All Pioneer C22?

[cppc]

Hi all, looking to setup my first audio system. I read in this forum you guys mostly rate the Pioneer SP-FS52 highly (2 towers FS52, one C22, two BS22 and a sub), however, I don't like the FS52 tower as it is quite small (only 35"). I was at Frys and saw they have the Pioneer C-22 for only $43 (seems to be refurbished). I have a couple questions needing your advice:

1. Should I go with 5 of the C-22 and buy speaker stands to raised the two fronts higher? Do I need to modify the C-22 to better serve as front and surround speakers?

2. Or should I just buy two Infinity Primus P363 also on sale now, 2 Pioneer C-22 for surround and another Infinity for center? I like the P363 as it is quite bigger than the FS52 (8 inches). I'm quite new to this, I read that the P363 has some problem at volume but since I probably don't turn too loud I guess I shouldn't see any problem.

3. Does a Denon AVR E400 have any problem carrying either of these two sets with a subwoofer?

Thanks

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

Nothing wrong with using 3x C22 for LCR duty. They wont need any modifiation for use as Left/Right
You could also use C22 for surrounds, but probably pair of BS22 would better choice

Few more options for surrounds:
Amazon.com: Micca MB42X Bookshelf Speakers with 4-Inch Carbon Fiber Woofer and Silk Dome Tweeter, Black: Electronics
Amazon.com: Nxg Pro 4.1 Satellite Speaker (Discontinued by Manufacturer): Electronics


Another option if you prefer higher quality sound is to go with already modified speakers by Dennis Murpy:
They cost a bit more, but the transformation from stock Pioneer is huge
Affordable Accuracy

You could get a pair of AA bookshelfs, AA center and one of surround options I listed above.

You denon shouldn't have issues powering them in small to mid sized room at moderate to loud volume levels.

 

[cppc]

Thanks, the AAs are interesting and I heard many people speak highly about them. The only issue is that I'm on budget and shipping these will cost a bit. Hard to decide though.

 

[j_garcia]

I actually like the C22 and feel it would make a good main; better than the BS22 IMO. Only thing is the logo on the grille. To be honest, the height of the FS52s really isn't an issue. I thought the same thing at first, but it doesn't affect the sound. The base plate is separate so you can just add some height in between the base and the speaker like I did. I only added about an inch to it, but they still sound fine even without that.

I had the P163 and the BS22 side by side and while the 163 is good, it isn't as well rounded as the BS22, though it does obviously have more bass. I heard the 363 at Frys and that's why I bought FS52s There are seriously enough threads here comparing the 363/163 to the Pioneers that it really isn't that tough of a question.

Note too, the single biggest difference in your sound is the speakers, so if you're going to compromise funds somewhere, it should not be on the quality of the speakers.

 

[zieglj01]

Thanks, the AAs are interesting and I heard many people speak highly about them. The only issue is that I'm on budget and shipping these will cost a bit. Hard to decide though.

Then start with the AA bookshelf speakers and then go from there - they are really nice/good, and are a clear
step above the regular Pioneer speakers - no real contest.

If you can swing for the center now - then go for it.

You can save up for some budget surrounds - like the NXG, or even the regular Pioneer speakers.

You option, choice and call

 

[afterlife2]

Another vote for the NXG for surrounds I love mine. IMO the Primus can't touch the Pio 52's as far as SQ.