[stc4life]

If the room is mostly for music, you might consider two Rythmik F15s for your subs.  You get more flexibility in placement and they are universally praised for their "musicality" (whatever that means).

I'd also agree on spending less on the pre/pro and amps, and more on the speakers and treatments.  you could probably get 5 ht2-tls if you go with modode's suggestion.  I'm not sure, but you might have issues placing the ht2-tls so close to the walls.  Maybe you could do sealed ht2s instead, if you will have a sub (or two).

Sounds like it is going to be great no matter what you choose.  There are a lot of good choices above.

[Srgtfury]

$5000 for a receiver?  No offense, but he might as well just pop the extra grand or so and get the Arcam D2v. 

I am currently driving 2 Ht3 the Arcam 600 and there is plenty of ood power for concert level listening in a room larger than the OP has listed.  The 2nd option you listed above must be the Anthem D2v but theprice points I have seen on that piece with powr is way more than the rcam.  I also understand that the D2v has Hdmi issues as does the Arcam with certain STB's.

Thank you very much

Fury

[Nuance]

$5000 for a receiver?  No offense, but he might as well just pop the extra grand or so and get the Arcam D2v. 

I am currently driving 2 Ht3 the Arcam 600 and there is plenty of ood power for concert level listening in a room larger than the OP has listed.  The 2nd option you listed above must be the Anthem D2v but theprice points I have seen on that piece with powr is way more than the rcam.  I also understand that the D2v has Hdmi issues as does the Arcam with certain STB's.

Thank you very much

Fury

The HDMI problems with the Anthem?  If you followed the threads about the "HDMI" issues you'll see the Anthem was not the issue, but rather the crappy cables people were using.  As long as the cables are seated correctly in the sockets there will be zero issues.  Also, the Anthem can be fixed via firmware updates.  In short, the HDMI issues were user error and poor HDMI cables.

Also, if the OP does go with the HT3's (which meas he'd have to change the setup), the Arcam would not provide enough power.  Again I mean no offense. 

[Srgtfury]

Hi,

I have heard from my local Anthem dealer this last week that, despite protracted tech support replies,  cable chengeouts, etc.,the newAnthem Dv2's he placed in service this last 2 weeks, have HDMI issues, with the Moto boxes and DTV boxes, requiring non Hdmi audio input.  I have not had opportunity to see this 1st hand, but I do give the guy credence, as he sold e my Arcam 600 and worked through the input/Hdmi/pop issues with tech support, etc., as best they are currently functioning.

I am running the Arcam biamped to the Ht3's.  Please explain the reason that there is insufficient power from that setup.

Thank you very much

Fury

[Nuance]

The Arcam AVR600 provides 150 WPC in stereo mode; 120 in multichannel mode (which the OP will be using)  Based on what I've seen others mention (I won't name them because I don't want to call anyone out here), the HT3's need over 200 WPC to bring out their full potential.  This could very well just be an opinion, but I've seen it mentioned more than once by owners.  Based on this I made my comment.  I did, however, forget that the Arcam can be biamped.  But what if they want to use those channels for rear surrounds? 

Again, this is not meant to bash the Arcam, as I am sure it's very, very nice.  I know I'd be happy to own it.    For the price, however, in my opinion there are better options.  This is highly subjective and should be tested by the OP, of course. 

Check out the D2v threads on the net, especially at AVS.  They have had Arcam reps in there, and it seems the issues (if there were any in Anthem's part) have been resolved or were due to other variables (like the Moto boxes themselves). 

Lets not ruin this thread over a "this equipment is better than that equipment debate."  I don't mean to invoke an argument here.  PM me if you want to further discuss.  I respect your opinion, FYI. 

[srb]

AirKuhl,
 
You have stated that multi-channel music is the first priority.  Therefore 4 matched speakers plus a center speaker that can be matched as closely as possible to the 4, and fit horizontally in the space below the TV is indicated.
 
1.  Based on the available floor space on either side of the entertainment center and the budget, the HT3s meet neither criteria.
 
2.  The SongTowers or the HT1-TL or the HT2-TL are a better fit for both the space limitations and the budget.
 
3.  With the dimensions of available space below the TV in hand, it is very likely that Jim can come up with a configuration of a "matching" horizontal center speaker that closely matches the voicing of the other speakers you choose.
 
4.  The speakers mentioned in #2 are also a bit more efficient than the HT3s, and won't place as great a load on the amplifier.  Whether you prefer the simplicity of a receiver such as the Arcam AVR600, or want to go the separates route with a surround processor and multi-channel amplifier, is up to you.  Either would do the job, but I don't see a processor like the Anthem DV2 that alone costs $6K as being part of this equation.
 
