Building a Theater Room - Rocket Questions

[Rob K]

Hi, I've been lurking for a while gathering information. Figured it was time to register and start asking some questions.

I recently moved into a new house and have a room picked out to be my new theater room. I'm in the process of picking out a completely new system. For speakers, for the longest time I've been interested in Aperions. I impressed with the quality of construction and appearance, and all the reviews of the sound quality were very positive.

Now that I'm getting a bit more serious about it, I've been digging around the forums and came up with Axiom and AV123. I've pretty much ruled out the Axioms as getting them with a read wood finish puts them out of my price range. ($2500 for a 5.1 system (speakers only).

I had been leaning toward the Aperions again until I realized that the prices on the Rocket speakers were for pairs, not individual speakers. This puts them solidly in my price range, and from what I've been reading, the sound quality is excellent as is the contruction and finish.

So what I'm looking at is an RCS200 center, RS760 fronts, and not sure about the rears. Was thinking either the dipole surrounds or the RS450 for rears. The price after stands for the dipoles are pretty similar. Any recommendations on that?

That puts me pretty close to my budget. I have a 300w JBL sub from my old HT system that I'd plan on using for a while, then upgrading to the AV123 sub which seems very highly regarded. The JBL sub seems to shake the room reasonably well. Is there any benefit to using a matched subwoofer or is that not really important?

Also, I see information on the AV123 website about their X-series speakers. I imagine they must be fairly new as I haven't seen much information on them anywhere. Anyone have any idea about how these compare the Rockets?

And what's the deal with not having any stock on any of the speakers at AV123? Is this typical for them or did they recently switch to new models or something?

Thanks in advance for any advice. Hope this isn't to much to ask in a single post.

[newb]

I have looked at the AV123's, and Aperions (I'm getting the Intimus 533 Concert HD with matching towers).
The X series is reviewed here but with Onix (former name for av123) as the start of the review(Pro Reviews>Speakers>Onix x-lc series, also the x-mtm line).

Av123 seems to be extremely well regarded and looks to have outstanding build quality, finishes, etc as do Aperion (IMO). Both companies are said to have great customer service and shipping practices as well (it's important to get your gear in good shape and on time). The Rockets look amazing and have a beautiful finish, they were just out of my league and Aperion gives me some other benefits for about the same cost.

The X series are more of a bookshelf, budget speaker but still has all the features AV123 is known for (wood cabinets, SQ), while the Rockets are more of their flagship line. As to stock, they are popular! The x series is usually in in the wood finishes and mostly out in black but the Rockets? don't know.

Just my two cents...I'm sure you'll make a dollar in no time here on this forum.

[Guangui]

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34334

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41504

Check this threads for AV123 speakers info...

[Rob K]

Saw the X-series review. Thanks guys. Probably not what I'm looking for.

Any thoughts on using a different brand sub with these speakers? How about dipole vs. tower speakers?

[Guangui]

Saw the X-series review. Thanks guys. Probably not what I'm looking for.

Any thoughts on using a different brand sub with these speakers? How about dipole vs. tower speakers?

Here is a rule of thumb I like to use, but it is very vague and general, so it all boils down at what you like.

If into movies and the room is medium to large size go for dipoles. If besides movies you are also into multichannel music, or your room is not that big, go for bookshelves or towers (mono).

Also, if you have a great room and you are using part of it as your family room or listening/viewing area the dipoles are not good for this application, so use mono's to direct the sound to the viewing area.

[Soundman]

Rob,
I must say that you did a good job ruling out the Axioms. I've had them and that don't even compare to the Rocket's I just got. Nothing against Axiom. They are a great company, i just saw a big difference through my experience. As for Aperion, they are a great company as well. Honestly, I'm not aware of a better looking speaker for money paid then AV123's. I will say that the Rocket line is definitely a step up from the X-series. Also, keep in mind that AV123 has a reference line as well as a couple of other lines in development. One of the reason's AV123's speakers have been out of stock is because of the massive sell they did recently to make room in their warehouses for their new product lines. I actually started a thread on my new Rocket purchase, if you want to take a look. I have links to some pictures. I can't recommend the company more. I've never received a product packed as nicely (cloth bags and cloth gloves included so you don't get finger prints on your new beauties). I couldnt' be happier. Take a look:

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41504&page=3

[abboudc]

The price after stands for the dipoles are pretty similar. Any recommendations on that?

