Resources
April 30, 2003
I currently have a home-theater system using Klipsch
Reference-series speakers for the L/R fronts, and Synergy speakers for the center and
surrounds. I am planning to add a subwoofer soon. I am trying to decide whether to go with
downward firing or front firing. I would prefer to stay in the Klipsch product line for
continuity.
The room has a hard floor (vinyl) laid direct on a concrete
slab. There are only small throw rugs in the room, which is about 15' x 15' with 9 1/2'
ceilings. This is not an enclosed room, but the "family room" area of a great
room.
Can you make a brief recommendation, or suggest some study
resources? Thank you for your time.
Steve Huffstetter
There are a couple of must-reads for someone in your
situation. I'd start with these "Bass in Place: Setting Up Your Subwoofer" and "Listening to Your Room:
Solving Acoustical Problems". I think you're wise staying within the Klipsch line
to finish out your system. Although subwoofers are arguably easier to mix'n'match than,
say, a center-channel with your main speakers, there's still a design synergy that is
usually present throughout a manufacturer's line. You simply stand a better chance of
getting everything to work together properly by buying from one company. That's not to say
it's always easy, though, and the articles I've pointed out will help you take the
guesswork out of the equation.
Much better now
April 29, 2003
I'm writing to tell you how much better my system sounds
after following all the advice I've read in GoodSound!. My system is still on the
modest side, but it doesn't sound like it. Thanks, and keep up the great work. Now I just
need to get a DVD-A/SACD player to finish it off!
Daryl Morrison
No pre-outs
April 25, 2003
I'm using an Onkyo TX-DS595 surround receiver. I want to
purchase a two-channel amplifier to power the left and right front speakers so as to
increase the musical quality of the system. There is a problem though. The TX-DS595 does
not have any pre-out jacks. Is there any way I can connect a two-channel amp to this
surround receiver? Thanks.
Nick
Unfortunately there is no real way to do what you are
seeking to do. Your only solution is to purchase a new receiver, of which most late-model
units do have pre-out facilities. With some of the powerhouse receivers on the market
today, you'll be effectively upgrading the power-amp section of your system anyway, which
will hopefully yield the sonic improvement you are seeking.
6.1 versus 7.1
April 23, 2003
What is the difference between 6.1 and 7.1 home theater?
Ruth Lloyd
There is no difference in the actual processing -- each
expands upon the 5.1 standard by adding a back surround speaker(s). In 7.1 the back
surround signal is reproduced by two speakers placed behind the viewer, while with 6.1
there is only one back surround. The idea behind 7.1 is to spread the rear image evenly
behind the viewer, which two speakers can theoretically accomplish easier than one. I am
still unconvinced at the importance of such a configuration, though in some installations
it could possibly be a benefit if space warrants. If you're still using 5.1, you shouldn't
rush out to upgrade.
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