will require power to make them sound at their best anyway. Though you should consider an amp asap, and consider timbre matching, either all Lsi setup or Rti.

[revfanbak]

I hit frys (Burbank) on Saturday morning at 9:00am when they opened. I also got a pair of cherry LSi 15's (left and right) for $237.00 a piece, unbelievable price. I watched Underworld in their theatre with the LSi 15's hooked up and was out of there on my way home by 9:45am. LSi center channel, 9's and 7's still full price. Gonna have to wait until there stock becomes depleted and price drops to get those. I want am amp to power them. Anyone tried a tube amp on the mids and highs and transistor(solid state) on the 8" sub in bi-amp mode?

[DeusExa]

Anyway..I have an Onkyo 805...the LSi15 runs at 4 ohms? can I make it run at 8ohms..something to do with metal jumper maybe? ( all my other speaks center+4 rears) run at 8.....I'm running the onkyo at 8 ohms...will it damage the LSi15s?


So both of them will need almost the same power to run? (LSi15 is 4ohms 20-250w/RTi12 is 8 ohms 50-500w) In that case, screw the RTi12!!!

Can I bi-amp these? (it says in the Onk manual that bi-amping only for 8 ohms or more...)

I'm going to use my old rears (4 Onkyo bookshelves from 10 years ago) temporarily until I can get FXi/RTi bookshelves...the rears don't have to be timbre-matched, right?..just the center...

And, the LsiC - what's a good deal for it?

Thanks

P.S: will defintely get a 2-channel amp for the LSi15 later...budget is $250ish...Rotel? Carver?

[DeusExa]

oh, and lower ohms means greater power,right?

[DeusExa]

bump?

[DeusExa]

Also, I heard about the Polk DSW series...the new ones...supposedly sound better?

http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?t=61982


I can get the 8 inch for 199$, THE 10INCH FOR 299$....better than HSu VTF/STF and BIC H-100?

Must make decision tomorrow...

[MusikSource]

I would highly advise sticking with the Tx-SR805 for your amp returning the 12's and aswp for the 8's as ealier suggested and a simple monotor 30 would do just fine for the r and back suround. Good luck, a sub is the most dificult desicion to make for me aswell.

[Gizmo99]

I had the same delima with the LSI15 but I am a cheapo and for me to buy the LSI15, I would have to fork out another 300 dollar for an amp + matching LSI Center + matching LSI sourrounds. That would have put me WELL OVER my budget.

So I decided to go cheap:

Receiver: Yamaha Rv-x1800
FRONT: RTI8
CENTER: CSI5
Sourround: FXI3
REAR: FXIA4
SUB: Bic H100


I am new to this audio / video stuff and I can see why you can easily go over budget with upgrades here and there. There will always be "something better" but its a matter of how much you can afford. For me, what I have is good enough... for now :D

[Keiko]

I had the same delima with the LSI15 but I am a cheapo and for me to buy the LSI15, I would have to fork out another 300 dollar for an amp + matching LSI Center + matching LSI sourrounds. That would have put me WELL OVER my budget.

So I decided to go cheap:

Receiver: Yamaha Rv-x1800
FRONT: RTI8
CENTER: CSI5
Sourround: FXI3
REAR: FXIA4
SUB: Bic H100


I am new to this audio / video stuff and I can see why you can easily go over budget with upgrades here and there. There will always be "something better" but its a matter of how much you can afford. For me, what I have is good enough... for now :D

Nice system. I'd be happy with this for a long time. :cool:

[DeusExa]

I can get the Polk DSW Pro 8 inch for 199$, THE 10INCH FOR 299$....better than HSu VTF/STF and BIC H-100?

Must make decision tomorrow...


bump...DSW Pro series 400/500

[DeusExa]

bump...DSW Pro series 400/500

....

[DeusExa]

went to frys today....DSWs sound a lot better than PSW series....but I haven't heard SVS/Hsu/eD stuff ever....