recs for front left/right and center to go with av123 x-ls rears

[alternapop]

I bought a pair of AV123 bookshelf x-ls speakers a year ago and the matching x-sub subwoofer. I'd like to add two more speakers and a center speaker to get surround sound. (5.1) I have an Onkyo 605 receiver.

I'm thinking I would move the existing x-ls speakers to the back left and right and buy two new speakers for front left and right and a center speaker.

A year ago, the "recommended systems" here recommended the AV123 speakers for the lower end systems and now they recommended NHT, Axiom and RBH.

Should I stick with the same brand? (av123) I'm looking at the x-sls encore mid-tower. Or should I go with one of the recommended speakers? Is the difference between the AV123 speakers and the recommended speakers marginal enough that I'm better off going with the same brand?

I'm thinking that I'll spend about $1000 to add to what I have. I'm not opposed to selling what I have and going with all new stuff if it makes that much of a difference.

My room is long and narrow (~10x18, tv on the short wall) and has wood floors if it matters. Used for HDTV, PS3 and mostly rock music.

Thanks!

[fredk]

Do you like the sound of your current speakers? Do you find yourself wanting a different sound?

I don't know anything about the xls, but I know that the rockets are supposed to be more laid back than the Axioms, so it might be a noticably different sound than what you are used to. I happen to like the Axiom sound. To me, they really bring out the details and make the music 'right there' like a live performance. I don't know anything about RBH.

It really depends on your preferences.

I wish the folks here at audioholics would explain why they make the changes they do to the recommended systems and how the new systems compare/contrast with the old ones. It would provide a much better frame of reference for those looking.

Fred

[alternapop]

i like the sound... i'm also ignorant to many of the finer technical points.

it would be nice if those who do the reviews and recommendations on this site could do some sort of comparison and contrast with previous recommendations.

[jcPanny]

If you are happy with the X-series AV123 has several new offerings worth consideration.

The X-static floorstanders are available and would be a significant upgrade. The matching X-vioce center is not available yet and would put you over budget.

You might also consider the entry rocket 450 towers and save for the matching center channel. They Have the center on b-stock currently for about $300.

The X-ls would be great for surrounds with either system. I have the Ref 1's and Ref 100 L/C/R and use the new ELT525's for the surround channels.