Need help with surrond sound. Speaker/Tech gurus in here please.

[LockOut]

So I have on idea what I'm looking at, let alone if this is possible (refraise how much insane money it may cost) I am moving into a new place and I have always wanted surround sound in my bedroom for music. I hate having just 2 little crappy desktop speakers. I want a speaker in each upper corner of the room. I would really prefer wireless speakers in the 4 corners of the room (sub can be wires I don't care). I don't know if they even make wireless speakers like that that run on say D batteries or something. And if they do does the sound quality suck since they are wireless?? I want the system to work with my desktop computer. and my big TV with both my 360 and ps3. Can anyone point me into the right direction. I don't wana go to the local stereo shop just to be tkaen by the sales rep.

[GolfNut]

Tons of options out there. Crutchfield.com, amazon, etc. Try reading through this article and following the links. Hopefully it will help you out a bit. http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-7612_7-5109926-4.html

[GolfNut]

I bought my daughter a wireless surround system a few years back that she loved. It was around $300 I think.

[hammondc]

Unfortunately, there are still no true 'wireless' speakers. They always have wires of some sort to plug them into the RF module or to power outlets. Even the stuff that is available is not very good (yet). You could get a small for factor speaker like Mirage, Anthony Gallo etc. These could go on very thin stands against the wall and would not be very noticeable. Since they are very small, you could use a small gauge speaker wire and run it along the baseboard.

[Volt]

I agree. The issue with any type of wireless is just not worth the hassle. Easiest way I found, put the system on an interior wall. Run the wires up to the attic and then down to the spots you need. Try to avoid using exterior walls as fishing through insulation is not really fun. It's a one time project, call a few buddies over for morale support and make it a good time.

Unfortunately, there are still no true 'wireless' speakers. They always have wires of some sort to plug them into the RF module or to power outlets. Even the stuff that is available is not very good (yet). You could get a small for factor speaker like Mirage, Anthony Gallo etc. These could go on very thin stands against the wall and would not be very noticeable. Since they are very small, you could use a small gauge speaker wire and run it along the baseboard.

[cricky101]

I bought the Energy Take 5 system for my living room last winter and love it. GREAT sound for the money.

I wanted wireless, too, but after looking at the options decided to skip it because of what I read about quality, and the fact they'd have wires from somewhere, too, whether to an outlet or a module of some sort. I ended up running the wires behind my baseboards in my living room, although if you're going to put them in the corners of the room, the down-from-the-attic option might work better.

Lots of reviews on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Energy-Classic-Theater-System-Black/product-reviews/B001202C44/ref=sr_1_1_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1) (but they're cheaper at Newegg (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882269024&cm_re=energy_take_5-_-82-269-024-_-Product)).

[DBall]

Where and when are you moving?

[AD720]

Unfortunately, there are still no true 'wireless' speakers. They always have wires of some sort to plug them into the RF module or to power outlets. Even the stuff that is available is not very good (yet). You could get a small for factor speaker like Mirage, Anthony Gallo etc. These could go on very thin stands against the wall and would not be very noticeable. Since they are very small, you could use a small gauge speaker wire and run it along the baseboard.

:tpd:

Little bitty speakers that sound great and a thin speaker wire, hidden behind a piece of molding OR little bitty speakers that sound crappy and a thick power cable and RF module?

Easy choice there.

[aich75013]

What about a sound bar?
I haven't actually heard one myself, so I don't know how good they are. Just another option.

[AD720]

What about a sound bar?
I haven't actually heard one myself, so I don't know how good they are. Just another option.

We have a Yamaha sound bar in the bedroom that I got on sale. Actually sounds pretty good, I was impressed but it was pricey at full price. Still may be cheaper than buying a receiver and everything. It has a very believable simulated surround setting and sounds great in stereo for music.

[Dave128]

I have a wireless speaker system for my Bose that I put in my bedroom. It works off the main system located in the downstairs tv room.

