Yamaha RXV2500 + Speaker Selection

[renfronics]

I need some serious help - I made the mistake of making an impulse purchase of a HTiB (samsung system) when I bought my new DLP TV. Problem is that sound quality wasn't great, and I wound up with a few additional components that I wasn't expecting that simply could not connect to the HTiB.

I'm here trying to learn the basics and have read tons of great threads regarding speaker selections, crossover points, etc....and I'm beginning to understand more and more - issue is that I want a great system, and I'm not afraid to spend what it takes to make that system within reason - probably no greater than about $3000 for speakers alone, $5000 overall (w/receiver and DVD). I just don't feel like I have the expertise and I'm not exactly sure which commision-earning salesman to listen to. I've listened to a bunch of speakers and know what characteristics I like - just not sure if getting ripped off at retail.

Here are my specs and initial thoughts for your comments - Room is about 26' x 26' -square area overall...end unit townhouse main level, main room....carpeted throughout. Will be used as mostly a HT system, but I will listen more and more to music when I get better speakers - mostly classical, instrumental, and classic rock -

Have decided on getting the Yamaha RXV2500 as opposed to Denon 3503 - similar capability - I like the YPAO, on-screen setup, and brighter more distinct highs from Yamaha. I myself am a classical pianist so preciseness of sound is a big plus in my book.

As far as components - this is where it gets a little strange - of course I'm planning on purchasing the DVD player - probably either yamaha S2500 or comparable Denon - want to utilize my HDMI cable to go from DVD to TV (even if Receiver doesn't have HDMI capability). Other current components include HDTV Box, XM Myfi, Playstation II, and potentially, if possible, computer....too many Mp3s to count - Can upgrade sound card, but want to be able to play music directly from computer. Another question I've got deals with use of an amp and when that would be appropriate, especially with the components I've just described.

As for speakers, I'm strongly considering Axioms - MTi80s, QS8, VP150, and potentially EP500 (not sure I have room for the EP600 even though it looks powerful). I've read about the return policy as well - nice option if needbe. Another big factor - NO WIFE = NO WAF

Like many on here, I'm a major bass fan - would there be a better Sub that I should consider for this system? Local stores all push Velodynes but I've read mixed reviews here. Also, do I need an Amp with this type of setup? Living in a townhouse community, I won't be playing it terribly loud, but I still want to feel those explosions etc.

I hope to learn more and more as I continue to read and one day be able to answer newbie questions such as my own. By the way, I was able to sell the HTiB and recoup about 70% of my cost so I guess I'm pretty lucky - don't want to make same mistake twice!!! Thanks for you input.

Regards,
Ben

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Ben,

You need a newer generation receiver that can work with pc's. Unfortunately, Onkyo is the only one that comes to mind. You may want to check with the local hifi dealers on this. Denon, Yamaha, and Marantz have some pretty neat stuff coming out. HDMI is just hitting the newer receivers this year. It's a must with the new LCD and Plasma tv's for one wire hookup.

As far as subs, don't mess with Velo. Go with SVS cylinders. They are made in Youngstown, Ohio, and are the hottest things out in bass. Axioms get great ratings here, but they are dependant on good subs. With an SVS, you don't have to rely on large towers to get the bass necessary to reproduce classical or smooth jazz from your digital cable box.

 

[Azz123]

Hi Ben...

Computer connections with Receivers at the moment are a bit of a hit and miss affair.
I’ve recently purchased an RX-V1500 (the 2500's baby brother) over the Onkyo as I wasn’t happy with the press that the Onkyo's "NetTune" feature was getting. That coupled with in my opinion a better sound during Home Theatre experiences led me to purchase of the Yamaha.

Couple of options for you for an alternative for Computer and Receiver connection.
If you want to take advantage of network technology and like the Yamaha, I believe they are releasing new models later this year that will have this feature.

Other options are (as I’ve done) put a splitter on the "Sound Out" from your soundcard and run analogue RCA connections to your new receiver from the computer. I’ve done this quite successfully and am more than happy with the result.
The computer (Video via S-Video) connects to VCR2 inputs on my receiver.
I have a HD TV card in my computer and record all my TV programs to my computer and play them on my TV and receiver. A cheaper and much more expandable option over the current DVD/Hard Drive recorders currently on the market.
Depending on your video card (if it’s a Redeon 7000-9000 you’re in business) you can even have the video out from the computer as component input to your receiver.

For Audio, you could also run an Optical (S/PDIF) digital connection rather than Analogue from the computer to the receiver for your mp3/music and or TV assuming you’re not planning on any Zone 2 output. (No digital signals can be played in Zone 2 & 3 with Yamaha and most other receivers)
I have all mp3's on my computer managed by a program called Musicmatch.
Assuming an internet connection, doing this you can also take advantage of any internet based radio that you may listen to.

Another option is a wireless connection via the likes of Apple's AirPort Express.

Keep in mind that if you use a wireless solution, you are open for interference from Microwaves, some Cordless Telephones and the likes that may be using a similar radio band to that of your wireless connection.

Best of luck.

Aaron

 

[renfronics]

Aaron,

Thanks for the notes - My computer video card actually has a DVI out - and I've already got that running to my Samsung DLP TV - I don't know about a Optical output from my sound card - might be a bit advanced....but I can check it out - I know I could run a splitter from the current output - maybe that's the easiest way to go.

I also have the record capability on the computer - not HD - but I split the signal coming from the wall to the HD cable box --- TV as well as directly to the computer. I use a different Tivo box on a different tv to record - so the computer attachment to Receiver would be solely for MP3 funtionality - I also don't have a separate monitor, so I need to use the TV to view what's going on on the computer. My original insight was to have split screen between football games on one side, and fantasy football team (stat-tracker) on the other!!! Also, watching TV and working on spreadsheets at the same time!!! I must sound like such a dork!!!

Anyway, I probably won't be interested in the whole wireless option - but it's potentially worth considering.

Thanks and I look forward to reading more inputs!!!

Ben

 

[Azz123]

Hi Ben.

Going slightly off topic -
Optical Output from the soundcard is a no-brainer assuming you have the little black knob hanging out the back of your soundcard or where your botherboard is. simply remove the bung, and you can plug in a toslink cable to the computer, and then connect that to the receiver.
If you dont have the optical out, a good value for money soundcard would be either one of the older Sound Blaster Audigy series or even just a Sound Blaster Live!.

Best of luck.

Aaron