Greetings,

Instead of purchasing a C1, I bought a pair of B1s to match my front main B1s. I experimented with using one vs. two B1s, portrait vs. landscape, T-M vs. M-T, below vs. above vs. both sides vs. both above and below my 27" TV. The greatest difference that my old ears could hear was in the higher freqs. These are the setups that pleased my ears the most:

Best: One B1 placed upside down (portrait, M-T) on top of the TV. No WAF, yet (moving the speaker behind the TV on a stand or shelf or wall mount might gain WAF).

Better: Two B1s placed end to end with their midranges next to each other (landscape, T-M-M-T). I wired these in series since my amp cannot handle 4 ohms. Not much WAF either.

Good: Two B1s placed one on each side of the TV (portrait, T-M), wired in series. This has WAF.

Hope this helps someone or at least encourages some further experimentation towards finding the ultimate location(s) for B1s as center channel speakers.

Sincerely,
Leo W

Excellent post, I'm going to have to experiment when I get home today.

I'm curious though, since I have a RP TV that angle from the back to the screen...could I possible hide two B1's on either side behind the TV? What does this do for audio quality if my speaker is pointing at the back (side-back really) of the tv? Bad idea?

Excellent post, I'm going to have to experiment when I get home today.

I'm curious though, since I have a RP TV that angle from the back to the screen...could I possible hide two B1's on either side behind the TV? What does this do for audio quality if my speaker is pointing at the back (side-back really) of the tv? Bad idea?
Having a solid object, such as your TV, between you and the speakers is very definitely going to muffle the sound. Also, two speakers on either side of the TV as a "center" will kind of defeat the purpose as someone sitting off-axis will hear all of the sound coming from the speaker closest to them instead of from the center of the screen (not a big deal for a small TV, but significant for a big screen.)

Hi all. I just spent the last couple of hours reading through this entire thread, and I believe you all have me sold on Athenas. Currently I have an H/K 635 on the way, and was thinking that the C1, B1's L/R combined with 4 S.5's and Dayton 12 would be a nice setup for a room 20x14. Going for a decent 7.1 system with the smallest amount of money...

Anyone think that this is not enough? I'd like to have the PB10 sub, but that's just not an option right this second...

In fact, my house isn't even built yet, hell it's not broken ground yet...and I'm trying to get my ducks in a row before we close 4-5 months from now. Should I wait for pricing to come down or go ahead and jump on deals as they happen now?

I couldn't pass up the H/K 635 ($485 shipped from Harmon Audio) but I'm wondering if I should wait on getting speakers... I'd also like to hear suggestions on speaker placement in the room if you have any...

Any thoughts/suggestions are appreciated.

Hi all. I just spent the last couple of hours reading through this entire thread, and I believe you all have me sold on Athenas. Currently I have an H/K 635 on the way, and was thinking that the C1, B1's L/R combined with 4 S.5's and Dayton 12 would be a nice setup for a room 20x14. Going for a decent 7.1 system with the smallest amount of money...

Anyone think that this is not enough? I'd like to have the PB10 sub, but that's just not an option right this second...

In fact, my house isn't even built yet, hell it's not broken ground yet...and I'm trying to get my ducks in a row before we close 4-5 months from now. Should I wait for pricing to come down or go ahead and jump on deals as they happen now?

I couldn't pass up the H/K 635 ($485 shipped from Harmon Audio) but I'm wondering if I should wait on getting speakers... I'd also like to hear suggestions on speaker placement in the room if you have any...

Any thoughts/suggestions are appreciated.


My $.02. Get the PB10, not the Dayton. If that means skipping on the C1.2 and B1.2s for now and only buying the entire .5 system and going 5.1, then so be it. Down the road, get the B1.2s and add them in while still using the .5 center. Further down the road, get the C1.2 and retire the C.5. As for setup, use the Dolby recommendations.

http://www.dolby.com/consumer/home_entertainment/roomlayout.html

I was under the impression that the MKII system wasn't as good by itself...perhaps I was incorrect. I thought that the C1/B1.2's would dramatically improve the sound. Currently a pair of B1.2's is $119, and the C1 is $139. Add the Dayton 12 for $149...totals $407 not including shipping. That's the cost of a PB10...

I was under the impression that the MKII system wasn't as good by itself...perhaps I was incorrect. I thought that the C1/B1.2's would dramatically improve the sound. Currently a pair of B1.2's is $119, and the C1 is $139. Add the Dayton 12 for $149...totals $407 not including shipping. That's the cost of a PB10...


IMO, your room is too big for the Dayton. I had the .5s by themselves and thought they were great. I have since gone to 7.1 by adding B1.2s to the front and moving 2 S.5s to the rear. I'm waiting to upgrade the center. Hopefully, someone else will respond and you can compare opinions.

thanks, I am hoping the MKII's will suffice until I can get the others. I might just get the PB10 and hold off like he suggested...

any other ideas?

Audio is my hobby, and I love to experiment. This morning, I hooked up a system consisting of a pair of WS-15's and an AS-P400 sub in my stereo. I will listen to it tonight and report back. It would surprise me a lot if it can displace my reference Def Techs, but it seems likely that it will sound very good. The tiny cabinets will enhance imaging and eliminate resonance and diffraction. The only potential issue is integration with the sub (which I have placed dead center to eliminate issues with directional bass.)
I am impressed. This is not just a system that "will do", but a damn fine sounding setup. Admittedly, it has a couple of compromises compared to full-sized speakers (mono bass, a slight dip in the crossover region), but there are always compromises. These are more than made up for by the absolutely "boxless" sound. The music is "there" in the room, and it is almost impossible to identify the speakers as the source even when looking directly at them. The overall sound quality is amazing, especially in the vocal range.
For a while at least, I am going to use this system as my stereo and return the Def Techs to my HT. This was not the result I expected (this was to be a one-night experiment.)
I highly recommend this system, not just as a "stopgap" but on its own merits.

I'm still trying to get my hands on an MKII set. I'm hoping I can get one cheap...that way I can get the PB10.

I need to get a new subwoofer (I have a cheapo KLH now) and I have been looking at the AS-P6000 and AS-P4000 to go along with my AS-F2s, AS-C1, and AS-R1s but I am not sure which would give me what I need. My room is 15x15 and I want a good amount of bass for big movies and games because my KLH does not really have the volume or depth to hitbig when something happens on screen. I have heard the older AS-P400 at best buy but in their open demo areas it was not the best sounding.

I'm still trying to get my hands on an MKII set. I'm hoping I can get one cheap...that way I can get the PB10.


Maybe this guy can help

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7685123&&#post7685123

If not, "onecall" has them in stock

I'm not sure if it matters, but my living room has a strange setup and a large space. I am thinking about the following equipment. Do you think it is enough?

Athena
B1.2 Front
C1.2 Center
add Rear later
HSU, SVS, or Athena sub

Receiver: Pioneer VSX-1015TX or Panasonic XR-57

http://www.deciblast.org/images/tvlayout.gif

I would stay away from the Athena subs for a larger room like that.

If you go SVS/HSU you can consult directly with them for recommendations on a sub. HSU has its own web forum and for SVS of course you can just email techsupport at svsound.com.

As a center speaker is the AS-C1 intended to be on its side or can it be standing vertically like I have my AS-B2s? The reason I ask, is because it seems to sound better standing vertically. I would expect that standing upright it would have better horizonal dispersion especially in the highs from the tweeter. On its side the highs would bounce off the ceiling and floor more, would they not? Or does it actually matter which way it is sitting as long as it is above or below the screen? Anyone else experimented with this. What did you find?

