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Question

Vizio Sound Bar Purchase Advise:

Jul 18, 2017 8:15AM PDT

Hello All,
I currently have a Vizio M50- E1, I want to purchase a Vizio Sound Bar, I would like some advice regarding Channel 2.1 or 3.1
My budget is about $200, which can get me either.
My Living Room is about 15'x19', of course i would be better off with a 3.1?...is there much of a difference? (between 2.1 and 3.1 with my living space?) or should i just save a little cash and purchase a 2.1 since there isn't much difference?
Thanks CNET group Happy

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
Skip the sound bar
Jul 19, 2017 7:25AM PDT

They generally provide poor sound even compared to what you get with very budget stereo speakers & receiver. What you don't get with a sound bar is proper stereo (really, audio) separation. That's easy with wired speakers you can place where they need to be to optimize your space for the best sound possible. $200 is well inside the range where you could find some great used gear that would be perfect.

My advice? If the $200 is a hard limit, find either a used entry level AV receiver (at least 5.1) and two inexpensive speakers for now. Later on add the center channel and sub so you do it right.

cheers

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AV Receiver: Recommendation
Jul 19, 2017 7:58AM PDT

Thanks Pepe7! ...any Brand AV Receiver suggestions?...and also, are we talking Tower Floor Speakers?

Michael Happy

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AV Receiver: Recommendation
Jul 19, 2017 8:48AM PDT

also, does the AV Receiver need to be HDMI compatible?

Michael Happy

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AV Receiver: Recommendation
Jul 19, 2017 9:11AM PDT

...I found a used Sony STR-DG520 with HDMI for $70 Happy
Sony STR-DG520 5.1-Ch HDMI Digital 500W AV Home Theater Receiver

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Well done
Jul 20, 2017 6:14AM PDT

Sounds like you found a good deal Wink

Tower speakers for fronts would be one option, yes indeed.

Have fun!