Surround sound system choice

[SteveRod]

 

[SteveRod]

Hi

Im looking for advice on some surround sound systems.

We were intending on purcgasing the Q acoustics Q-AV system nd our new house was wired for this, however i cant seem to find it for sale anywhere, so were looking for an alternative.

We chose the Q-AV because wanted the tidiness of a soundbar with the rear speakers giving true surround sound. So we have 2 cables available at the TV and 2 for speakers behind alond with a sub.

can any recommend a system that will sit with our cbling and requirements?

thanks

 

[Leeps]

Here's a suggestion that might suit your needs, although this does depend on your budget:

FRONT: Monitor Audio Radius OneHD (not the very latest one)

This is a passive soundbar, in other words you'll need an AV receiver to power it. It's the left, centre and right channel in one discreet cabinet. It's around the same width as a typical 42-46"TV.

REAR: Monitor Audio Radius R90HD (again, not the latest)

These are smallish satellite speakers that come with wall-mounts, but you can purchase matching stands if you prefer.

SUB: Monitor Audio R360HD or R370HD (depending on your budget)

I used the Radius One, Radius R90HD's and R370HD for a while (powered by my current amp the Pioneer VSX2021) and found it an excellent package. If you're interested and are looking for an AV receiver, look for bargains for last year's models. Av receiver prices drop quicker that most other hifi components, so it's not difficult to pick up a decent bargain if you catch it at the right time in the annual cycle

A couple of things to bear in mind though: I've not suggested the very latest incarnation which has just been launched within the last month or so, because it's RRP is quite steep, but the previous models are available heavily discounted in Sevenoaks Hifi stores or on the 'Bay. You ought to be able to pick up the Radius One for about £200 (compared to its original RRP of £500!).

Radius can be purchased in piano black or white and there are some Rosewood examples around, but these are less common. Finally, if you're playing music through this system, I'd really recommend a receiver that has a setting like mine which is Extended Stereo. These plays stereo sources through all available speakers including the subwoofer. The left and right channels of the Radius One soundbar are not huge and on their own can't be expected to deliver decent stereo sound, but with Extended Stereo with all speakers on song, you can have very pleasing results.

The good thing about this package is that you can purchase each component when you can. You can begin with the AV receiver and Radius One on its own, which would still offer a sound significantly better than TV sound, then add the sub and rears when your budget permits. And although visually it's a very discreet package that doesn't fill your room with large boxes, it easily outperforms many conventional soundbars.

 

[f1only]

What about a used one from flea-bay? Clicky

 

[SteveRod]

Cheers :cheers:

Did see the ebay one but he wanted me to get a courier to box it up and collect, now found an ex demo for sale, just need an amp ray: