New HT on College Budget

VTHokies
VTHokies Posts: 12
edited June 2003 in Speakers
Thanks to a little summer work at Circuit City, I get a 60-70% discount on all Polk Speakers, including the LSi series. Unfortunately, powering the LSi series is NOT within my budget. (Those separates by HK cost $230 each and the PA4000 costs $400) After reading as much as possible from hundreds of websites about various different brands, I've come to the conclusion of getting:

Receiver - Harman Kardon AVR-525 (half off as well on it)
Center - CSi40
Mains - RTi70
Surrounds - FXi50
Subwoofer - PSW650

The system falls right in my budge of around $1300, and was hoping to get suggestions for changes or comments and experiences with these speakers. I can also get JVC, and Onkyo for a discount so I can change the receiver for either brands. I'm also a bit conlicted with going with the RTi70s instead of the RTi150s, but from previous forum threads I read the RTi70 sounded better. Any comments and suggestions are welcomed. Thank you.
Post edited by VTHokies on
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Comments

  • Demiurge
    Demiurge Posts: 10,874
    edited June 2003
    You're getting all that for $1,300? Good deal.

    I'd stick with the RTi70s' They will be replacing my RT600i's and I'll move the 600's to the rear.
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Well, its either that set or:

    Center - Infinity Alpha37C
    Mains - Infinity Alpha50
    Surrounds - Infinity Alpha25ES
    Subwoofer - Infinity Alpha1200S
    Receiver - HK AVR-525

    Thats the other system I get with a discount price but I can't really sample either. The home audio team can't manage to set up any systems in store with more than 2 speakers at a time working.
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  • BeginnersLuck
    BeginnersLuck Posts: 213
    edited June 2003
    Welcome aboard-

    That sounds like a pretty good deal to me, seeing how I spent $1050 on just my 5 speakers alone. I would stick with the RTi70's becasue they will go perfectly with the CSi40 and the F/Xi50's. Good choice on the speakers.

    I would highly recommend listening to some different subwoofer's. The PSW650 is ok, but you might be able to find something better (not sure on what else CC sales).

    Good luck on your purchase and enjoy, you can't go wrong as long as it sounds good to you. Maybe CC will let you take home some different subs and try them out before you make up your mind...

    Later,
    -BL
    TWFTPQ
    Receiver: Outlaw 1050
    Amps: Outlaw M-200 x 3 (Powering Mains and Center)
    Mains: RT800i; Center: CS400i; Surrounds: F/X500i
    Sub1: 214L Vented Tempest
    Sub2: 122L Sealed Tempest
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Any Polk, Infinity, or Velodyne brand subwoofer are available. Suggestions for which?
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  • BeginnersLuck
    BeginnersLuck Posts: 213
    edited June 2003
    Well, I would definitely start with the Velo's....They make some pretty decent subs and blow the other two companies away (as far as subs are concerned) but are generally more expensive...Maybe start with the 12 incher and go from there...

    What model Velo's are available?

    Here is my preference based on my experience and tastes of these three brands...

    1. Velo
    2. Infinity
    3. Polk

    -BL
    TWFTPQ
    Receiver: Outlaw 1050
    Amps: Outlaw M-200 x 3 (Powering Mains and Center)
    Mains: RT800i; Center: CS400i; Surrounds: F/X500i
    Sub1: 214L Vented Tempest
    Sub2: 122L Sealed Tempest
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Nothing fancy, limited to the CHT line. Velodyne choices are:

    CHT15, CHT12, CHT10.
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  • BeginnersLuck
    BeginnersLuck Posts: 213
    edited June 2003
    Check out the CHT 12 first get a fell of the output. If it is too much for your room, the step down to the 10, if not enough, then try the 15. If your manager lets you, try to take home a couple different subs at the same time to see what sound you like best...

    Ideally you would want to try a polk, infinity and a velo at the same time, but I think you can't go wrong with the velo...

