Can't Decide Which Speaker System To Get, RC Micro or KEF?

Get directly by going to Playback magazine then they have a list of review articles. It was in Feb 2008 issue.

Hi, you're right on that I haven't heard either systems with my own ears, I've just gone by reviews. I went to Playback Magazine and it seems they want me to register before I can see any articles. The reason I guess why I was between those two systems was because I want something first off not too large, then I was going for the best sound possible in that size group and I wanted to get the speakers + bass together rather then the bass separately. I read that the Energy RC and the KEF got very well rated, as well as the Mirage MX 5.1 which I am pretty sure is a division of Klipsch. I was sort of overwhelmed and just started narrowing it down by the reviews and release dates of systems. I also read that the Canton sounds very good. I see your point though that each one is going to sound differently and it is somewhat of a personal preference. What I am going to be using the speakers for is mainly Hi-Def movies and music from my iPod. I am planning to hook whatever speakers I get to the Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K, so if there is a particular systems that sounds great with that receiver I'd go with it.

This is really my first time shopping for a home theater system. I've always gone in the past with a pretty low line home theater system in a box, but this time I am trying to make a really nice home theater.

Any recommendations on systems would be great, what speakers do you like? I live in Maine so there are audio places around with a decent selection of speakers so maybe I should go start listening.

Also, do you think there is a big difference between 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound?

Thanks!!!!!

but I am of the other opinion & most disks sound is offered in 5.1 with 7.1 being rather rare. Some love their surround sound. I have basic surround for the main TV in the living room. I am one of the old timers who still prefer "old fashioned" two channel stereo for my music, & I am not alone. Yes, we have evolved from the time that we lusted to invest in the two highest quality speakers we could afford. Home theater is largely about surround rather than primary speaker quality. I don't really think two more side speakers offer a lot more than already using five plus sub woofer. I'd rather see people use the extra increment of money to get a really good sub woofer. The best sub woofers are made by firms specializing in them. Check into HSU, SVS & Outlaw. In this case good requires $300-$500.

Yeah, I remember now that Playback mag required filling in some spaces. I did that probably at least two years ago & have not been spammed by that to the best of my knowledge. Right, not bothered by them.

There is not just a few good speakers. Many, many brands are in that business. First of all, don't hesitate to look beyond just the big box stores like Beat Buy. Independents don't carry dozens of brands but will likely have some nice speaker line to listen to. Independents already survived the intrusion of the big box stores. Their staff is usually a lot better informed.

Yeah, your ears are not the same of mine. Yours are the ones to please.

The thing about selecting your speakers is that the name brand quality ones can be started with thinking about a limited budget because you can start with just two & stick to the same brand & model line & add on as budget permits. I just don't think you can do justice to selecting speakers by good reviews. Yeah, they can provide a starting point.

At normal, average audio needs a receiver really needs not to be fancy & expensive. Decent for most needs really is $250-$275 or so. The electronics are intended to perform without coloring the sound & on a practical level, they do. On the other hand, most all the sound difference will be because of the speakers. That's why they are so important. Don't buy a pig in a poke.

Good wishes for your enjoyment.

NM_Bill.

Thanks a lot for all the suggestions and help, sorry I didn't reply sooner! I will go around my local stores and preview different ones and then decide. Your input was very helful, thanks again...