Surround Speakers

[admin_exported]

Hi,

I am starting to think about adding surround-sound to my set-up but cannot really accommodate another set of full-sized speakers, so initially thought that I should go for compact speakers. However, the front-stereo pair will end up sat on top of my main hi-fi speakers which are either side of the projector screen already, so I started to think that I’d probably get better results by incorporating my existing speakers. My existing speakers are Ruark Sabre IIIs, driven by a Naim Nait XS, so I contacted Ruark to enquire about their current range, but apparently they no longer produce speakers.

If Ruark cannot help me, then I need to turn elsewhere, so I wonder, can anyone here recommend speakers that would be a good match for my existing speakers so that I can build a 5.1 set-up, or should I just settle for a compact set?

Thanks,

Martin

 

[Anonymous]

Hi Martin,

Keep the Sabres unless you want to replace them with somthing equally as good. You will need a decent centre speaker, perhaps hunt around on eBay for a Ruark Epilogue

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ruark-Dialogue-One-Cherry-Center-Speaker-Unused-rrp-400-/220808980199?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item33693da6e7

There is one on their now.

For rears and a sub you really ought to go and visit your local specialist with a sketch of your room.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply VULPESDUBBUS,

I wasn't for one moment thinking about replacing the Sabres, I've had them for around six years and remain very happy with them. The question was more about using them as the front stereo pair in a surround system. With new Ruark speakers no longer being available, I was hoping someone could suggest a good sonic match for the other speakers required for a 5.1 system. If no-one can, then I'll continue to use the Sabres for stereo, but opt for something like the B&W MT-30 for surround duties. But however good the B&W system is, I don't imagine for one moment it'll be anywhere near as good as a system comprising Sabres at the front with other speakers of a similar tonal quality in the other required positions

Thanks, also, for suggesting the eBay auction, but I'm a bit dubious about buying second-hand speakers without having a chance to hear them, even when (as in the link you've posted) the seller claims that they are un-used.

Thanks,

Martin

 

[Anonymous]

It would be a shame not to use the Sabres for front left and right in AV mode as well as stereo. No idea about the seller but looking at the phote I would say they had been used as the plastic covers are missing from the speaker connections on the lower pair. Failing that and assuming you still fancy the M1 satellites then get a B&W HTM62 to compliment your Sabres rather than another M1.

 

[Anonymous]

I've just spoken to my local Hi-Fi shop to see if they have any Ruark speakers left and they have an Ex-Dem pair of Talisman IIIs which they'll let me have for a grand. So following a demonstration, this Saturday, I could well be using the Sabres as rear surrounds.

I'll keep the HTM62 in mind, but I might need to go a bit higher end if I buy the Talismans (Talismen?).

Martin

 

[Anonymous]

I bought the Talisman IIIs yesterday after hearing them on a CD transport/DAC/pre-/power amp set up (all Naim electronics), £7000+ worth of kit. Prior to yesterday, I wouldn't have believed that CD could possibly sound that good, so I think I know what I want after I have the surround sound sorted.

Thinking that its more important that the front three speakers match than the front-stereo pair match the rears, I'm considering using one of the Sabres as the centre speaker. Is there a sound technical reason for not doing this, or would this make a good dialog speaker?