I'd go with the towers if it were me. The 450's have the same woofers and tweeters as the 760's and will make for a more seamless soundstage.


Is there any benefit to using a matched subwoofer or is that not really important?

Not only is it not important, there's no benefit, other than aesthetics.


Also, I see information on the AV123 website about their X-series speakers. I imagine they must be fairly new as I haven't seen much information on them anywhere. Anyone have any idea about how these compare the Rockets?


The X-series has been around for quite awhile. They're the budget line. The biggest difference is the tweeter. For the price, they're very nice, but not in the same league as the Rockets.

And what's the deal with not having any stock on any of the speakers at AV123? Is this typical for them or did they recently switch to new models or something?

It's pretty typical. Shipping dates often slip and backorders are frequent. They have frequent sales as well, which tends to make it even worse.

IMHO, i've not seen a more beautiful speaker for the price, or even at twice the price (X-series or Rockets). The real wood veneers are stunning.

[newb]

Either of these two will make a great speaker purchase.
You can audition Aperions with free shipping both ways if you don't like em, they have an accessory sale going on when you buy a 5.1 setup, and the packing is as close to if not better than av123. Check em out.
I will order mine on 3/1 to take advantage of the deal, and then will probably be posting like mad as I set up my system:
Marantz SR 4002
Aperion 633 T's Mains
Aperion 533 T's Surrounds
Aperion 533 VAC Center
Aperion S 12 sub

And congrats to Soundman on the rockets!
Happy Listening

[jcPanny]

Rob,
AV123 also offers a risk free trial (w/ return shipping) on all of their bookshelf speakers. In addition to the Rockets, check out their X-static and X-voice speakers that just started shipping. They have a very modern look with the metal grills and their open baffel design is different from Rocket series, but not necessarily better or worse. I think the X-static mains are $800/pair.

The bipole speakers are designed to be mounted on the side walls of your HT and are not normally used with stands.

Enjoy the new system. You can't go wrong with any of the options on your short list.

[Rob K]

I'll post some pictures of the room. It started as a square small office, but was later extending into a garage to more than double the size of the room. The new section is about 4-6 feet wider than the old section which means it starts out narrow, then flairs out by about 2-3 feet on each side. I plan on putting the TV at the wide end and the seats at the narrow end. Given the width at the narrow end, it may make more sense to mount dipoles on the wall than to go with rear towers. Then again there's would be plenty of room behind the seats for the towers.

Like I said, I'll take some pictures and post them. Might make for an intersting discussion.

[Soundman]

Either of these two will make a great speaker purchase.
You can audition Aperions with free shipping both ways if you don't like em, they have an accessory sale going on when you buy a 5.1 setup, and the packing is as close to if not better than av123. Check em out.
I will order mine on 3/1 to take advantage of the deal, and then will probably be posting like mad as I set up my system:
Marantz SR 4002
Aperion 633 T's Mains
Aperion 533 T's Surrounds
Aperion 533 VAC Center
Aperion S 12 sub

And congrats to Soundman on the rockets!
Happy Listening


Just curious, you said the packing of the Aperion's are just as good if not better then AV123? Does Aperion cover their speakers with cloth bags and include cloth gloves to avoid finger prints? I'm just curious what would make Aperion's packing possibly better. Do they do something different? I'm not posting to start a war between the 2 companies, just wondering (through your experience), what you liked.

[Rob K]

From what I've read, the Rockets come in a cloth bag of t-shirt quality cotton. Aperions actually come in a purple velvet bag. Other than that I'd think the packaging is similar with double boxes and plenty of styrafoam. You also get a care kit from Aperion with gloves and polish for the speakers housings, again similar to AV123.

