Dorm Room System

[sjc93]

I plan on buying a decent speaker system for my desktop this summer for my dorm room in the fall.

-My desktop has a soundcard with optical output, auxiliary, and many others.
-I'm looking to get a 2.1 system. Whether it comes as a bundle or i have to buy them seperate does not matter.
-I have around ~$300 to spend.
-I listen to all kinds of music so clarity, loudness, and bass are all important.

I've been browsing the internet and found this sub-woofer and was wondering if I could use this and buy a 2.0 system and hook it up to my computer.
Pioneer SW-8 100 Watt RMS Subwoofer System (can't post links yet)

So, I would like to know whether I can use this to hook up to my computer with 2 speakers as well as what cords I would need. Also if there is a better solution like a 2.1 system out there or whatever please let me know.

Thanks in advance

 

[Seth=L]

Incidentally that sub is the only part of Pioneer's new line of speakers I will not recommend. Do you object to buying used?

 

[runswithscisors]

How big is the dorm room?

When I was in school, I had a rather large dorm room, while my girlfriend's was about the size on my closet, and I had a friend who's room was "ridiculously large". I had my vintage system in my sig in my dorm room, and the only times I could really "open it up" where while everybody was gone on holiday weekends. In all honestly, about 60% of the time I used ear buds.

 

[sjc93]

In regards to buying used: Not really as long as there is some warranty.
The dorm room is like 25 x 25 ft. Its in a fraternity house by the way that's why i need some decent speakers for my room.

 

[sjc93]

The system doesn't have to have superb sound quality since i only have 300 to play with but I'd like decent quality that bumps.

I was thinking the Audioengine A2's with the previously mentioned sub is there anyway that I could set that up?

 

[psymonpsyko]

Well you will need an amplifier or av receiver if you are going passive, tbh if you have the space get a pair of floorstanders, Bowers & Wilkins or Eltax id recommend, ebays good for cheaper stuff.

If you get active speakers, then all you will need is phono to 3.5mm jack from sub and speakers to sound cards sections (Center/Sub jack for Subwoofer, Green for stereo speakers) thatll be the most efficient way to do so.

But for overall clarity if you wanna put a few extra quid in, get an amplifier and some passive speakers. It will just sound better.

Truth be told if you get an Ok amplifier for around $100 and a pair of ok floorstanders for $200 you wont even need the subwoofer, unless you either have it really loud or want that higher tier quality of sound.

 

[sjc93]

Well you will need an amplifier or av receiver if you are going passive, tbh if you have the space get a pair of floorstanders, Bowers & Wilkins or Eltax id recommend, ebays good for cheaper stuff.

If you get active speakers, then all you will need is phono to 3.5mm jack from sub and speakers to sound cards sections (Center/Sub jack for Subwoofer, Green for stereo speakers) thatll be the most efficient way to do so.

But for overall clarity if you wanna put a few extra quid in, get an amplifier and some passive speakers. It will just sound better.

Truth be told if you get an Ok amplifier for around $100 and a pair of ok floorstanders for $200 you wont even need the subwoofer, unless you either have it really loud or want that higher tier quality of sound.

I want something that bumps loud (for hip-hop and techno) but also decent quality (for classic rock, etc.). Can you suggest specific equipment? Thanks a lot i really appreciate it.

 

[Seth=L]

Cerwin Vega

 

[sjc93]

Cerwin Vega

CVHD 2.1 CERWIN VEGA HOME THEATER SPEAKER SYSTEM
Have definitely caught my eye.

I can't find a retailer though?

 

[markw]

It caught your eye, eh?

CVHD 2.1 CERWIN VEGA HOME THEATER SPEAKER SYSTEM
Have definitely caught my eye.

I can't find a retailer though?

Well, make it let your eye go. You need it to do a little more reading on this thing.

Firt off, the manual CV shows for them shows a 5.1 speaker system with a powered subwoofer.

The only power it supplies is to the subwoofer.

You're still gonna need a receiver to power the other speakers.

You still want a dealer?

FWIW, while Audioengine powered speakers are great but they start at $400 and are too small for your needs, even with a subwoofer.

Face it, with your stated budget it can be done but you're gonna have to make a lot of compromises. You're asking for champagne on a beer budget

 

[Seth=L]

Allow me to say this plainly, the only new thing you could afford to buy that would "bump" to some hip hoppity scotchity would be a Sony shelf component system. These systems have everything included often withat least one auxiliary input to connect something like a tv or computer. I would never recommend such a system to anyone looking for high fidelity though.

Your only alternative is to buy used. This means taking your time, researching, and waiting for the right item to become available at the right time and place. Chances are it won't have a warranty unless it happens to be sold from a dealer as a floor demo or consignment sale from a dealer customer and sometimes those are as is deals too. Keep your eyes peeled on craigslist and eBay. Check garage sales, pawn shop, and thrift stores for deals on used speakers and receivers, but always have a way to test if they don't or see if they offer returns on the items you're interested in buying.

Take it from someone who pretty much buys nothing but second hand audio equipment, there are plenty good to great deals to be had on used equipment. I've been doing it for years and 90% of my purchases have been much to my benefit.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

I personally think, that the only way to get anything half decent is ether go with pro-monitors or go over budget

The monitors I'd recommend:
Behringer B1030A 5.25" 75W Active 2-Way Studio B1030A B&H
Alesis M1Active MKII 6.5" 2-Way Studio M1ACTIVE MKII (PAIR)

I was able to get my jbl monitors for $174 each with free shipping, but that deal is long sail - I could thou tell you with authority, that It would be hard to imagine what anyone would need louder speakers than these (well except the lowest of bass 30-50)
I watched Avatar in near-field and I don't think I'd need a sub at all

Now, If you insist on passive speakers:
BOSTON ACOUSTICS A250 2-Way Dual 5.25in Floor Standing Speaker EA White | Accessories4less
and this receiver:
Sherwood RX-4105 Stereo Receiver 252-125

 

[zieglj01]

It is going to take some searching, due to a tight budget.
The Boston/Sherwood deal posted above is good.

