Is It Really That Bad To Mix Different Brand Speakers?

[Patrukas777]

Im looking on upgrading my rear speakers. I currently have Def Tech BP7004's for mains, and CLR2002 for center. I like they way they sound. I want to upgrade my rears BPVX. If I get a different brand of speaker for the rears, will I ruin the "seamless" sound?

I want to know your opinions on this topic. Also, what type of rears would you recommend?

 

[Davemcc]

It's more important to match the front three speakers. Very little program material actually comes out of the surround speakers in most circumstances. It's usually just ambient noise, etc. with the occassional explosion or such. The exception would be if you listen to multi-channel music on SACD or DVD-A. Then the surrounds take on a greater role.

If the BPVX are working properly, I wouldn't be in a rush to replace them. Of course, this is all dependent on your setup, the room you're in and your expectations. Can you fill us in a little more on your current arrangement regarding the room that the system is in? Also, what are your expectations for a new set of surrounds and what are the current surrounds not doing that you would like to see in a new set?

 

[Patrukas777]

Right now im in a studio apartment....My HT is setup in a room that is 21' X 15'. Everything sounds good. I think what has happened is I've spent too many (at least 100) hours of reading review after review of all different types of speakers. Im starting to think Ive sold myself short when it comes to my HT. Im one of those that likes to have some of the best stuff....its my major flaw. Best within the price I can afford. I have spent a lot of money on my HT (In my eyes)...about $8500. I have been building a HT so when I move into my house, all I have to do is install it. When I view homes, I take into consideration my HT. I wont buy a home that will not house my HT.

Long story short... I really want a kick a$$ HT, and I dont want to cheat myself of it.

I want an HT that is very accurate in detail. I tend to like a lot of highs and mids....and then have earth shattering bass. I just ordered the SVS PB13 Ultra and EQ...I will be ordering a 2nd PB13 in a month or two.

 

[CraigV]

I find that even though the surround speakers don’t receive as much information, having everything voiced the same makes for a more convincing, cohesive surround “sound”. I’ve tried mixing & matching but found mating KEF with KEF gives me the best results.

 

[XEagleDriver]

+1

+1 to Dave's comment:

. . . The exception would be if you listen to multi-channel music on SACD or DVD-A.

If MC music is significant to you, would advise to stay with as similar a match as possible within you $$ constraints.

XEagleDriver

 

[cjsiv]

Right now im in a studio apartment....My HT is setup in a room that is 21' X 15'. Everything sounds good. I think what has happened is I've spent too many (at least 100) hours of reading review after review of all different types of speakers. Im starting to think Ive sold myself short when it comes to my HT. Im one of those that likes to have some of the best stuff....its my major flaw. Best within the price I can afford. I have spent a lot of money on my HT (In my eyes)...about $8500. I have been building a HT so when I move into my house, all I have to do is install it. When I view homes, I take into consideration my HT. I wont buy a home that will not house my HT.

Long story short... I really want a kick a$$ HT, and I dont want to cheat myself of it.

Sounds to me that you are picky about your theater. Psychologically at this point, if you don't match them you are always going to wonder. Just match 'em and the problem is solved. Then you are not compromising your standards.