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Home Theater => Audio => Setting Up => Topic started by: flak-jacket on Mar 25, 2008 at 09:22 PM

Title: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 25, 2008 at 09:22 PM
im currently planning a separate setup for HT and 2-channel music listening... i want to have the best of both worlds so i've decided to go on this route. im not really rushing on this one since im still carefully planning the renovation of my 25sqm. room. ;D

Home Theater

• Paradigm Titan Monitor BS
• Paradigm Monitor CC-290 Center
• Paradigm Monitor ADP-390 Surrounds
• Velodyne CHT-12R
• Denon 3808

2-channel music listening

• B&W 683 FS

i have read that B&W sings well when paired with Rotel, the question is what do i need?

Stereo Preamplifier? Stereo Power Amplifier? Stereo Receiver?

which manufacturer makes the better CD Player? Rotel or NAD?

TIA  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 25, 2008 at 09:37 PM
For 2ch audio set-up, you can either go separates (poweramp+pre-amp) or Integrated. You may also add a separate am/fm receiver if you also like to listen to radio.

Here's a one page quick view of some Rotel gear and specs for both HT/Audio:

http://www.hifigoteborg.se/about%20some%20rotel.htm

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 25, 2008 at 09:43 PM
For 2ch audio set-up, you can either go separates (poweramp+pre-amp) or Integrated.

in terms of SQ, are there any pros and cons between going separates or integrated?
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: synchro_01 on Mar 26, 2008 at 06:17 AM
in terms of SQ, are there any pros and cons between going separates or integrated?

none if both types are properly designed. I have seen and heard integrateds that can beat the performance of seperates so its not a general rule that if you are going seperates then you are doing an "upgrade". It might turn out to be a "downgrade" if you get the synergy wrong.



Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 12:03 PM
none if both types are properly designed. I have seen and heard integrateds that can beat the performance of seperates so its not a general rule that if you are going seperates then you are doing an "upgrade". It might turn out to be a "downgrade" if you get the synergy wrong.

what do you mean by 'properly designed'?

guys please recommend a Rotel stereo pre-amp/stereo power amp combo or a Rotel integrated amp to be paired with a B&W 683 FS. thanks!  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: av_phile1 on Mar 26, 2008 at 12:37 PM
Since you're preparing your room for the two set-ups, I suggest you seriously look into accoustically treating the room.  That's 50% of the sound going into your ears.  Differences betweem gears can be incremental.  Frankly I can go blindfolded and just get any decent well made electronics and speakers out there.  But if your room is not properly treated, not even the most expensive electronics can deliver the sound as it was recorded.   ;D  Just visit a Bose showroom with well-engineered accoustics and realize how a mediocre gear can sound pleasant.  But put a P4M Nautilus+Bryston in an untreated room and they can be unlistenable over long periods.  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 01:12 PM
Since you're preparing your room for the two set-ups, I suggest you seriously look into accoustically treating the room.  That's 50% of the sound going into your ears.  Differences betweem gears can be incremental.  Frankly I can go blindfolded and just get any decent well made electronics and speakers out there.  But if your room is not properly treated, not even the most expensive electronics can deliver the sound as it was recorded.   ;D  Just visit a Bose showroom with well-engineered accoustics and realize how a mediocre gear can sound pleasant.  But put a P4M Nautilus+Bryston in an untreated room and they can be unlistenable over long periods.  ;D

yup, im doing my homework regarding the acoustic treatment of my 'studio theater'. i've been doing a lot of reasearch on the net and i've learned a lot already.  ;D

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 26, 2008 at 01:27 PM
*The genre of music you usually listen to is the first thing to consider in building a 2-channel audio set-up. Audio system selection depends on your taste.
*I have heard the sound characteristic of the titan monitor and i liked it, very open sounding speakers. very good for audio( base on my taste :-*).

visit A/V distributors and shops, dont get tired of auditioning. enjoy!
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 01:37 PM
*The genre of music you usually listen to is the first thing to consider in building a 2-channel audio set-up. Audio system selection depends on your taste.

