Suggestions for the first home theater?

[SergSlim]

Hello, forum members!

I've been wanting to buy acoustics for my TV for a long time. Sometimes I look at various comparisons on different sites, but nothing catches my eye. One of the times I thought about it again - for some reason many articles wrote that the Klipsch system is good, and I thought about it. But their forum didn't help me much, so I think it's better to ask here.

- Room area - 16 m2
- Which acoustics/receiver do I already have - none
- Music/movie percentage ratio - 0/100 for now, but when I get normal acoustics, I think it will be 40/60.
- Total budget - mentally prepared for $5K, maybe more if has good explanation why it should be such expensive.
- Location - Ukraine

Regarding music - I would like to buy a vinyl player later and hook it up to this system. In the meantime, I'll listen to my collection in FLAC from the NAS.

Throughout the years I've heard numerous recommendations ranging from Klipsch Reference Premiere 8000F/8000F II, to Monitor Audio Bronze/Silver 200/300, to Polk Audio Reserve R600/R700, to Acoustic Energy AE300 for fronts.

I'm the type of person that can pick something for a very long time before I'm sure that I'm buying the best option for the money and my needs. But selecting acoustics for TV takes way too long. First real thoughts started around 2018, and it's 2025 and I'm still without any....

For the given budget, ideally I'd want to have 5.1.2 system with Atmos in ceiling + receiver.
However, I can start off with just the fronts + receiver and buy the rest gradually.

Any suggestions on how to finally pick something?

 

[flyboylr45]

I‘m no expert but, what ratio of music/movies you want is irrelevant. The speaker is either good or not. Out of the brands you mentioned, Monitor Audio is the only one I have experience with. It was my introduction to “high end” speakers years ago. With that budget in mind, a receiver is your best bet. Anything from Denon, Marantz, Yamaha and Onkyo will probably fit the bill and be your best bet. At that budget, you wont have enough for acoustic panels unless you DIY which is a very good option.

 

[Eppie]

@SergSlim Hi and welcome. The most important piece in determining the sound quality will be the speakers. If you can listen to any of those models in a store or friend's house, that would be preferred, as some personal preference does come in to play. Of the models listed, my preference would be the Polk R700 as it has been proven to be a good value for the money and excellent sounding. The Klipsch have a higher sensitivity, so they will play louder given the same power, but some people find the Klipsch horns a little bright (but that is a personal preference). Monitor Audio Silver has a good reputation but I have not personally heard any. The mid-range drivers tend to be on the small side which can be a concern. If you can get KEF as well, I would consider Polk and KEF.

Since your main speakers will be close to the TV, you can save some money by foregoing the centre speakers and using a "phantom centre" approach. With the speakers that close together, a centre speaker can interfere with the mains. Your rear speakers do not have to be the same brand but it can help with timbre matching. Polk Reserve also has some good bookshelf speakers for rear channel.

For ATMOS, I think a single pair slightly ahead of your seating area would suffice (like you have indicated in your diagram). Try and get a model with an angled baffle that aims the speaker at your seating area, if possible. If the budget is not big enough, you can pre-wire for the two ceiling speakers and add them latter.

The four AVR makes mentioned above are what most people use here, especially when starting out. We don't know what prices are like in Ukraine, though. Denon S series are less expensive for those on a budget. AVR-X2800H is a good starter if you want something a little better. The X3800H might get over your budget when you add all of the speakers in. You may get better pricing on comparable Yamaha and Onkyo AVRs but we would need to know your costs there. You will likely get 7.1.2 support in that price but having the two extra unused channels is ok (less draw on the power supply).

We would need to know what brand of subwoofer you can get. Avoid cheap Klipsch subs. They do not last. You need to move up to their higher models or look at SVS, REL, Rythmik and the like. A good subwoofer will take up a good part of your budget but will make a big difference in sound quality, especially for movie effects. The Polk R700 have very good bass for music, but if you like electronic music or pipe organ, which can go very deep, you will want a subwoofer that is rated down to 20Hz. (A subwoofer rated down to only 30Hz will add little to your main speakers.)

Provide what extra information you can and you will get some more recommendations from members.

 

[SergSlim]

@Eppie I've compiled list of prices available in Ukraine currently. Red color is for those having discounts.
Also made few lists of models combined together just to see how much it might cost altogether.

Seems like Polk R700 has a good price now, and I might start off with it + Receiver.
And then buy the rest gradually.

Unless someone think of some other options that might be better, given the prices here.

 

[lovinthehd]

@Eppie I've compiled list of prices available in Ukraine currently. Red color is for those having discounts.
Also made few lists of models combined together just to see how much it might cost altogether.

Seems like Polk R700 has a good price now, and I might start off with it + Receiver.
And then buy the rest gradually.

