system doesnt sound right what should i replace??

[t3dewys]

here are the components that i own. i dont feel that my system sounds that great for the money that i have invested. please help me decide what i need to replace to make it better and if you have any suggestions on what i should replace with that would be great.

current system:

Harman Kardon AVR 325 receiver
Bose 601 front speakers
Bose 161 Rear speakers
Polk Audio PSW 350 subwoofer
Polk Audio CS 245 I center channel

 

[racquetman]

Well, hopefully you don't get bombarded too hard with anti-Bose posts.

I would say that you should at least try to find a center channel speaker that timbre matches well with your L/R front speakers. I can't say that the Polk doesn't because I haven't heard these speakers together, but I'm guessing that they don't. If you like the way the Bose speakers sound, then look for a center channel in the Bose line that is similar. If you prefer the sound of the Polks, then you may want to replace the Bose with Polk L/R front speakers.

If you haven't already, use a sound pressure level meter and make sure that all your speakers are calibrated to the same level. Remember also that your room has a very large impact on the sound of your system. Try moving the speakers around a bit and see if that improves the sound first. It could be as simple as that to make the system sound better.

 

[Ryan_Lilly]

I would look at where your sub crosses with the mains. Sometimes you just cannot put your finger on what sounds wrong, but the sub picking up too high makes a muddy sound and a sub too low leaves a dead spot in the sound.

This also may not be the problem at all, but i like to try the simplest things first. I have listened to a good many systems where there was not a good blend.

 

[mpompey]

Could you give us some more detail. What about it don't you like? I'm assuming that the speaker levels are all calibrated correctly, right? If not, take out your SPL meter and give it another work through. Maybe your receiver/amp is slowly going out on you.

But if everything is working correctly, then I would say replace the Bose fronts. I'm not going to bash you for owning Bose. Heck, all my cables are Monster.

 

[nova]

I also have a question,... are your 601's older series III ? (early - mid 80's) If so I'd suggest more power. If they are the newer series IV, personally I'd sell them and the 161's on E-Bay. Should be able to make enough off them to get some speakers that really sound good to you and are all timbre/sonic/voice matched.