Budget Bookshelves (5.0)

[AWDSM]

I've been pricing bookshelf/center setups and have found quite a few under $500. I'll be running them with a subwoofer and a Marantz 4003, which won't set the crossover any lower than 80hz, so deep bass extension is not that important. Here are the ones I've found so far:

Infinity Primus P152/C250
Boston Acoustic CS26/CS225
SVS SBS-01/SCS-01
Elemental Designs A3 5TC/A6 5T5
Polk Monitor 40/30/CS1

I looked at the Behringers but the only way I'd be able to use one as a center is on its side. Are there any reasons to go with one brand over the other without being able to listen to them first? Are there any other options to consider in this price range? Thanks!

M@

 

[jinjuku]

If you are looking at Polks have you looked at Newegg.com for them? They have ran some incredible deals.

Out of all I would have to give the nod to SVS. If you can find the Polks when they are getting blown out price wise (as I have for 4 friends now) get the Polks.

 

[tcarcio]

Also check www.audiogon.com You might score a deal on some higher end bookshelf's for the same money.

 

[boboi]

I've been pricing bookshelf/center setups and have found quite a few under $500. I'll be running them with a subwoofer and a Marantz 4003, which won't set the crossover any lower than 80hz, so deep bass extension is not that important. Here are the ones I've found so far:

Infinity Primus P152/C250
Boston Acoustic CS26/CS225
SVS SBS-01/SCS-01
Elemental Designs A3 5TC/A6 5T5
Polk Monitor 40/30/CS1

I looked at the Behringers but the only way I'd be able to use one as a center is on its side. Are there any reasons to go with one brand over the other without being able to listen to them first? Are there any other options to consider in this price range? Thanks!

M@

Welcome to the forum!

Have not personally heard them, but these got some favorable reviews:

http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/features/544885684/mirage-nanosat-5-0?s_c=site_search

Though certain brands do get reccomended or dismissed (i.e BOSE )more than others and often for good reason, brands are highly subjective. Only your ears will tell you what sounds good and in the end, that's all that matters. Happy listening!

 

[sholling]

I'm a long time fan of Boston Acoustics and a new fan of the Behringers but speakers are so subjective that only you know will what you like best. Personally in a mid-sized room I prefer my very similar Boston CR65s to the 2030Ps (which are great up close). But that's my ear. My advice is to get out and listen to what you can locally. Just keep in mind that some of these use rear facing ports to fill out the bass which will limit placement to some distance from the wall.

 

[kmad61]

I just pulled the trigger on the Sbs-01's and matching center.They are highly reviewed and the price is right !! ($310 shipped).

 

[AWDSM]

I just pulled the trigger on the Sbs-01's and matching center.They are highly reviewed and the price is right !! ($310 shipped).

Was that for 5 speakers or the front 3?

 

[AWDSM]

I'm a long time fan of Boston Acoustics and a new fan of the Behringers but speakers are so subjective that only you know will what you like best. Personally in a mid-sized room I prefer my very similar Boston CR65s to the 2030Ps (which are great up close). But that's my ear. My advice is to get out and listen to what you can locally. Just keep in mind that some of these use rear facing ports to fill out the bass which will limit placement to some distance from the wall.

I went to the only local home stereo shop around here (besides Best Buy) and they actually had the CS26's set up for listening. I liked everything about them except for the price, heh. I'd like to support the local businesses but not at double the cost from Vann's....

M@

 

[kmad61]

Front three

 

[DJ in TX]

I have had my Paradigm Atoms v.6 for about 2 months now, and I love them. Definitely worth an audition if you have a paradigm dealer near you. Mine were $299 for the pair. So, if you need a center as well, you could get three atoms for approx $450 USD. I have heard many people here recommending the same make and model for the center as you use for the fronts for better sound matching. It is also usually more affordable than buying a true center speaker (in most cases). Of course if you can't audition them first, then you won't know if you like them.

Good Luck!

 

[Halon451]

I just pulled the trigger on the Sbs-01's and matching center.They are highly reviewed and the price is right !! ($310 shipped).

You're going to really be happy with them, trust me. Oh, and if you don't know - once you're ready to purchase the surrounds, contact Jack at SVS - as a returning customer they will give you a discount on your next purchase.

 

[kmad61]

Iam waiting on the Ups man right now,I cant wait to hear them.

 

[Halon451]

Iam waiting on the Ups man right now,I cant wait to hear them.

Ugh.. I know that feeling. The waiting is the hardest part! Congrats again! Let us know what you think of them when you have a chance to set them up!

 

[kmad61]

I got the Sbs-01's and center setup and they sound very good.Iam a rocker so after some Creed,Queen,Kiss and a couple of movies,I can say that anyone looking for compact bookshelfves need to put these on your list.
A fabulous buy at $149 pr.

 

[Halon451]

Unspoken rule around here.. pics or it didn't happen! Congrats by the way, glad you like them!