i usually listen to mellow jazz music and music which is more on vocals and instruments, other genres like rock/r&b/pop/ sa ipod pwede na hehehe.  ;D

*I have heard the sound characteristic of the titan monitor and i liked it, very open sounding speakers. very good for audio( base on my taste :-*).

sir im planning to use the Paradigm Titan Monitors for HT, B&W 683's for 2-channel music.  :)

visit A/V distributors and shops, dont get tired of auditioning. enjoy!

will do sir! thanks.  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 26, 2008 at 02:02 PM
i usually listen to mellow jazz music and music which is more on vocals and instruments, other genres like rock/r&b/pop/ sa ipod pwede na hehehe.  ;D

sir im planning to use the Paradigm Titan Monitors for HT, B&W 683's for 2-channel music.  :)

will do sir! thanks.  ;D

sir, try the titans on your types of music baka ma-satisfy ka instead of buying another set like the 683. then upgrade your speakers when you are already familiar with the types and characters of the audio system. by then baka you're in the tube route.

dont just read it...hear it. ;)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 02:24 PM
sir, try the titans on your types of music baka ma-satisfy ka instead of buying another set like the 683. then upgrade your speakers when you are already familiar with the types and characters of the audio system. by then baka you're in the tube route.

so the Paradigm Titan Monitors will handle both HT and Music? if yes, do i still need to get a stereo pre-amp/stereo power amp combo or integrated amp? or just connect a cd player to the receiver? im also contemplating on using a power amp for the HT receiver.  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 26, 2008 at 04:19 PM
to answer your question, yes, the titan monitor will handle both HT and Music.
it is always best to have a separate dedicated amp for music may it be separates or integrated, SS or tubed. but since you 're starting to build your own audio system, i suggest get a very good receiver ( there are fellow members here who can help you choose the right powerful AVR), connect your blueray/hd/dvd player (if you dont have dedicated cd player yet) then start from there.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 05:01 PM
to answer your question, yes, the titan monitor will handle both HT and Music.
it is always best to have a separate dedicated amp for music may it be separates or integrated, SS or tubed. but since you 're starting to build your own audio system, i suggest get a very good receiver ( there are fellow members here who can help you choose the right powerful AVR), connect your blueray/hd/dvd player (if you dont have dedicated cd player yet) then start from there.

thanks for the suggestion. i want a dedicated music setup para walang compromise in terms of performance.  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 26, 2008 at 05:14 PM
thanks for the suggestion. i want a dedicated music setup para walang compromise in terms of performance.  :)

best decision.
are you into performance regardless of the price tag?
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 05:17 PM
best decision.
are you into performance regardless of the price tag?


yup, basta medyo reasonable pa din ang price tag.  ;D

that's why i indicated in my first post that i'll be using a B&W FS for the 2-channel music setup, para dedicated talaga sa HT yung Paradigm Titan Monitors.  :)

i don't want to 'skimp out' on the important gears like the receivers and power amps kaya im controlling the itch to pull the trigger on this project, tuloy pa din ang pag iipon para hindi mabitin sa funding.  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 26, 2008 at 06:09 PM
For music, try Dynaudios (have to be well powered). Highly recommended. They will not dissapoint in music.

Try also other musical speakers like ProAc, etc. Its a SEA of choices out there.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 26, 2008 at 06:43 PM
Sir Predator - if you're dead set with using B&W and Rotels (seps or integ), do visit Sound Dimension in Parksquare, Makati. SD deals with those 2 brands. Just go in & audition what they have.

If however you could still be swayed into looking at other brands - I'm very sure the esteemed members of this forum would be more than happy to suggest excellent sounding/matching components from lo-end to very hi-end if you wish ;D

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 26, 2008 at 07:17 PM
For music, try Dynaudios (have to be well powered). Highly recommended. They will not dissapoint in music.