Unless someone think of some other options that might be better, given the prices here.

Looking at your list curious why you're considering SVS sealed subs vs the ported Klipsch?

 

[SergSlim]

Looking at your list curious why you're considering SVS sealed subs vs the ported Klipsch?

I'm a noob in these things.

Klipsch, just because I read somewhere at some point that their speakers are great. So, to match the brand - I picked all parts of the system from the same manufacturer.

Then at some point few people in some chat recommended SVS subwoofers, so I added those to the list.

I definitely am no expert in those questions, that's why I came for an advise of what I should buy so it's worth the money, not something crappy, etc.

 

[Wardog555]

You need to first work on a good layout.
First is tv centered on the wall left to right. Then seating parallel to the TV. Usually 8 feet or so away.

No oversized couches. This is one of the biggest mistakes people have and it causes serious issues that force people to refuse to change or accept a good layout.

 

[lovinthehd]

I'm a noob in these things.

Klipsch, just because I read somewhere at some point that their speakers are great. So, to match the brand - I picked all parts of the system from the same manufacturer.

Then at some point few people in some chat recommended SVS subwoofers, so I added those to the list.

I definitely am no expert in those questions, that's why I came for an advise of what I should buy so it's worth the money, not something crappy, etc.

Not a big fan of Klipsch speakers myself and their subs generally not a consideration for me altho the RP series isn't too bad (I do have one of their older ones, tho). There are just better speakers and subs out there. Ported is more efficient than sealed, altho the boxes tend to be larger. So if box size isn't a particular issue, I'd add the SVS PB series (Ported Box, vs Sealed Box) for consideration.

 

[flippo]

RSL Speakers Sell speaker Systems for good prices. The speedwoofer 10e is great and is a bargain. Haven't heard
the LCR speakers but knowing the company I bet they are great for the price. Just google RSL speakers for website (they are an internet direct company)

 

[Eppie]

@Eppie I've compiled list of prices available in Ukraine currently. Red color is for those having discounts.
Also made few lists of models combined together just to see how much it might cost altogether.

Seems like Polk R700 has a good price now, and I might start off with it + Receiver.
And then buy the rest gradually.

Unless someone think of some other options that might be better, given the prices here.

Building the system piece by piece can be a good idea, to spread the cost over time and get something a little better. I think the R700 offers the best value for money. I would pair them with the R200 if you can. More expensive than the Klipsch but I like to timbre match the base layer (front, centre and surrounds). You can try and use just the 2 fronts for now. You may find that you don't need the centre if your main speakers are close together.

The R700 can be a little demanding of amplifiers in the bass region, so it is a good feature if the model of receiver has pre-amp outputs, so that you can add an external amp later if needed. The X2800H does not but the X3800H does. The X3800H is a good mid-range AVR often recommended hear. The X2800H is a decent starter AVR that may require an upgrade in the future, depending on your needs and desires. Depends on your budget and if you want to "future proof" the system.

For subwoofers, as I mentioned for Klipsch, stick to RP series, or get an SVS. The SPL-150 I would not trust to last long or perform well. You have several options with SVS. The others are correct in that ported is preferred to sealed. It's a more efficient design and tends to have deeper extension, which is important for movie effects. The exception on that list might be the SB3000 which is rated down to 18Hz. Consider the size of the room and how much space you have for subwoofers. Two is preferred if you have the space, as that will even out the response. Bass can have dead spots or "boomy" locations in a room and a second sub can help alleviate that. In a small to medium room, two SVS PB1000Pro can be plenty. If you're limited for space, consider a single PB2000Pro or SB3000, or step up to the PB3000 if you have the space and budget and want to shake your guts. You'll have to make a personal decision there.

Almost forgot to mention. We pay a premium in North America for Marantz over Denon. The pricing is better abroad. The Cinema 50 is the same price for you as the X3800H but the features are similar and they are made by the same parent company. If you like the looks of the Cinema 50 more than the X3800H, it's a good option too.

 

[-Jim-]

@SergSlim Welcome to the Forum. I agree with building piece by piece but make sure you have a focus on what the ultimate system goal is going to be to ensure the AVR (Receiver) will meet those needs.

If you want to compare Receivers try this: Denon 2800 vs 970 or just for grins I did Yamaha RX-V4A vs Denon 2800 small differences in power output are no significant enough to call one unit better than another. I'd go with @Eppie suggestion on the Denon 3800 if I found features it provides are what you are looking for now, and possibly down the road. (I'm big on purpose buying.)

I also think Eppie's suggestion on the Polks is right on target at this price point. Check out this video from Erin's Audio corner.

