LSi Surround vs RT5000. Quick help appreciated!
Velocitydreamer
Posts: 252
Hello fellow Polkies,
I was curious... I have the opportunity to have an LSi System shipped for pretty darn cheap... LSi25/LSiFX/LSiC. My question is that I've heard the RT5000 setup would be better for home theater, and the LSi system (not far behind in HT) would be better for music. Is this true? I *LOVE* the mids of the RT5000 system, but like the aesthetics of the LSi System, AND listen to almost more music than movies lol. What are the differences in sound? I know the LSi System is 4ohm, so I'll probably have to ditch the SC-57 for a pre/pro (which I want to do anyways lol). Which is better, and with the best detail possible, explain why if ya can. Faster answers, the better because I need to jump. Set money aside between the two, what are your thoughts. Thanks!
I was curious... I have the opportunity to have an LSi System shipped for pretty darn cheap... LSi25/LSiFX/LSiC. My question is that I've heard the RT5000 setup would be better for home theater, and the LSi system (not far behind in HT) would be better for music. Is this true? I *LOVE* the mids of the RT5000 system, but like the aesthetics of the LSi System, AND listen to almost more music than movies lol. What are the differences in sound? I know the LSi System is 4ohm, so I'll probably have to ditch the SC-57 for a pre/pro (which I want to do anyways lol). Which is better, and with the best detail possible, explain why if ya can. Faster answers, the better because I need to jump. Set money aside between the two, what are your thoughts. Thanks!
LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini
Post edited by Velocitydreamer on
Comments
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The rt series is forward sounding and slightly brighter (though not by much). I love the detail in the ring radiator tweeter, but some don't care for it. The LSis are laid back and slightly warm, but very detailed. Lush and airy highs that extend into the stratosphere. But you will probably lose bass extension and tightness if you go with the LSis. And those rts are dynamic as hell, but the LSis aren't far behind. I think that its a tough decision even just for music as I think that you will be trading deep tight bass for lush airy highs, and laid-back soundstage for a forward one. It really comes down to personal preference...Living Room 2.2: Usher BE-718 "tiny dancers"; Dual DIY Dayton audio RSS210HF-4 Subs with Dayton SPA-250 amps; Arcam SA30; Musical Fidelity A308; Sony UBP-x1000es
Game Room 5.1.4: Denon AVR-X4200w; Sony UBP-x700; Definitive Technology Power Monitor 900 mains, CLR-3000 center, StudioMonitor 350 surrounds, ProMonitor 800 atmos x4; Sub - Monoprice Monolith 15in THX Ultra
Bedroom 2.1 Harmon Kardon HK3490; Bluesounds Node N130; Polk RT25i; ACI Titan Subwoofer -
I think you really would have to hear the LSi's to make this decision....and the PRE/Amp will be a must. Some love the LSi's in general and some don't like them at all for HT.
Tough call...2.2 Office Setup | LG 29UB55 21:9 UltraWide | HP Probook 630 G8 | Dell Latitude | Cabasse Stream Amp 100 | Boston Acoustics VS 240 | AUDIORAX Desk Stands | Mirage Omni S8 sub1 | Mirage Omni S8 Sub2 -
I unfortunately can't hear them
As mentioned... they'll be shipped to me... so that's why I'm hoping for as many, accurate opinions as possible... as it's the best I can get 
Thanks for the opinions so far... Still trying to decide. LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
How can you go wrong with TOTL stuffs?
Having owned these before, I'd say go with lsi. If you're in HT, get Klipsch. -
How can you go wrong with TOTL stuffs?
Having owned these before, I'd say go with lsi. If you're in HT, get Klipsch.
So you've owned both sets and you preferred the LSi's? Any details as to why? Thanks!LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
Velocitydreamer wrote: »So you've owned both sets and you preferred the LSi's? Any details as to why? Thanks!
I also owned Rti8/12. Compare all these to Lsi9/15 set; Rt series is boxy, small soundstage, kinda 1 direction type. Klipsch RF speakers are crazy good for HT, wide soundstage. I ended up selling the Lsi9/15 setup too and got lsim703/707 setup, when Polk had 50% discount last yr. My best speaker is still the SDA 1C. That thing throws so much sound as you, too bad, it looks bad next to a flat panel TV. Lsi has that warm sound that you can listen to forever w/o feeling sick.