Try also other musical speakers like ProAc, etc. Its a SEA of choices out there.

thanks for the recommendations!  :)

Sir Predator - if you're dead set with using B&W and Rotels (seps or integ), do visit Sound Dimension in Parksquare, Makati. SD deals with those 2 brands. Just go in & audition what they have.

hehe napaghahalata ba na brand conscious ako when it comes to gears? ;D

called up SD earlier, B&W 602S3 ang available sa kanila for demo, walang B&W 683 FS.

If however you could still be swayed into looking at other brands - I'm very sure the esteemed members of this forum would be more than happy to suggest excellent sounding/matching components from lo-end to very hi-end if you wish ;D

yeah, keep the suggestions coming!  :)

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: accastil on Mar 26, 2008 at 07:24 PM
im currently planning a separate setup for HT and 2-channel music listening... i want to have the best of both worlds so i've decided to go on this route. im not really rushing on this one since im still carefully planning the renovation of my 25sqm. room. ;D

Home Theater

• Paradigm Titan Monitor BS
• Paradigm Monitor CC-290 Center
• Paradigm Monitor ADP-390 Surrounds
• Velodyne CHT-12R
• Denon 3808

2-channel music listening

• B&W 683 FS

i have read that B&W sings well when paired with Rotel, the question is what do i need?

Stereo Preamplifier? Stereo Power Amplifier? Stereo Receiver?

which manufacturer makes the better CD Player? Rotel or NAD?

TIA  :)
bro, your ht is fine...id give my bow to it already.
for audio, there is nothing better than going separates. keep the ff in mind though:
-your choice of spkrs would depend on your type of music.
-your choice of spkrs and gears would depend on your budget and room size. this is almost always directly proportional.
-there is no better way to go through selection and audition process than to bring things at home and listen inside your own room using your own gears and your own source materials(cd, lp, etc)
-the most important factor in sound is acoustics followed by source material and then the speakers...everything else follows.
-listen to as many brands, models, and combinations as you can. its a good way to train your ears and to know your personal preference.

goodluck sir:)
-
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 10:21 AM
I separated my audio setup because of my preference to tubes & hybrids. If you dont plan to go tubes or analog, I think you can achieve a musical HT setup using a Rotel pre/pro, Rotel power amps and CDp. plus B&W speakers. Only one setup needed.

Just my 2 cents.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 27, 2008 at 12:39 PM
audition in av shops or we have fellow members here who are accomodating enough to let you hear their audio set-up. members using b&w-rotel combo, paradigm-denon combo,  paradigm-rotel combo and so many other combinations. all you have to do is PM them, not only did you learn something but you also made friends. :D

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: highwayman on Mar 27, 2008 at 01:14 PM

For music, try Dynaudios (have to be well powered). Highly recommended. They will not dissapoint in music.



i have to agree... best i hv' heard by far, compares with more expensive speakers...
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: synchro_01 on Mar 27, 2008 at 01:53 PM
both B&W and the Dynes are good choices though both are quite a bit expensive. entry level for Dynes would be Php32K (smallest stand mount of the Audience line). B&W's can be had for an amount far less than that but those models are not the last word for musicality.

an all in one rig CAN be achieved. carefull planning lang yan. First the room has to be taken into consideration. Screw this up and no matter how good your gears are you wont be maximizing them to their full potential.  after the room you build around the speakers. Speakers are by far the most important link in the chain.  After the speakers are the other gears like amps, pre/pro, sources. last are the cables. there are audiophile grade stereo gears that can accomodate HT use like audiophile preamps with theater pass through. Another route is getting a main stereo amp with two switchable inputs (balanced and single ended). careful speaker placement and positioning will also be a crucial factor in an all in one set up. daming options. Dont limit yourself by brand preferrence.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: ProtegeManiac on Mar 27, 2008 at 02:48 PM

i have to agree... best i hv' heard by far, compares with more expensive speakers...

what models have you heard? Ive only heard the Audience 52, in my book it would have been the best if the JmLab Chorus 707 didn't make all that detailed, fast, hard-hitting bass. the Dyns' bass seemed realistic, just not "in your face" like the 707, until I heard some notes that were really lacking in lower end response (ie some drums sounded like they were made of paper or carton). the mids and highs were to die for though.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 27, 2008 at 02:53 PM
thanks for the suggestions!  :)

sino gusto mag volunteer as technical consultants pag tinuloy ko na yung project ko? hehehe  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 03:36 PM
compares with more expensive speakers...