    -BL
    TWFTPQ
    Receiver: Outlaw 1050
    Amps: Outlaw M-200 x 3 (Powering Mains and Center)
    Mains: RT800i; Center: CS400i; Surrounds: F/X500i
    Sub1: 214L Vented Tempest
    Sub2: 122L Sealed Tempest
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  • ken brydson
    ken brydson Posts: 8,772
    edited June 2003
    If you're not opposed to used, check out the Flea Market. Goinggonzo has / had a CHT120 for $220 + shipping
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Circuit City discount, I get the CHT12 for a little under $200, and I think thats the sub I will be getting instead of the PSW650. Thanks :) The rest of the system sounds good though? Anything better than the RTi70 that I should consider?
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  • faster100
    faster100 Posts: 6,124
    edited June 2003
    with his 60-70% discount he can bag it new for that.. 150.00-200 depending on 60 or 70% it would be cheaper.. and also, CC doesnt carry LSI's. so they are out of the equation per the original post mentioning lsi's....

    I also say 70's and 40 for a center.. great combo as i have this exact setup..

    By the way can you hook me up with that discount for some Rti38's? haha!!
    MY HT RIG:
    Sherwood p-965
    Sherwood sd871 dvd
    Rotel 1075 amp x5
    LSI15 mains
    LsiC center
    LSIfx surround backs
    Lsi7 side surrounds
    SVS pb12/plus2

    2 Channel Rig:

    nad 1020 Pre-amp
    Rotel 1080 stereo amp
    Polk sda 2B
    kenwood grunt Tuner
    realistic lab 450 TT
    Signal cable IC
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  • ken brydson
    ken brydson Posts: 8,772
    edited June 2003
    Originally posted by VTHokies
    Circuit City discount, I get the CHT12 for a little under $200, and I think thats the sub I will be getting instead of the PSW650. Thanks :) The rest of the system sounds good though? Anything better than the RTi70 that I should consider?

    SWEET DEAL:cool:
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Circuit City discount, I get the CHT12 for a little under $200, and I think thats the sub I will be getting instead of the PSW650. Thanks :) The rest of the system sounds good though? Anything better than the RTi70 that I should consider?
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Originally posted by faster100
    and also, CC doesnt carry LSI's. so they are out of the equation per the original post mentioning lsi's....

    Circuit City may not carry them, but they have an online webpage for accommodations in which we CAN purchase LSi speakers. Pricing:

    LSi25: $599.98
    LSi15: $347.98
    LSi9: $207.98
    LSi7: $161.98
    LSiC: $231.98
    LSiFX: $211.98

    No shipping costs either. All brand new.
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  • faster100
    faster100 Posts: 6,124
    edited June 2003
    sweet!! maybe we have a real nice "new" friend on the forum.. Kidding, but those are some great prices.. hook us up!!
    MY HT RIG:
    Sherwood p-965
    Sherwood sd871 dvd
    Rotel 1075 amp x5
    LSI15 mains
    LsiC center
    LSIfx surround backs
    Lsi7 side surrounds
    SVS pb12/plus2

    2 Channel Rig:

    nad 1020 Pre-amp
    Rotel 1080 stereo amp
    Polk sda 2B
    kenwood grunt Tuner
    realistic lab 450 TT
    Signal cable IC
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  • polkatese
    polkatese Posts: 6,767
    edited June 2003
    holy cow! are those prices in USD or Euro? :D:D Are you taking order right now?
    I am sorry, I have no opinion on the matter. I am sure you do. So, don't mind me, I just want to talk audio and pie.
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Originally posted by polkatese
    holy cow! are those prices in USD or Euro? :D:D Are you taking order right now?

