First Time Home Audio Setup Recommendations

[biljohns]

Hello Everyone,
I have been lurking on the forums for a few days and researching. You guys seem to be a good bunch here that won't rip me a new one for asking a potentially blaring obvious question/answer. lol

Here are some details:
Room Size - 12' x 13'
System Usage - CPU Bluetooth Audio, CPU Bluetooth Audio Mixing (Serato), Hi-Fi Audio Playback
Music Usage - Electronic (drumnbass & dub), Timeless (Michael/Janet Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Beatles), Hip-Hop/Rap, Metal (double bass action)

After researching equipment, this is what I came up with:

• SVS Prime Tower (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-tower
  
• SVS Prime Bookshelf (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-bookshelf
  
• SVS PB-2000 (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/pb-2000
  
• Receiver (?????????)

Questions:

• Is using this system via Bluetooth a bad idea for computer speakers?
  
• Does the system suit the room size? Additionally, I would want the system powerful enough to sound great in a larger room as well.
  
• If the system is suitable for the room (and a future potential larger room), what would be a good receiver to power this system?
• I will not be running the system in surround, but stereo. Am I able to have the left and right channels run to a tower, a bookshelf, and a sub apiece? If so, what type of receiver do I need? (assumption is 5.2 or 7.2)

Recommendations and constructive criticism are welcome.

 

[NINaudio]

Bluetooth compresses your music and isn't a high-fidelity way to get your sound. It's fine for little bluetooth speakers, but you're looking at some good speakers, so I'd recommend connecting your pc to a receiver using either HDMI or a digital out of some sort (optical usually).

As for speakers, I've heard the prime towers and thought they sounded very good. At a similar price point the SVS Ultra bookshelves are worth looking at since you are also considering bookshelf speakers.

As for what receiver to get, the Denon x-3300 and x-4300 can be found at some great prices right now and have two sub outputs as well as Audyssey sub EQ which will help with integrating two subs.

 

[lovinthehd]

Hello Everyone,
I have been lurking on the forums for a few days and researching. You guys seem to be a good bunch here that won't rip me a new one for asking a potentially blaring obvious question/answer. lol

Here are some details:
Room Size - 12' x 13'
System Usage - CPU Bluetooth Audio, CPU Bluetooth Audio Mixing (Serato), Hi-Fi Audio Playback
Music Usage - Electronic (drumnbass & dub), Timeless (Michael/Janet Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Beatles), Hip-Hop/Rap, Metal (double bass action)

After researching equipment, this is what I came up with:

• SVS Prime Tower (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-tower
  
• SVS Prime Bookshelf (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-bookshelf
  
• SVS PB-2000 (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/pb-2000
  
• Receiver (?????????)

Questions:

• Is using this system via Bluetooth a bad idea for computer speakers?
  
• Does the system suit the room size? Additionally, I would want the system powerful enough to sound great in a larger room as well.
  
• If the system is suitable for the room (and a future potential larger room), what would be a good receiver to power this system?
• I will not be running the system in surround, but stereo. Am I able to have the left and right channels run to a tower, a bookshelf, and a sub apiece? If so, what type of receiver do I need? (assumption is 5.2 or 7.2)

Recommendations and constructive criticism are welcome.

If running in stereo why both towers and bookshelf speakers? Subs generally aren't done in stereo, at least not thru a typical receiver's sub pre-out which is mono.

 

[biljohns]

@ NINaudio
For true Hi-Fi audio, this would be problematic.
What about MP3 over BT from the CPU? MP3 isn't the highest of quality, so would it be compressed even more over Bluetooth and the quality be further degraded?

If so, would it be worth looking into a receiver that I can have on my home network to transfer audio files wirelessly (to the receiver/hard drive connected to the receiver) so it plays the files directly from the receiver/hd versus playing via Bluetooth from the CPU itself?

@ lovinthehd
When looking on various brands websites for receivers, I didn't typically find 2.1 or 2.2 receivers...
If I did, they didn't seem they were all that powerful?

The only reason I would run the bookshelf speakers is because I was planning on running either a 5.2 or a 5.1 with a splitter on the subs...

If I could save money and just run the towers and subs, please enlighten me.

 

[lovinthehd]

@ NINaudio
For true Hi-Fi audio, this would be problematic.
What about MP3 over BT from the CPU? MP3 isn't the highest of quality, so would it be compressed even more over Bluetooth and the quality be further degraded?

If so, would it be worth looking into a receiver that I can have on my home network to transfer audio files wirelessly (to the receiver/hard drive connected to the receiver) so it plays the files directly from the receiver/hd versus playing via Bluetooth from the CPU itself?

@ lovinthehd
When looking on various brands websites for receivers, I didn't typically find 2.1 or 2.2 receivers...
If I did, they didn't seem they were all that powerful?