Exactly the same observation here. Just dont rely on a receiver to power them.

I tried em with a 130w Yamaha 2000 series alone vs. 100w Rotel power amp. No contest.  :D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 27, 2008 at 03:44 PM
If you dont plan to go tubes or analog, I think you can achieve a musical HT setup using a Rotel pre/pro, Rotel power amps and CDp. plus B&W speakers. Only one setup needed.

Just my 2 cents.

sir, eto ba yung mga Rotel pre/pro?

http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/index.htm?cat=24
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 03:59 PM
No those are receivers, its this one:

http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/index.htm?cat=25

Sayang 1069 pre/pro is only HDMI 1.1. I had considered this option.

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:04 PM
No those are receivers, its this one:

http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/index.htm?cat=25

Sayang 1069 pre/pro is only HDMI 1.1. I had considered this option.



ah... hehe sorry 'bout that. medyo noob ako when it comes to the more complicated audio stuff.  ;D

how much ang Rotel pre/pro?
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:11 PM
About 70k, last I asked. Then the 1075 is 57k. IMhO, if you arent going separate  analog/tubes, its still cheaper to do it this way, since its only one setup.

Pre/pro's are usually designed w/ no compromise for music & HT, unlike most receivers. The weight alone will tell you (no amplifier pa yan).

I recently BI'ed my best friend to get a pre-owned Sony 9000ES pre/pro a few months ago and all we can say about the performance was  :o :o :o. Honestly it was very formidable compared to a Rotel pre/pro I borrowed a year ago.


Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:20 PM
My recommendation:

Rotel Pre/pro
Rotel 1075 5ch amp
Dynaudio Audience 52's, center, surrounds (cherry)
Velodyne SPL800 or SPL 1000 2 units. (cherry flavor)

Room finish Cherry veneer. plus acoustics.

Use a projector: Why? so that you can roll up your screen to give way to the acoustic treatments at the back when you are listening to music. Flat panels have a reflective surface, unless you ceiling mount them away from where your stereo "images".  :D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:29 PM
hi Mat,
i was googling the net and i saw this, eto ba yung pre/pro?

http://wiredstate.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=18271
 8)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:34 PM
Yes, sir. Thats a Rotel pre/pro. If only it came to me earlier I would've used it myself.  :D It doesnt have the latest features, but SQ is the most important.  :)

funny thing I discovered, most of the time the pre/pro (or receiver used as pre/pro) heats up more than the amp itself, maybe cuz a dedicated amp has enough heat dissipation facilities (heat sinks).
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: audiojunkie on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:52 PM
I agree, there's no contest in pre/pro + amps set-up either in Music and HT...
Rotel is one of the respected names in Audio/Video world.

Go for it...  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: Philjonc on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:54 PM
is it mostly used for HT?
so this pre/pro can be either preamp or processor, preamp for 2-channel and processor for HT application, am i right?

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 27, 2008 at 04:58 PM
thanks for the recommendations!  :)

hehe napaghahalata ba na brand conscious ako when it comes to gears? ;D


I wouldnt blame you sir - i use the same brands myself :D ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 27, 2008 at 05:01 PM
is it mostly used for HT?
so this pre/pro can be either preamp or processor, preamp for 2-channel and processor for HT application, am i right?

HT and music.  Yes. with all its faculties dedicated to the best of both with no compromises. Thats why its as heavy as an entry level receiver. And a new one is as expensive as a high model receiver. So if you arent going tubes/analog, I dont doubt a pre/pro, power amp combo will satisfy.

Theoretically (I may be wrong), the rotel pre/pro should contain the same stuff it has on its 2 channel processor. The 1066 was a 5 star awardee in any magazine.

