LSiM series or keep RT5000 series for a dedicated theater?

rtart

Hi friends,

I have a 7.2.4 setup using RT5000 series gear. RT3000ps for mains, a CS1000p center, FX1000 side surrounds, and a pair of RT3000p upper sats for rear surrounds. Two pairs of Polk RC 80i in-ceiling for Atmos duty. And two SVS PB-12/Plus-2 subs. (2 x 12" drivers in each.) I've been really happy with his setup in my dedicated theater for many years, but... they are 20-plus-year old speakers. They were great voice-matched speakers that we set up using pink noise and a RatShack sound meter... while watching DVD's on a CRT projector. :-)

Along the way I looked at the Lsi series, but the 15's and 25's have powered subs...which is a failure point. Now, my RT3000p sub bases and CS1000p also have powered subs...but I have collected lots of spares. And, I've also changed out at least one amp per unit over the years. Not really excited about taking on this issue again, especially since the LSi and LSiM series are getting a little closer in (used) price, and the reviews seem to indicate that they both sound better and are a 'nicer' load on amplifiers.

Now I am considering a change to the LSiM series. No powered amps to deal with, so I'm not concerned about longevity. These were/are well-built speakers and if they work now, they should work for a long time. I have lots of clean power, and rarely go above -20dB. Used prices have come down, and I'd go with LSiM 707's for mains, 706C (the big one) for center, 702C (bipole/dipole) for side surrounds, (or maybe a pair of 703's) and a pair of 703's (or 705's) for rear surrounds. I'd keep the ceiling mounted Atmos speakers as-is.

Unfortunately, there is no 'try-before-you-buy' in this situation, so I'm looking for input from anyone who has had experience with both the RT5000 series and the LSiM. I'm probably going to have to invest a couple of grand to do this, but not sure that its going to be worth the trouble and expense. Of course, I'll recoup some of that from selling the RT5000 gear (I'm in Atlanta...)

Thoughts?

Toolfan66

Save your money till you can pull the trigger on the Legends or Reserves. The LSiM's are great speakers but I think you will be hard pressed to find the full set in what you want within reason of cost or what may be available locally..

Just my .02

If Polk ever does another sale I may just jump on the Legends for my HT..

Milito

I agree. I've had the LSiM's and now have the L600's and L400. The tweeter is much improved and overall they just sound better.

If you do purchase some LSiM's check the tweeters as they have some bad ones that came with new speakers. I had to replace one of mine.

rtart

Hi. I've got a chance to buy a pair of 707's, a 706C center and a pair of 702 surrounds for around $1,500. I'll have to drive a couple hundred miles to get them, but it has me tempted...

rooftop59

rtart wrote: »

Hi. I've got a chance to buy a pair of 707's, a 706C center and a pair of 702 surrounds for around $1,500. I'll have to drive a couple hundred miles to get them, but it has me tempted...

That would be a great setup, don’t get me wrong, but I’m not sure you’ll feel the upgrade you’re itching for.

I know this is a Polk forum, but there are LOTS of other fish in the sea if you’re looking to upgrade…