The only reason I would run the bookshelf speakers is because I was planning on running either a 5.2 or a 5.1 with a splitter on the subs...

If I could save money and just run the towers and subs, please enlighten me.

Bluetooth has advanced a bit in terms of higher fidelity with AD2P and AptX but I'd still rather just stream over my network via DLNA/Airplay.

I thought you didn't want surround so why 5.1? FWIW ".2" designated avrs often means only an internal splitter in the receiver unless it can handle two subs separately for delay/level (like Audyssey XT32/SubEQ equipped avrs). Not much of a market for 2ch receivers, just get a 5 or 7ch one and take advantage of economies of scale even if you don't use all the features....

 

[NINaudio]

The Denon AV units I mentioned should be able to play mp3's directly from your pc as long as they are on the same network (I used to go this route with my setup). I'm sure there are plenty of other company's receivers that also can, I'm just not familiar with them.

I'f you're planning on going to 5.2 at some later date, I would suggest spending more on some great front speakers for now and then adding the surrounds later as budget allows.

 

[biljohns]

@ lovinthehd
So the recommendation is either 5.1/5.2/7.1/7.2 receiver with the two towers and two subs playing in stereo?

I am perfectly fine with the sub playing in mono so long as both subs are playing and not just a single when the system is in stereo.

 

[biljohns]

@ NINaudio
What is considered "great" front speakers?

 

[lovinthehd]

@ lovinthehd
So the recommendation is either 5.1/5.2/7.1/7.2 receiver with the two towers and two subs playing in stereo?

I am perfectly fine with the sub playing in mono so long as both subs are playing and not just a single when the system is in stereo.

Generally, yes. Yes, both subs would play on the .2/.1 sub pre-outs, in mono. Not all avrs use subs for stereo mode and using bass management, so you'll need to check the manual to make sure.

What's your budget?

 

[biljohns]

Generally, yes. Yes, both subs would play on the .2/.1 sub pre-outs, in mono. Not all avrs use subs for stereo mode and using bass management, so you'll need to check the manual to make sure.

What's your budget?

2K-4K (I know, big range)

 

[Pogre]

2K-4K (I know, big range)

That's not a bad budget. If your slanting more toward the music side of things I'd suggest focus on your front 3 speakers and subs. You can always add surround speakers down the road.

For a receiver I'd suggest a Denon X3300W or maybe the X4300H. Both are very good receivers and are pretty current as far as newer tech.

 

[biljohns]

That's not a bad budget. If your slanting more toward the music side of things I'd suggest focus on your front 3 speakers and subs. You can always add surround speakers down the road.

For a receiver I'd suggest a Denon X3300W or maybe the X4300H. Both are very good receivers and are pretty current as far as newer tech.

Do you really need a center speaker for stereo?

 

[NINaudio]

@ NINaudio
What is considered "great" front speakers?

For $4k I'd probably go with the SVS Ultra bookshelfs ($499 each), Denon AVR x3300 ($599 on amazon), and 2 HSU subs ($1736 shipped). You have a ton of options at this price point really, but these are all solid picks. If you wanted to spend a little more on speakers, these Philharmonitors would be a good option as well. Since you're mainly going for music you could also get away with one sub for now and just find the sweetspot for placement of that one and then either spend up a little more on the sub or save that money for later if you do decide to go for 5.1.

 

[Pogre]

Do you really need a center speaker for stereo?

Not at all. You mentioned possible 5.1? That's the only reason I recommended a center. If music is your only use then no. No center channel is necessary.

 

[NINaudio]

Do you really need a center speaker for stereo?

No, but if you are seriously considering 5.1 or 5.2 in the future it is best to have your front speakers timbre matched. This can be hard if that line later goes out of production and then you want to do surround sound.

 

[Pogre]

For $4k I'd probably go with the SVS Ultra bookshelfs ($499 each), Denon AVR x3300 ($599 on amazon), and 2 HSU subs ($1736 shipped). You have a ton of options at this price point really, but these are all solid picks. If you wanted to spend a little more on speakers, these Philharmonitors would be a good option as well. Since you're mainly going for music you could also get away with one sub for now and just find the sweetspot for placement of that one and then either spend up a little more on the sub or save that money for later if you do decide to go for 5.1.

This a great list for a very nice system within budget.