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 27, 2008 at 05:09 PM
I wouldnt blame you sir - i use the same brands myself :D ;D

hehehe apir tayo sir!  ;D

Use a projector: Why? so that you can roll up your screen to give way to the acoustic treatments at the back when you are listening to music. Flat panels have a reflective surface, unless you ceiling mount them away from where your stereo "images".  :D

sir MAtZ, i already have a big @ss plasma that i intend to wallmount.  ;D

this is turning out to be a very exciting project, i just hope my wallet and bank account would cooperate.  :D ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: synchro_01 on Mar 27, 2008 at 05:43 PM
predator,

Instead of a brand new Rotel pre-pro, PM edwin if he can source out a mint Proceed AVP1 from Singapore. IMHO the Rotel pre pro is not the best when it comes to music and there are other better alternatives and in my experience the Rotel amps are not that good when mated to Dynes. The end result is too edgy for my taste although the dynamics are very good.  It is more suited to B&W's. 
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 27, 2008 at 08:21 PM
synchro_01,

thanks. will keep that in mind.  :)

btw, i forgot to post this... it's more of 70% HT and 30% Music. some of the stuff i listen to...

Amy Winehouse
Natalie Cole
Diana Krall
Jack Johnson
Michael Buble
Claire Marlo
Kenny G

i want that 30% Music to sound heavenly based on my listening taste.  :D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: accastil on Mar 27, 2008 at 08:29 PM
if for 70%ht with heavenly sound for audio, go for paradigm/klipsch/jbl for speakers. make use of separate power amps for every channel except maybe the surrounds. u need a decent receiver with pre-outs.

the amp wattage would depend on your room size but this wont really matter for the speaker options ive given you as they are super efficient speakers. for a room no bigger than 15sqm, use a single subwoofer but if your room size would be larger than 25 sqm, use of 2 powerful subwoofers would help produce a very dramatic ht impact.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 28, 2008 at 05:59 PM
it looks like i'll be going for a single system which would do well in both HT & Audio, i measured the space of the area where the plasma is located and it's only 8 1/2 ft. wide. i don't want my setup to look cramped, that's one of the reasons why i'll be wall mounting my plasma display.

(http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/5830/roomlayout01dq2.jpg)

sorry for the lackluster diagram, sa ms paint ko lang ginawa yan.  :D ;D

another question, would sound or picture quality suffer if i'll use long speaker & hdmi cables? my components would be placed near the rear right side of my viewing position, near a window with heavy curtains.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 28, 2008 at 07:03 PM
Home theater dun sa red, tapos separate audio setup dun sa green - ahihihihi ;D  Sorry, didnt mean to complicate your new decision ;D

Perfect na yung sofa for both ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 28, 2008 at 07:22 PM
Home theater dun sa red, tapos separate audio setup dun sa green - ahihihihi ;D  Sorry, didnt mean to complicate your new decision ;D

Perfect na yung sofa for both ;D

hehe masikip na din yung area dun sa audio components rack area, so dapat dun na din sa malapit sa plasma area yung mga speakers.  ;D

pero sa tingin ko, kasya pa din ang 2 pairs of front L&R speakers (1 for HT including the center speaker and 1 for Audio) dun sa area ng plasma. but...


Flat panels have a reflective surface, unless you ceiling mount them away from where your stereo "images".  :D

 :-\ :-\ :-\

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 28, 2008 at 07:26 PM
hehe masikip na din yung area dun sa audio components rack area, so dapat dun na din sa malapit sa plasma area yung mga speakers.  ;D

Ahh....tama po yung mga audio gurus natin in recommending one set-up for both - makakatipid pa ho kayo ;D Simpler & better ;)
Good luck sir at balitaan nyo po kami ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 28, 2008 at 07:28 PM
Ahh....tama po yung mga audio gurus natin in recommending one set-up for both - makakatipid pa ho kayo ;D Simpler & better ;)
Good luck sir at balitaan nyo po kami ;D

honestly, i want a separate setup for HT and Audio.  ;D

kaya im not rushing this, ipon muna ng todo for the audio equipment.  :) :D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 28, 2008 at 10:00 PM
any paradigm-denon combo users here? please post your thoughts and comments on this combo. ;D :D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 29, 2008 at 12:57 PM
Space challenged?