Quick question that hopefully you Athena owners can help me with -
I'm currently considering purchasing the AS-C1.2 as well as either B1.2's or B2.2's for fronts. My question is are the B2.2's worth the extra money (over 2x as much as 1.2's at audioadvisoor)? The only advantage I have read is the 2.2 has better bass handling, so they are a better choice for those w/o a sub, however I DO have a sub in my set-up.
Does anyone have any advice, or can anyone give me a comparision between the B2.2 and B1.2?
Thanks

As an owner of both the AS-B1 and AS-B2.2, I don't think the B2s are worth twice the price especially if you will be using a subwoofer. 50% more possibly for the extra low end extension but that's it.

If you get the AS-B1s cross them over at 80-90 Hz and you should be set.

My WS-15/P-400 experiment is over. It is a very nice setup for the price, but my Def Techs are still better.

As an owner of both the AS-B1 and AS-B2.2, I don't think the B2s are worth twice the price especially if you will be using a subwoofer. 50% more possibly for the extra low end extension but that's it.

If you get the AS-B1s cross them over at 80-90 Hz and you should be set.
What if the price difference was only $20?

What if the price difference was only $20?
I would definitely say that is worth it. :D

I just got the point 5 set and the P4000 sub and i have a set up question. According to the receiver manual i have to set the sub to max and use the mic to do the auto set up. According to Athena i have to set the sub to match the speakers. What do i go by?

I just got the point 5 set and the P4000 sub and i have a set up question. According to the receiver manual i have to set the sub to max and use the mic to do the auto set up. According to Athena i have to set the sub to match the speakers. What do i go by?


Set the crossover on the sub to max and use the receivers crossover. Try 80hz, but 100hz is probably better with the .5s. Also, I believe the manual for the .5s says to set speakers to "large", set them to "small".

My question is are the B2.2's worth the extra money (over 2x as much as 1.2's at audioadvisoor)?
Audioadvisor seems to have the best price on the F2.2s (the pair package and free shipping), but Abes of Maine has a much better price on the B2.2s, the R1.2s, and the IC series.

The difference in price between the B1.2s and B2.2s is $45 per pair at Abes.

I just upgraded my Athena AS-F2/AS-C1/AS-R1/S.5 setup to Ascend Acoustics and thought this might be helpful for those thinking about upgrading from Athenas.

I hooked my 340C and 340M SEs last night and left my Athena AS-R1 surrounds, S.5 rear center, SVS 25-31CS sub, and Panasonic SA-XR50 receiver. Speakers were set to 'small' with crossover at '100hz', the lowest setting on the XR50.

My previous setup was Athena AS-F2s, AS-C1, AS-R1s, S.5 with the same sub and receiver.

I consider myself an audiophile and am very particular about sound. I play many instruments and I work a sound system at my church so I know what sounds good.

Watched 24 and Alias last night and the difference from my Athena AS-F2/AS-C1s was immediately apparent. The Ascends are in a totally different class! Prior to receiving them, I thought the Athenas were great and were wondering how much better could speakers be. Even with this skepticism, I was blown away!

The 340SEs are super clear and detailed and have excellent imaging and wider soundstage. I could hear every little thing and everything sounded more lifelike. Dialogue is MUCH clearer than the AS-C1 and I no longer have the problem of the loud scenes being too loud. With the AS-C1 at a level where I could understand the dialogue, the loud scenes were way too loud. These speakers are phenomenal!

When I put up the 340s, my wife said that she liked the look of the Athena's better.
When watching 24 and Alias, she agreed that the speakers were much more detailed than the AS-F2s and that they sounded better.

I did find that the Ascend 340Ms are less efficient than the AS-F2s. Had to turn the volume on the XR50 higher to get it to 75db.

I ordered 340SE, 170SEs, and TP-24 stands, all B-Stock. With the black finish, you can barely figure out why they are B-Stock. All I saw was a smudge here and a scratch there.

I will put the 170SEs as mains to see how they compare. I won't be putting the 170SEs as surrounds until I move in July. Even with the Ascend/Athena combo last night, the sound was incredible since most sound comes from the front 3 speakers.

Can't wait to listen to some music tonight! Too bad I had to come to work today :)

I still plan to A/B the 340s and AS-F2s, but I want to enjoy the 340s some more first! I'll also try setting them to large and turning off the sub to see what they sound like.

I won my MKII set on our favorite auction site. On top of that my 635 just arrived. :D I hope I don't have any issues like others have mentioned, it's only going to be used for movies so hopefully things will be good. If not...I'll send it back.

So I'll set them to "small" once I get things set up, and perhaps I'll get the PB10 in the near future...

I won my MKII set on our favorite auction site. On top of that my 635 just arrived. :D I hope I don't have any issues like others have mentioned, it's only going to be used for movies so hopefully things will be good. If not...I'll send it back.

So I'll set them to "small" once I get things set up, and perhaps I'll get the PB10 in the near future...


If you've got the money now, jump on this while it's still available.

http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/item/features/549499051

Some people have been waiting almost 3 months for it to come back.

anyone seen a site with a good price on the point 5's?

People have been talking about Onecall.com all through this thread. Check this out. Right around 200, seems like a great price for these speakers.

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?sHist=12-110%2c6-458&id=21573

It is a great price. Best price found for new. What's in stock seems to be the last ones also as I was told by an Athena Rep that as of May 1st Athena is no longer shipping the Point 5 system for sale in the US. I can't wait to see what the replacement model will be.

I won my brand new set of .5's on ebay for $111 shipped. It CAN be done!

How does that mirage sub compare to the PB10?

How does that mirage sub compare to the PB10?

There is a whole thread about it in the subwoofer forum that you can read, but from my research on the same issue (read about every sub thread on either of these 2) it is really a tossup. Each side has their advocaters but both subs seem to be provide a great performance for the price range, and probably far superior to anything previously owned by someone looking to purchase either of the two. Most people ended up going with the PB10 because the Mirage was backordered, now I would guess it will head the other way for the same reason.

Edit: Found the link, in case didn't feel like hunting for the proper search terms (as I often don't).
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=658210&highlight=mirage+pb10

Thanks, I had found it already. Sorry for the question as I didn't mean to attempt to hijack the thread.

At first glance, it appears that the S12 is better for music, and the PB10 is better for movies...I hope to find more info.

I won my brand new set of .5's on ebay for $111 shipped. It CAN be done!

just won mine for $129 shipped, NIB. Sweet!

just won mine for $129 shipped, NIB. Sweet!

Yes it can, won a pair for $66, total $95.99 shippied, NIB, just tracted it and will arrive tomorrow. Seems to be a flood of these all the sudden on the auction sites. I guess they are trying to move them asap since they are no longer in production. Works out good for us though haha. Now have to figure out what to do with the center. Don't need it, oh well, I'll just put it in the closet for a rainy day

Has anyone here wall mounted a pair of AS-B2.2s for rear surrounds in a 5.1 setup?

I am looking for a some wall mounts that can do this job yet I can't find anything.
Also, whats the exact weight on a single B2.2?

If they can't be wall mountable, would you recommend replacing them with a pair of the AS-R1.2s?

Athena used to sell wall mounts for the AS-B1s and B2s so check their site. I have the AS-R1s though and they are real nice :)

Some quick questions..

I currently have:

2 Athena B1.2 up front
C1.2

For the surrounds should I get another B1.2 or S.5? Do you think these are better wall mounted or ceiling mounted?

Some quick questions..