At the same volume, Rt/rti speakers gave me headache after 2-3 hrs -
Hey Velocity, that's a tough call! For HT, I'd stick with the RT's. However, if you still have the problems with your RT system and have
not fixed them and have funds set aside, I'd go for the LSi setup! I've heard them and just like rooftop said, the ring radiator tweeter
is sweet! As far as the bass goes, you defiantly have the muscle with some of those subs you have. It's a coin toss, but I would try it!
Hope that helps with your decision, let us know!SRT Seismic System with dual PSW1200's
RT5000 x 2
RT2000p
CS400i
CS350-LS
LS F/X
PSW650
PSW1000 w/Dayton SPA1000
DSW MicroPro 4000
Adcom amps
Pioneer Elite SC-89
Pioneer PLX-1000 Turntable
PS4
XBOX One
MIT Interconnects
BJC -
Once again here is a reason we all have to hear speakers for ourselves. While, I'm guilty of walking pass a set of Klipsch speakers and have not spent much time listening to the higher end lines, THX line, etc. The Ref and Syn line has blown my head off when the volume is turned up. Still, I totally get the idea of horns for HT. I think it would be interesting to listen to a Palladium line or JBL synthesis LS HT system....especially the LS line...its on my must hear list....Klipsch RF speakers are crazy good for HT, wide soundstage....At the same volume, Rt/rti speakers gave me headache after 2-3 hrs...
The truth is...I have to say that my ears have changed as I've aged....the high range has slightly changed. They were more sharp in my 20's. The extended range of horns used to be painful if things were not balanced out. However, I did hear a horn based system that played back the sound of a vibraphone that was very "real" like. balance is the key.
As far as the LSi line...I remember them as being a nice set to listen to some live jazz on. That's all I remember about the line...never heard them in a home system.2.2 Office Setup | LG 29UB55 21:9 UltraWide | HP Probook 630 G8 | Dell Latitude | Cabasse Stream Amp 100 | Boston Acoustics VS 240 | AUDIORAX Desk Stands | Mirage Omni S8 sub1 | Mirage Omni S8 Sub2 -
If you dig what the 3000p's do for HT, and want to keep that with some added musicality, I think your natural progression should be Definitive Technology speakers.HT SYSTEM-
Sony 850c 4k
Pioneer elite vhx 21
Sony 4k BRP
SVS SB-2000
Polk Sig. 20's
Polk FX500 surrounds
Cables-
Acoustic zen Satori speaker cables
Acoustic zen Matrix 2 IC's
Wireworld eclipse 7 ic's
Audio metallurgy ga-o digital cable
Kitchen
Sonos zp90
Grant Fidelity tube dac
B&k 1420
lsi 9's -
If you dig what the 3000p's do for HT, and want to keep that with some added musicality, I think your natural progression should be Definitive Technology speakers.
You think? I like def tech, just wasn't sure how they would compare with the 5000 set. I imagine the supertowers would be nice I know the old ones had like... 15s? but also heard they had muddy bass... then the newer ones have smaller drivers, but clearer bass? I personally love the sound of a good full range speaker being able to dig low as well (I know I know, let the sub do it...). LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
I might get to listen to a full 7 ch set this weekend. There is a guy selling a set in the same city that I live in: http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/ele/4369951884.html
Been in contact with the guy. Will see.2.2 Office Setup | LG 29UB55 21:9 UltraWide | HP Probook 630 G8 | Dell Latitude | Cabasse Stream Amp 100 | Boston Acoustics VS 240 | AUDIORAX Desk Stands | Mirage Omni S8 sub1 | Mirage Omni S8 Sub2 -
that is a very good deal for $1k. Deftech speakers are good too, better sound for HT and music than any of the RT stuffs. I just don't like the sock look. I like wood. To me, sock is just a cheap and quick way to cover the unfinished finish.
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Hmmm... I've already made 1 trip to Illinois for LSis for $1k and a trip to St. Louis for another set for $1k... Maybe I should try for the LSi set for $1k hat trick!
Hehe I kid...but if you do buy, I would be willing to help ease your burden by purchasing the FXs from ya...just something to think about..."Some people find it easier to be conceited rather than correct."
"Unwad those panties and have a good time man. We're all here to help each other, no matter how it might appear." DSkip -
I'm just going to listen because the guy is so close and was open to the idea...plus I haven't heard a full 7 ch LSi set. I'm not sure how far I want to go with HT right now. With the LSi I would need at a minimum one of the later Elite AVR's or the better more expensive pre/amp setup. I don't have a dedicated room and I'm not sure about my future plans for the next home so...