[Resipsa]

Agree with those who say wireless speakers suck, they do. The technology simply isn't there yet, and probably won't be for
Some time

[tchariya]

*sorry this might be overkill response, I know OP was looking for surround sound speakers advice*


I've had to tackle the issue with combining my A/V equipment sound with my PC sound. It just seems like placement of your tv and a/v equipment as well as your computer desk is key to what might work for you.

Some suggestions (no company product listed)

1) your pc/laptop setup might need to be kept separate due to how everything is situated in the bedroom. Plus, you might be playing games on your pc/laptop while a movie or something is running on the TV. In this situation, finding a receiver that will output both audio sources at the same time is not likely.

2) there are a lot of low profile sound bars that emulate surround sound and work really well for a bedroom situation. Some of these sound bars are wireless in a sense, mainly wireless output to a beefy included sub. Most come with integrated receiver with a few audio source inputs.

3) the more sophisticated your needs/requirements, the more $$ you might be dumping into your setup, which means upgrade costs might climb. Maybe you need to have a internet connected tv..or maybe a pc media center..or maybe you prefer a Tivo component to your BluRay player..and a seperate Xbox/Wii/PS3. These all factor into what you want/need/require.

ask yourself...

- what do you need this component for
- can that component use be found in something integrated...ie PS3 seconds as a Bluray player or media center PC used as a DVR/Bluray player

I'm sure a lot more options becomes available as you layout your ideas/plans. Then you have the fun job of reading reviews of these devices....best sound for the $$, best 1080P lcd/plasma for ?? size...etc etc...do you really need 3D?

[Dave128]

Agree with those who say wireless speakers suck, they do. The technology simply isn't there yet, and probably won't be for
Some time

I have to say that my wireless speaker sounds awesome.

[Dave128]

1) your pc/laptop setup might need to be kept separate due to how everything is situated in the bedroom. Plus, you might be playing games on your pc/laptop while a movie or something is running on the TV. In this situation, finding a receiver that will output both audio sources at the same time is not likely.

My Bose wireless system handles this situation just fine. It is linked through the main system, but plays independantly. I can be watching tv/movie in one room and listening to music in the other.

[Resipsa]

I have to say that my wireless speaker sounds awesome.

If you like it that's all that matters. Doesn't change technological fact though:D

[tchariya]

My Bose wireless system handles this situation just fine. It is linked through the main system, but plays independantly. I can be watching tv/movie in one room and listening to music in the other.


A system that can pump out two sources to two different outputs independently is nice.

Bose is niiiice.

[tchariya]

If you like it that's all that matters. Doesn't change technological fact though:D

And if it uses the 900mhz or 2.4Ghz spectrum, you will find that there could be a lot of interference from phones and network wireless routes and such, especially in/near a multi-tenant building.

[hammondc]

I have to say that my wireless speaker sounds awesome.

OK. Can you clarify what system you are talking about? OP was asking about a wireless surround system, not a wireless music distribution system. I searched the Bose site out of curiousity and found plenty of distro systems, but now wireless speakers. Maybe I am missing something.

THIS (http://www.bose.com/controller?url=/shop_online/digital_music_systems/wireless_systems/soundlink/index.jsp) is the only thing I could find. Again, this is a stand alone system primarily for music and does not include a wireless surround solution. I suppose it would be an extension of something like THIS (http://www.bose.com/controller?url=/shop_online/home_theater/21channel_systems/lifestyle_235/index.jsp).
:confused:

[Dave128]

I have a lifestyle 38 (similar to this http://www.bose.com/controller?url=/shop_online/home_theater/51channel_systems/dvd_systems/lifestyle_48/index.jsp) with the link system. They don't make a complete wireless surround system (yet) that I am aware of. You need to buy each wireless receiver and speaker seperately. Mine came free with my purchase (at the time it was ~$400 value).

One clarification is that I am NOT a techie. I bought the system because it sounded awesome in the demo room. I only have the link system added on because it came with the $3k purchase. IMO, the wireless speaker has perfect sound that I would put against any other speaker system on the market. My parents have a Fisher system with 3 foot tall speakers with 6 to 8 inch woofers, receiver, et al that this one tiny Bose remote speaker blows away, hands down.

[Dave128]

If you like it that's all that matters. Doesn't change technological fact though:D

see above post

[Resipsa]

see above post

YOU think it works for
Your needs and it sounds, all that matters. On a different, technological level, wireless speakers still suck. I would refer you to a site like AVS to learn more, but they aren't very nice there and raving about Fischer and Bose speakers will get you reduced to a smoldering pile of
Ash in short order sans flame retardant suit;)

But again, it's your system and sounding good to you is what matters

[hammondc]

YOU think it works for
....On a different, technological level, wireless speakers still suck. I would refer you to a site like AVS to learn more, but they aren't very nice there and raving about Fischer and Bose speakers will get you reduced to a smoldering pile of
Ash in short order sans flame retardant suit;)

But again, it's your system and sounding good to you is what matters

Very true on all counts.....

[Dave128]

Yes, both systems sound good to me.

My parents Fisher system is at least 20 years old and still sounds damn good. It has all seperate components that I'd put up against just about anything else I've heard. I used to sell systems 10 years ago while in college. I used to know a thing or two about music systems. I used their system as a comparison. Bad choice on my part I guess.

You guys seem to be the all encompassing experts on this particular subject. Have either of you ever heard what the Bose wireless system sounds like? What systems do you guys have (be honest)? Educate me, please.

[Volt]

Yes, both systems sound good to me.

My parents Fisher system is at least 20 years old and still sounds damn good. It has all seperate components that I'd put up against just about anything else I've heard. I used to sell systems 10 years ago while in college. I used to know a thing or two about music systems. I used their system as a comparison. Bad choice on my part I guess.

You guys seem to be the all encompassing experts on this particular subject. Have either of you ever heard what the Bose wireless system sounds like? What systems do you guys have (be honest)? Educate me, please.


I am and never was a "name" type person. $15 jeans, a tshirt and Walmart shoes usually work fine. My Dad passed on to me a set of Bose Acoutimass 5 suround system. I was wowed, maybe there is someting to owning a premioum name. Later on I purchased a set of Acoutimas 6 for the TV room. I don't much about a wireless system, but I will say the Bose systems are fantastic. I did not care for teh Wave I herad in a friend's kitchen, but the full on systems get my vote. I also love the small sise of the cubes. The AM5's are at least 25 - 30 years old and sould like new to me. This is one time I can say, maybe the name on the side matters.

[jkim05]

Bose speakers are ok, but they're designed to sound good despite their small size. When it comes to sound, at a certain point the size of the box matters because the frequencies need to resonate. While Bose stuff does sound decent, when you compare the price with what you get there are better options out there. Those avsforum guys are as ahead we are with cigars, and I'd say Bose is like their macanudo. It's nice until you hear better.

If you don't care too much about sound I'm sure there are setups out there for what your looking for, but your speaker placement does not sound ideal. In 5.1 surround, the two "surround" speakers should be next to the listening area not behind. Also the two front channels are in stereo, but the majority of talking and stuff on TV comes from the center channel, which is terribly undersized in most HTIB sets.

I have Definitive technology speakers, the two front ones have built in active powered 12" subs and my front center channel is one of their smaller front speakers so I could get more sound. I have this running on a pioneer elite receiver.

[GTsetGO]

The receiver that you buy will be the deciding factor as to how good your Surround Sound will be. I have installed 100's of SS systems over the years and from what i see, Pioneer make some of the best bang for your buck speakers out there.

as for the speakers. are you looking for cube style speakers, in-wall, in-ceiling, bookshelf, etc. there are a million ways you can go.

I myself have 6" kevlar coned angled in-ceiling speakers for both my front and rear speakers. i then have a mns tru-center speaker that sits on top of my TV cabinet. then a 150 watt 12" sub for my lows.

[hammondc]

Yes, both systems sound good to me.

