An overall sound system under $700

[afterlife2]

On another note, your suggestions excited me up so much that I managed to convince my roommate to chip in as well. So now my budget just went up to $600-$700 range. Would you mind please recommend another set of options considering this new budget of mine?

maybe I get the refurbished HK AVR 2700 that afterlife2 recommended for $200, and then I have $400-$500 left for a pair of speakers? and what speakers then?

I stand by what I recommended. 2 year warranty on the Harman receiver too. No need to over spend. That speaker 5 set & sub that speakerman pointed out is a great option as well and less than 700, What? Like Herbu said spend the rest on speaker wires, HDMI cables & Pizza/Beer/Hula dancing girls.

 

[Mike Ruby]

I think the powered monitor idea is a good one. Check out options for bi amplified speakers from M-audio, Alesis and many others that come in for $300 and beyond. Good stereo is better than low grade multi channel. You can easily evaluate the speakers by hooking them up to your phone and playing a high rez audio file. I have been stunned what a little recording monitor sounds like today. I think it's the best sound for the money.

 

[MHPHD]

These are all great choices. But with this $600-$700 budget, what do you guys think about getting a floor-standing speaker instead of a bookshelf one? Is there any reason nobody has suggested anything that is floor-standing?

 

[Pogre]

You will almost always get better quality with bookshelf speakers over floor standing in the same price range.

The money spent on the extra materials for cabinets and drivers for floor standing can be spent on better electronics and drivers for a bookshelf.

 

[shadyJ]

You will almost always get better quality with bookshelf speakers over floor standing in the same price range.

The money spent on the extra materials for cabinets and drivers for floor standing can be spent on better electronics and drivers for a bookshelf.

On the other hand, tower speakers will usually have much better bass extension than bookshelf speakers. Between finer highs and deeper bass, I will take deeper bass. The problem is its tough to find a good floor-standing speaker for $500. You might try the Pioneer SP tower speakers or some JBLs.

 

[speakerman39]

If towers interest the OP, then Fluance has these on clearance:

http://www.fluance.com/deals-special-offers/xl5f-high-performance-three-way-floorstanding-tower-speakers-black-ash

Not bad at all. They come with a lifetime warranty which is another good deal inmho. The matching center is only $120 more:

http://www.fluance.com/center-channel-speaker/xl7c-high-performance-two-way-center-channel-speaker-black

AND the OP can use these for rears:

http://www.fluance.com/bipolar-speakers/sxbp-high-definition-bipolar-surround-sound-speakers

The OP can have this setup for $470 shipped! That would leave just enough to get a refurbished Infinity Reference 12" sub. The total then would be $670. Then, the OP can get that refurbished HK AVR 2700 for only $200 more that comes with a full 2-year warranty. If need be, the OP can drop the Bi-poles for now and get them when he recovers. That would save $100. Hope this helps! Best wishes to the OP.


Cheers,

Phil

 

[Blues Doctor]

Some good recommendations already given here. I would at least consider the Andrew Jones designed Pionner SP HT pkg. You could get the package deal and a new 5.2 channel A/V Receiver and still be within $700 budget. Quality design at entry-level price with above entry-level sound quality. You said you wanted something to keep a long time. You could also look at Monoprice budget HT speaker pkgs. For that budget, I would go with Pioneer set and be done, knowing I made a value purchase. You would have mid-grade quality at entry-level price that offers reasonable fidelity. In a small room, that little sub is adequate. Hell, a decent subwoofer will cost $400-$700 minimum.

Hi All,

I just simply have a TV at this moment, and nothing else.

I would like any sort of sound system (be it bookshelf speakers + receiver, or a soundbar, or a pre-packaged unit), but I want it under $700 overall (my original post was $300 budget but I was convinced to increase my budget, so I edited this message now)

My main focus: 80% movies, 20% music.

• The dimensions of the rectangular room is 9' x 13' (where TV is at the end of the 13' length).
• The space is pretty open for any kind of set up.

And I will not be planning on slowly adding to my budget throughout the years. This will be a one-time purchase and I will not slowly build the system.

Thanks for your help. I know you guys can help me with awesome suggestions.

I personally would definitely not waste money on a Sound Bar. $700 is limited, but you can get it done with decent quality system giving you a mid-grade sound quality that exceeds it's entry-level price point. There have already been some good suggestions given here. This is another suggestion/recommendation. I would seriously consider the Andrew Jones designed Pioneer SP series, as Shady mentioned. You would be remiss not to at least give them a look. One can get the BS pkg for $450 including sub. $550 will get somame pkg with the towers for mains. One can get a new 5.2 A/V receiver from Pioneer for $250 on sale. Or look at Denon and Yamaha. First system, tight budget,? I would go with the Pioneer set. You asked. I've enjoyed researching audio gear the past 18 months. One would spend entry-level money, but would have a well-designed budget speaker system, that has revolutionized the budget speaker market. That system will outshine any sound bar of HTiB. Fidelity-designed system on the cheap. IMHO, the best budget buy for quality for the buck.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

