2.2 / 3.2 Build for a Friend

[mx416]

Got a little help from AI on this post.

Hey everyone,

I'm building a system from scratch for a friend and wanted to get the community's input. This is a music-first setup for my friends sitting room.

The Goal: A 2.2 system at minimum, possibly 3.2 if a center makes sense for casual TV use. I'd like to present three budget options for the full system:

• Tier 1: Under $4K
• Tier 2: Under $6K
• Tier 3: Under $10K

Room: ~12 × 14 ft with 11.5 ft ceilings. Semi-open on one side to a hallway and adjacent dining area.

Sources: Streaming will be the primary source. A Blu-ray player for CDs and concert Blu-rays, this is not a serious movie-watching setup. A turntable may get added down the road and does not need to be priced in at this time.

Dual Subs: I'm a strong believer in dual subs for even bass coverage, especially in a semi-open room. Not a 100% hard line, but I'd like to keep dual subs in all three tiers if budget allows. I've been looking hard at the HSU ULS-15 MK2 for the mid and upper tier

Speakers: Open to towers or bookshelves on stands. Some of what I've been looking at across the price range:

• Lower end: Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II
• Mid range: KEF Q Concerta Meta, Ascend Acoustics bookshelves
• Higher end: Perlisten A3m
• Towers: Klipsch towers, SVS Prime Tower

Defiantly not dead set on any brands BTW.

Amplification: Open to recommendations — whether that's an AVR, a processor, or an integrated stereo amp. Whatever makes the most sense for a music-first 2.2 build. The one thing I do care about is true independent dual subwoofer management (independent EQ, time alignment, and level per sub) without needing specialized outboard DSP gear. I want something user-friendly enough that my friend can make adjustments himself down the road.

What I'm Looking For:

• Speaker recommendations at each tier
• Subwoofer recommendations at each tier (dual preferred)
• Amplification recommendations for this use case

Thanks in advance for any input.

MX416

 

[TLS Guy]

Got a little help from AI on this post.

Hey everyone,

I'm building a system from scratch for a friend and wanted to get the community's input. This is a music-first setup for my friends sitting room.

The Goal: A 2.2 system at minimum, possibly 3.2 if a center makes sense for casual TV use. I'd like to present three budget options for the full system:

• Tier 1: Under $4K
• Tier 2: Under $6K
• Tier 3: Under $10K

Room: ~12 × 14 ft with 11.5 ft ceilings. Semi-open on one side to a hallway and adjacent dining area.

Sources: Streaming will be the primary source. A Blu-ray player for CDs and concert Blu-rays, this is not a serious movie-watching setup. A turntable may get added down the road and does not need to be priced in at this time.

Dual Subs: I'm a strong believer in dual subs for even bass coverage, especially in a semi-open room. Not a 100% hard line, but I'd like to keep dual subs in all three tiers if budget allows. I've been looking hard at the HSU ULS-15 MK2 for the mid and upper tier

Speakers: Open to towers or bookshelves on stands. Some of what I've been looking at across the price range:

• Lower end: Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II
• Mid range: KEF Q Concerta Meta, Ascend Acoustics bookshelves
• Higher end: Perlisten A3m
• Towers: Klipsch towers, SVS Prime Tower

Defiantly not dead set on any brands BTW.

Amplification: Open to recommendations — whether that's an AVR, a processor, or an integrated stereo amp. Whatever makes the most sense for a music-first 2.2 build. The one thing I do care about is true independent dual subwoofer management (independent EQ, time alignment, and level per sub) without needing specialized outboard DSP gear. I want something user-friendly enough that my friend can make adjustments himself down the road.

What I'm Looking For:

• Speaker recommendations at each tier
• Subwoofer recommendations at each tier (dual preferred)
• Amplification recommendations for this use case

Thanks in advance for any input.

MX416

I am not impressed that bookshelf speakers will be a good idea. Avoid Klipsch.

For what your friend wants, music only, I would go with a pair of good towers that have decent bass extension and put the subs on hold. Most music is out of sub range, and if movies are not a big concern then you can still make a really good system without subs.

I give high marks to the KEF meta Q 11. It is a very good value speaker. We have a member close to me here and I have given these an extensive listen and they are very good speakers and a high value. He has subs but there is only a very subtle difference whether subs are on or not. Turn up the subs to really hear them and everything is ruined.

You can add a KEF matching center later if he wants. Those speakers have excellent speech clarity.

 

[Kingnoob]

Got a little help from AI on this post.