See this idea:

I love to the clean wall hung look of the studio L series!

(http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=363&amp%3bstc=1&amp%3bd=1116880000)

If you want to use your setup for music: simply wall hang all your 5 JBL studio L speakers connect to your receiver. Then get floorstanders that are popular for music and connect them to speaker B of your receiver for stereo! This way you can keep upgrading your audio speakers w/o worrying about selling your center & surrounds!
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 29, 2008 at 01:05 PM
honestly, i want a separate setup for HT and Audio.  ;D

kaya im not rushing this, ipon muna ng todo for the audio equipment.  :) :D

At 8 1/2 feet, my suggestion is to wall mount speakers (JBL) or use IN-WALL speakers from Atlantic Technologies or Paradigm.

Array them on top of your display to have maximum soundfield effect that will not be disturbed by your audio speakers (in case you place the HT speakers below your display). Tilt them a bit downward to listening position.

Speaker positioning for audio is way more sensitive than for HT. In my setup, When I positioned my speakers for audio, it had a great sweet spot & imaging for music, but for HT, it cannot reach the extreme L&R seats as effectively cuz the speakers were toed in.

If you want to improve your acoustics while listening to music, you may add curtains that covers your flat panel (and wall mounted speakers) that you can close when you are listening to music.

Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 29, 2008 at 03:17 PM
good idea sir MAtZ, will check out those JBL Studio L speakers at mega.  :)

ok ba ang JBL paired with Denon/Onkyo receivers?
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 29, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Array them on top of your display to have maximum soundfield effect that will not be disturbed by your audio speakers (in case you place the HT speakers below your display).

if i'll go with the JBL Studio L speakers, would this be a good speaker arrangement?

remember, my videowall area is only 8 1/2 feet wide and i intend to wallmount my 50'' plasma.  :-\

(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/1696/mountingsetupxs8.th.jpg) (http://img153.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mountingsetupxs8.jpg)

(http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/6200/jblstudiolspeakersdf9.jpg)


found a good review of the JBL Studio L speakers, click here (http://www.avrev.com/equip/JBL_Studio_L_Series/index.html) to read the full review
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 31, 2008 at 12:31 PM
good idea sir MAtZ, will check out those JBL Studio L speakers at mega.  :)

ok ba ang JBL paired with Denon/Onkyo receivers?

I guess so, pair it with high model receivers or power amps. One review states that these speakers dip down to 4 ohms. The reviewer above used Denon 4000 series.

Onkyo 8 or 9 series will also do, they are THX ultra 2 certified and are torture tested to 3.2 ohms (before they can get THX ultra spec).

Ask SGT or Archi Audio, they are JBL dealers as well. You might get a better deal from them.

if i'll go with the JBL Studio L speakers, would this be a good speaker arrangement?

remember, my videowall area is only 8 1/2 feet wide and i intend to wallmount my 50'' plasma.  :-\

(http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/1696/mountingsetupxs8.th.jpg) (http://img153.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mountingsetupxs8.jpg)

Ahh, I feel you bro! my frontage is 9ft and I sympathize with your problem  ;D. I know how it feels like to have sleepless nights just figuring out a way to fit everything in that small frontage.  ;D

Your speaker arrangement is ok. but you will have free standing audio speakers that might block the sound path of your center speakers. But I think the effect wont be a major one. Dont forget to put acoustical treatment on the first reflection point of your main speakers.

If you have a high celing, putting 3 fronts side by side above the display, then tilted towards the listening position may also achieve good results, and give space for your free standing  audio speakers.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 31, 2008 at 12:39 PM
it looks like i'll be going for a single system which would do well in both HT & Audio, i measured the space of the area where the plasma is located and it's only 8 1/2 ft. wide. i don't want my setup to look cramped, that's one of the reasons why i'll be wall mounting my plasma display.

