Planning the next phase of my system

mlawson66 · « **on:** 17 Dec 2004, 04:05 am »

So, I am the proud new owner of an LRC/FST.

I'm trying to figure out the best mains with which to replace my Athena CS-F2s. With the addition of the LRC, we've started listening to music on the HT system. The only problem is that at just the wrong moment, the Athenas let out with scratchy screechy mids and trebles and drive me to distraction. The system currently includes 2 SVS PB2+ used as end tables/drink mixers and is driven by an Outlaw Audio 950 preamp/processor and 770 200 watt power amp in a 7.1 system. Right now, the main audio source is a Dennon DVD-2900. I will be bringing over my Heart tube CD player, a Musical Fidelity tuner and either a home grown tube line driver (no auricap, just multicap and silver solder) or a modified Modulus preamp. Still haven't dusted off the vinyl. The HT room is a den between the great room and the living room. It is about 12' from speaker to couch but the total width is about 50'. The center 20' has an 8' ceiling but the rest is vaulted. Not the best listening room I know. Thats why I wound up with 2 PB2+s for end tables.

I can't cut loose with enough for RM40s or the really cool high end speakers unless somebody has someslightly damaged or used ones. I've considered fully decked out 626Rs, mostly decked out RM2s or RM30s with auricap, sans bass. I welcome all input!

Thanks,

-mike

meilankev · « **Reply #1 on:** 17 Dec 2004, 03:50 pm »

Mike,

I am no expert on various VMPS systems (I own RM40s and a good friend of mine here has RM2). There are also many factors that play into a decision like this, so a wise person gives this type of advice hesitantly.

How about this:
> If your SVS subs are going to be a part of your 2-channel system, then I would suggest there's no reason to get floorstanding speakers with deep bass extension.

So, do you opt for the 626R or the RM30 (sans bass)? Since I have never heard either, I can have no valid input as to which might be preferable in your system (and in your room). Nor would I know which might integrate better with your subs - but this must be an important consideration.

> If the SVS subs are not a part of your 2-channel system, then I know that I personally feel that bass extension is an integral part of musical enjoyment. That would leave the full-range RM30s and the RM2s.

As stated above, I have never heard the RM30s. I have no idea how their bass response measures up to that of the RM2. I also have no idea how improved they may be over the RM2 in other factors. Certainly, the RM2s are very, very nice speakers - particularly at their price point. If I had them instead of my RM40s, I would be very content for many, many years.

I'm sorry I'm not more help, but at least it's a start.

Good luck,
Kevin

shokunin · « **Reply #2 on:** 18 Dec 2004, 04:14 am »

Ideally, the 626R would match the best with the LRC. If you are really into multi-channel music that maaay be the way to go. However, for regular 2 ch stereo, the RM30's would play easier and go lower as well. I voted for the RM30 w/ bass. The RM30M's would match well with the RM30 Center for obvious reasons, but I don't see why the LRC couldn't work with the RM30's. Heck, I'm currently using an LRC with RM/x's, eventually I'll upgrade to the Rm30c and by then maybe MLS cabinets will be available.

warnerwh · « **Reply #3 on:** 18 Dec 2004, 04:49 am »

Being as this will also be used for home theater I'd order with out the bass and get a dedicated subwoofer. It really depends on how much bass power you want. I'm sure the RM 30's even with the bass woofers are on the weak side for home theater, at least imo.

ctviggen · « **Reply #4 on:** 18 Dec 2004, 02:53 pm »

I vote for "stripped" RM30s with the bass drivers. I think the sub/RM30 integration might be easier with the bass in the RM30s. Plus, these give you more options later down the road (like whether to point the woofers in/out, use of no sub, more money should you choose to sell them, etc.).

woodsyi · « **Reply #5 on:** 18 Dec 2004, 05:24 pm »

Mike,

Have you seen this ad on AudioGon?
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?spkrfull&1108508893

mlawson66 · « **Reply #6 on:** 20 Dec 2004, 06:59 am »

Thanks guys, great suggestions. I am leaning towards the RM30/auricap and couch option while secretly planning a 2 channel system in the same room. The used RM40s sound like a good way to go. The 626Rs would work too and leave me more cash for other upgrades. Well, I will have to wait until after the holidays now. We have a family medical emergency so I will be out of town for a few weeks. Maybe people will be getting cool new systems and be looking for a good home for their old stuff. Well, I can always hope...

Thanks!

-mike