I currently have:

2 Athena B1.2 up front
C1.2

For the surrounds should I get another B1.2 or S.5? Do you think these are better wall mounted or ceiling mounted?
The recommended height for surrounds is 6ft, and I prefer lower. Ceiling mounting puts them too high. B1.2's would sound better (though probably not by a whole lot), but S.5's come with wall-mount brackets.

Athena used to sell wall mounts for the AS-B1s and B2s so check their site. I have the AS-R1s though and they are real nice :)

Are you using them with a 7.1 or 5.1 and where and how do you have them mounted (flush or at an angle).

I have a set of Paradigm Cinema 90's I'd like to use as surrounds and a Cinema CC, and I need a pair of fronts that will sound good with them. I was thinking B1.2's. I also need a Sub. Should I gamble with $130 on the B1.2's or just buy the Micra 6 package and sell my 3 Paradigm's on Ebay?

Most TV watching, 13x25xvaulted, wood floors.

Are you using them with a 7.1 or 5.1 and where and how do you have them mounted (flush or at an angle).

I have them in a 5.1 (wish I had the room for 7.1) and they are on the side walls facing each other flush. I used to have them behind the couch facing the TV when I lived in an apartment but I bought a house with a larger living room and they sound much better this way to me. Angling them might improve things even more but that is to much of a hassle for me.

I my set up i do not have a wall on one side of my room and I would like to place on of my .5`s on the ceiling. Are there any ceiling mounts that I could use wit the .5`s?
Thanks for the response!

You could probably just flip the included mount around to put it on the celing, but the included mounting bracket might not be long enough.

I just wanted to post saying I finished mounting my point 5s last night. I have the surrounds about 6-6.5ft high and the fronts around ear height with the center right under the display on a console/cabinet unit. I'm quite pleased with the sound! My previous surround setup was a low-priced 5.1 yamaha satellite system and this sounds WAY better for around $100 more. I am still using the old sub but plan to upgrade at some point. I really appreciate the mounts that come with the point 5s, it enabled me to aim the surrounds in and down and toe in the mains slightly.
As far as using the included mounts to mount to the ceiling, I think it would work but I am not sure the left/right adjustment would be strong enough to point them much past straight down. I would put the mount along the axis you want to point them and then use what is normally the up/down adjustment to adjust angle as this seems quite strong.

Do as StackTrayce suggests--that's what I did, and it works fine if you tighten the knobs enough. He's right that you have to attach the mount to the ceiling parallel to the direction that you want to angle it, as the left-right adjustment would not be able to (safely) hold the weight of the speaker.

I can't wait to get my MKII set. I'll be getting the B1.2's and C1.2 eventually, but I'm anxious to hear the MKII set by itself paired with an HK635

Howdy again,

Anybody have any experience mixing the WS-15s with F2.2/C1.2s? I'm using those up front and IC8s for my surrounds in a 5.1 setup. The WS-15s are on blowout at BestBuy and I'm thinking of picking up a pair for use as "presence speakers" with my Yamaha amp, or maybe dropping them behind the couch as the rear surrounds.

from what I've read here, the WS series is more for looks than sound. If you're wanting better sound, get some .5's or R1.2's for surrounds...or even B1.2's. When it comes to Athena speakers though, the AS series literally blows away the WS series.

I have the .5's and P4000 subwoofer mated with a Panny SA-XR70S. I just set it up after having them sit in a box for 3 months while my condo was being rennovated. I also have a Sony KDF-42WE655 sitting on a two level glass stand. Now, my question is that my front speakers (L,R,C) are all sitting on the middle glass shelf underneath the TV. I know that's not optimal, but will it suffice? I know the main speakers should be spread further apart, but the soon-to-be-wife doesn't like the look of speaker stands. The rears are ok because the couch will hide the stands.

What do you think?

I have the .5's and P4000 subwoofer mated with a Panny SA-XR70S. I just set it up after having them sit in a box for 3 months while my condo was being rennovated. I also have a Sony KDF-42WE655 sitting on a two level glass stand. Now, my question is that my front speakers (L,R,C) are all sitting on the middle glass shelf underneath the TV. I know that's not optimal, but will it suffice? I know the main speakers should be spread further apart, but the soon-to-be-wife doesn't like the look of speaker stands. The rears are ok because the couch will hide the stands.

What do you think?
They are probably going to sound like one big center-channel with almost no stereo effect. At the very least, angle the L and R out 30deg or so.

Hi guys! It's my first post here, so take it easy on me :)
My Athena setup:

Bedroom:
Athena Micra6
Onkyo 503

Living Room:
AS F2.2 x2 - Main
AS C1.2 - Center
AS B1.2 x2 - Surround
SVS PB10
Pioneer vsx1015tx

Was thinking of replacing the B1.2's with some of the athena sattelite speakers to save some room and put those in the bedroom. Bad idea?

Why don't try a couple of your micras in the living room to see if it sounds okay. If you put the B1.2 in the bedroom, you'll probably want a better center than the micra.

Does anyone have F2.2s for the front, a C.5 for the center, and S.5s for the rears? I might have a deal in the works for a a pair of F2.2s to replace my S.5's in the front. How would that setup sound? Would the F2.2s simply overpower the C.5?

Hi guys! It's my first post here, so take it easy on me :)
My Athena setup:

Bedroom:
Athena Micra6
Onkyo 503

Living Room:
AS F2.2 x2 - Main
AS C1.2 - Center
AS B1.2 x2 - Surround
SVS PB10
Pioneer vsx1015tx

Was thinking of replacing the B1.2's with some of the athena sattelite speakers to save some room and put those in the bedroom. Bad idea?

Give it a shot. Since you have 2 systems, feel free to mix 'n match until you find a happy medium. That said, if you want to save space on your surrounds, my advice is to get a pair of S.5's. They are excellent, come with wall mount brackets, and are a better match with the rest of your Audition series setup.

Hmm... looks like I am going to be doing a little experiment today. Thanks guys!

Im on a pretty tight budget and am thinking of getting b1.2s and a c1.2 across the front. I currently have a JBL PSW1000(10in, 100W, circa 1996). The ASP4000 seems like the option for what im trying to spend at the moment. Would I be better to live with the jbl for a while and then get a $300-$400 sub or would the ASP4000 make a major difference.

Anyone got an opinion?

Thanks in advance.

Save up for a better sub. The ASP4000 is closer to a sideways move than an upgrade.

When you get close to that $400 number (plus some extra from selling your current JBL sub) you will be able to chose from a wider variety of sub models.

Im on a pretty tight budget and am thinking of getting b1.2s and a c1.2 across the front. I currently have a JBL PSW1000(10in, 100W, circa 1996). The ASP4000 seems like the option for what im trying to spend at the moment. Would I be better to live with the jbl for a while and then get a $300-$400 sub or would the ASP4000 make a major difference.

Anyone got an opinion?

Thanks in advance.
It is too bad that you can't still get the original AS-P400. I have one, and it is in a whole different league from the newer AS-P4000.

Hi everyone,

I finally took the plunge and bought a set of Athena point 5 speakers. I now wish to purchase a receiver and have narrowed it down to the Onkyo TX-SR504 and the Pioneer VSX-816-K. Does anyone have an opinion on which one would be the better match for the Point 5s? Thanks for your help!

It is too bad that you can't still get the original AS-P400. I have one, and it is in a whole different league from the newer AS-P4000.

Why is the older one better?

Why is the older one better?
While there are some things you can tell just by looking (e.g. binding posts instead of spring-clips) the major difference must be heard. It jus has tighter, more extended bass. Part of it is that the 400 is heavier, part is that it was made in-house at Athena in Canada.
(Note, I own both so I have had the chance to compare them extensively.)

my pb10 should be showing up tomorrow...WOOT!