However, given what's available to you, and my experience with Klipsch Subs (I have 4 older Klipsch Subs all around the house as I have 3 Home Theater systems - and Yes, I know I have a problem) is they never die. If they did, I'd step up to a RSL 12 Speedwoofer, or perhaps a SVS or HSU for better accuracy. (My Misses would probably have a heart attack if I started replacing them if they were still functional.)

Here's a bit of a story on my 5th Klipsch Sub. (Did I say I have a problem...?) After reading the Klipsch R-121SW Audioholics Review by @shadyJ I stumbled across one at a Best Buy Auction returns site, and got it so cheap I couldn't resist it, so I bought it. I set it up in my Man Cave /Junk room in the basement, and after letting Audyssey adjust it on my old Denon AVR-S900W Receiver, it's amazing. So while there are better Subs out there, if you find yourself up against it budget wise, this can be a decent solution as the Room, and it's position in it, has a tremendous impact on a Sub's performance.

I'm thinking that going from no system, to a full Atmos setup could be jarring => especially for your neighbors, wife, etc. Buying the Polks and a Denon AVR would be a great way to ease into it. Good Luck with your choices.

 

[Kingnoob]

@SergSlim Welcome to the Forum. I agree with building piece by piece but make sure you have a focus on what the ultimate system goal is going to be to ensure the AVR (Receiver) will meet those needs.

If you want to compare Receivers try this: Denon 2800 vs 970 or just for grins I did Yamaha RX-V4A vs Denon 2800 small differences in power output are no significant enough to call one unit better than another. I'd go with @Eppie suggestion on the Denon 3800 if I found features it provides are what you are looking for now, and possibly down the road. (I'm big on purpose buying.)

I also think Eppie's suggestion on the Polks is right on target at this price point. Check out this video from Erin's Audio corner.

However, given what's available to you, and my experience with Klipsch Subs (I have 4 older Klipsch Subs all around the house as I have 3 Home Theater systems - and Yes, I know I have a problem) is they never die. If they did, I'd step up to a RSL 12 Speedwoofer, or perhaps a SVS or HSU for better accuracy. (My Misses would probably have a heart attack if I started replacing them if they were still functional.)

Here's a bit of a story on my 5th Klipsch Sub. (Did I say I have a problem...?) After reading the Klipsch R-121SW Audioholics Review by @shadyJ I stumbled across one at a Best Buy Auction returns site, and got it so cheap I couldn't resist it, so I bought it. I set it up in my Man Cave /Junk room in the basement, and after letting Audyssey adjust it on my old Denon AVR-S900W Receiver, it's amazing. So while there are better Subs out there, if you find yourself up against it budget wise, this can be a decent solution as the Room, and it's position in it, has a tremendous impact on a Sub's performance.

I'm thinking that going from no system, to a full Atmos setup could be jarring => especially for your neighbors, wife, etc. Buying the Polks and a Denon AVR would be a great way to ease into it. Good Luck with your choices.

maybe i shouldn’t had passed on Klipsch subs ? They last that long ?
Why are even low tier subs pricey ? Rsl has one cheaper than this .

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/klipsch-reference-series-10-150w-powered-subwoofer-black/6501479.p?skuId=6501479

 

[Eppie]

maybe i shouldn’t had passed on Klipsch subs ? They last that long ?
Why are even low tier subs pricey ? Rsl has one cheaper than this .

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/klipsch-reference-series-10-150w-powered-subwoofer-black/6501479.p?skuId=6501479

My experience is different from Jim's but you shouldn't really rely on one person's experience to make a generalization. I've read about amp failures with the Reference series more often than the Reference Premier, and the RP series models are the ones that ShadyJ tends to endorse. Jim has been fortunate with his subs, but I would never buy a cheaper Klipsch again. The SVS I have has been flawless for years now. Also, I was not able to order a replacement amp for my Klipsch and it was not that old. SVS has much better support.

 

[-Jim-]

My experience is different from Jim's but you shouldn't really rely on one person's experience to make a generalization. I've read about amp failures with the Reference series more often than the Reference Premier, and the RP series models are the ones that ShadyJ tends to endorse. Jim has been fortunate with his subs, but I would never buy a cheaper Klipsch again. The SVS I have has been flawless for years now. Also, I was not able to order a replacement amp for my Klipsch and it was not that old. SVS has much better support.

I concur but without good data on failure rates on this equipment, most folks simply pass along whatever they've read elsewhere, or God forbid, on a YouTube Video. My own prejudice against Onkyo Receivers probably falls into this category. Being a Six Sigma trained Black Belt in a past life taught me to drill down below the layers of bull, and uncover the real information. Getting accurate data is often hard, and sometimes impossible to gather enough of it to make the rational decision. As I'm science based, other than if I ever get another steal on a second (did I say I have a problem) Klipsch R-121SW, I'd be looking to another brand like HSU, RSL, or SVS next time. (Based on the data to date.) More expensive Brands, are just that, and don't tilt the performance scales enough to put the value proposition in balance.