Hey everyone,

I'm building a system from scratch for a friend and wanted to get the community's input. This is a music-first setup for my friends sitting room.

The Goal: A 2.2 system at minimum, possibly 3.2 if a center makes sense for casual TV use. I'd like to present three budget options for the full system:

• Tier 1: Under $4K
• Tier 2: Under $6K
• Tier 3: Under $10K

Room: ~12 × 14 ft with 11.5 ft ceilings. Semi-open on one side to a hallway and adjacent dining area.

Sources: Streaming will be the primary source. A Blu-ray player for CDs and concert Blu-rays, this is not a serious movie-watching setup. A turntable may get added down the road and does not need to be priced in at this time.

Dual Subs: I'm a strong believer in dual subs for even bass coverage, especially in a semi-open room. Not a 100% hard line, but I'd like to keep dual subs in all three tiers if budget allows. I've been looking hard at the HSU ULS-15 MK2 for the mid and upper tier

Speakers: Open to towers or bookshelves on stands. Some of what I've been looking at across the price range:

• Lower end: Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II
• Mid range: KEF Q Concerta Meta, Ascend Acoustics bookshelves
• Higher end: Perlisten A3m
• Towers: Klipsch towers, SVS Prime Tower

Defiantly not dead set on any brands BTW.

Amplification: Open to recommendations — whether that's an AVR, a processor, or an integrated stereo amp. Whatever makes the most sense for a music-first 2.2 build. The one thing I do care about is true independent dual subwoofer management (independent EQ, time alignment, and level per sub) without needing specialized outboard DSP gear. I want something user-friendly enough that my friend can make adjustments himself down the road.

What I'm Looking For:

• Speaker recommendations at each tier
• Subwoofer recommendations at each tier (dual preferred)
• Amplification recommendations for this use case

Thanks in advance for any input.

MX416

Klipsch Reference Premiere are supposed to be less bright then old models, but with a such a big budget you can get heritage models possibley?
Under $10K any kef r series, ascend elx towers. Revel be .

 

[mx416]

I am not impressed that bookshelf speakers will be a good idea. Avoid Klipsch.

For what your friend wants, music only, I would go with a pair of good towers that have decent bass extension and put the subs on hold. Most music is out of sub range, and if movies are not a big concern then you can still make a really good system without subs.

I give high marks to the KEF meta Q 11. It is a very good value speaker. We have a member close to me here and I have given these an extensive listen and they are very good speakers and a high value. He has subs but there is only a very subtle difference whether subs are on or not. Turn up the subs to really hear them and everything is ruined.

You can add a KEF matching center later if he wants. Those speakers have excellent speech clarity.

Thanks for the response. Interesting take with the idea of no subs and just towers.

 

[mx416]

Here are my proposed builds at price with bookshelf and tower options. Looking for feedback.

BOOKSHELF BUILDS

TIER 1 — Under $4K (2.2)

- Receiver: Onkyo TX-RZ30 — ~$800
- Dirac Live Bass Control add-on — $299
- L/R Speakers: Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1 V2 (pair) — ~$998
- Speaker Stands: TBD — ~$300–$400
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU VTF-2 MK5 — $1,518 + shipping
- Estimated Total: ~$3,915–$4,015 + shipping

TIER 2 — Under $6K (3.2)

- Receiver: Denon AVR-X3800H — ~$1,250–$1,700
- L/R Speakers: KEF Q Concerto Meta (pair) — $1,299
- Center: KEF Q6 Meta — $850
- Speaker Stands: TBD — ~$300–$400
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU ULS-15 MK2 — $1,998 + shipping
- Estimated Total: ~$5,700–$6,250 + shipping

TIER 3 — Under $10K (3.2)

- Receiver: Denon AVR-X3800H — ~$1,250–$1,700
- L/R Speakers: Perlisten A3m (pair) — $3,590
- Center: Perlisten R5c — ~$1,495
- Speaker Stands: TBD — ~$300–$400
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU ULS-15 MK2 — $1,998 + shipping
- Estimated Total: ~$8,633–$9,083 + shipping
- Sub alternatives: 2x Rythmik F15HP (~$2,800–$3,000 + shipping) or 2x SVS SB-4000 (~$3,000–$3,200)

TOWER BUILDS

TIER 1 — Under $4K (2.2)

- Receiver: Onkyo TX-RZ30 — ~$800
- Dirac Live Bass Control add-on — $299
- L/R Speakers: SVS Prime Tower (pair) — ~$1,200
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU VTF-2 MK5 — $1,518 + shipping
- Estimated Total: ~$3,817 + shipping