I currently have an old Aiwa system I purchased back in 1994. I wish I could get everything setup with my new Athena setup, but my house isn't built yet. C`est la vie. I guess I'll have to play with my HK635 and MKII to see how they sound un-mounted.

Think I'll blow the Aiwa speakers if I use them as the L/R mains? :D

Silly question: I need to set both the rear and front Athena Point 5's I just bought onto speaker stands. (Live in apartment, can't go through the walls). Anyway, I need some inexpensive stands to prop them up on? Suggestions? I heard awhile back that Dayton has some cheapos I could use. Thanks.

Walmart $20 a pair mfg. Atlantic

Alternatively you can use Wiremold's CordMate Kit which can be had for $10 per kit at home depot for your surrounds

My SVS PCi20-39 arrived. Holy crap is that thing huge. Almost as tall as the F2.2, which themselves are pretty dang big. I'll post some pics once the new couch arrives and I get the surrounds mounted.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot this: :D

Hi everyone,

I finally took the plunge and bought a set of Athena point 5 speakers. I now wish to purchase a receiver and have narrowed it down to the Onkyo TX-SR504 and the Pioneer VSX-816-K. Does anyone have an opinion on which one would be the better match for the Point 5s? Thanks for your help!

I actually ordered my Mirage S12 and Onkyo 504 this morning before work. I will also be using the .5's . I can let you know in a week or so how it sounds. I was also debating between this two receivers. I liked the look of the Onkyo better and on top of that, it has a few more features than the 816. One more thing the Onkyo can be had for about $50 less before shipping than the Pioneer. That helped my decision a little. They seem to be very comparable, so that's why I ended up going for the Onkyo. Check Vanns.

Fronts: B1.2
Center: C1.2

I'm trying to figure out what to use as surrounds. Does anyone have experience with both S.5 and B1.2?

Does anyone know of a good wall mount for the B1.2 in case I decide to get that. Thanks!

Knowing zilch about home audio when I came to this site originally to look into a cheap $300 HTIB, and after reading through these forums for a few days I think I've finally decided on what I want.

This is all to upgrade an old Philips HTIB I picked up from Walmart about 6 years ago for about $90.

Obviously Athena caught my attention as being affordable, scalable, and seemingly some of the best 'bang for the buck' I could find. I'm still on a budget but I think upgrading in this manner should be quite simple and effective.

Athena Point5 System MK II Surround Speakers System to start
Athena ASP4000 10 Inch 400 Watt Subwoofer adding shortly after or same time
Pioneer VSX816K 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver a few weeks later
Athena AS-B1 Bookshelf Speakers even later as replacement for fronts
Athena AS-C1 Center Channel Speaker also later as replacements for center

Seems like a bunch of people have something close to this setup and are quite happy with it.

Fronts: B1.2
Center: C1.2

I'm trying to figure out what to use as surrounds. Does anyone have experience with both S.5 and B1.2?

Does anyone know of a good wall mount for the B1.2 in case I decide to get that. Thanks!


I use B1.2s for the fronts and S.5s for the sides and rears and it's worked out fine. I had planned on getting a C1.2, but the C.5 has been good enough for now. As for the wall mounts for B1.2s, I use stands, but this is from earlier in this thread

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7234813&&#post7234813

I have been enjoying my Athena Micras paired with a Onkyo 502. Awesome sound system for the money.

My only complaint would be the slightly weak center channel. Occasionally the dialogue seems to be a little strained and hollow sounding at higher volumes. As well I can sometimes notice some slight crackling to the high end on all my front speakers (havent been able to narrow the cause. replaced amp, cables, etc)

Anyway, I am looking to upgrade with some more powerful athenas but I am wondering what models I should be looking at. The center definitely needs to go so I was thinking I would get the AS-C1.2, but wouldn't that overpower my front satellites? If that is the case, I will need to replace the fronts with some bookshelves like the B2.2s. The micra sub should be fine though since its all small room. (?)

Any suggestions would be helpful.

Thanks.

Quick question, using a pair of Athena F2.2's for stero music. No plans to upgrade much in the near future. With the assumption this will only be used for music, which AVR would you suggest? ($500ish USD) Keep in mind I am not concerned in the least about how the receiver works for movies, tv, etc. Just stero music.


HK AVR-240 comes to mind. Other suggestions?

Knowing zilch about home audio when I came to this site originally to look into a cheap $300 HTIB, and after reading through these forums for a few days I think I've finally decided on what I want.

This is all to upgrade an old Philips HTIB I picked up from Walmart about 6 years ago for about $90.

Obviously Athena caught my attention as being affordable, scalable, and seemingly some of the best 'bang for the buck' I could find. I'm still on a budget but I think upgrading in this manner should be quite simple and effective.

Athena Point5 System MK II Surround Speakers System to start
Athena ASP4000 10 Inch 400 Watt Subwoofer adding shortly after or same time
Pioneer VSX816K 7.1 Channel Surround Sound Receiver a few weeks later
Athena AS-B1 Bookshelf Speakers even later as replacement for fronts
Athena AS-C1 Center Channel Speaker also later as replacements for center

Seems like a bunch of people have something close to this setup and are quite happy with it.

Have you checked the Onkyo TX-SR504? They are pretty even as far as features and you can get the 504 about $50 cheaper with free s/h right now. Might wanna check it out.

That HK is a nice receiver, also the Pioneer 1016 is due out soon and people love it paired with athena. You might still be able to get a great deal on the 1015 if they are any around. might want to check that out. I've got the Pioneer 516 in a budget system with the point5s and love the setup. You won't go wrong with eather the HK or the Pioneer. Onkyo also has excellent receivers. The only thing I would say negitive is while Yamaha receievers are nice some consider them to produce to bright of a sound when mixed with athena. My personal 1st choice would be the Pioneer 1015 or 1016 if you can find the 1015 or want to wait a till the 1016 is released, it should be soon. 2nd would be the 240 but both are great and it's really just preference.

I had read that the 1015 is great for movies, but not quite so hot for music. Where as the 240 is great for music, but not so good for movies. Can anyone confirm or deny?

Wow..went through the entire thread...good stuff in here...here is my setup

HK240
Athena point 5
p-4000 sub


I was looking for stands for the front and rear speakers....did not want to spend $200 on the athena ones...so I was thinking about the omnimount bf-31b...anyone have any experience with these...thanks

Has anyone here compared the F2.2 with Polk RTi8? Verdict?

Anyone compared the Point 5 & p-4000 with a Paradigm Cinema 90 & PDR8 set-up? I have the Paradigm set-up, and wondered if the Athenas were any better (fuller) sounding. I am thinking of upgrading my Cinema CC center with a Cinema 110C center, but I could buy the Point 5's for not much more money.

Has anyone here compared the F2.2 with Polk RTi8? Verdict?
I have compared the Athena F1 and the Polk Monitor 50 and found them to sound very similar except for bass response, where the Athena is the obvious winner. The RTi series is a step up from the Monitor series, and the RTi8 is within 5hz of matching the F2.2's bass, so the RTi8 may well be the better speaker.

I had read that the 1015 is great for movies, but not quite so hot for music. Where as the 240 is great for music, but not so good for movies. Can anyone confirm or deny?


