Speaker system X recommended room size range

mctrinity

Hi everyone,

I am looking for some advice that I didn't find anywhere within the Polk site: the recommended room size range for each speaker system. For instance: I am interested in the RM6880 system and I don’t know if my room is too big for it. It is 13 ft x 22 ft, with a 5 ft opening (no door) at one end of the bigger wall. Could anybody help me on that?

Thanks.

Face

There are many who use MUCH large speakers in a MUCH smaller space, you'll be fine.

zingo

If you like those speakers, I think that is the most important thing.

mctrinity

Thanks Face. In fact my doubt was the opposite but I understood from your reply that this system is more than enough for my room.

zingo

The dressing of the room may have an effect on the perceived output as well. Is it carpeted or wood floors? Bare walls or heavy curtains?

mctrinity

Carpeted with bare walls (a light curtain on a small window). By the way, the TV will be placed against the bigger wall...

zingo

They will sound good so no worries. Now the real question; what will you be powering them with?

mctrinity

This is not only the real question but is the most difficult for me. After reading a zillion reviews and forum posts, I am tending toward an Onkyo receiver. The problem now is to choose the model. To be honest with you, I am a little bit lost with all the discussion about the various features, mainly the switched X passthrough HDMI the THX certification (and how much should I pay for these extras).

zingo

An HDMI capable is something I would get if you use HDMI. I think it's worth it, espically since the technology is only going to get bigger.

THX certification on the other hand is just a bunch of hype and only makes you pay more money.

mctrinity

Thanks a lot for the hint on the THX issue. About the HDMI, I'll definitely need it. What I don't know is if it's worth to pay more for a switched or if the passthrough is enough.

xandra

mctrinity: As to your question re room size you might want to talk directly with Polk - their techs are fabulous and honest...

As for receivers: I think Onkyo's a great way to go - especially since the models you'd probably want are on sale now. The interface/and setup ease is great (important if you're new to multi-channel audio and/or some of the newer hd vid formats).

As for HDMI: just make sure whatever you get is vers 1.3 or higher.

Many folks here also swear by Denon -- if you decide to go that route just be aware that setup, interface and remote are more complex and the manual, well, sucks. The tradeoff could mean some fine tinkering not available on the Onk. One plus for Denon: they don't seem to run as hot. The Onkyo's require more space around if you're placing inside cabinet (particularly 805 and up)

Personally for those speakers I'd go with the 705 (if you have the cash, AND lotsa space you could go with the 805)

I reccomend the 705 because: it's probably be enuf to drive your speakers (but has pre-outs: A MUST if you ever upgrade and/or desire additional amplification.) It has on screen menus Another must have...

If your concerned about HDMI: I can only tell you that I've not had a single problems with Onk's and I've had a gazzilion things connected.

If you're new to multichannel receivers I highly reccomend checking out Crutchfield.com. They have a wealth of highly comprehensible info, very good comparison charts & human's to answer your questions.

I wouldn't worry too much about THX certification (many fine receivers don't have it - I assume so they don't have to pay a fee just to get the label)

Whatever you think you need: get more bigger better-- a receiver's the brain of your system don't scrimp - you'll end up needing to upgrade.

good luck - let us know what you decide.

60sOwner

I bought a similar set of HT speakers from Harman-Kardon, and went with the Harman AVR-347....7.1...these hit the streets at 899.00 and Harman is giving them away on Ebay for about 350.00. It has two HDMI inputs....one HDMI output...optical and coaxial digital audio inputs...and everything else you might need...and it's XM radio ready if that's important to you. Decent wattage...high current amps....and it kicks in 2 channel mode......drives my Monitor 60's just fine.

mctrinity

Thank you very much Xandra. Probably I'll go for the 805. The problem is that it is really HUGE (and heavy - 61 lbs.!!!). The Crutchfield site was also a good tip. By the way, I thought the Polk techs already made part in these internal discussions (I know at least two that participate actively in the Circuit City forums...).

Regarding the Harman-Kardon, I prefer not to increase again the number of options. Thank you anyway, 60sOwner...

xandra

I thought the Polk techs already made part in these internal discussions

Yes, they do (which is kinda wonderful) but they can't answer all - my guess is that they focus on serious problems.

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Again - be sure you've got plenty of space for the 805 (i think manual recc's 8" above 4" on sides)