My parents Fisher system is at least 20 years old and still sounds damn good. It has all seperate components that I'd put up against just about anything else I've heard. I used to sell systems 10 years ago while in college. I used to know a thing or two about music systems. I used their system as a comparison. Bad choice on my part I guess.

You guys seem to be the all encompassing experts on this particular subject. Have either of you ever heard what the Bose wireless system sounds like? What systems do you guys have (be honest)? Educate me, please.

Since you asked..
Bose is like Gurkha. They make an OK product at a grossly inflated price. Nothing about either product is particularly terrible, but they both should cost about 1/4 of what they do (if that much). The noise canceling headphones are actually quite good, but that is where it ends for me.

Bose used to be a leading edge speaker manufacturer. I mean like 35 or 40 years ago before modern surround. They were one of the first to created a surround sound with just 2 front speakers with with the Bose 901. They had a rear firing speaker in them that bounced the sound off the ceiling and wall behind them. This created just enough delay to trick your ears. Then came the little cube speakers and bass module. That was probably 20 years ago. That was the last innovation they had.

Bose and Gurkha both have geniuses in their marketing departments. The target market for Bose seems to be fairly affluent people who do not know a lot about home theater or 2 channel audio who want a decent product with an impressive brand name. Somehow...Bose manages to convince people they need to spend $3k on a pretty damn good music distribution system with a bunch of crappy speakers.

The problem with all of the above is that there are other speakers in the same niche market that will blow the plastic enclosures off those supercubes....like Anthony Gallo, Totem Acoustics or Mirage....and they will do it at a lower price.

HT is my addiction. I have spent a lot of my hard earned cash to get to the point I am at now. When I started putting it together years ago I spent a lot of time researching on forums, reading in publications and listening to a LOT of speakers. It took me 6 years to get to where I have it now and I am starting to get 'upgrade-itus'. If anyone wants to know how HT can sound, stop by and I will put some stuff on that will shred your face. The subwoofer alone will knock **** off the walls and has pretty flat in-room response down to about 18hz.

[hammondc]

.... from what i see, Pioneer make some of the best bang for your buck speakers out there.
.

Do you mean receivers? If so, I agree 100%. I had a Pioneer and sold it to get the Onkyo I have now and regret the hell out of it. I am considering unloading the Onkyo to go back to a Pioneer.

[Resipsa]

HT is my addiction. I have spent a lot of my hard earned cash to get to the point I am at now. When I started putting it together years ago I spent a lot of time researching on forums, reading in publications and listening to a LOT of speakers. It took me 6 years to get to where I have it now and I am starting to get 'upgrade-itus'. If anyone wants to know how HT can sound, stop by and I will put some stuff on that will shred your face. The subwoofer alone will knock **** off the walls and has pretty flat in-room response down to about 18hz.You sound like me, :r

My system has been years in the making, always tweaking:noon

Right now I'm running a 7.2 system with dual subs, my room response like yours is fairly flat down into the mid teens.

the names of the speakers aren't important. Small, ID companies who nobody has ever heard of that buys in a big box store. Fronts, center, sides and rear are an axiom setup, subs are dual outlaw LFM-1 EX's running in max extension mode. I love having new people come over to the house and putting on something like The Matrix or WOW and watching them almost **** themselves when the subsonics hit them in the chest and the windows of the house start rattling in the frames, :banger

[GTsetGO]

Do you mean receivers? If so, I agree 100%. I had a Pioneer and sold it to get the Onkyo I have now and regret the hell out of it. I am considering unloading the Onkyo to go back to a Pioneer.

yeah. receivers. brain was working faster than i could type.