I recently sold my Pioneer 1014TX and purchased an HK 435 and the difference to me in music playback was substantial. I was never really happy with the way my system played ceedees and vinyl, though I was very happy with movies. My issue was always that the Pioneer sounded thin, shut in and too laid back. When I put the 435 into the loop everything sounded fuller, more solid and tangible. Movie soundtracks with the 1014TX had a ton of dynamic range which the HK cannnot quite match but I do a lot of music listening in this system so the tradeoff is well worth it for me, though it's not as if the HK sounds poor with movies. My setup is in a basement theater with Athena F1 fronts, R1 sides, B1 surrounds and P400 sub. Both setups were calibrated with their respective auto setups and then verified with AVIA. Overall if you have a movie only system the Pioneer/Athena is very clear and dynamic though sensitive ears may find the combo slightly bright. If you do a fair amount of music playback then I believe there are better options. One thing I can say though is that my Pioneer never had a single issue or glitch in the 13 months I owned it.

Moe

Thank you for your reponse(s)! I was browsing an open box table at Futureshop tonight and came across an HK3380 for a great price, going to try it out and may return it in the 30 day period if I think I'll have a strong urge to go 5.1 any time soon. I think for the moment with how cheap it was, I shouldnt have a problem hanging on to it for a couple years before worrying about an upgrade. (If it sounds good)

What are the differences between the old audition series and the new .2 line of speakers. I noticed you can get the old ones much cheaper than the new ones. The new ones seems to look a little better, but do they sound any different?

Has anyone ceiling mounted the B1.2 or R1.2 as back surround speakers (7.1)?
If so, what mounts were used and how well did the speakers work with this mounting?

Our listening position is 12' from the back wall - too far back for effective wall mounted use of the R1.2, I think.

Fronts B2.2s
Center C1.2
Surrounds B1.2s
Sub Hsu STF-2
H/K 635

What are the differences between the old audition series and the new .2 line of speakers. I noticed you can get the old ones much cheaper than the new ones. The new ones seems to look a little better, but do they sound any different?

The original audition series had thicker cabinents, 3/4 or 1" not sure which. The .2 series has 1/2" cabinents. Othewise they are the same speaker. I've heard alot of people say they prefer the original series due to the thicker cabinents and being heavier producing better base I've never had any experience with the original series though.

Different magnets on the series 2 vs. the orignals as well.

I just placed an order for a set of point 5's. I wanted a fuller sound than my current Paradigm Cinema v.1 & CC is giving me, and the point 5's seem to have much better specs. (60-20K hz compared to 120-20Khz). At $200 it's worth trying. Will keep my PDR8 sub for now, but likely get the ASP-4000 if I like the point 5's. Thanks to everyone here for suchj positive Point 5 feedback.

Just hooked myself with a new Panny XR57 and (potentially backwards) now planning the speakers. I've had my eyes recently on the Point 5's as they are right in the price range to still get a decent sub, but I've read some mixed reviews above with the Point 5's being too bright when paired with the previous XR55.

This leads to two questions...

1) Has anyone yet paired the Point 5's with an XR57 and noticed any reasonable difference over the XR55. I'm not expecting any difference, but who knows...

2) Would it be appropriate to substitute the mains with B1.2's, while keeping the C.5 and S.5 surrounds? I actually could make at least one of the extra S.5's work as a 6.1 speaker, and B1.2s are pretty cheap right now. Are the B1.2's still well-matched to the C.5, while removing some of the brightness out of the front soundstage?

Just hooked myself with a new Panny XR57 and (potentially backwards) now planning the speakers. I've had my eyes recently on the Point 5's as they are right in the price range to still get a decent sub, but I've read some mixed reviews above with the Point 5's being too bright when paired with the previous XR55.

This leads to two questions...

1) Has anyone yet paired the Point 5's with an XR57 and noticed any reasonable difference over the XR55. I'm not expecting any difference, but who knows...

2) Would it be appropriate to substitute the mains with B1.2's, while keeping the C.5 and S.5 surrounds? I actually could make at least one of the extra S.5's work as a 6.1 speaker, and B1.2s are pretty cheap right now. Are the B1.2's still well-matched to the C.5, while removing some of the brightness out of the front soundstage?


I'm using an XR55 with B1.2s in the front, a C.5, and S.5s on the side and rear. I don't think they're too bright, but maybe that's just me. I had intended on replacing the C.5 with a C1.2, but I'm no longer going to that since the C.5 works just fine with the B1.2s.

Just orderd a "Demo" AS-P4000 from Audio Advisor. They say it's "like new" just a returned unit. Anyone had good/bad luck with buying "Demo's"? Was a still less than the normal "$149" after shipping was added. Was going with Amazon (free shipping), but they are back-ordered until August.

Please give me a demo update when you receive yours. I was thinking of pulling the trigger on a demo but just went ahead and get the brand new speakers for $70 more. i would love to know how it goes.

I recently picked up a Pio 1015TX, and will be receiving 2 F2.2's and a C1.2 tomorrow from Audoadvisor. I'm a complete audio noob who purchased everything based on what I've read here and what fit in my budget. I'm moving up from a relatively wimpy RCA HTIB that I've had for 3 1/2 years, so I'll let you guys know how everything turn out.

I'm using an XR55 with B1.2s in the front, a C.5, and S.5s on the side and rear. I don't think they're too bright, but maybe that's just me. I had intended on replacing the C.5 with a C1.2, but I'm no longer going to that since the C.5 works just fine with the B1.2s.

cherry ghost - what sub do you run with that setup? I've heard that Point 5's all around pretty much demand a sub to supplement them, but do the B1.2's help fill out the low end a bit better? I'm definitely leaning towards your exact setup, but want to push off the sub purchase for just a bit to get something worthwhile. Anything recommended in the ~$300 range?

cherry ghost - what sub do you run with that setup? I've heard that Point 5's all around pretty much demand a sub to supplement them, but do the B1.2's help fill out the low end a bit better? I'm definitely leaning towards your exact setup, but want to push off the sub purchase for just a bit to get something worthwhile. Anything recommended in the ~$300 range?
If you make it over to Ultimate before they are sold out, they currently have the Def Tech ProSub 80 on sale for $250. It is a great sub, and a steal at that price.

cherry ghost - what sub do you run with that setup? I've heard that Point 5's all around pretty much demand a sub to supplement them, but do the B1.2's help fill out the low end a bit better? I'm definitely leaning towards your exact setup, but want to push off the sub purchase for just a bit to get something worthwhile. Anything recommended in the ~$300 range?


I'm using a Mirage S12, which I believe is no longer available. Even with the B1.2s, you'll still want a decent sub and $300 is a good starting point. Pulliam's suggestion is a good one. You may also want to look into the BIC Acoustech H-100, the Athena ASP6000, and ,for a little more money, the HSU STF-2. Have you considered getting the B1.2s later and the sub now? I'd rather have 5.1 with a good sub than 7.0.

I'm using a Mirage S12, which I believe is no longer available. Even with the B1.2s, you'll still want a decent sub and $300 is a good starting point. Pulliam's suggestion is a good one. You may also want to look into the BIC Acoustech H-100, the Athena ASP6000, and ,for a little more money, the HSU STF-2. Have you considered getting the B1.2s later and the sub now? I'd rather have 5.1 with a good sub than 7.0.

Mirage S10 is another good choice. With your budget, you could start with S8. I was intending to get a S10 but saw the S8 on sale and ended up buying it with the thought that I could always add a 2nd one if the output proves to be inadequate.

However, S8's performance actually surpassed my expectation. It blends well with my F2.2/C1.2/B1.2 configuration, producing shocking lows in movies and smooth and punchy notes in music. The Omni-series' semi-elliptical surround design on the drivers should take credit. This mechanism moves more air, thus higher output, even with small-sized woofer. I would say that this 8" driver can produce output similar to a 10" woofer with tradition design.

