Replace Hi-Fi amp with AV Amp

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I have had my hi-fi system for around 10 years and am very happy with the sound. However, after buying a 40" TV I tried listening to the TV sound through the hi-fi and was so impressed I decided to look into surround sound. The hi-fi is a Teac Reference 500 with B&W 602 Series 2 speakers. I have never used the tape deck and, although I have a record deck (Thorens TD160 Mark 2, with ADC ALT-1 tone arm and Shure M-95 ED II for those interested) I haven't played a record for several years. Listening habits change and I probably watch TV/DVDs more than listen to music (at least in this room) - and the listening part is often with the radio or CDs as background.

My plan, therefore, is to buy an AV receiver, perhaps playing CDs using a BluRay player, keeping the speakers but retiring the rest. My questions are (1) How much should I spend on a receiver to get a similar quality? (I wondered about a Yamaha RXV2065 - the network connection appeals), (2) If I get, say, B&W M1 speakers for the extra speakers, do I need a sub, bearing in mind I'm quite happy with the bass? and (3) what sound quality can I expect from a BluRay player and CDs?

I realise I need to audition but a guide would be welcome - I need to manage my wife's expectations! The Yamaha + 3 M1s would cost around £1200 (plus cable, maybe stands) which would be acceptable (I think!). Any thoughts?

 

[Anonymous]

Hi Rockfan.

Regarding question 2 - Do you need a sub ? No. Should you get a sub ? YES !

Others have their preference, but I use subs for both movies and music. Most full range speakers can't hit those really low frequencies, and even if they can get close, a dedicated subwoofer will likely do a better job.

You will instantly hear a difference, and on a personal level, I would never go back to a sub-less system.

 

[Sorreltiger]

As The Force has said, you will feel the benefit of a sub - not for blasting you all the time, but for extending the frequency range and allowing your other speakers to breathe. Don't forget, you will also need a centre speaker - possibly the most important of all!

A few years ago, I wanted to buy the 602s, but reluctantly went for floorstanders as my toddling son would have pulled them off their stands and maimed himself! I remember what a great sense of ambience and depth they created.

You COULD create a really special system around your speakers as there is loads of matching B&W kit on ebay. It wouldn't be hard create a speaker set which sounds as good as today's packages costing at least £2000! That would allow you to put most of your money into a really good AV amp.

 

[Anonymous]

Okay, you've convinced me. Might wait for the sub, though - I like the look of the PV1 but is a bit pricey.

 

[Anonymous]

Whoops, thought my last response would attach itself to THE_FORCE's comment, for whom it was meant.

Sorreltiger, What would you call 'a really good av amp'?

Thanks to you both for your comments.

 

[Anonymous]

No worries Rockfan, and take it step by step. The problem is upgradeitis hits us all in the end, but it's better to do it in steps and see how you feel about moving to Home Cinema from a stereo setup gradually like you're doing. Don't feel as though you need to go all out on your first foray into it.

 

[Sorreltiger]

I meant something a bit better than the budget end of the market. The new Yamaha you mention comes into that category, but there are also good prices on the 1900 and 3900 where they're available.