5.  There are quite a few subwoofers that would work, but whether you want to use the entertainment cabinet space to house the subwoofer or have it (them) out in the room, I think one that has built-in room correction would be advantageous, unless you want to use an external room correction unit, and have yet another component.  I am not familiar enough with the current processors and receivers to know how good their room correction is as applied to subwoofers, so if someone else does, please add your input.
 
Steve

[Nuance]

Either would do the job, but I don't see a processor like the Anthem DV2 that alone costs $6K as being part of this equation.

And a $5000 receiver is? 

Separates have better sound quality in my experience, hence the recommendation.  YMMV  Either way you look at it, to get amazing sound quality and to fulfill the OP's requests there are only a few pieces that are capable.

To prevent getting ganged up on further, I'll change my recommendation to the Parasound P7.  It's much cheaper, can be used for multi-channel music and has HT bypass.  Now grab a great receiver (doesn't have to cost $5000) and you've got great SQ for music and movies.  Yes, you'll have two pieces and a few extra cables, but you'll achieve the best of both worlds. 

[Nuance]

It's been a while since I have read about Seaton but wouldn't the catalyst put him around 10k just for speakers?  I also like the suggestion about the Submersive, from checking the specs a while back those things look amazing.  I really like arcam stuff but I think 5k for an AVR is a little crazy, the connections are just going to get outdated in a few years anyway, but you cant go wrong with Arcam, at least the few pieces I have heard by them.

Yes, but as mentioned he wouldn't have to pay for amps.  The Sparks I also mentioned would be better suited IMO.  But hey, this is a Salk forum, and I'd love to see the OP buy Salk's.  HT1's all the way around, as already mentioned.    

[modode]

Either would do the job, but I don't see a processor like the Anthem DV2 that alone costs $6K as being part of this equation.

And a $5000 receiver is? 

Separates have better sound quality in my experience, hence the recommendation.  YMMV  Either way you look at it, to get amazing sound quality and to fulfill the OP's requests there are only a few pieces that are capable.

To prevent getting ganged up on further, I'll change my recommendation to the Parasound P7.  It's much cheaper, can be used for multi-channel music and has HT bypass.  Now grab a great receiver (doesn't have to cost $5000) and you've got great SQ for music and movies.  Yes, you'll have two pieces and a few extra cables, but you'll achieve the best of both worlds.

Isn't the P7 a preamp?  With no HDMI inputs?  That costs 2K?

I don't think that would meet the OP's needs very well since he specified a setup that's video-capable.

I do agree the Arcam units are a bit overpriced for this setup however.  I like the idea of a high-quality lower cost receiver coupled with a powerful amp(s) (like the Emotiva).

[Nuance]

Isn't the P7 a preamp?  With no HDMI inputs?  That costs 2K?

I don't think that would meet the OP's needs very well since he specified a setup that's video-capable.

^ Hence the idea of also getting a receiver for strictly home theater.  Like I said, best of both worlds (One for only 2-channel and multi-channel music that has a bypass for HT, and one for only movies).  And all coming in at much less than the prices mentioned already.  Did you miss that part of my post?   

For those who don't know, a HT bypass allows the preamp to be connected to the receiver, thus allowing the amplifiers that power the speakers to be run using the receiver when the preamp is in "bypass" mode or turned off.  It's a highly convenient feature and comes in handy for those who cannot afford an Arcam receiver or Anthem D2v.  You should read up on it before you tell me it won't meet the OP's needs (which it does, of course).   

I like the idea of a high-quality lower cost receiver coupled with a powerful amp(s) (like the Emotiva).

So do I, hence my above recommendation for both.  The HT bypass connection will allow each to be used separately, but still allow the amplifiers to work with each individual component. 

[modode]

Isn't the P7 a preamp?  With no HDMI inputs?  That costs 2K?

I don't think that would meet the OP's needs very well since he specified a setup that's video-capable.

^ Hence the idea of also getting a receiver for strictly home theater.  Like I said, best of both worlds (One for only 2-channel and multi-channel music that has a bypass for HT, and one for only movies).  And all coming in at much less than the prices mentioned already.  Did you miss that part of my post?   

For those who don't know, a HT bypass allows the preamp to be connected to the receiver, thus allowing the amplifiers that power the speakers to be run using the receiver when the preamp is in "bypass" mode or turned off.  It's a highly convenient feature and comes in handy for those who cannot afford an Arcam receiver or Anthem D2v.  You should read up on it before you tell me it won't meet the OP's needs (which it does, of course).   

I like the idea of a high-quality lower cost receiver coupled with a powerful amp(s) (like the Emotiva).

