Setup Questions From Newbie

[cowbell]

Okay, so I've decided based on what I've read to go with the Ventriloquist VT-12 setup. I have a couple questions to round out my entry level system. I'll be using the system to watch movies and stream music. I'm not an audiophile, at least not yet, so I don't need top of the line. However the room this will be in is fairly large and open to the kitchen.

1. Which of their subs should I go with? What do the more expensive models offer that the lower ones don't?

2. What cabling should I get? I know this is an often overlooked purchase so I want to make sure I get high enough quality that doesn't impede the ability of these speakers.

3. They mention that a Onkyo receiver works well with their speakers. Any suggestions on this? If anything, I'd like the reciever to stand the test of time, and would be willing to replace the speakers when I'm ready to upgrade.

Thanks in advance...

 

[jaxvon]

A few counter-questions:

How big is your room? If it's open, how big are the rooms it's open to?

Cabling shouldn't be a big worry. I'm a fan of the Dayton cables from Parts Express (for interconnects) when you're on a budget. As for speaker cable, Belden makes some great stuff. Their 5000UE cable is good, but it's somewhat stiff. Their 5000UP is more managable.

Here's a good place to buy it (just make sure it's in stock, if it's not, it won't ship out until it's back in).

5000UE
http://www.westlake-electronic.com/cgi-bin/store.php?search=Search&search_sent=1&keywords=5000ue&and=0&category=CAB&SUBCAT=all&user_rows=&available_only=1&order_by=&order_direction=0

5000UP
http://www.westlake-electronic.com/cgi-bin/store.php?search=Search&search_sent=1&keywords=5000up&and=0&category=all&SUBCAT=all&user_rows=&available_only=1&order_by=&order_direction=0&category=CAB&item_no=BEL-13255&detail=yes&redir=1

 

[cowbell]

The room the speakers would be in is 16' X 14 1/2'. The room is connected to our kitchen seperated by a half wall. The kitchen's size is 16' x 14'.

I appreciate the advice.

 

[jaxvon]

What's your budget? Any of the Hsu subs are good, just opt for the best you can get in your budget.

 

[cowbell]

Ideally $1000-1500 for the whole setup (speakers, receiver, wiring). I have a Samsung progressive scan DVD player, so not sure if I need an update there to fully take advantage of sound quality on DVD.

 

[cowbell]

Just a bump to get some final recommendations. Specificly receiver recommendations at this point.

 

[jcPanny]

New HT

It sounds like you are set on the ventriloquist, but have you checked out the new SVS bookshelf system? For about $899 you get their killer 10" sub, 4 bookshelf speakers and a center. I think the SVS speakers are bigger and of higher quality then the ventriloquist and would work better in your room.

From HSU, look at their 10" or 12" models. You can get 20% if you call and ask for B-stock.

For this type of setup, the Onkyo 503 or yamaha HTR-5840 are good entry level $200 receiver. If you want to spend more, step up to the 602 or HTR-5860 models.

 

[jaxvon]

Good call, JC. Here's a link to the AH review of the system:

http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/loudspeakers/SVSSB01p1.php

 

[cowbell]

Thanks for the great advice. Looks like the SVS is backordered until late March. Damn. I may have to wait.

In regards to those receivers, what are the differentiating factors? What do I get in higher models that I don't get in the lower?

 

[j_garcia]

I haven't heard the VT-12, but I have heard the SVS package and owned the PB-10. I'd have to say the SVS package is worth every penny and you won't be disappointed with it. For that size room, the PB-10 should do very well.

When you start with the lowest model receiver, the number one thing you are giving up is power. The SVS SBS-01 speakers have a fairly low sensitivity so you will want a decent receiver with them, so I'd look at the 60x level of Onkyo at least. If you don't mind refurb, you can probably find a 601 or 602 pretty inexpensive. The 603 is $375 over at www.onecall.com You can find various factory refurb Marantz at www.ac4l.com They have the 5400 for $389 and the 4600 NEW for $379.