$1200 on 5.1 system...what to buy?

[bernernj]

I have Pioneer 5080 and an PS3 with an Onkyo 605 with some crappy older speakers from a HTIB. Looking to upgrade the speakers and get everything in a 5.1 system for about 1200. I would also like floorstanding tower speakers if possible if it fits into that budget. What would everyone recommend?

 

[Exit]

With that budget you could get one of the SVS SBS-01 systems in either 5.1 for $999 or 7.1 for $1175. This would give you a good 10" low extension (20 Hz) subwoofer with good speakers. Both have been reviewed favorably several times and are in many threads. You could also move up a step to the PB12-NSD subwoofer with a 12" woofer. If you are interested you should check the dimensions on the subwoofers and center channel to make sure you have room for them in your layout.

http://www.svsound.com/products-sys-sbs_black.cfm

 

[peterL]

The SVS suggestion is a good one. Others to consider:

PSB Image series T45/C40/B15 with a PSB, HSU, or SVS sub. If you shop around you can do all that for approx 1200-1500. I own PSB stuff for reference

I'd also check some of the online only dealers such as Axiom, AV123, or Aperion. Aperion for one will pay shipping both ways if you aren't happy, so what do you have to loose? I wish I had gotten the Aperions to test against my PSBs, but I didn't....

Other speakers to consider are Monitor Audio Bronze series, Energy C series or maybe even RC series (if you are willing to live without a sub or expand your budget).

What will you be using these for? My recommendations come from my own usage patterns which are about 60/40 music/movies and the music is mostly rock with some classical on the side.

Regardless, my final recommendation is to audition as many things as possible.

 

[crichton]

Another brand to look into....

I am in the same budget, and have come across these. elementaldesign. The reviews I have seen have been very good for their speakers.

 

[crichton]

sorry left out the link

http://www.edesignaudio.com/htpackage.php

 

[rnatalli]

The SVS PB10 or PB12 are definitely good subs. I also would consider the HSU STF-2. For speakers, there are tons to choose from. PSB, Monitor Audio, Axiom, av123, Aperion, and RBH are a few of many.

 

[bernernj]

I would be using them mainly for movies....very little music if that matters

 

[bernernj]

I was checking out the Intimus 4B Harmony SD Aperions....any opinion on those?

 

[calnbs]

Aperions have a great reputation and return policy. They have great reviews here and at www.avsforum.com in the owner's thread. They have a 30 day trial period with free shipping both ways if you are not satisfied with their product.

 

[bernernj]

I think the first option seems like a good choice but can someone tell me how much of a difference it makes having 5.1 vs 7.1 channels and how much of a difference do you honestly there there will be listening to PCM or DDTrue HD sound tracks on blu ray compared to my cheap $200 5.1 Sony speakers I have now?