Upgrade Speakers for Home Theater?

[y_w8]

I'm looking to upgrade my system to 7.1 or 7.2. One conflicting point I have is whether to add to my existing speakers, or replace them all. Currently I have a pair of Polk SDA-SRS that I bought new back in '86. They're perfect and sound great. After going through several forums, I think the right match would be Polk LSi series centers and surrounds. Alternatively (and my wife would love for me to get rid of those behemoths!), I'm considering purchasing a matched 5.1 or 7.1 surround speaker set, like KEF KHT3005.
I haven't gotten to a firm decision on an av receiver, yet - want to take care of the speaker issue first.
I'd appreciate any and all thoughts.
Thanks!

 

[pzaur]

I don't think you'd ever be happy going to the little KEF speakers from what you have.

Polk SDA-SRS
KEF KHT 3005

Search around and either decide to keep what you currently have, which most likely sound incredible (I've never heard them), or find some new speakers which will compare in sound production. I would stick with towers for the front and a solid center channel (matched, of course). I love my Aperions and really enjoy my buddy's B&W speakers. I could never go to anything like the little KEFs.

Remember to consider the size of your room. If it's large, the smaller speakers will never be able to keep up with the space. There's a reason that speaker systems for rock concerts are massive. Size matters.

You'll most likely get lots of suggestions for companies and some really solid advice regrading the Polk speakers and what would be a good match to those in the current lineup.

Happy searching and listen, listen, listen (to any speaker before you decide to keep them).

-pat

 

[jamie2112]

I am in full agreement with pzaur about the size and the sound of your current speakers to the KEF's. There are alot of choices out there for speakers as I am sure you are aware.What is your budget and how big a room are we talikng about here?

 

[y_w8]

I appreciate the input - just about what I was thinking.
The room is about 21 x 17 and a vaulted ceiling. I was thinking about going with the Polk LSi9's for the rear, LSiC for the front center, and possibly LSiF/X for surround on the sides. From what the Polk site says, they should timbre match the existing SRS's. Even though the price is a factor, I think I can build the system over a fairly short period of time without my wife getting really bent out of shape!

 

[pzaur]

The LSi line receives lots of love around here. I haven't heard them, but, Frys Electronics does tend to have specials on Polk speakers every week or every other week.

-pat