LSiM vs RT5000 for a dedicated home 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?

Emlyn

RT5000... Keep them and the money

It may have been worthwhile to switch to an LSiM system when the speaker line was being heavily discounted by retailers. As it is, the speakers are no longer available new with warranty and there have been some issues with their drivers over the years too. Replacements aren't easily available. As long as the RT system is still doing the job I'd stick with it. Maybe upgrade the subs further or upgrade something on the video, amps, or processor side of things.

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. That has me tempted...

pitdogg2

Might want to kill off one of these, its rather confusing to have multiple threads on the exact same thing.

rtart

Yep. Used to be able to do that, but don't see how to do it now. Sorry for the confusion.

rooftop59

@CarlJacobson_POLK

mantis

LSiM... Welcome to the new millennium!

I think the RT5000 system was badass back in the day but it doesn't hold a candle to the LSIM line. I would absolutely go that route. I'm sure if I found a sweet deal on a RT5000 system I may buy it but it would be for fun not daily use.

WLDock

Maybe consider my idea from years ago. https://forum.polkaudio.com/discussion/195588/looking-for-a-rt3000p-unit

Instead of the LSiM, Maybe put the Legend L200 or Reserve R200 Series bookshelf on top of the RT3000 bases. Then get the BIG BOY L400 center and you will have something interesting combining the old and the new!

The guy on the Facebook Polk page took the idea and ran with it and loves it!

rtart

Really interesting. Thanks for the reminder.

WLDock

rtart wrote: »

Really interesting. Thanks for the reminder.

Reserve Series R200, or Legend Series L200 bookshelf, or R400 center (vertical) / RT3000p bass mated with R400 or L400 Center





Going with the R400 center set vertical will give you the same dual woofer impact of the original satellites. Also, will have the same three across the front if you use one as a center.