(http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/5830/roomlayout01dq2.jpg)

sorry for the lackluster diagram, sa ms paint ko lang ginawa yan.  :D ;D


I highly suggest that you seal off the irregular portion of the room with a wall (position your HT equipment there), so that the main listening room will have a true rectangular shape for better surround performance. Its still best IMhO to enjoy your setup in a rectangular room than if one area is open to a bigger area.

And bring your sofa forward. the space behind the sofa & 6th & 7th channels will help give a more realistic extended surround action. You can also have 2 rows of sofas (one elevated) if you want, that is, if space is enough.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 31, 2008 at 01:09 PM
sir MAtz, you just gave me more reasons to lose sleep for the next few nights!  :D ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 31, 2008 at 01:27 PM
sir MAtz, you just gave me more reasons to lose sleep for the next few nights!  :D ;D

I believe thats one of the most exciting things in our hobby - planning & envisioning the components as well as the decor ;D
Take a pic of your area tapos photoshop mo yung mga proposed gears mo - slowly you'll see how they will look somewhat ;D 
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 31, 2008 at 02:21 PM
I believe thats one of the most exciting things in our hobby - planning & envisioning the components as well as the decor ;D
Take a pic of your area tapos photoshop mo yung mga proposed gears mo - slowly you'll see how they will look somewhat ;D 

Like this?

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b290/mhyap/imatzplan.jpg)

ROFL. This was my initial concept of the iMatz Theater years ago. Everything was unfinished then. I just cant help but laugh & recall this photoshop pic when you mentioned it.

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b290/mhyap/plan.jpg)

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b290/mhyap/HTLR01.jpg)



sir MAtz, you just gave me more reasons to lose sleep for the next few nights!  :D ;D

Planning an HT is not limited to just the gears. The room plays a very important factor to your HT enjoyment. Plan it well & it will yield its rewards. Go through it labu-labo... that what you will get, labu-labo din. That was my experience with the HT setup I had on an irregular shaped room before, while waiting for my current HT to finish. 

Thats why the pro installation HT industry is big in the US.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 31, 2008 at 02:39 PM
Sir Matt - ang lapit naman manuod nyan! Whahahahaha :D ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: MAtZTER on Mar 31, 2008 at 02:46 PM
Ah, this was the original picture. I was actually just measuring my proportion to the whole place.

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b290/mhyap/House029.jpg)

Then I proceeded to photoshop my dream HT plan.  :D

Sabi nga ni Asuncion (Badminton fame) "Do not rest until that dream is yours!"

Dream on guys! With hardwork & saving up, you can achieve your dream HT.

"REACH FOR THE SKY!" - buzz lightyear  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: macdon on Mar 31, 2008 at 03:06 PM
Ah, this was the original picture. I was actually just measuring my proportion to the whole place.

(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b290/mhyap/House029.jpg)

Then I proceeded to photoshop my dream HT plan.  :D

Sabi nga ni Asuncion (Badminton fame) "Do not rest until that dream is yours!"

Dream on guys! With hardwork & saving up, you can achieve your dream HT.

"REACH FOR THE SKY!" - buzz lightyear  ;D

Ahh - tama sir - need proportion to properly size up your photoshop equiptment ;D

Kaso sir - sana naman humarap kayo sa camera at ngumiti - happy sa HT, diba?  hehehehehehe ;D

Na iscary ako pag may nakikita ako na picture na nakatayo sa harap ng pader......it reminds me of the last scene ng "Blair Witch" project - ahihihihi :D ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 31, 2008 at 06:52 PM
I guess so, pair it with high model receivers or power amps. One review states that these speakers dip down to 4 ohms. The reviewer above used Denon 4000 series.