A pair of philharmonic AA bookshelf speakers and craigslist's receiver

extra $400 could be used for sub, like this one: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-1mk3.html

 

[shadyJ]

extra $400 could be used for sub, like this one: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/vtf-1mk3.html

That new VTF1 is a little beast. Hsu has fully doubled the low end output, compare the numbers from the mk2. At 2 m RMS in 2 port mode, it averages 110 dB from 40 Hz and above, making it a potent little sub for music. I think it should give the RSL Speedwoofer and SVS PB1000 a run for their money. Previously I considered the VTF1 a bit outmatched compared to some of the other subs in its price range, but no longer with the mk3.

 

[Pogre]

On the other hand, tower speakers will usually have much better bass extension than bookshelf speakers. Between finer highs and deeper bass, I will take deeper bass. The problem is its tough to find a good floor-standing speaker for $500. You might try the Pioneer SP tower speakers or some JBLs.

very true, but a pair of those aa's with a budget sub...? on a budget I'd rather go with bookshelf speakers and a sub. if I had the disposable cash, I'd get towers. even then I'd prolly still get a sub.

 

[Blues Doctor]

That new VTF1 is a little beast. Hsu has fully doubled the low end output, compare the numbers from the mk2. At 2 m RMS in 2 port mode, it averages 110 dB from 40 Hz and above, making it a potent little sub for music. I think it should give the RSL Speedwoofer and SVS PB1000 a run for their money. Previously I considered the VTF1 a bit outmatched compared to some of the other subs in its price range, but no longer with the mk3.

I know and agree. The new Hsu VTF1-MK3 is now at top of my short list of smaller subs for a dedicated music-only system. I just put a new stereo rig together and want to add a sub. Been researching, and now am deciding between the SVS SB-1000, the RSL Speedwoofer 10S, and the new 10" Hsu MK3. I live in an upstairs apartment so I don't want something that rattles the bldg. I want front-firing ten-inch that plays music well. I'm even considering a home audition of all three for in-home comparison. Any opinions or suggestions are welcome. The rig is in a 12' x 20' room with 8' ceilings. I had narrowed my search down to the RSL Speedwoofer10S and the SVS SB1000, but then saw the HSU MK3. I think they're all adequate for my purpose. Top priority is sound quality, but I also consider the size and my space limitations, and the HSU is big. No WAF to consider, so fidelity is top priority. The sub would be paired with Klipsch R-28F towers powered by the Yamaha R-S700 stereo receiver. I do need to stay within budget of $600.

 

[speakerman39]

I know and agree. The new Hsu VTF1-MK3 is now at top of my short list of smaller subs for a dedicated music-only system. I just put a new stereo rig together and want to add a sub. Been researching, and now am deciding between the SVS SB-1000, the RSL Speedwoofer 10S, and the new 10" Hsu MK3. I live in an upstairs apartment so I don't want something that rattles the bldg. I want front-firing ten-inch that plays music well. I'm even considering a home audition of all three for in-home comparison. Any opinions or suggestions are welcome. The rig is in a 12' x 20' room with 8' ceilings. I had narrowed my search down to the RSL Speedwoofer10S and the SVS SB1000, but then saw the HSU MK3. I think they're all adequate for my purpose. Top priority is sound quality, but I also consider the size and my space limitations, and the HSU is big. No WAF to consider, so fidelity is top priority. The sub would be paired with Klipsch R-28F towers powered by the Yamaha R-S700 stereo receiver. I do need to stay within budget of $600.

I highly encourage you to look at the SVS SB2000 as well. Many have preferred it over the SB1000. I know that the SB2000 is also more expensive, but you might be able to get a good deal on a B-stock. For music only, it would certainly be at the top of my list. I mean no disrespect to the SB1000, but have read time and time again how much better the SB2000 is when compared to the SB1000. Just thought that I would mention it to you. Good luck with your decision!

Cheers,

Phil

 

[Blues Doctor]

I highly encourage you to look at the SVS SB2000 as well. Many have preferred it over the SB1000. I know that the SB2000 is also more expensive, but you might be able to get a good deal on a B-stock. For music only, it would certainly be at the top of my list. I mean no disrespect to the SB1000, but have read time and time again how much better the SB2000 is when compared to the SB1000. Just thought that I would mention it to you. Good luck with your decision!

Cheers,

Phil

Thanks Speakerman. Appreciate the input. Yeah, I've been looking at the SB-2000. I am definitely considering it too. I was trying to avoid overkill in my upstairs apt. But I don't listen at super loud levels. My music is top priority however, and I'm willing to go to $800 if worth it. I was assuming I'd add another sub down the road and run duals, so I was thinking of keeping cost down. That said, I also believe in "Buy once, cry once" philosophy. I'm trying to stay reasonable and avoid my tendency to over-do it in audio gear. My desire is for the best SQ value within my budget, like most of us, for music only rig 2.1 or 2.2 channels. I also intend to go separate pre/amp, most likely Emotiva, in near future. The R-S700 would then go to bedroom w/Kef Q-100 bookshelves that I already own. I'll end up putting a small sub in that rig too. That would be ideal for the SB1000.