But as @shadyJ and others have stated many times - The Room & the Sub's placement in it relative to the listener dictate the results far more than the Sub itself. That's the Gospel Audiophiles need to remember every time IMHO.

 

[SergSlim]

You need to first work on a good layout.
First is tv centered on the wall left to right. Then seating parallel to the TV. Usually 8 feet or so away.

No oversized couches. This is one of the biggest mistakes people have and it causes serious issues that force people to refuse to change or accept a good layout.

Current layout has been used for quite a while now, and it is comfortable for us. Same with TV being turned a bit, so it not parallel to the wall behind it.
I'm not sure it will be good for speakers, but we'll figure something out.

I also think Eppie's suggestion on the Polks is right on target at this price point. Check out this video from Erin's Audio corner.

I've seen this video, thanks. Because of this video, I started looking at this model more and more.

I'm thinking that going from no system, to a full Atmos setup could be jarring => especially for your neighbors, wife, etc. Buying the Polks and a Denon AVR would be a great way to ease into it. Good Luck with your choices.

Thanks! Started talking to my girlfriend about speakers and her first reaction was not so positive, but we'll get there eventually

Ported is more efficient than sealed, altho the boxes tend to be larger. So if box size isn't a particular issue, I'd add the SVS PB series (Ported Box, vs Sealed Box) for consideration.

Ok, didn't know that. Added PB series of SVS to my list.

You have several options with SVS. The others are correct in that ported is preferred to sealed. It's a more efficient design and tends to have deeper extension, which is important for movie effects. The exception on that list might be the SB3000 which is rated down to 18Hz. Consider the size of the room and how much space you have for subwoofers. Two is preferred if you have the space, as that will even out the response. Bass can have dead spots or "boomy" locations in a room and a second sub can help alleviate that. In a small to medium room, two SVS PB1000Pro can be plenty. If you're limited for space, consider a single PB2000Pro or SB3000, or step up to the PB3000 if you have the space and budget and want to shake your guts. You'll have to make a personal decision there.

Well, I don't think I can get away with buying two subs. First of all, there's not much free space in the room, second - girlfriend wouldn't be amazed to say the least. And finally, I'm afraid my neighbors could be shocked as well
Probably will go with PB 2000 Pro.

Almost forgot to mention. We pay a premium in North America for Marantz over Denon. The pricing is better abroad. The Cinema 50 is the same price for you as the X3800H but the features are similar and they are made by the same parent company. If you like the looks of the Cinema 50 more than the X3800H, it's a good option too.

Now that you mentioned it, I do feel like I'm in favor of Marantz by the looks of it.

I'm thinking of starting off with items that are on discounts now, which are
Polk R700 + Marantz Cinema 50, and either wait for discounts for other stuff or buy in the coming months if no discounts would appear for them.

But as @shadyJ and others have stated many times - The Room & the Sub's placement in it relative to the listener dictate the results far more than the Sub itself. That's the Gospel Audiophiles need to remember every time IMHO.

Note taken.

 

[Eppie]

If you don't think that you will be pushing the system to reference volumes the PB2000Pro should do well in a room that size. I have the SB2000Pro (due to space limitations) and I've never found my system lacking for bass and my room is closer to 20m squared. I think you're on the right path.

 

[Wardog555]

Sitting against walls is not good.
Even your viewing distance is too far for all common tv sizes.
I tend to tell people to never sit beyond 2.5 meters from the screen unless they have the appropriate size screen to hit a minimum of a 30 degree viewing angle. If you're watching movies you'd want to be closer towards 50 and not 30 or even under it.

I can advise on tv size and viewing distance for the recommended most enjoyable range. Nobody ever seems to agree or accept that there's a minimum standard which is considered a good viewing experience.

I've seen someone sit 5 plus meters away from a 65 inch and they claimed 77 too big.
They then got heavily roasted.

 

[SergSlim]

Well, bummer. Polk R700 are actually not available for that price anywhere. To add to that, it seems that they are not even available for order.

Couple of stores that had this price listed - all replied that they don't actually have them

 

[TLS Guy]

Well, bummer. Polk R700 are actually not available for that price anywhere. To add to that, it seems that they are not even available for order.

Couple of stores that had this price listed - all replied that they don't actually have them

That is another sign that Sound United may be shutting down.

Latest Statement from Masimo: "Operations are continuing as we try and find the right path forward." With the Trump tariffs, I think a buyer paying anything like what they are asking and expect is very unlikely.

I would go with the KEF R7 Meta.

I would act fast before the price more than doubles because of Trump's tariffs.