Moving to a flat in Dubai and need style speaker advice

[SouthaK]

Evening everyone. Come January I'll be moving to a two bedroom apartment in Dubai from a detached house in Bucks. The only items of home cinema equipment I'll be taking is my pioneer amp (VSX-LX70) - the performance of which I am very pleased with - and matching Blu-Ray as the speakers (Kef iQ80s) are far too large and powerful for a flat. I know what the five star style speakers WHFS&V recommend, but my question is can the sub be turned down on these systems without a detrimental effect on the sound quality, both in terms of the surround aspects and quality of the reproduction? I'm thinking of the neighbours above and below here - is it worth buying a style speaker set-up with matching sub or should I just buy four small satellites and forgo the sub altogether?? Note - I currently don't use a sub at all. What say you WHFS&V buffs?

 

[Big Chris]

If you're looking at style speakers, you really will need a sub.

You'll be able to adjust the levels so as not to disturb your neighbours. Go for a smaller sub which should be punchier, the trade off will be in outright depth, but in your position it seems like the best option.

 

[Ronald Archiebald]

SouthaK,

A subwoofer is indispensable, particularly with a sub-sat system.

Ronald

 

[6th.replicant]

Boston Acoustics Soundware XS - the sub is essential BTW - and a SubDude to keep your neighbours happy?

http://www.auralexelite.com/products/product1.asp?id=26&bundle

 

[SouthaK]

OK so a sub is essential but my question is can it be turned down sufficiently so as not to disturb the neighbours and yet still under-pin the sats? I guess so. Would I be better keeping my Kef iQ50s (I think I said iQ80s originally) and opting for some Kef eggs as effectspeakers in the rear, but dispense with the sub altogether?

 

[Ronald Archiebald]

SouthaK:

OK so a sub is essential but my question is can it be turned down sufficiently so as not to disturb the neighbours and yet still under-pin the sats? I guess so.

YES.

SouthaK:

Would I be better keeping my Kef iQ50s (I think I said iQ80s originally) and opting for some Kef eggs as effectspeakers in the rear, but dispense with the sub altogether?

NO.

 

[Dalesman]

Better check the laws re noise levels in Dubai flats to avoid arrest or public lashings.

 

[Ronald Archiebald]

Dalesman:Better check the laws re noise levels in Dubai flats to avoid arrest or public lashings.

.....or even deportation!