For now, S8 is good enough for my 18 X 12 listening area. I like its highly musical characteristic since I use the system for music for 50% of the time. This babe really requires at least 30 hours of break-in. The difference is very obvious.

I'm using a Mirage S12, which I believe is no longer available. Even with the B1.2s, you'll still want a decent sub and $300 is a good starting point. Pulliam's suggestion is a good one. You may also want to look into the BIC Acoustech H-100, the Athena ASP6000, and ,for a little more money, the HSU STF-2. Have you considered getting the B1.2s later and the sub now? I'd rather have 5.1 with a good sub than 7.0.
I don't know about the 6000, but the DT Prosub 80 blew my AS-P4000 so far out of the water that I ended up giving it away! :eek:

I don't know about the 6000, but the DT Prosub 80 blew my AS-P4000 so far out of the water that I ended up giving it away! :eek:

I also have had a bad experience with P4000 in my AS system and it was, not surprisingly, returned to the retailer. What it had was massive bloomy and messy bass. I believe P6000 would be even worse with its larger driver-size. I would not suggest using Athena sub if you are a critical listener for music.

I don't know about the 6000, but the DT Prosub 80 blew my AS-P4000 so far out of the water that I ended up giving it away! :eek:

You are comparing a 350.00 sub to a 150.00 sub.

I am happy with my AS-P4000. I think it is a great sub for the money.

You are comparing a 350.00 sub to a 150.00 sub.

I am happy with my AS-P4000. I think it is a great sub for the money.
Sadly, I bought my P4000 before the radically slashed $150 sale price became available. I paid $320 for it. :( (MSRP was $360.) Conversely, I got the DT for $250.

Sadly, I bought my P4000 before the radically slashed $150 sale price became available. I paid $320 for it. :( (MSRP was $360.) Conversely, I got the DT for $250.

oh o.k. yeah the P4000 is not worth 320.00 for sure. You can do alot better I think
for that amount of money.

Hi everyone,

I just thought I'd give an update on my final system configuration. I bought the Athena Point 5 system first, Pioneer VSX-816k second, and finally, the Athena AS-P400. Here is a breakdown of prices:

Athena Point 5: $230, bought from Amazon, shipped by OneCall

Pioneer VSX-816K: $217, bought from BB (its cheap because A) it was an open box item even though the reciever looks and operates brand new and B) I had some gift cards that I used.

Athena AS-P400: $130, bought from Ebay. I wanted the AS-P400 and not the AS-p4000, because I had heard so many good things about it. Since I couldn't find it at a reasonable price at any retailer, I turned to ebay. I saw someone was selling a used one, so I bid like crazy on it and won it. When I recieved the subwoofer, it was in very good condition.

Wires: $40 (16 gauge speaker wire for the Point 5s, and a subwoofer wire for the AS-P400).

Grand Total: $617

I went $67 dollars over my budget, but I have to admit, I have a very nice sounding home theater. However, that being said, I cannot stress enough that the Athena Point 5's by themselves cannot operate without a subwoofer. I thought they sounded good, but it was only with the AS-P400 that I felt the system was complete.

And speaking of the AS-P400, all I can say is: WOW!

I've spent over 2 years browsing this forum, and have finally put together my dream system. I was initially going to buy one of the Onkyo HTIB's, but because of this forum, I'm certain that I've put together a system that blows any HTIB out of the water for only a little more money. Thanks to the entire AVSforum Community!

I want to start upgrading my micras so I just bought a used AS-C1 off of ebay and I am still deciding what to get for my fronts.

My big concern is 2-channel music, which is pretty decent with my micras but the 3 1/2 drivers are a little weak. I am wondering if the B1's would be enough of an upgrade since I am keeping the M225 sub. Or would it be better to go for the F1's? Besides the low-end response, is the difference dramatic?

My room is only 18x12 or so.

I want to start upgrading my micras so I just bought a used AS-C1 off of ebay and I am still deciding what to get for my fronts.

My big concern is 2-channel music, which is pretty decent with my micras but the 3 1/2 drivers are a little weak. I am wondering if the B1's would be enough of an upgrade since I am keeping the M225 sub. Or would it be better to go for the F1's? Besides the low-end response, is the difference dramatic?

My room is only 18x12 or so.
For 2-channel music, it is really nice to be able to turn off the sub and listen to speakers that can handle the bass on their own, which the F1's do very well indeed. :cool:

Quick question, about to mount my R1.2's on the wall. I will be mounting mine on a side wall, not a back wall. The manual says mount it 6 feet high and slightly behind the listening position.

1. Is this the best position? Wouldn't the height of your listening position make a difference?
2. Slightly behind better than perfectly in line with the listening position?
3. I assume with the bipole design they don't need to be angled toward the listening position, correct?
4. Anything else I should know?


Thanks.

AS-B1.2 x 2 fronts mounted on wall slightly above ear level and angled down slightly.
AS-C1.2 Center
AS-R1.2 x 2 surround on Quicklok stands
Velodyne 12" sub
Receiver: Sony STR-DA5000ES

I am very happy with this system, except for the directionality problem with the C1.2. It sounds great in the sweet spot in the center, but if you get off axis about 30 degrees to either side, it does not sound good. I can't imagine why they chose to orient the tweeter opposite of all the rest of the line (vertically instead of horizonatally).

The R1.2s are on stands at ear level or slightly above, facing front directly and directly left and right, but slightly behind the listening position. I originally had them oriented facing about 45 degrees in towards the listening center, but I decided they sounded better facing front. They are about 16" from a window wall in the rear.

I am very happy with the way the system sounds. Even my wife (who never notices any difference in anything I change in the sound system), commented on how much better these sound than the old speakers (Turbosound Impact 50), and that they sound "Just like a theater".

-- Martin

I have 3 NHT systems but need a music system thats relatively inexpensive and not bad to ship for my 12x10 ft bedroom in my place in South Africa.

I dragged over a Logitech z 5000 system, I think thats the number, 5.1 thx approved system and it sucks for music IMO. The system is used exclusivly for music using a Squeezebox delivering my CD's in FLAC. I like PLII very much incidentally.

I bought one set, so far, of B1's and a P4000 sub speaker wise and a Panny XR25 used on ebay. Sent off the B1's and may have to haul the sub due to carton dimensions.

I am considering forgetting about a center completely, (space for mounting is limited and the general thought here seems to be...it's not the best anyway) and letting it go in phantom mode, but I definitly want some rear speakers of some sort or other.

I have to get speakers that can be shipped within smallish boxes so they can be shipped via parcel post.

The walls are masonry and it eliminates in wall speakers. Another set of B1's might be a bit directional as far as rears are concerned and I am thinking about their 8" in ceiling speaker or the AS-R1 for rears. I have a space problem and wiring issue besides since the wires for the rears would need to be channeled in the walls in order to make them go away. I can however mount speakers in the ceiling and run the wires from the other side of the room up the wall and over to the speakers at the head of the bed.

Athena's in ceilings I find to be a bit expensive comparatively first off yet, I wonder if I would be well off to use them for timbre matching purposes. I am not sure if the 6" or 8" models would be better. There are other units on ebay, which are 8" and have pointable tweeters at a much lower cost. On the other hand NHT's IC4 has a 3 tweeter aray, goes deep, might be good and about the same net cost as the Athena!

Any thoughts?

