Need speaker advice!

[Swiguy]

Hello everyone,

I've been doing quite a bit of research on speakers and I've narrowed down my choices to a few:

* Axiom M60s
* PSB T65s
* Energy RC-70s

Basically, I'm looking to get new/used loudspeakers for a HT setup (does everything; music, gaming, movies etc.). I've been reading a lot of reviews on these speakers and they all review very well. I guess it boils down to which one do you guys think would be the best overall? I'll be adding surrounds, a center and a sub as well.

I've managed to come across a pair of used T65s that are paired with the matching C60 center and B15 surrounds for $950 CAD. They are all in mint condition so in terms of bang for buck this might be my best option. However, I'm willing to spend more if it's worth it... Futureshop (I'm in Canada) is selling the Energy RC-70s right now for $1400 for the pair new.

Any thoughts folks? I find buying new speakers harder then buying a car! I'm very picky!

Thanks!

 

[AVRat]

If you’re picky, then you’d better try and listen with your own ears. To my ears, the Energys are the most neutral while the PSBs are slight warm, laid back and the Axiom are more forward. That said, I’d have no problem owning any of them.

 

[Swiguy]

Thanks for the response. I've basically seen the same consensus on Energy, PSB and Axiom as you have stated. In terms of sound I prefer a warmer sound and have always appreciated PSB speakers. In terms of bang for buck I'm finding it difficult to resist a pair of T65s with matching center and surrounds for under $1000... If I were to buy the Energy or Axioms I would be spending at least double that amount... I think I may just go for the used deal and spend more on a receiver.

Any suggestions on other brands? I've researched many and have narrowed down my search to the previously mentioned speakers... but maybe I overlooked a good one.

 

[AVRat]

Like you, I'd probably jump on those PSBs as well. Depending on your living situation, don't cheap out on the sub; it's really the heart of the HT experience. Unfortunately, you folks up north are limited in the better performing options, but these guys sell the top-tier performers across a wide spectrum. http://www.sonicboomaudio.com/

 

[Swiguy]

Thanks AVRat, your input is appreciated. I've been researching for awhile now and I haven't come across a better deal then that T65 package so I'm going to jump on it. I've priced out those components from online retailers and it's over $2000 so for half that cost... I'll take it!

I've heard of SVS and a friend of mine actually owns one of their sounds... definitely a great sub! I'm not sure if I'll have the room for a sub though (room is approx 24x11, narrow and long), I'll add one in if space permits.

 

[Swiguy]

I should add, I'm wondering if I'm looking at speakers that are too large for my room? My room is roughly 25x11 and about 8 feet high. Are floorstanders too much? Should I be looking at bookshelf since the room is long but narrow.

 

[Transmaniacon]

There really isn't a size difference between the two. If you go with bookshelves, then you will NEED a sub to have any kind of successful home theater experience. Getting bookshelves means you need speaker stands as well, so the footprint of the two is the same. Stick with the towers, it will be a good choice.

 

[Swiguy]

I guess my only concern is that if I get large speakers (ie. the T65s) won't the sound be muddy/flat if it's in a room that's too small? Would my room (25x11x8) be large enough to properly accommodate these speakers and other speakers that size while still sounding great?

 

[XEagleDriver]

I should add, I'm wondering if I'm looking at speakers that are too large for my room? My room is roughly 25x11 and about 8 feet high. Are floorstanders too much? Should I be looking at bookshelf since the room is long but narrow.

Swiguy,

No, floorstanders will work really well. As one example, I am using PSB T45s in a 18'x13'x8' and they work great.

Cheers,
XEagleDriver

 

[Swiguy]

Sounds good, I just didn't want to get speakers that would be to overpowering for the room. It sounds like I should be ok though.

Another question, what is a good receiver to pair with the T65s? I'm leaning towards an Onkyo at the moment due to great bang for buck value.

 

[PENG]

Your room size is fine with any of the three speakers you listed. I also feel the Energy is more neutral, and the PSB seems like a good deal.