Also look at some Ebay options.

DCM CX17, I prefer them over the older Paradigm Titans
http://www.ebay.com/itm/330736959797?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

Rockford Fostage FA61.0 passive monitor - based on the
old Hafler active monitors. They are decent
http://www.ebay.com/itm/180891042433?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

JBL did decent on the HLS series, The HLS 810
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pair-2-JBL-Model-HLS810-2-Way-Bookshelf-Main-Stereo-Speakers-Black-/200765588469?pt=Speakers_Subwoofers&hash=item2ebe8fc3f5

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Not for me, however they may rock your boat -
Dayton sub
http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=300-629

BIC F12 sub
http://www.amazon.com/BIC-America-F12-475-Watt-Subwoofer/dp/B0015A8Y5M
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This receiver has a sub out
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/DENAVR1312/DENON-AVR-1312-5.1-Channel-A/V-Home-Theater-Receiver/1.html
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other options
This is an ugly duck that sounds good, the second woofer
is behind the tweeter. Free shipping - DCM CX-27
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-Vintage-DCM-CX-27-2-Way-Main-Stereo-Speaker-System-150-Watt-6-Ohm-6-5-Woofer-/170846289814?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item27c73b7f96

The Infinity Crescendo 3006 is a nice speaker - a big bookshelf
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Infinity-Crescendo-3006-in-excellent-condition-/120917895065?pt=Vintage_Electronics_R2&hash=item1c2744a799

 

[cpp]

Dorm Room, that was like 42 years ago and anywhere from 112 to 220 sq ft. We worried about getting our stuff stolen but I had my trusty Marantz Model 22 and those cool JBL L100 Century speakers and AR turntable, oh the days.

 

[sjc93]

Allow me to say this plainly, the only new thing you could afford to buy that would "bump" to some hip hoppity scotchity would be a Sony shelf component system. These systems have everything included often withat least one auxiliary input to connect something like a tv or computer. I would never recommend such a system to anyone looking for high fidelity though.

Your only alternative is to buy used. This means taking your time, researching, and waiting for the right item to become available at the right time and place. Chances are it won't have a warranty unless it happens to be sold from a dealer as a floor demo or consignment sale from a dealer customer and sometimes those are as is deals too. Keep your eyes peeled on craigslist and eBay. Check garage sales, pawn shop, and thrift stores for deals on used speakers and receivers, but always have a way to test if they don't or see if they offer returns on the items you're interested in buying.

Take it from someone who pretty much buys nothing but second hand audio equipment, there are plenty good to great deals to be had on used equipment. I've been doing it for years and 90% of my purchases have been much to my benefit.

I thank you for your honest advice and everyone else's. I may be able to spend a tad more ($400ish total), i was just trying to keep it under 300. Can anyone suggest a full system (2.1) either in a bundle deal or separate that can fulfill my requests?

 

[96cobra10101]

Craigslist. Denon receivers a year or 2 old go for $100 everyday around here. Speakers, $50, and thats just there list price in the ad.

 

[GranteedEV]

Like bored sys admin, I recommend going with active monitors. I also recommend passing on the subwoofer. Get speakers with a big woofer.

two JBL LSR 2328s is what i would recommend.

 

[Haoleb]

Buying used off craigslist is the best way to go. Buying new is like throwing money in the garbage. warranty's are pretty useless on this type of equipment to begin with. If a speaker is going to fail it will usually happen pretty quickly. There's just not alot to go wrong with them. For 300 bucks you can get something reasonably decent if you shop around and research what your getting. $300 new wont get you much unless you get some headphones.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

Like bored sys admin, I recommend going with active monitors. I also recommend passing on the subwoofer. Get speakers with a big woofer.

two JBL LSR 2328s is what i would recommend.

yea, 8" active monitors would ideal, but pretty much next to impossible to get for $300 a pair

but if insist on NEW 2.1 system here it is:
Dayton Audio B652 6-1/2" 2-Way Bookshelf Speaker Pair 300-652
Dayton Audio SUB-1200 12" 120 Watt Powered Subwoofer 300-629
and this avr:
DENON AVR-391 5.1 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver | Accessories4less

BUT: a Pair of Active monitors listed above will produce much better result

 

[zieglj01]

I thank you for your honest advice and everyone else's. I may be able to spend a tad more ($400ish total), i was just trying to keep it under 300. Can anyone suggest a full system (2.1) either in a bundle deal or separate that can fulfill my requests?

You missed out on the DCM CX-17 > which sold for $12.50 on Ebay
last night. And there are no $100 speakers that are built, or sound
close to the Fostgate FA61.0 speakers. Maybe something like those
speakers at Parts Express, might be your thing?

Also, Event 20/20 passive monitors - $190 on Ebay, they are good >
However, they are near-field/mid-field. Fostgate is free-field
http://www.ebay.com/itm/EVENT-20-20-Passive-Nearfield-Midfield-monitors-/170846186579?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27c739ec53

The Fostgate and Event, do not suffer from port chuffing.