Need new surround/stereo advice

[Dennis]

Hi all,
I am in the market for a new sound system. This may take a bit to explain so I apologize for the wall of text in advance. So, here we go......

I was on my way to purchase a new system in Salt Lake City, Ut (not really many options to demo stuff here in Southern Idaho). I was going to purchase Klipsch RF-82 II's fronts, a RC-62 center, RW-12d sub and an Onkyo TX-NR1008 receiver (I already have Klipsch 5800 ceiling speakers for the rear).

On the way there, I stopped to visit my college roommate, both to see him and because he wanted me to listen to his set up before I purchased mine. He had a nice set up Axiom, Marantz, etc. However, what I was really impressed with has his HSU VFT MK series sub-woofer, I believe it was the predecessor to the VFT 3 MK 3. Anyway, long story short. ---- I am going to buy a HSU sub.--- It sounded incredible!!!

After listening to the sub, I have no doubt about the quality of the products, and if HSU made full size speakers, this would already be a done deal.

So now to my question......... How do the HB and HC speakers stack up compared to floor speakers? The reviews on the page all say things like unbelievable at this price or incredible for size, etc. So how would they stack up against a full size speaker like the Klipsch rf-82 II (I was not a real fan of the old 82's, but the new series speakers sound very nice)?

I really am looking for honest feedback; I am not simply looking to validate my decision. I don't know anyone with a set or I would listen myself, so what are your thoughts on the forum? Also, how does the mid bass (MBM 12-MK2) play into this, and how do you hook it up to a receiver like the Onkyo TX-NR1008 (yes I am a noob):rolleyes: ?

I listen to about 50/50 music/HT. What sold me on the sub was its musical quality; I did not know a sub could sound so clear and crisp and still let me "feel" it.

Thanks for reading my wall of text, I would appreciate any and all reviews, suggestions, etc.

[cacihome]

Well...they are bookshelf speakers...so not bass like big towers. But for the price, they are unbeatable. They play loud, clean, and are very detailed speakers. Excellent for music or movies.

[Dennis]

Thanks for the reply cacihome.

After thinking about it though, I think I asked the wrong question.

So, instead of asking how they compare to floor speakers in a "vacuum" so to speak, could I expect a 5.1 set up using the HB and HC speakers to give me the same quality of sound and experience as a system using the RF-82's and RC -62 because the sub is going to cover the bottom end?

Also in either set up above, is the mid bass MBM 12-mk2 needed, or will the VTF 15H cover it for me? I do plan eventually to go 7.1, but baby steps here baby steps.

Once again thanks.

[shadyJ]

The HB speakers should have you covered, but it depends on how low you like to cross over your mains. If you are crossing them over at 80 hz, it won't make a difference if you use bookshelfs or towers. The Klipsch are probably capable of playing cleaner at very loud volumes, what with their multiple larger woofers, larger cabinet, and compression tweeter, but if you don't listen to extremely loud levels, I don't think it should make a difference.

[cacihome]

Thanks for the reply cacihome.

After thinking about it though, I think I asked the wrong question.

So, instead of asking how they compare to floor speakers in a "vacuum" so to speak, could I expect a 5.1 set up using the HB and HC speakers to give me the same quality of sound and experience as a system using the RF-82's and RC -62 because the sub is going to cover the bottom end?

Also in either set up above, is the mid bass MBM 12-mk2 needed, or will the VTF 15H cover it for me? I do plan eventually to go 7.1, but baby steps here baby steps.

Once again thanks.

I agree with shadyj on the HB vs Klipsch. I'd give the nod to the Klipsch, but of course they are more expensive.

In regards to the midbass, the VTF-15H does not need an MBM. It has massive midbass/upperbass.

[Dennis]

Thank you both for your responses.

I am pretty excited. This will be my first "real" surround system.

I think I will be going with a Onkyo TX-NR1008 receiver, Klipsch RF-82 II's fronts, Klipsch RC-62 II center, HSU VTF 15H sub, and I already have the Klipsch 5800 ceiling speakers for the rear.

Thanks for the help. :D

[45_ACP_AUTO]

Thank you both for your responses.

I am pretty excited. This will be my first "real" surround system.

I think I will be going with a Onkyo TX-NR1008 receiver, Klipsch RF-82 II's fronts, Klipsch RC-62 II center, HSU VTF 15H sub, and I already have the Klipsch 5800 ceiling speakers for the rear.

Thanks for the help. :D

That should be a really good sounding system with plenty of output. The only thing I would change is the Onkyo. I would look at something from Marantz, they sound way better with klipsch and have a better amp section in them.

Good Luck,
Ralph

[Dennis]

I will look into the Marantz; I have also had Denon (3311) recommended to me. Any thoughts?

Thanks again for the suggestions.

[BryanS]

I will look into the Marantz; I have also had Denon (3311) recommended to me. Any thoughts?

Thanks again for the suggestions.

This is subjective, but here's my advice.
Denon is fine (I use Denon), but depending on the model, I think you'll find that Marantz is considered a little better at a fundamental level, more in the category with NAD and Bryston. That said, if the Denon is giving you features you want, you probably won't be disappointed with it for performance.