First HT system

[mytzen]

I have finally put together my first HT system, I just graduated from college so this is just the beginning. I plan on expanding the system gradually over the next few years.
First I want to get a logitech harmony remote, I cant stand the three I have to use now. Is there a difference between the 659 and 688?
I will be getting a Hsu or SVS eventually but I'm not too sure right now since I'm in an apartment.
I am planning on getting a new 7.1 receiver but not until HDMI 1.3 is finished and receivers can handle the lossless audio formats. The Sony is good enough to get by and is under warranty for another 2 years, 1.3 has to be done by then.
After that I will probably get some RTi towers for the fronts and move the R50's to the back. (this is why I have the CSi5 right now, I wanted it to timber match in the future)

Let me know what you think.
Pictures can be seen here http://filebox.vt.edu/users/mytzen/

 

[Matt34]

Your off to a good start!

I can't tell you the difference between the 659 and 688, but I do have the 659 which I think is a godsend....my wife can even use it.
You can "test drive" them on Harmony's webpage.
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/features/harmony/us/en,CRID=2078

I see you live in an apartment but the single most dramatic change you can make to your setup would be a subwoofer. I'd start looking at some single 10" subs such as Mirage, SVS and HSU. Remember you can always tone it down but the extra headroom is always nice to have.

 

[westcott]

As Matt said, you are off to a great start.

I would strongly suggest rethinking your equipment placement. For long term survival, you really need to give your equipment some breathing room. I would be really concerned with overheating issues with your equipment so close together.

I like that your speakers are not to close to the side walls but they could be further from the back wall. Not sure if you can find a better place for the center channel but if a new rack is in you future, you may want to consider higher placement.

Keep us posted on your set up. Here are some tips from Audioholics.

Setup Tips

 

[Kai]

Nice looking system.
I have the 659 remote and after nearly two years of use find it exceptional, especially for the cost. It is indeed a one button system.
My only complaint is the screen...it is bare minimum but I can easily live with it. I have mine tweaked so the main buttons control all the functions I usually use on a daily basis...record on the dvr, etc...this way I don't have to go to through the "device" then "next" until I find the right control I want...that is for tweaking which is usually not needed once your system is set up.

 

[mytzen]

I was worried about overheating so I put a small fan behind the components to blow air over them when they are on but I may end up getting a rack anyways. Then I could also put my xbox with everything else, right now it is on the bookshelf.

I will try moving the fronts away from the wall to see if it sounds any better. I am going put something under the center channel to make it aim to ear level.

Thanks for the suggestions.