 

[2channel lover]

Hello Everyone,
I have been lurking on the forums for a few days and researching. You guys seem to be a good bunch here that won't rip me a new one for asking a potentially blaring obvious question/answer. lol

Here are some details:
Room Size - 12' x 13'
System Usage - CPU Bluetooth Audio, CPU Bluetooth Audio Mixing (Serato), Hi-Fi Audio Playback
Music Usage - Electronic (drumnbass & dub), Timeless (Michael/Janet Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Beatles), Hip-Hop/Rap, Metal (double bass action)

After researching equipment, this is what I came up with:

• SVS Prime Tower (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-tower
  
• SVS Prime Bookshelf (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/prime-bookshelf
  
• SVS PB-2000 (x2) - https://www.svsound.com/products/pb-2000
  
• Receiver (?????????)

Questions:

• Is using this system via Bluetooth a bad idea for computer speakers?
  
• Does the system suit the room size? Additionally, I would want the system powerful enough to sound great in a larger room as well.
  
• If the system is suitable for the room (and a future potential larger room), what would be a good receiver to power this system?
• I will not be running the system in surround, but stereo. Am I able to have the left and right channels run to a tower, a bookshelf, and a sub apiece? If so, what type of receiver do I need? (assumption is 5.2 or 7.2)

Recommendations and constructive criticism are welcome.

BT...Maybe BT stability has improved along with SQ, but it wouldn't be my choice just yet. I did read further down, but did not grasp why you want 4 speakers if 2 ch will be your primary listening. Seems like you could take the book shelf money and upgrade the Prime towers to Ultra Towers.

CPU audio...the best CPU player/file manager I have found for the money is JRiver...The JRiver Media player is bit perfect handles virtually any music file, incl Hi Res....While it sounds pretty good via airplay, I still prefer to connect to my main system and stream via the asynch USB on my Oppo.

AVR...whether you decide to use the receiver's surround mode or not, a 5 or 7 ch AVR make more economical sense than a 2 ch stereo receiver. As to which AVR? The Denon 3300 and 4300 that were mentioned are great options....the room itself is such a big part of SQ, getting an AVR with room EQ such as Audyessy really helps you dial in the best sound.

Subs...I run dual subs thru my Marantz...when I ran the room EQ, it accounts for both subs, but the signal is mono.

 

[biljohns]

BT...Maybe BT stability has improved along with SQ, but it wouldn't be my choice just yet. I did read further down, but did not grasp why you want 4 speakers if 2 ch will be your primary listening. Seems like you could take the book shelf money and upgrade the Prime towers to Ultra Towers.

CPU audio...the best CPU player/file manager I have found for the money is JRiver...The JRiver Media player is bit perfect handles virtually any music file, incl Hi Res....While it sounds pretty good via airplay, I still prefer to connect to my main system and stream via the asynch USB on my Oppo.

AVR...whether you decide to use the receiver's surround mode or not, a 5 or 7 ch AVR make more economical sense than a 2 ch stereo receiver. As to which AVR? The Denon 3300 and 4300 that were mentioned are great options....the room itself is such a big part of SQ, getting an AVR with room EQ such as Audyessy really helps you dial in the best sound.

Subs...I run dual subs thru my Marantz...when I ran the room EQ, it accounts for both subs, but the signal is mono.

I was not aware if I went with a receiver with additional channels that I didn't have to have those channels occupied (be it surround or stereo).

 

[Pogre]

I was not aware if I went with a receiver with additional channels that I didn't have to have those channels occupied (be it surround or stereo).

Indeed not. If your goal is just music, I love 2CL's suggestion of putting surround speaker money into a pair of Ultra towers. The Ultra bookshelf speakers are pretty fantastic too if you have good subwoofage. I know from personal experience.

2 Hsu VTF-3 MK5's
Ultra tower speakers
Ultra bookshelf speakers for surround and center channels
And gobs of power to throw at everything.

I have a separate amp and the towers because (according to my wife) I've lost my mind. I did use the bookshelves for quite a while with just my receiver first and they did fantastic as main speakers with my subs. My receiver is very comparable to the 4300. Maybe in between the 3300 and 4300. They're from the same parent company and have the same room correction software. I love mine. It works wonders in my room

The Ultras are fantastic sounding speakers and I love mine, but there are many other options just as good and a few even better. If you can, just getting out and listening to different speakers can help you find the sound that you like.

As for suggestions, of course I'm gonna say the Ultras! They image very well, are pretty neutral speakers with surprising bass and clean, clear highs. They're serious speakers and they look beautiful too.

 

[2channel lover]

I was not aware if I went with a receiver with additional channels that I didn't have to have those channels occupied (be it surround or stereo).

Yep...when in stereo it only uses the L&R channels.

The reason I would go with a multichannel AVR is you never know what you might want to dive into. I've spent 35+ yrs listening primarily to 2 ch music...I wanted HT capability with this new system, but in getting a multi channel system I've discovered multi-channel music...never thought I would like it...In less than 3 mos I've already purchased 10+ multi-channel SACDs and putting together another purchase list.

My point is you never know where this might take you.