Surround system: Under $4000 and big soundstage
Ken Burk -- Thu, 12/03/2009 - 11:42
I am looking to match speakers to an Onkyo NR1007 (135 W) that will give me a big soundstage and good articulation. Main purpose would be 2-channel sources (CDs, LPs, lossless digital). I don't care as much about movie accuracy although the setup would be used for music, movies and gaming. Space is approximately 13x18x8 (1850 cu feet) and is not accousticaly treated at this time.
When listening, I like to be able to identify and follow specific instruments - musical interests are rock, jazz, classical, opera.
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Hi Ken Burk,
While the system I am about to propose isn't under $4K at MSRP, it comes close. Specifically, check out the Monitor Audio Silver RX system I just reviewed for Playback, which lists for $4475. Here's a link to the review: http://www.avguide.com/review/monitor-audio-silver-rx-51-channel-surround-speaker-system-playback-25
As you'll see in the review, the system fits your requirements to a "T." Big soundstages, check. Good articulation, check. Works well with high quality 2-channel sources, check. Enables the listener to identify and follow specific instruments, check (and then some). Works for all genres of music, check (though I did not do a lot of opera listening during my tests). Have a look at the review and see what you think. I found the Monitor system very, very impressive at its price point.
Best,
Chris Martens
Chris Martens
Editor, Avguide.com/Playback/The Perfect Vision
GOOD POST!
Hi Ken,
I'm no expert, but I recently put together a home theater using Montior Audio equipment coupled with emotiva gear and am very happy - I have the discontinued GR20 speakers as fronts and the matching center, with silver surrounds. I think the new GS series would exceed your budget, but I was very impressed with the silver series and Saturday Audio has some amazing deals on them right now - I really suggest you go find some to listen to. I listened to a Magnepan 1.6 the other day and was very impressed for the $$, but I don't know if you have enough room for them (they need at least 3' from the back wall and a couple of feet on the side I am told) which is a shame, since they would match your musical taste.
Good Luck