 

[Blues Doctor]

And for some reason, I'm really intrigued by the RSL Speedwoofer 10S. Can't explain it. The Hsu MK3 has got my attention also. Love the looks and specs. ???

 

[shadyJ]

At $800, you are getting near Hsu ULS-15 mk2 territory, which is a large step above any of these.

 

[speakerman39]

Thanks Speakerman. Appreciate the input. Yeah, I've been looking at the SB-2000. I am definitely considering it too. I was trying to avoid overkill in my upstairs apt. But I don't listen at super loud levels. My music is top priority however, and I'm willing to go to $800 if worth it. I was assuming I'd add another sub down the road and run duals, so I was thinking of keeping cost down. That said, I also believe in "Buy once, cry once" philosophy. I'm trying to stay reasonable and avoid my tendency to over-do it in audio gear. My desire is for the best SQ value within my budget, like most of us, for music only rig 2.1 or 2.2 channels. I also intend to go separate pre/amp, most likely Emotiva, in near future. The R-S700 would then go to bedroom w/Kef Q-100 bookshelves that I already own. I'll end up putting a small sub in that rig too. That would be ideal for the SB1000.

I also live in a small 1BR apartment directly over our apartment manager and I had (2) of these:

http://www.powersoundaudio.com/collections/outlet-center/products/s1500-b

My preference has always been on music much more so than HT. Don't be afraid of a B-stock as you get the same 5-year bumper to bumper warranty. Shady mentions the Hsu ULS 15 MK2 sub which I also owned at one time. Any of these are stellar for music. They also do a great job with HT. Musically, it is all about tight, punchy, and well -articulated bass. Any of these deliver!

Cheers,

Phil

 

[Blues Doctor]

I also live in a small 1BR apartment directly over our apartment manager and I had (2) of these:

http://www.powersoundaudio.com/collections/outlet-center/products/s1500-b

My preference has always been on music much more so than HT. Don't be afraid of a B-stock as you get the same 5-year bumper to bumper warranty. Shady mentions the Hsu ULS 15 MK2 sub which I also owned at one time. Any of these are stellar for music. They also do a great job with HT. Musically, it is all about tight, punchy, and well -articulated bass. Any of these deliver!

Cheers,

Phil

Thanks again guys. After visiting PSA site Phil linked, I then went to Rythmik forum and site. They seem to be making quality subs. So I've added to my options. I have more research to do. Learn in the process. What subs are you using now Phil? How about you Shady? And use, just HT, music only, or both?

 

[afterlife2]

The PB-1000 is plenty powerful with movies in my apt! My neighbors don't like it. I don't even play it to it's potential. I got the B stock for my bday a couple of years ago:
http://www.svsound.com/collections/outlet-specials/products/pb-1000-outlet-1008
Call them they will answer all your question and maybe give you a lower price on the B stock. Hey ya never know.

 

[shadyJ]

Thanks again guys. After visiting PSA site Phil linked, I then went to Rythmik forum and site. They seem to be making quality subs. So I've added to my options. I have more research to do. Learn in the process. What subs are you using now Phil? How about you Shady? And use, just HT, music only, or both?

I am using a bunch of different subs at the moment, none of which are still in production. If I were shopping for a sealed sub for under 1.5k, I would be looking at the ULS-15 mk2 or Rythmik F15HP.

 

[speakerman39]

Thanks again guys. After visiting PSA site Phil linked, I then went to Rythmik forum and site. They seem to be making quality subs. So I've added to my options. I have more research to do. Learn in the process. What subs are you using now Phil? How about you Shady? And use, just HT, music only, or both?

Right now I dismantled my setup for the most part. Bought a set of Powered Studio Monitors and some stands along w/a Behringer DAC. As such, not using a powered sub at the moment. However, there will be some changes in the very near future. But, the PSA S1500's were by far the most musical subs that I have ever owned. The Hsu ULS 15MK2 is no slouch. I prefer my bass to hit on a dime and stop on a dime. Love a tight punchy sound. Especially, when the kick drum is getting with it. Articulation is the key inmho. You would not go wrong with either of the PSA S1500's or the Hsu ULS 15 MK2. I would buy whichever gives a better deal. The SVS SB2000 is another good one as is the Rythmik L12's. Lots of people also like the Rythmik LV12R because it is said to be very good musically, as well as, good with HT. Keep in mind that the PSA S1500's use the Ice amps and come with a full 5-year bumper to bumper warranty.

Cheers,

Phil