[hammondc]

You sound like me, :r

My system has been years in the making, always tweaking:noon

Right now I'm running a 7.2 system with dual subs, my room response like yours is fairly flat down into the mid teens.

the names of the speakers aren't important. Small, ID companies who nobody has ever heard of that buys in a big box store. Fronts, center, sides and rear are an axiom setup, subs are dual outlaw LFM-1 EX's running in max extension mode. I love having new people come over to the house and putting on something like The Matrix or WOW and watching them almost **** themselves when the subsonics hit them in the chest and the windows of the house start rattling in the frames, :banger

Yep...I looked at and tried Axiom back when they did free shipping for returns. Like them a lot, but they seemed very bright to me (which is why I also do not like Klipsch). All my speakers are from the now defunct AV123 (Onix audio) including an MFW15 for a sub. That thing absolute destroys at about 50% gain. Good pick on Axiom...good stuff. I like the Aperion gear too.

[Resipsa]

Yep...I looked at and tried Axiom back when they did free shipping for returns. Like them a lot, but they seemed very bright to me (which is why I also do not like Klipsch). All my speakers are from the now defunct AV123 (Onix audio) including an MFW15 for a sub. That thing absolute destroys at about 50% gain. Good pick on Axiom...good stuff. I like the Aperion gear too.

the fact that both klipsch and axiom seem bright to many is probably at least partly attributable to the fact that both use metal cones.

I'm very interested in the Emotiva 8.3's, or maybe the 6.2's and may make a chnage in the near future. Given my room, I like the boundary and tweeter controls they provide.

[Dave128]

Schooled!! (but, I still like my Bose. It works for me.)

[hammondc]

the fact that both klipsch and axiom seem bright to many is probably at least partly attributable to the fact that both use metal cones.

I'm very interested in the Emotiva 8.3's, or maybe the 6.2's and may make a chnage in the near future. Given my room, I like the boundary and tweeter controls they provide.

And horns (at least in Klipsch). I really do not like horns. Emotiva stuff is supposed the be the bee's knees. I have not heard any of it yet.

[HK3-]

Schooled!! (but, I still like my Bose. It works for me.)

:tpd: I'm running the 10 speaker Bose Acoustimass surround off a Denon AVR-1909 and it feels more like a padron vs. a gurkha for me. Smoke what what you like, right? :tu

[jkim05]

And horns (at least in Klipsch). I really do not like horns. Emotiva stuff is supposed the be the bee's knees. I have not heard any of it yet.

Yeah the horn tweeters in Klipsch speakers can cause listening fatigue pretty quickly for me. I wouldn't have gone with the Deftechs myself, but I got them at cost, so it was too good of a deal to turn down. Plus, they're shop is not far from me so if I need repairs, I don't have to worry about shipping.

[hammondc]

Deftech makes nice stuff. Definitely a great choice.

[Sled Dog]

I miss building a nice surround system.... I like to watch and "feel" the movie, but the wife just likes hearing it..... Sadly I sold off the system b/c it was like owning a Corvette and only getting to drive it at 30 MPH. Now it's just a pair of Polk TSi 400's in the front and that's it

[mosesbotbol]

Deftech makes nice stuff. Definitely a great choice.

I have had a DefTech BP8 set up for 15 years and still sounds good. If wish to keep floor speakers, I would continue to rock them.

[AD720]

I miss building a nice surround system.... I like to watch and "feel" the movie, but the wife just likes hearing it..... Sadly I sold off the system b/c it was like owning a Corvette and only getting to drive it at 30 MPH. Now it's just a pair of Polk TSi 400's in the front and that's it

That is sort of where I am. I have a KEF Reference system and an Integra Amp that sounds amazing, it's not state of the art or anything (it was in the late 90's though ;)) but its 5.1 digital. I never get to crank it. I've been thinking about selling it all and just getting a pair of really nice bookshelf speakers and calling it day.

[cricky101]

Not sure if you're still looking at options, but someone mentioned a sound bar and this is on sale for about $150 (http://www.boscovs.com/StoreFrontWeb/Product.bos?rch=Y&quantity=1&itemNumber=23793&source=cj) for a Sony sound bar and sub.

There are quite a few reviews on Amazon too (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-HT-CT150-Sound-Bar-System/dp/B003C1AO2I/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top), although it's twice the price there.