Hi there, new to the forums.

awu_gigabyte

Hello, just within the past month i've build my HT from the ground up. Looking to get suggestions on things that i could have done differently, while i'm still within the 30 day return policy

53 in Pioneer sd-533hd HDTV. Got for $1099 marked down from $2099

Pioneer VSX-D814K Receiver, Got for $179 marked down from $299

Polk Monitor 60s. Mains. Got for $199.ea marked down from $259.ea

Polk CS1. Center. Got For $159 marked down from $199

Sony progressive scan dvd DVP-N550P $79.99

Then i use a pair of klipsch promedia as my surrounds that i've had for about 5 years.

I know i didn't spend much on my receiver, nor on my dvd player, but i'm using coaxial digital connects between the amp and dvd player, basically, i'm looking to either, A. keep what i already have, or B. maybe upgrade the dvd or the receiver, keeping it less than $200 for the total upgrade.

any responses or suggestions welcome.

Thanks,
Rob.

Dennis Gardner

Welcome to CP!

Your system looks pretty well balanced for a first try, I hope you like how it looks and sounds. If movies are your top priority, I don't see a powered subwoofer listed. That would be the next purchase that I would make.

I like the Pioneer TV, they rock.

Same for the 814, one of the best buys for HT going.

Polk 60s are nice.

The CS1 is ok.

The Sony DVD is marginal, but use component cables for the best pics. Don't bother changing until you get a sub.

The Klipsch promedias are nice for computer, but when pushed for big theater sound, even in the surround mode, your receiver will overload them in loud passages, but they are ok for now.
Don't trade until you get a sub.

Spend good $$$ on a sub, look into SVS or HSU, both internet only companies that make terrific powered subs. At least a 10 inch or even a 12 inch model will round out your system nicely.

Oh yeah, unless I forgot, BUY A GOOD SUB!!!

If you have a sub ignore the above and enjoy your HT!!:D


And by the way, Go Sooners!!!

Toxis

I'd also back up the sub idea. But if that's not an option, upgrade your DVD player seeing $200 is a good starting point for a dvd player and it won't get you anywhere for a receiver. Just my thoughts.

awu_gigabyte

thanks for the replies. I don't have a sub right now, that was next on the list, it was hard enough talking the gf into all of this =D

About the dvd, i'm using component for video, and digital coaxial for audio, could you recommend a brand/model that would be in the 2-300 range?

I'm pretty satisfied with the system as is, the pioneer doesn't seem to get bogged down during extremely loud movie scenes, so i'm fairly satisfied with that purchase.

Thanks again,
Rob.

Dennis Gardner

There isn't a DVD player made yet that can add what a sub would to your system. DVDs can't even come close to HDTV for picture quality.

If you feel that you must upgrade your player, I would buy a Pioneer Elite DV 45 or 47. They are last years models like your 814 is and they can be found for under $300 and will even look great with your receiver.

PolkThug

Since you've got a 53" screen, I'd move up to a Denon DVD player.

...and of course a sub! www.svsubwoofers.com

awu_gigabyte

Hello, due to popular suggestion, i took back the sony dvd and bought the denon dvd-1910. I'm satisfied to say the least. Here are a few pics.


Shot of the whole set up


Seating area =D


Receiver


Polk CS1


Denon dvd and hdtv converter dvr


Left Monitor 60


Right Monitor 60


Ambient light, Red


Ambient light, Blue


Rear surround, right


Rear surround, left and remote center

Well, thats her for now. Still working on a subwoofer, went to a few shops and they had 100 dollar ones, which sounded like crap, no mid range, then jumped up to 1500...So we'll see how that goes, thanks!
Rob.

Willow

ahh a bit to late but there was an energy s8.2 for sale in the flea which would have been a good start and it was a good price. I wonder if he still has it?

edit: it was BillbillW and welcome hope you enjoy your system

PolkThug

Checkout the SVS PB10 for less than $500 delivered.

Dennis Gardner

Glad you like your Denon, if your TV will take component video, use that type of hookup as it is better than the yellow composite, or even better quality than S-video.

Your room looks like it may be a very "live" room and might not need alot of bass support,(no carpet,curtains etc.). If you decide you need a sub, SVS or HSu makes great mid level models. The HSU models may have a smaller model that fits your needs. The STF-1 would be nice for around $300.

HSU Research

awu_gigabyte

Thanks, i am using component video out on the dvd player, it supports DVI but unfortunately my tv only has a RGB input and i don't think that will be much of an improvement over component.

My room is also extremely small for the gear i have in it. My sitting area is only about 9 feet from the tv, and the monitor 60s do a fairly good job on the bass on their own, but my receiver only allows to send signals down to 100hz to the mains. So i feel like i'm lacking in the super low frequencies, which i'm assuming a sub would fill. I have yet to see anyone mention the polk subs. They have them at some shops here from 150 on up to 500, are they not good contenders?

Thanks, Rob.

Dennis Gardner

100 hz bottom? Surely there is an option to run the main speakers as "large" in the setup. This allows lows to your mains.

Your room is small and the 60s will handle much lower than 100 hz. The newest Polk subs are not great movie subs, but if you can find a sale, get the largest model you can afford. To create low bass, you gotta move alotta air!

McLoki

I don't know about your room issues, but you really want to get that right speaker out of the corner if you can..... Move the whole system (speakers and tv) about 3 feet to the left and see if you think it sounds better. (If not, move it back and curse me under your breath. )

You spent plenty on good speakers and equipment (even if they were good deals) you might as well give them a chance to show you what they can do - even if you choose not to keep them that way...

Michael

awu_gigabyte

Thanks for the suggestion, for now i have a refrigerator sitting directly to the left of the system, the space is very tight. This place is only temporary, maybe a year or 2, then i plan on giving them all the space they deserve.

Thoughts about sub placement, i know that subwoofers are non-directional, so i'm thinking about placing it at in front of the tv, as space on either side is already taken, do you think that sub placement makes much of a difference?

Thanks again, Rob.

Dennis Gardner

In a small room, bass is everywhere, you can't hide it. It may be overwhelming actually and boomy. Placement makes little difference.

When you get to a larger space, placement for the sub is everything. You try to place it to get the smoothest response, not the loudest bass. Bass notes tend to magnify or disappear totally based on room responses. You may have a couple notes that resonate and drive you crazy at the same time notes a couple steps away from those can't be heard or felt at all. This is when an equalizer is used most for home theater.

My advice to you would be to borrow a sub from a friend for a couple days to see if you even like what a sub can do. They are pretty common for surround setups and most are self powered and easy to transport.

Willow

I was also goignt ot comment on the close proximity the speaker is to the wall. You may wish to move it just a bit to be able to toe-in the speakers, to close in the sound stage. as well the bass in that one corner mae be emphasised cause the speaker is up against the wall. But if you can't move it, well you can't move it.