So do I, hence my above recommendation for both.  The HT bypass connection will allow each to be used separately, but still allow the amplifiers to work with each individual component.

My fault, I misunderstood your recommendation regarding the P7 PLUS a receiver.  Got it.

Seems like a reasonable solution.

[Rackon]

Nuance, I'd normally agree with you that separates offer better performance, and I'm no fan of HT receivers, especially for music listening (Quite the reverse in fact.)

But in the case of Arcam AVR600 I'd have to say that this receiver offers truly exceptional performance for the $$ that has been previosly available only with separates costing much more.

I am a high end audiophile (20+ years in the hobby and a 16k 2 channel set up) who's extremely picky about sound. I don't own the 600, but I did get to audition it a couple times, and I was frankly surprised by how good it sounds- it's an outstanding piece in every way. And the amp section is way more powerful than its conservative ratings might lead you to believe. Having had an Arcam AVR300 for HT, I would say the brand is an easy rec for someone building a music suround/HT system how really cares about music. BTW, have you actually heard the Arcam yourself?

If music listening as well as movies is a priority, I'd frankly go simple with the Arcam or separates with Cary gear. Although they are one of the most respected high end audio manufacturers, Cary's a bit underrated in the HT theater community - however they produce outstanding gear for both music and HT .

[Nuance]

Nuance, I'd normally agree with you that separates offer better performance, and I'm no fan of HT receivers, especially for music listening (Quite the reverse in fact.)

But in the case of Arcam AVR600 I'd have to say that this receiver offers truly exceptional performance for the $$ that has been previosly available only with separates costing much more.

I am a high end audiophile (20+ years in the hobby and a 16k 2 channel set up) who's extremely picky about sound. I don't own the 600, but I did get to audition it a couple times, and I was frankly surprised by how good it sounds- it's an outstanding piece in every way. And the amp section is way more powerful than its conservative ratings might lead you to believe. Having had an Arcam AVR300 for HT, I would say the brand is an easy rec for someone building a music suround/HT system how really cares about music. BTW, have you actually heard the Arcam yourself?

If music listening as well as movies is a priority, I'd frankly go simple with the Arcam or separates with Cary gear. Although they are one of the most respected high end audio manufacturers, Cary's a bit underrated in the HT theater community - however they produce outstanding gear for both music and HT .

Like I said, I am not knocking the Arcam. 

I've heard the AVR300 you have and think it's quite nice, albeit overly priced for its time.  But yes, its one of the best sounding receivers I've ever heard. 

So you think the 600 is as a good as separates costing the same price (Cary, for instance)?  I have not heard it, but I have my doubts.  This is simply based on my experiences comparing the two formats; nothing else. 

I agree Cary makes awesome 2-channel products.  There have been lots of great recommendations (like the Submersive), so I hope the OP finds what he's looking for.  I think I'm done with this thread until people stop bashing other people's recommendations.  And for what it's worth, I never bashed the Arcam or receivers; I simply said I feel separates sound better, that the Arcam may not fit the bill if he wants HT3's (power wise) and also said if he's going to spend $5000 why not spend $6000 on the D2v, which is the "best of the best" according to the audio community?  And yes, I've heard it (the D2v) and it's amazing!

Happy hunting folks.

[srb]

I just said if he's going to spend $5000 why not spend $6000 on the D2v?

Only because the D2v + 5 channel power amplifier + cables is closer to $7000?
 
Steve

[floresjc]

I went with SongTowers all the way around based on Zybar's experience (with the exception of a SongCenter in my system). I haven't received them yet, but I have done quite a bit of listening on Dennis and Swerd's and have no reason to think it wouldn't be stellar.

That said, if looking for just that extra bit of detail, I'd have to agree with HT1 bookshelves all the way around and perhaps a sub like the 15" Rythmik dual passive radiator I ordered. Thats only about half to 60% the posters budget and would leave enough for a nice amp/processor and whatever odds and ends he might want. I'm a huge fan of towers myself, which is why I went Songtowers over HT1, plus there is a decent enough price differential where it impacted my budget.

[mathgeek97]

HT2-TLs up front and sealed HT2s or HT1s plus a pair of Rythmiks.  Lots of choices with such a budget.  I know this combo has been suggested then shot down over the HT2-TLs being too close to the front wall.  However, Jim can make them front ported.  A little less WAF friendly, but more placement friendly.  The true recomendation should be to give Jim a call!     And don't forget that Jim and Co. can make some handsome, custom stands.  There are pictures aplenty around here somewhere.

[srb]

The true recomendation should be to give Jim a call!      

Hey, that's a good idea!  I have the feeling Jim knows a thing or two about the placement and applications of his different models.
 
Steve