CSi5 or CSi40 with the Rti70's?

dbaldus

I just picked up a pair of Rti70's and find myself wanting/needing a better center to replace my CS1 (which matches the Monitor series). I see on Polk's website that the CSi40 is the correct match for these speakers, but I am having major problems finding one (I've been checking here, eBay, and AVSForum daily for about a month now).

During my search, I have noticed that a lot of CSi5's seem to be for sale. I talked with someone about this and he thought that the difference between the 5 and the 40 was the brightness of the tweeters, the ability to place the speaker above or below the TV, and the kickstand on the 5 for setting it on top of shallow TVs, but wasn't sure about anything else.

My question is this: will the CSi5 match the Rti70s as well as the CSi40, or should I really wait until I can find a 40?

Any input, whether on the difference between the speakers or how they would match the 70's, recommendations, etc., would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

engtaz

CSi5

Ron Temple

While I like the CSi5, I like the previous tweeters, CSi40 or CS400 much better...I'm sure the 5 will be a great center...if you want a timbre match...wait.

dbaldus

engtaz wrote: »

CSi5

Why? Explain... thanks!

jmwest1970

The CSi5 is an excellent center, but it isn't timbre matched with the RTi70. I have the RTi70/CSi40 combo myself and it's great for HT. Sound transitions very well across the front stage.

You can place the CSi40 above or below the TV. I prefer mine above as it brings height to the image. Your other concern is valid as the CSi40 is a large center. I use the Omnimount CCH1 for supporting my CSi40 on top of my Sony LCD RPTV. Your other timbre matched option would be a CSi30, which is considerably smaller.

I used a few other centers with the RTi70s, but finally picked up the CSi40 from another forum member. It's the best thing I've done for the HT at this point.

dbaldus

jmwest1970 wrote: »

The CSi5 is an excellent center, but it isn't timbre matched with the RTi70. I have the RTi70/CSi40 combo myself and it's great for HT. Sound transitions very well across the front stage.

You can place the CSi40 above or below the TV. I prefer mine above as it brings height to the image. Your other concern is valid as the CSi40 is a large center. I use the Omnimount CCH1 for supporting my CSi40 on top of my Sony LCD RPTV. Your other timbre matched option would be a CSi30, which is considerably smaller.

I used a few other centers with the RTi70s, but finally picked up the CSi40 from another forum member. It's the best thing I've done for the HT at this point.

Did you ever try using a Csi5 with the Rti70s? I know what timbre matching means, but it is hard to imagine what it would actually SOUND like if they were not matched (meaning how BAD), if you know what I mean.

Sami

The difference in the tweeter is very noticeable so while the CSi5 would work, you're much better off with CSi40 or CSi30. Because the brighter speaker is the new lineup, it's a better option than vice versa IMO.

My suggestion is to play the CS1 until you find a matching centre.