Need speaker system for AVR130.

[Spiff]

Hi everyone,

I was just recently turned onto this site by a friend and have learned tons already but thought I'd throw this out here to see if anyone would be kind enough to offer me some advice.

Right now I'm running a PS2, and XBOX, and a Gamecube through a Harman Kardon AVR130 hooked up to five speakers (no sub) that I stripped from old mini-systems. Garbage. I've been in the market for a good 5.1 system that'll give me clear sound for video games and movies, but also give me some punch for music cuz I like it loud. The room they'll be going into will be only 400 sq ft (8 ft ceiling, I think - it's a condo that's not finished yet), but I want to get a system that will still function when I get a bigger place within a couple of years.

As for my budget, I'd love to spend between $500-700 CAD but of there's something that sounds a lot better for a little more (under $1000) I could be pursuaded. It might be that I want better quality than I can afford, but that's why I'm looking for advice.

Any suggestions as to what I should be looking for?

[jaxvon]

I'd personally recommend BIC. My setup (in my sig) didn't cost too much and has made me very pleased. It'll play loud too, loud enough to warrant hearing protection. Anyway, here's what I suggest you buy:

2 pr DV62si Bookshelves, $229.94USD Shipped from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006JPDI/qid=1133899255/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-1939950-9761529?n=507846&s=electronics&v=glance)
1 DV62CLR Center, $99.97USD Shipped from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00009WBYL/qid=1133899255/sr=8-2/ref=pd_bbs_2/104-1939950-9761529?n=507846&s=electronics&v=glance)

Then spend the rest of your budget on the best subwoofer you can afford. I would recommend the best Hsu (www.hsuresearch.com) unit that fits your budget. The SVS PB-10ISD is another strong choice, but you'd get reamed with brokerage in Canada. If you have any specific questions on a Hsu sub, you can email the company or even call up Dr. Hsu on the phone directly to get the lowdown on the best subwoofer choice for you.

[jcPanny]

How about starting with a good pair of Canadian bookshelf speakers like Axiom (M22ti) or PSB. You would have a good 2 channel setup or you could use your cheap HTIB speakers for surrounds. If you were willing to spend 1K, I would add a 10" SVS or HSU sub to the initial purchase.

[mike c]

save all that money for speakers, and buy the biggest baddest sub you slightly CANT afford

[Spiff]

Just a quick thanks to those who replied. What a great freakin' site. Now I have to figure out which (if any) of you suggestions is right for me. I appreciate the input though. Thanks.