    USD prices, and the idea of selling these prices online is appealing but we are limited to purchasing one system per year, plus we aren't supposed to buy them for anyone other than immediate family.
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  • VTHokies
    VTHokies Posts: 12
    edited June 2003
    Okay, thanks to everyone for their suggestions. It looks like this will end up being the system:

    Receiver - Harman Kardon AVR-525 price $522
    Mains - RTi70s price (pair) $314.96
    Surrounds - FXi50s price (pair) $209.96
    Center - CSi40 price $167.98
    Subwoofer - Velodyne CHT12 price $200

    Total = $1414.90, fitting just in my under $1,500 I have no problem with upgrading the RTi70s and spending a little bit more. I just hear the RTi150 doesn't perform very well. Unfortunately, ordering through accommodations means I cannot return the system once it is purchased.
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  • GuitarheadCA
    GuitarheadCA Posts: 400
    edited June 2003
    VTH,

    Hey- I was in your EXACT same position last summer. I also bought a setup similer to yours- the only differece being the sub. Velo gave us accommodation on ALL their lines- are you sure they changed their policy? Check out the SPL line, or if you want to up the budget (but less than people think) check out the HGS line. There is a SIGNIFICANT jump in sound quality moving up from the CHT line.

    And dude- take it easy on posting all those prices online. May not do too much harm, but I'm sure polk and CC both would rather you just leave it at "cost". Throw them around too much- and you can get yourself in trouble.
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  • GZ
    GZ Posts: 343
    edited June 2003
    we aren't supposed to buy them for anybody other than immediate family
    I like those prices on the LSi9's, 7's and center. Wanna marry my sister?
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  • Janusch
    Janusch Posts: 132
    edited June 2003
    I need to get a part time job at C.C. How many hours do you have to work to get such deals?
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  • GuitarheadCA
    GuitarheadCA Posts: 400
    edited June 2003
    3 Months in most cases
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  • BRAD-TX
    BRAD-TX Posts: 25
    edited June 2003
    LSi15: $347.98
    LSi9: $207.98
    LSi7: $161.98
    LSiC: $231.98
    LSiFX: $211.98


    OMG, damn I need to get a job at CC. I wish there was a CC near me, only a Best Buy and Ultimate Electronics.
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  • polkatese
    polkatese Posts: 6,767
    edited June 2003
    those are each, right? otherwise, I'll switch my career over....
    I am sorry, I have no opinion on the matter. I am sure you do. So, don't mind me, I just want to talk audio and pie.
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  • fireshoes
    fireshoes Posts: 3,167
    edited June 2003
    I would rather get a PSW404 or 505 than the CHT12. Throw Bela Fleck and the Flecktones on and find out what a musical sub is.
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  • danger boy
    danger boy Posts: 15,722
    edited June 2003
    Originally posted by VTHokies
    Okay, thanks to everyone for their suggestions. It looks like this will end up being the system:

    Receiver - Harman Kardon AVR-525 price $522
    Mains - RTi70s price (pair) $314.96
    Surrounds - FXi50s price (pair) $209.96
    Center - CSi40 price $167.98
    Subwoofer - Velodyne CHT12 price $200

    Total = $1414.90, fitting just in my under $1,500 I have no problem with upgrading the RTi70s and spending a little bit more. I just hear the RTi150 doesn't perform very well. Unfortunately, ordering through accommodations means I cannot return the system once it is purchased.

    I think you'll be plenty happy with the RTi70's they are sweet sounding speakers. I wouldn't upgrade if I was you at all.
    PolkFest 2012, who's going>?
    Vancouver, Canada Sept 30th, 2012 - Madonna concert :cheesygrin:
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  • TroyD
    TroyD Posts: 13,077
    edited June 2003
    I think you guys will find that those LSi price are for each speaker, still a hell of a deal no doubt.

    As far as the original subject goes, mate, get your listen on. Buy what YOU like, not what we like. If Infinity blows up your skirt, by those. I'm not being flippant but we all hear things differently and it's less important what we think about gear as what you think.

    BDT
    I plan for the future. - F1Nut
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  • GuitarheadCA
    GuitarheadCA Posts: 400
    edited June 2003
    Hey Fireshoes,

    Man- I hear you about the Flectones - when Victor gets going on the bass - man it's all over. I will never get sick of "The Sinister Minister" :-)
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