Onix reference vs. X-ls.

[Wafflesomd]

Well, seems I happen to be the lucky recipient of the $100's off coupon for av123. I can finally buy some speakers

I can either get the X-ls, or the Reference bookshelf's.

They will mainly be used for music.

 

[j_garcia]

Obviously, if you have the ability to spring for the Refs (especially with the deals going on), I'd say go for it. You originally were shooting for the X-LS, but if the coupon means you can go higher, why not? Congrats BTW.

 

[billnchristy]

There are some threads relating to such over at the av123 forum. The only reference speaks I have are .5s and they really probably shouldnt be in the ref. line (drivers from rockets).

From what I have gathered the 1s are more forward but are supposedly incredible for music (that is well recorded) whereas the X is a more balanced speaker (sounds good with everything for the most part).

BTW all bookshelfs are risk free now so if you can swing it, order both and send the ones you dont like back (they will pay shipping both ways) (30days)

 

[j_garcia]

There are a number of threads over on their site comparing the various ref models to the X-LS as well. Most picked the refs.

 

[jcPanny]

Onix speakers

I have the Ref 1's and recommend them. The X-LS are a great $200 speaker, but cant compare to the Ref line at 3-4 times the cost.

Keep in mind that you will want to finish your HT with the matching speakers. The Retail on the Ref 100 center is $800, vs. the X-CS for $130. There are also plenty of new models lined up for the X-series.

My Ref 1's and SVS SB-12 Plus are holding me over until I can good a good deal on the Ref 100. I'll probably get 0.5s for surrounds due to size and cost constraints.

 

[Wafflesomd]

BTW, I'd be going with the .5's.

 

[billnchristy]

I would go X-LS over .5s. I have both and the X is just a bigger, better speaker.

The .5s are pretty darn nice and the rosewood is gorgeous, but unless you are going to do 5 .5s they would be impractical for HT since the center cost as much as 5 of them.

+'s

Cheaper to ship
Only $199 at family price
Pretty rosewood
Excellent mids

-'s

Dont go as low
A tad bit brighter (not too much)
No matching center (unless you can find RS100 or ELT center)

 

[Wafflesomd]

I'm not building a HT, so all I'm looking for are bookshelfs.

It does look as though I would like the x-ls better.