[Soundman]

From what I've read, the Rockets come in a cloth bag of t-shirt quality cotton. Aperions actually come in a purple velvet bag. Other than that I'd think the packaging is similar with double boxes and plenty of styrafoam. You also get a care kit from Aperion with gloves and polish for the speakers housings, again similar to AV123.

OK, I was curious about that. I had heard good things about Aperion. So, basically both companies pack them pretty similarly. So, buyers concerned about their speakers arriving in one piece can't go wrong with either one of them. I really like that. I think it should be the standard for ID's. When I purchased some Axioms, I wasn't too pleased with how they were packed, just a single box and some foam sent UPS! :eek: The boxes were practically destroyed. Luckily, they weren't damaged. I ended up sending them back and getting the Rocket's though. They were delivered by a private company on it's own private pallet. I was able to schedule a delivery time when I was home and the delivery guys, using their special equipment, brought them into my house and placed them where I needed them. Anyway, it's good to know there are some good speaker companies out there so we don't have to worry about the delivery process. :)

[newb]

That was all I was referring to Soundman...That the packing from both was exemplary and that it seems they take care to get your speakers to you unharmed and well loved.

I wasn't able to access your link for your pics....the rockets are a bit much for me, I like the pedestal base of the Aperions, but that is just choice.

Tell us how you are liking your setup.

[NightToDay]

Yeah I'm in the same debate right now, the rockets or the aperions.

Just a heads up though, Aperion is bringin out some new speakers. The 5 series comes out mid march, the 6 series in april. Blah, here is a link to the post which will explain everything.

aperionaudio.com/community/forums/permalink/5914/5899/ShowThread.aspx#5899

Sadly I can't link it since I've been mainly a lurker, so just add the w's in front of it :)

[Rob K]

Keep in mind, on the Aperion website, I think speaker prices are listed by individual speaker. On the AV123 website, they are priced in pairs. This threw me off and I had ruled out the Rockets until I realized that. Once I did, I found the prices to be fairly comparable.

[newb]

I was reading up on the Aperion site about the new gear....All well and good except it was gonna go right out of my budget.

So what would any good audioholic do?

I bought the system I wanted right away, before the rush depleted their stock. OK, I was just waiting for the credit card to close for the month anyway! Now the waiting begins, but I'm close in Seattle so I hope to have em soon.:D

[Soundman]

Keep in mind, on the Aperion website, I think speaker prices are listed by individual speaker. On the AV123 website, they are priced in pairs. This threw me off and I had ruled out the Rockets until I realized that. Once I did, I found the prices to be fairly comparable.

Yes, something to consider, the new Aperion 633's will be right at $1,400/pair. At that price, you may want to look at the Rocket's. Also, does Aperion give a discount for buying a complete package? I didn't see any price difference when using their system builder. I know AV123 offers a pretty nice discount for buying a complete package, so playing around with a few scenarios is probably worth your time.

[Soundman]

I thought I should post this as well, since there are some new Aperion products coming soon. Well, I thought I should let everyone know about some AV123 products coming soon too. Keep in mind that these product lines are not replacing any of the current speaker lines at AV123. Also, keep in mind that some of these products are a little on the high end and, sadly, may be out of some of our budget's. For example, many of us may find that $1,300 for a center channel speaker is a little steep! But it sure looks impressive. :D http://av123.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=40&Itemid=37

[NightToDay]

Yeah I called av123 yesterday to see if they offered any sort of discount if I ordered a complete package. I already had the mfw-15 on order, so I asked if they would do anything if I ordered the 850's, the bigfoot, and some surrounds (I don't remem the number off the top of my head). They basically told me they can't do anything else since right now they are offering free shipping. If they lowered the price any bit more then I prob would of bought right then and there.

They were offering those gift card purchases like 2 weeks ago (not goin on anymore) where they would take lik 10% (or something like that) off, but I didn't want to throw up like 3k and not have the ability to cancel my order if something came up to where I needed that cash in the next 2-3 months.

