Help deciding on a system

[tensionhead]

Went to my local home theatre shop today to price out a few systems. Thought I would see what some other people think before spending all my money.

System A:
(2X) M&K S-150THX
Rotel RSX-1057 Receiver
Velodyne DD-10
$7000 CDN Tax included
Eventually getting another S-150THX for a centre, and 2 K-5s for rears.

System B:
(2X) Genelec 8050A (or 8040A I forget which one he showed me)
B&K surround processor (forget the model, just know it was $3500 CDN)
budget of $800 for sub
$9300 + tax


My first question is, since I don't have the budget for rears and a centre right now, which is the best system to go with, or would I be better off spending the same amount on a system that includes a centre and rears.
The guy at the shop was really pushy about the Genelec system. He claims he's got 5 8050As and the B&K processor for his setup and loves it.
I think system B is my preference, but it would take some time for me to be able to afford another $5500 for 3 more Genelecs to fill out the system.

Anyway. Just a newbie looking for some input. Any help is appreciated.

 

[jaxvon]

I'm not sure if it would be worth it to drop so much on a processor and so little (comparatively) on a sub. I think you would end up with a much better system if you put some money from the processor towards a better subwoofer and room acoustics improvements. Still, the active systems from Genelec and M&K are studio level and will give you a very very revealing presentation. No low quality recordings for you!

 

[tensionhead]

I assume you mean the B&K processor, so I'll explain why I picked that. The Genelec monitors use XLR inputs, and the B&K was the only one in the shop that had XLR outs. I was looking at a $2500 Rotel processor, but to buy the XLR adaptor the guy said it would be another 1k, which would bring the price up to the B&K which includes them.
I absolutly see what you mean though. Spending $5k on mains, and $3.5k on a processor, then cheaping out on an $800 sub seems a bit crazy.

The more I think about it the the more I start leaning towards the M&K system.

P.S. Thanks a lot for your input, very much appreciated.

 

[jaxvon]

I've heard some good things about Outlaw's processor, the 990. You may wish to give them a try. As with many internet-direct manufacturers, they offer a nice money-back guarantee. Check it out here:

http://outlawaudio.com/products/990.html

 

[billy p]

Whoa!!!

Thats a hell of a nebwie budget I'm sure there is alot of choice's but I'd look at getting the speakers frist the power can come via lesser components!
Speakers is what count the most and on this forum most would tell you the same & you have a lot of CAP ROOM. lol
OUTLAW HAVE A VERY GOOD TRACK RECORD FROM WHAT I'VE HEARD HERE? MY 2 CENTS

 

[Nick250]

I assume you mean the B&K processor, so I'll explain why I picked that. The Genelec monitors use XLR inputs, and the B&K was the only one in the shop that had XLR outs. I was looking at a $2500 Rotel processor, but to buy the XLR adaptor the guy said it would be another 1k, which would bring the price up to the B&K which includes them.
I absolutly see what you mean though. Spending $5k on mains, and $3.5k on a processor, then cheaping out on an $800 sub seems a bit crazy.

The more I think about it the the more I start leaning towards the M&K system.

P.S. Thanks a lot for your input, very much appreciated.

Good thinking IMO and I am glad jxvon brought this to your attention. There is maybe, just maybe a chance you will hear a differences in $1k processor and the $3.5 one if you try real hard. But upgrade to a $2.5k sub and the difference will be substantial. I have no hard data, but I suspect the profit margin for the dealer on processors is double that of subs, maybe more.

That being said, no matter how you slice it, you will have a damned fine system. Enjoy.

Nick