Video Asylum

Posted by bondmanp (A) on January 22, 2003 at 12:12:59

In Reply to: HT sound on the cheap? posted by NB on January 21, 2003 at 19:12:37:

I like your third option best. You can get a decent Pioneer receiver (VSXD-411) for about $150, then add speakers as you are able. In addition to the Polk, I would also consider Paradigm Atoms (list is $189/pr), or Micros (list is $145/pr). Similar models are available from Energy and Mirage. Start with a stereo pair, add the sub next, then a pair of surrounds, and finally a center channel speaker, as you are able. You could even start with a pair of Atoms, then upgrade to a pair of Titans ($219/pr), moving the Atoms to the rear. This setup may supply enough bass in a small room to eliminate the need for a subwoofer.

My second preference from your list is the Klipsch Pro Media. For movies (as opposed to music), you might be happy with this short cut, especially in a smaller room.

I would not waste time or money on an RCA HTB system. It's basically Bose at a more "realistic" price (joke reference to Radio Shack). IOW, it probably sounds like crap.