[Soundman]

Yeah I called av123 yesterday to see if they offered any sort of discount if I ordered a complete package. I already had the mfw-15 on order, so I asked if they would do anything if I ordered the 850's, the bigfoot, and some surrounds (I don't remem the number off the top of my head). They basically told me they can't do anything else since right now they are offering free shipping. If they lowered the price any bit more then I prob would of bought right then and there.

They were offering those gift card purchases like 2 weeks ago (not goin on anymore) where they would take lik 10% (or something like that) off, but I didn't want to throw up like 3k and not have the ability to cancel my order if something came up to where I needed that cash in the next 2-3 months.

You might want to keep checking. There are always deals out there. Sometimes it's all about timing. When I ordered my Rocket's, I saved almost $1,000 b/c of the deal they were having at the time. :eek:

[newb]

I may get teased by some...I think Mazer always complains when people talk about free shipping.
Anyway at AV123, it's about 340.00 for the premium shipping where they bring it in even upstairs and unpack it...plus if the system is around 2-3K that's a good 10 to 15% discount. Might be worth it.

The aperions have free shipping both ways too if for some reason you don't like the speakers. I'll know when I get mine, they should all be here by next week and my 663 should be coming soon.

[Soundman]

I may get teased by some...I think Mazer always complains when people talk about free shipping.
Anyway at AV123, it's about 340.00 for the premium shipping where they bring it in even upstairs and unpack it...plus if the system is around 2-3K that's a good 10 to 15% discount. Might be worth it.

The aperions have free shipping both ways too if for some reason you don't like the speakers. I'll know when I get mine, they should all be here by next week and my 663 should be coming soon.

It's a weight issue. If you ever get your hands on some Rocket's you will understand why you would never want Fedex or or UPS delivery these babies. Their speakers are very heavy, very solid so they use a special delivery method to bring them to you in one piece, for their larger speakers anyway. Due to the weight and size of the delivery, it can actually be more economical this way. Also, keep in mind that some companies may be absorbing some of the shipping, but probably the price of shipping is included in their price. Either way, free shipping is a plus, but it should never be a deal breaker. These speakers will last you for years. There are many other factors so much more important then the price of shipping. :)

[jcPanny]

It is hard to offer additional discounts when the 850s are already $600 off the normal price. The free shipping alone on that 5.0 system is worth a few hundred dollars. I wouldn't expect a better package or family price unless you buy used or b-stock. They are having trouble keeping any Rockets in inventory at the current prices.

[Soundman]

It is hard to offer additional discounts when the 850s are already $600 off the normal price. The free shipping alone on that 5.0 system is worth a few hundred dollars. I wouldn't expect a better package or family price unless you buy used or b-stock. They are having trouble keeping any Rockets in inventory at the current prices.

Good point. They are definitely a good deal. I ended up getting mine for $1,000 for the pair 'cause I ordered them back when they slashed prices to make room in their warehouses for their new product lines. I guess It's possible to get a pair at that price, but I don't see it happening anytime soon. That price was actually below cost, but they did it anyway b/c they needed to clear out inventory. Now, inventory is no problem. They are having a hard time keeping up with the demand, as JcPanny mentioned.

[NightToDay]

yeah that is a good point. 1399 for the pair and also free shipping. which is like 350 bucks or something like that. ugggg I gota think. I guess I can actually go ahead and order them now since i don't have to pay, and if I decide to go another route I can cancel it since the speakers won't even be ready till like May.

[Soundman]

yeah that is a good point. 1399 for the pair and also free shipping. which is like 350 bucks or something like that. ugggg I gota think. I guess I can actually go ahead and order them now since i don't have to pay, and if I decide to go another route I can cancel it since the speakers won't even be ready till like May.

Go for it! You will not be disappointed. They are well worth the wait. When I ordered mine, I had a good idea of what they would be like, due to my extensive research, but when they came, I was still soooo blown away by their beauty! Oh,...and by the way, they sound as good as they look. :D

[Jey Jockey]

Just ordered my 850's yesterday, replacing one year old Axiom M80's. Gonna be a long wait.

Soundman, can you pm me and tell me how you find the differences in SQ from your Axioms and what models you had? Thanks alot
Chris