TIER 2 — Under $6K (3.2)

- Receiver: Denon AVR-X3800H — ~$1,250–$1,700
- L/R Speakers: SVS Prime Pinnacle (pair) — ~$2,000
- Center: SVS Prime Center — ~$450
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU ULS-15 MK2 — $1,998 + shipping
- Estimated Total: ~$5,700–$6,150 + shipping
- Speaker alternative: KEF Q11 Meta towers (~$2,200/pair) + Q6 Meta center ($850)

TIER 3 — Under $10K (3.2)

- Receiver: Denon AVR-X3800H — ~$1,250–$1,700
- L/R Speakers: Perlisten A3t (pair) — TBD (new — need price confirmation)
- Center: Perlisten R5c — ~$1,495
- Subwoofers: 2x HSU ULS-15 MK2 — $1,998 + shipping
- Estimated Total: TBD
- Sub alternatives: 2x Rythmik F15HP (~$2,800–$3,000 + shipping) or 2x SVS SB-4000 (~$3,000–$3,200)

Thoughts?

 

[Wardog555]

Hold on. Do you really need such high end amplification based on only two or three speakers?

 

[Kingnoob]

how are you getting those receivers so cheap ? Onkyo TX-RZ30 is about 1k+ and Denon AVR-X3800 is 1.8k or so .
I’m using a cheap 7.2 Yamaha upstairs and running 5.1.2 ch I could probably crank it up plenty loud . Pick whatever setup you’d prefer , I probably don’t have 6k in both my setups combined. I don’t know how much better Perlisten is versus SVS Prime, but you can probably afford the ultra series .

 

[Eppie]

Those are all solid choices. If you can get the X3800H at those prices I would choose it over the Onkyo for future considerations. For towers I would also consider RBH and Arendal.

 

[Kingnoob]

Those are all solid choices. If you can get the X3800H at those prices I would choose it over the Onkyo for future considerations. For towers I would also consider RBH and Arendal.

Only a few RBH models even list prices, op is doing all this instead of having his freind make An account and ask himself? Only freinds I had vanished .

 

[mx416]

Hold on. Do you really need such high end amplification based on only two or three speakers?

The main reason for these Receiver/Amp choices was more around true dual sub channels.

how are you getting those receivers so cheap ? Onkyo TX-RZ30 is about 1k+ and Denon AVR-X3800 is 1.8k or so .
I’m using a cheap 7.2 Yamaha upstairs and running 5.1.2 ch I could probably crank it up plenty loud . Pick whatever setup you’d prefer , I probably don’t have 6k in both my setups combined. I don’t know how much better Perlisten is versus SVS Prime, but you can probably afford the ultra series .

You are correct I'm a little off on the reciever prices. I was looking at accessories for less thinking a referbished unit maybe the way to go. Should be more like $1200 with Dirac for the Onkyo and $1400 for the denon for a referb.

Only a few RBH models even list prices, op is doing all this instead of having his freind make An account and ask himself? Only freinds I had vanished .

I enjoy speakers and HT. Unfortunately my systems are stagant at this time. (Limited upgrades really needed/current home layout/limited use/ect). So to help with my upgradeitis I help friends spend their money on systems they need

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

For "Casual TV" and "Not serious movie watching", I think 2 speakers is good for music.

For "Amps", I would get either a Yamaha A6 or Denon x3800/x4800 AVR.

Under 4K: RBH Signature 621-M Towers (dual 8" Subwoofer, dual 6.5" Midrange, 1" Tweeter)

Under 10K: RBH SFTR Towers (dual 12" Subwoofer, dual 8" Midrange, 5" Tweeter)

 

[Kingnoob]

The main reason for these Receiver/Amp choices was more around true dual sub channels.




You are correct I'm a little off on the reciever prices. I was looking at accessories for less thinking a referbished unit maybe the way to go. Should be more like $1200 with Dirac for the Onkyo and $1400 for the denon for a referb.



I enjoy speakers and HT. Unfortunately my systems are stagant at this time. (Limited upgrades really needed/current home layout/limited use/ect). So to help with my upgradeitis I help friends spend their money on systems they need

ahh better than my previous useless freinds, they would pawn all there stuff for a drink ..

For "Casual TV" and "Not serious movie watching", I think 2 speakers is good for music.

For "Amps", I would get either a Yamaha A6 or Denon x3800/x4800 AVR.