Onkyo 8 or 9 series will also do, they are THX ultra 2 certified and are torture tested to 3.2 ohms (before they can get THX ultra spec).

i asked around for the price of a Denon 4308, 150k ang price tag..

almost double the price of the Denon 3808 which sells for around 80K+

Ask SGT or Archi Audio, they are JBL dealers as well. You might get a better deal from them.

just got a price quote for the JBL Studio L820, LC2, and LC810 from Archi Audio. aabutin ng around 100k for the 5.1 set.  :)

Ahh, I feel you bro! my frontage is 9ft and I sympathize with your problem  ;D. I know how it feels like to have sleepless nights just figuring out a way to fit everything in that small frontage.  ;D

minsan nga, 3-4am na ako nakakatulog dahil sa kakaisip sa gagawin ko na positioning of the speakers, gears, etc.  :D

and the bad thing is i usually wake up around 7am on weekdays!  :(

Your speaker arrangement is ok. but you will have free standing audio speakers that might block the sound path of your center speakers. But I think the effect wont be a major one. Dont forget to put acoustical treatment on the first reflection point of your main speakers.

yup, im carefully planning the acoustical treatments of the room. sana na lang tama yung mga naisip ko na gawin.  :D

If you have a high celing, putting 3 fronts side by side above the display, then tilted towards the listening position may also achieve good results, and give space for your free standing  audio speakers.

experimentation is the name of the game!  ;D

baka abutin ako ng isang taon before i finally push the trigger on this project. im the kind of person who goes 'full blast' on a project, and through the years i've learned how to be patient and save up for the things i really want.  :)

for now, im concentrating more on the renovations of the room, habang tumatagal mas gumaganda yung ideas ko thanks to non-stop surfing on the web for room design ideas and stuff related to it.  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Mar 31, 2008 at 08:05 PM
JBL Studio L (L820|LC2|L810) setups from the AVS Forums


(http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/3659/picture0241resizeec0.jpg)

(http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/5513/p1566489895rq2.th.jpg) (http://img129.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p1566489895rq2.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/6381/p3844326695lq8.th.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p3844326695lq8.jpg)

(http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/6800/mfw9fx6df9.th.jpg) (http://img129.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mfw9fx6df9.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/9554/mfw10fi9ja1.th.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mfw10fi9ja1.jpg)


(http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8108/img0707resizeec5.jpg)

(http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/9063/img0654pk0.th.jpg) (http://img129.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0654pk0.jpg) (http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/8695/img0650mz3.th.jpg) (http://img129.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0650mz3.jpg)

(http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/3403/img0652hn6.th.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0652hn6.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8683/img0708ik3.th.jpg) (http://img398.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0708ik3.jpg)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Apr 01, 2008 at 08:09 PM
guys, ano ang ok na tube amps and CDP for a pair of Dynaudio Audience 52? and please do post prices.  :)

i've decided that i am really going to separate my HT & 2-channel audio setup.  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: accastil on Apr 03, 2008 at 01:46 PM
start off with your speakers bro..the dyn52's wont get you that far if you would seriously plunge into audio.

ARC, manley, sonic frontiers are some reputable tube gear makers that u may look into once u are good to go.
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Apr 03, 2008 at 05:52 PM
start off with your speakers bro..the dyn52's wont get you that far if you would seriously plunge into audio.

dyn floorstanders? tulad ng dyn FS ni sir MAtzter?

ARC, manley, sonic frontiers are some reputable tube gear makers that u may look into once u are good to go.

will look up the tube gear makers you mentioned. thanks  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: synchro_01 on Apr 03, 2008 at 06:38 PM
Audience Series of Dynes = HT
Contour, Focus, Evidence etc = Stereo and HT

good luck in finding a tube amp that will drive the Dynes to its full potential  :)
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: flak-jacket on Apr 03, 2008 at 06:52 PM
good luck in finding a tube amp that will drive the Dynes to its full potential  :)

hehe sir MAtz told me thru PM that Dynes don't really work well with tubes.  ;D
Title: Re: A Tale of Two Setups
Post by: accastil on Apr 03, 2008 at 07:11 PM
hehe sir MAtz told me thru PM that Dynes don't really work well with tubes.  ;D
i agree with matz, they may sound good too kaya lang u have to change tubes very frequently as dynes are hard to drive.

there are many other speakers solely meant for audio. visit specialty audio shops around the metro and get to know these.

dynes are very good sounding especially from the contour level and up. perhaps the only downside i could think of is the ineffeciency.