Thanks,

Larry

Hi all,

Just got some new Athenas for my b-day. I already had an AS-P400, but my setup was rather sad (some small Sony surround set from years back that I inherited when I got married. and then that Sony center got matched with some Infinity Primus 150s when the mains got stolen last year). My new acquisitions are a pair of AS-F1.2s and an AS-C1.2. These are being driven by an Onkyo TX-SR602. The surrounds are currently some pretty darn old (and huge) Fisher floor-standers. I haven't decided yet whether to replace those with the Infinitys or leave them as is.

So far, no matter how I set them up, the new setup is markedly better than the old (shocking, I know), but I would love to get any advice on running this setup best. I have a couple of specific questions, and would also love general feedback,

1. With regard to the large and small speaker designations, should I set all of my speakers to large, or should the center be set small? I am hoping, of course, for the best seamless sound across the front three, but the center falls below the 6 1/2 threshhold specified in the Onkyo documentation. I know the answer may be to try both, but I wanted to know if there was a conventional wisdom.

2. Setting up the sub, etc.... With the smaller speakers, I had the Xover set at 80Hz in the receiver and the dial on the sub turned all of the way up so that it would respond to any signal that got to it. Now, my inclination would be to move the Xover to the minimum of 60 Hz (wish I even had the choice of 40 Hz, but it seems not possible on my receiver). Is this probably the best setting? If so, am I missing out on some of the benefits of upgrading my speakers in the first place
(in that I assume anything from 40Hz to 60Hz isn't going to the mains?

3. Is there any way around the problem I suggest above; perhaps the "double bass" setting? Can anyone define precisely the efects of this setting? As I understand it, some frequencies will be sent to both the mains and the sub, but I'd like to know the extent of that.

4. In a living room setting with nowhere near an ideal arrangement for HT, is there any reason at all to try out 7.1 sound (whether with speakers I have or future matched Athenas? I assume not from what I'v read.

Thanks in advance for any answers/help/suggestions.

Nathan

P.S. I attribute any typos above to having to type one handed on a laptop keyboard. :) I broke my hand last week.

Ouch, sorry to hear about your hand.

For the best compromise on bass management, I would set all of your speakers to Small with a crossover of 80 Hz (this is limited by the AS-C1.2 which can't produce much below that point). That way the AS-P400 will happily handle everything from 80 Hz downward and your 5 main speakers will do everything above 80 Hz (I'm simplifying a bit here... crossover isn't a hard cutoff so the sub will audibly produce some sounds above 80 Hz and vice versa for the mains).

The Onkyo documentation simply uses the woofer size as a general guideline. When you set a speaker to Large the receiver will send a full-range signal meaning anything from 20 Hz - 20 kHz is possible. Unless you have a speaker that can get very close to 20 Hz you are better off letting the subwoofer handle those low frequencies.

If you had a receiver with multiple crossover points, you could use 80 Hz for the center, 60 Hz for the AS-F1s, and a third value appropriate for your Fisher floorstanders.

Double-bass is only used when you have a speaker set to Large. It sends the full-range sound to the Large speaker but it also sends all bass below the subwoofer crossover point to the sub. So if you had the crossover set at 80 Hz and your front speakers set to Large, the Onkyo would send 20 Hz - 20 kHz material to the front speakers but it would duplicate the 20 Hz - 80 Hz material on the subwoofer output.

Lastly, 7.1 is best if you can have 2 speakers on the side of your listening area and 2 speakers at the rear of your listening area. If you would be forced to put all 4 at the back or 2 on each side then you might be better off sticking with 5.1.

I have a 10 by 10 room with 10" ceilings.

Hardwoord floor.

Window taking up most of the back wall, and mainly glass french doors taking up about 35% of the left wall.

It's my office, and I will be listening to music probably 80% of the time, with tv/xbox the remaining 20% of the time. I'm not all that bothered at all with having surround sound as the type of games i tend to play (mainly sports) I don't think will have such a huge benefit.

Anyway, I was contemplating going with a pair of ASB1.2's and an ASP4000, matched most likely with an Onkyo 503.

Is that about right for a room of my size, or is it too much (I certainly hope it's not too little ;)).

Any advice/suggestions are appreciated.

I have a 10 by 10 room with 10" ceilings.

<snip>

Is that about right for a room of my size, or is it too much (I certainly hope it's not too little ;)).

Any advice/suggestions are appreciated.

Even the receiver is taller than your 10" ceilings <grin> so I think it is too much.

Even the receiver is taller than your 10" ceilings <grin> so I think it is too much.


Damn I knew I needed to order a mini receiver, but didn't think it would have to be that small.

:o

I had my .5`s all set up with my Onkyo receiver and today one of the speakers stoped to function correctly. When I use the test tone on the receiver only the 1" Tweeter is working and the 4" Woofer isn`t. Is there anything i can do to fix that or do I have to go trough the warranty to get a new speaker?

I had my .5`s all set up with my Onkyo receiver and today one of the speakers stoped to function correctly. When I use the test tone on the receiver only the 1" Tweeter is working and the 4" Woofer isn`t. Is there anything i can do to fix that or do I have to go trough the warranty to get a new speaker?

Hey avs forum, I have a small question, maybe you can help me. I have a pioneer vsx 1015 TX with the infinity TSS 450 speakers system (crappy, way to bright). Some time next week I will have the Athena b1.2 x2 and the C1.2. My theater room is 13’ x 15’ and my couch is about 1 foot off the back wall, My question is (-about time!-) would it be a good idea to keep the toss 450 surround on stands off to the side or I was thinking about the Athena ws 15 wall mounted about 3 feet above ear level?

Call Athena, they'll probably just send you the 4" speaker and you can install it yourself.

Athena/Mirage/Energy has good customer service.

can take pics if that will help. :)
Does any one have the athena b1.2 L/R C1.2 and point 5 as surrounds? How do you like it? What sub do you use? I was looking at the Bic Acoustech H-100 or the Velodyne VRP-1000. Would the BIC H100 be overkill bescause its a 12" and my ht room is 13' x15'?

And thanks to all the people who keep this site going for all the beginners stepping into HT. ;)

I ordered my Athena b1.2's from audio advisor a week ago. I liked them so much my second pair will be here in 2 days. To each there own on speakers but the Athenas are for me! Great sound and price. I love these little speakers and when I do upgrade the receiver it will be Athenas and only Athenas for me. I will buy the F series and be done with it.

Thanks Athena for such great speakers!

can take pics if that will help. :)
Does any one have the athena b1.2 L/R C1.2 and point 5 as surrounds? How do you like it? What sub do you use? I was looking at the Bic Acoustech H-100 or the Velodyne VRP-1000. Would the BIC H100 be overkill bescause its a 12" and my ht room is 13' x15'?

And thanks to all the people who keep this site going for all the beginners stepping into HT. ;)

I'm close to that. I use B1.2s for front L/R, .5s for center, sides and rears, and a Mirage S12 in 12'x17' room. The .5s work great as sides and rears and even center, which I initially had my doubts about when I bought them. The H100 would not be overkill, IMO.

I'm looking at some athenas to go with my onkyo receiver, but the B1.2s might be a tad too tall unless I can mount them sideways.. has anyone had any experience with mounting these sideways for both front and rear?

Jason,

The tweeters in the B1.2 and C1.2 are very directional. If you turn them on their sides, you will severely limit the width of the sound. If you look at the picture of the C1.2 vs the B1.2, you will notice that the tweeters are oriented differently. The C1.2 has a VERY limited "sweet spot" for listening to the center channel. If you get more than about 8 degrees off center, the sound is diminished. The same would be true if you turn the B1.2 on its side.

-- Martin

Would spending the extra money on B2.2's vs 1.2's be worthwhile?

I just got my athena .5's set up, and I am blown away how good they sound and I'm still breaking them in.