Under 4K: RBH Signature 621-M Towers (dual 8" Subwoofer, dual 6.5" Midrange, 1" Tweeter)

Under 10K: RBH SFTR Towers (dual 12" Subwoofer, dual 8" Midrange, 5" Tweeter)

Must be used RBH every site I see selling them wants way more $$$. One link was this site review .

RBH Sound’s SFTR Speakers: Flagship Performance, More Compact Package

RBH Sound’s new SFTR/AX active speaker system gives you near the performance of their massive SVTRS flagship but in a more compact design. We were able to achieve flat bass extension down to 7Hz!

www.audioholics.com

 

[mx416]

Thanks for the feedback so far.

Based on some of the responses, maybe I am just misled on the need for subwoofers. I have always been a person who recommends sub/subs with a system unless it is low budget or just casual listening/background.

The same would go for correction software. Now I wouldn't be trying to correct everything, but most likely 500Hz down. But again, based on some of the responses, maybe that isn't necessary at all for this 2/3 channel setup.

Just want to make sure my friend isn't wasting money if he really doesn't need those two things.

 

[j_garcia]

OK, so if we're settling on towers, I will mention the Philharmonic BMR tower, which is geared specifically toward music. They'd be right around $4300 before any tax and shipping.

The BMR Tower (Price EACH)

philharmonicaudio.com

Going up, the Joseph Audio Profile is around $7k/pr I believe that would be their lowest offering too, if you want to look even further up from there.

Profile — Joseph Audio

The New Reference in Affordable Loudspeakers

www.josephaudio.net

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

Based on some of the responses, maybe I am just misled on the need for subwoofers.

Well, you need good BASS.

Whether the bass is from a “Subwoofer” or a “Tower” is the question.

And not all subwoofers are the same shape or configuration- some are actually “placed” under the speaker to make the speaker look like a tower.

 

[mx416]

Well, you need good BASS.

Whether the bass is from a “Subwoofer” or a “Tower” is the question.

And not all subwoofers are the same shape or configuration- some are actually “placed” under the speaker to make the speaker look like a tower.

Totally understood. Bookshelf or even a larger stand style speaker on top of a sub is in the cards for sure.

Maybe this will help. When my friend inquired a couple times about this adventure, he kept/keeps talking about big cones and LOUD speakers. These are what he keeps showing me. Hahaha.

I keep telling him we can do way better.

 

[Wardog555]

Polk reserve speakers are quite good. Bookshelf and towers. Just be sure to buy on sale and not full price.

 

[Kingnoob]

Totally understood. Bookshelf or even a larger stand style speaker on top of a sub is in the cards for sure.

Maybe this will help. When my friend inquired a couple times about this adventure, he kept/keeps talking about big cones and LOUD speakers. These are what he keeps showing me. Hahaha.

I keep telling him we can do way better.

I saw the weight on those , wow .. heavier than my 15” sub . Even the single one is close .

 

[Eppie]

Cerwin Vegas look loud but not what I would call high fedility.

Is your friend looking to play music at very high volume? That should be factored in. Philharmonic makes great speakers but for higher dynamics I would lean towards the HT Towers over the BMR Tower, plus the HT Towers have a matching center (but production is limited and there can be wait times).

You should also take that into account for the receiver. At least the X3800 or X4800 or consider adding external amps. For higher dynamics I would be looking at RBH and Arendal. Maybe consider JBL HDI-3800. Also a horn loaded speaker like the CV but better sounding. KEF R11 on the higher end but sometimes you can find an R11 in the used market for a good price. Can always add a KEF center later. Of course, if he likes your Ultra Towers then that's a relatively safe bet.

Is there a shop where he can demo different brands?

 

[mx416]

Cerwin Vegas look loud but not what I would call high fedility.

Is your friend looking to play music at very high volume? That should be factored in. Philharmonic makes great speakers but for higher dynamics I would lean towards the HT Towers over the BMR Tower, plus the HT Towers have a matching center (but production is limited and there can be wait times).

You should also take that into account for the receiver. At least the X3800 or X4800 or consider adding external amps. For higher dynamics I would be looking at RBH and Arendal. Maybe consider JBL HDI-3800. Also a horn loaded speaker like the CV but better sounding. KEF R11 on the higher end but sometimes you can find an R11 in the used market for a good price. Can always add a KEF center later. Of course, if he likes your Ultra Towers then that's a relatively safe bet.

Is there a shop where he can demo different brands?

Yep thats exactly why I am trying to steer him to some better brands and higher fedility speakers.

At this point I would say high output is a priority. That was one of the other reason for the subs was he would get high output across the freq band.