I would have to love these to act on them but really is not the best timing for me.2.2 Office Setup | LG 29UB55 21:9 UltraWide | HP Probook 630 G8 | Dell Latitude | Cabasse Stream Amp 100 | Boston Acoustics VS 240 | AUDIORAX Desk Stands | Mirage Omni S8 sub1 | Mirage Omni S8 Sub2 -
Let me know your thoughts as soon as you do man. I'd be very interested in hearing your impressions.LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
So I spoke with the seller in the CL ad. The FXs aren't included in that $1000 price. Just the 15s, 7s and C...still a good deal though.
(Side note, I am buying the FXs from him...lol)"Some people find it easier to be conceited rather than correct."
"Unwad those panties and have a good time man. We're all here to help each other, no matter how it might appear." DSkip -
So I spoke with the seller in the CL ad. The FXs aren't included in that $1000 price. Just the 15s, 7s and C...still a good deal though.
Agreed. Thankfully they are ebony or I would be in the doghouse for buying up the 15's in cherry to use as wides in my house(Side note, I am buying the FXs from him...lol)
Congrats! Those are only going to be harder and harder to find lol....
That brings you up to what a 15.2 setup of LSi's
"....not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." William Bruce Cameron, Informal Sociology: A Casual Introduction to Sociological Thinking (1963) -
Technically, only 12.2 thank you very much! :rolleyes:
:cheesygrin:"Some people find it easier to be conceited rather than correct."
"Unwad those panties and have a good time man. We're all here to help each other, no matter how it might appear." DSkip -
LOL. I already have 1 of those in my 2ch. And the subs in the 25s plus my SVS Cylinder...you trying to get my wife to castrate me Skip?!?!"Some people find it easier to be conceited rather than correct."
"Unwad those panties and have a good time man. We're all here to help each other, no matter how it might appear." DSkip -
So OP, what did you decide. I have the RT5000p system, in storage... I normally have the LSi9s with a MicroPro3000 where it was. I do not feel the LSis are a total replacement for the RTs. Especially the center channel. so, why did I pull them...my wife freaked every time the subs would kick in. She especially hated them at night...and I had them really turned down. But, I have not sold them yet. I felt the LSi was too laid back until I did the XO mods. I really like the 9s at this point, but the center has yet to grow on me.
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Yeah... I've pretty much decided to keep the 5000 set. I need to find a pair of subs and amp though for one of the base cabs. If I happen upon a good bit of spare change, I'm going to still pick up the LSi's to have in addition (bedroom/wherever), but I'm keeping the 5000 set for Home Theater. I'm wanting to pick up a spare set of fx1000's, and maybe RT3000p Tops to find a way to mount for heights (all rosewood). Idk, I really like the sound of the 5000 set and at this point, I have other things I should probably be spending my money on (story of my life). Just sold my BPS-400 Sub, need to find me a steal on an SVS PB12-Plus/2 like my buddy did lol, and yeah, the CS1000p is probably the best center I'm going to be able to afford for a good bit of time. Once I get the 5000 surround built the way I want with the additional speakers, I'm going to move on to spending on other things... probably won't upgrade til I actually buy a house in a year or two (famous last words). I appreciate the heads up fellow Polkies! I love the sound of the 5000, was just curious how the LSi first gens sounded.LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
If anyone does happen to have, or know someone who has, a pair of subs and a plate amp, I might be interested for the right price.LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
Found the subs... may just have to send the old plate amp off for repair to the ebay guys.LivingRoom
Source: HTPC
Display: GT720 (on the wall)
Receiver: HK AVR1700
L/R: RS850 Signature
Center: RSC200 Signature
SS: Onix Rocket ELT DPA
Sub: SVS PB1-ISD
2 Channel (in the making)
Source: TBA
Amplification: TBA (Integra 2.1 interim)
Speakers: AV123 Onix Rocket Strata Mini -
Velocitydreamer wrote: »Found the subs... may just have to send the old plate amp off for repair to the ebay guys.
Just as a thought depending in repair cost, maybe think about a small pro amp to drive them passively and close the hole up with something.
I know VR3 did that at one point.
That or maybe just replace the plate amps with one's from parts express.
Not super familiar with those so my advice may not work but just some thoughts."....not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." William Bruce Cameron, Informal Sociology: A Casual Introduction to Sociological Thinking (1963)
