Speaker System for Yamaha RX-V1600

[laiyl]

Hi,

I'm currently assembling my first Theatre system, and need some help - I managed to get a Yamaha RX-V1600 for a good price, and am now looking for a speaker set (probably going for 7.1) to go with the receiver.

The options that I am currently considering at:
a. Yamaha 325 A-PMD
b. KEF KHT 2005.2
c. B&W 600 Series 3
d. Monitor Audio Bronze B4 AV2 (NEWLY ADDED)

Could anyone give their advice/recommendations? All 3 are about the same price range, with the B&W 600 Series 3 being the priciest. Or if anybody has other recommendations that will match the Yamaha receiver, please advise.

Thanks!
Ying

 

[Nick250]

Have auditioned any of these yet?

 

[laiyl]

I would very much want to, but unfortunately, I'm not able to get a proper demonstration at the store where I am (in Tokyo). Only the Yamaha 325 is available for listening, but even then it's not in the listening booth. If anyone can give me some feedback, it will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[jcPanny]

Electronics manufacturers

Yamaha, Onkyo, Sony, and Panasonic are known for their electronics products, but I would avoid their speakers. Stick with the other 3 on your list. I would recommend other manufacturers, but I am not sure what is available over there.

 

[laiyl]

Thanks for all the advice. After some long consideration, I figured that music is by far more important than movies, so I ended up picking up a B&W 603 S3 floor standers as my front LR speakers, and opted for a slightly lower-end 225 series speakers/subwoofer to use with the 603s to get my 7.1 system. I definitely enjoy movies, I think I can survive with slightly less cinematic impact and spend my money on a main system that is more musical, especially since money and space are 2 big constraints.

Ying