New to HT and selecting speakers...

[sy527x]

OK, I've tried scouring the forums for answers to my questions, but much of it seems a little technical or I'm just not searching correctly.

I have a Denon DVD 2910 and AVR 3805 even before I have any speakers. I know that's not the preferred way to do things, but I'm stuck with those.

1. I think the 3805 has a rated amp of 130W for 7 channels or something. Along with the impedance of a speaker, in lamens terms what does this mean? I guess the only thing I am looking for is that my speakers are able to handle above 130W. Is there more that I should be concerned with?

2. I recently found out the 3805 receiver is different than a pre/pro plus amp. Are separates better than an all-in-one receiver?

3. I realize for stereo sound I should audition the L and R speakers, for HT the center and sub are the most important. If I can only audition L and R speakers, can I assume the center of the same series will be as good?

Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[jaxvon]

1. Your receiver cannot actually output 130w to all channels simultaneously. Don't worry about finding speakers with power handling of only 130w, as many can handle more. Look for speakers that have a nominal impedance of 6 or 8 ohms and have an efficiency of at least 85dB.

2. The 3805 is an A/V receiver, which means it does source audio switching, video switching, power amplification, and AM/FM receiving. Separates can be better, but for most people a receiver is fine.

3. You should definitely audition the L&R speakers, especially if you enjoy listening to music. And yes, assuming that you're buying a high-quality speaker, you can assume that the center and surrounds will be timbre matched and sound good. You need not buy your subwoofer from the same vendor though. Many speaker manufacturers don't make awesome subwoofers that present a high value. Two internet-direct companies that have high-value subwoofer options are Hsu and SVS.

 

[tbewick]

The Denon amp I'm sure is a very capable unit. 130 watts should be more than enough for most people. All you have to do is buy some speakers that have a power rating in that range.

I know it isn't the ideal way of keeping track of volume, but you can use the volume indicator as a very rough guide of volume. I've only heard people having difficulty with their receivers when they turn the volume near to the maximum level. The maxmium volume setting and settings near the maximum, on many receivers, may result in large amounts of distortion. Ideally, you'd want to calibrate the volume, but you don't have to do this.

3. I'd go on reviews and auditioning. www.homecinemachoice.com is a very good site for reviews. I think the easiest thing to do is buy a complete 5.1 surround kit.

I know you can argue against this, but I think if a speaker is good for stereo music, then it'll be good for home cinema, but the reverse is not necessarily true. You can build your system around two high quality stereo speakers. If you have a projector screen, you could buy three identical front speakers - this would be the best solution.

 

[df4801]

Whats your budget for speakers?
What size room?
Mostly movies, music, or both?

Those will help others answer better.

My opinions,

1) dont worry about the 130 watt receiver and speaker choice.
2) your receiver is fine alone, unless you need the very best and have extra $
3) the L/R speakers need to (ideally) match the center channel, ie same company, most companies will tell you what matches.