I use the setup mainly for movies and gaming (xbox360)

I have the .5's and the Athena asp4000 sub running thru a Yamaha htr5940 and I am very satisfied with the quality. Not a bad setup for roughly $500..not bad at all

I read the C1.2 has a "sweet spot" issue...does the C.5 have it as well?

Would spending the extra money on B2.2's vs 1.2's be worthwhile?

Not if you have a subwoofer.

-- Martin

I read the C1.2 has a "sweet spot" issue...does the C.5 have it as well?

The C1.2 does have a "sweet spot" issue. It sounds great if you are in the sweet spot, but not good at all if you are 15 degrees off center. I have one and am shopping for another center. If you look at the way they oriented the tweeter, you can immediately see the source of the problem.

-- Martin

The C1.2 does have a "sweet spot" issue. It sounds great if you are in the sweet spot, but not good at all if you are 15 degrees off center. I have one and am shopping for another center. If you look at the way they oriented the tweeter, you can immediately see the source of the problem.

-- Martin
The orientation of the tweeter is not the issue (the plate is oval, but the part surrounding the tweeter is symmetric.) The issue is really the MTM layout, which creates a narrow dispertion pattern for all speakers that use it.

I've got the C.5 but not any experience with the C1.
Does the sweetspot issue apply with both of these. The reason I ask as I have a friend who's piecing together a system with point 5s. He can get the C1 or C1.2 or the C.5 for the same price. We were thinking the C1 or C1.2 would be a nice uggrad for the same money. Which would you recommend with the Point 5s. The C1 or C.5 that comes with them.

The orientation of the tweeter is not the issue (the plate is oval, but the part surrounding the tweeter is symmetric.) The issue is really the MTM layout, which creates a narrow dispertion pattern for all speakers that use it.

If I stand the center channel on end, the angle of the sweet spot increases considerably. However, it looks pretty dumb like that on top of the TV. ;)

I have other similar center channel speakers that do not exhibit this same problem and they have the same layout.

-- Martin

The orientation of the tweeter is not the issue (the plate is oval, but the part surrounding the tweeter is symmetric.) The issue is really the MTM layout, which creates a narrow dispertion pattern for all speakers that use it.
Yup, it has to so with the spacing of the woofers and their crossover point.

I didn't find the C1 to be too bad, but my area isn't too wide. I've heard much worse.

I'm new to the HT scene and it was reading these forums that convinced me to stay away from the HTIB. I just bought a Harmon Kardon AVR 235 7.1 receiver (refurb) and the Athena Point 5 system which shipped today. I've read about different subs and am actually considering an AS-P400 that I came across. Any other sub suggestions under $300 appreciated. Do my choices seem adequate ? I'm sure I will be 90% movies/DVD's and 10% music with this system. Any advice appreciated.
Thank you.

I'm new to the HT scene and it was reading these forums that convinced me to stay away from the HTIB. I just bought a Harmon Kardon AVR 235 7.1 receiver (refurb) and the Athena Point 5 system which shipped today. I've read about different subs and am actually considering an AS-P400 that I came across. Any other sub suggestions under $300 appreciated. Do my choices seem adequate ? I'm sure I will be 90% movies/DVD's and 10% music with this system. Any advice appreciated.
Thank you.

In my opinion for under 300 bones the Bic Acoustech H100 sub is a better quality sub.

I'm new to the HT scene and it was reading these forums that convinced me to stay away from the HTIB. I just bought a Harmon Kardon AVR 235 7.1 receiver (refurb) and the Athena Point 5 system which shipped today. I've read about different subs and am actually considering an AS-P400 that I came across. Any other sub suggestions under $300 appreciated. Do my choices seem adequate ? I'm sure I will be 90% movies/DVD's and 10% music with this system. Any advice appreciated.
Thank you.

$300 or under the H-100 is the best preformer no question about it.
$150 or under the AS-P4000.

Depends on your budget but I would highly recommend the H-100 unless your planning on upgrading later then go with the 4000 and save the 100 for the upgrade.

$300 or under the H-100 is the best preformer no question about it.
$150 or under the AS-P4000.

Depends on your budget but I would highly recommend the H-100 unless your planning on upgrading later then go with the 4000 and save the 100 for the upgrade.

I think the posters said AS-P400. From those that I've seen compare, I thought the 400 was more highly regarded than the 4000, so it might depend on whether this was a typo or not. I have an AS-P400 myself, and while I have limited frame of reference, I find it definitely does a good job, especially now that it is matched with some AS series fronts.

Nathan

I think the posters said AS-P400. From those that I've seen compare, I thought the 400 was more highly regarded than the 4000, so it might depend on whether this was a typo or not. I have an AS-P400 myself, and while I have limited frame of reference, I find it definitely does a good job, especially now that it is matched with some AS series fronts.

Nathan


thanks to all for the advice; yes, I was referring to the P400 in my original post; the seller won't tell me anything about his P400's history, so i'll pass; I will try to pick up an H-100 if I can get the right deal. Meantime, the used and open box Point 5's on eBay were bidding up close to retail when I went to buy, so I went to One Call and bought them new for the $198 with free FedEx shipping. Funny thing is, Amazon is selling the Point 5 system for One Call at $198, but charging $30 shipping. Looking forward to getting my HK 235 and Point 5's for now.

thanks to all for the advice; yes, I was referring to the P400 in my original post; the seller won't tell me anything about his P400's history, so i'll pass; I will try to pick up an H-100 if I can get the right deal. Meantime, the used and open box Point 5's on eBay were bidding up close to retail when I went to buy, so I went to One Call and bought them new for the $198 with free FedEx shipping. Funny thing is, Amazon is selling the Point 5 system for One Call at $198, but charging $30 shipping. Looking forward to getting my HK 235 and Point 5's for now.
I own the P400 and have owned the P4000. The 400 is definitely better. (It should be! It originally listed at $400, not $150. :cool: )

First of all i would like to say thanks for all the help that these boards have given me on me in the past two months. My wife thinks that i have an online girlfriend!
I purchased the westy 42 inch lcd monitor and decided to upgrade my speaker/surround seteup. I went with the Athena B1's for my front setup, AC-1 as my middle speaker, and the s.5's as my rear and side surrounds. Manual for athena says 6 feet for the surrounds, front b.1, and the middle can either be below the tv or above the tv as long as it is out in front.

What is the proper setup? Some say put the speakers ear level, but alot of people say 6 feet? (including athena's instructions)

The room is 12 feet accross and my viewing area is a horseshoe with the couch in the middle and everything else on the walls. the couch is about 9 feet back and the room extends another 13 feet past the couch.

My tv is in an entertainment center that sits about 3 feet high. The top of the tv will be about 5.5 feet high in the air. If i was to put the middle speaker below the tv, then it would be under three feet and if i was to put it on the top, then it would be about 6.5 feet. Which one is better for the sound?

The b1 speakers will sit in the entertainment center(there are three parts to the center-one with the tv and the other two are huge bookshelfs). How high do i place them and how far away from the tv would they go? The surround speakers will go a little behind the couch, but how far up should i place them for best performance?

The rear speakers will have to be mounted from the ceilings since the wall is13 feet away. the ceilings are 8 feet high----is this too high to mount the rear surrounds? How far back from the couch should the surrounds be?

Sorrry, but this will be a semi permanent move and i don't want to screw it up

thanks!

sry for my quote on the 4000. He did say 400, somehow I put another 0 in there grrr. It was late and I was tired, my mistake.

The b1 speakers will sit in the entertainment center
This should be avoided if at all possible. The B1's (like all "bookshelf" speakers) will sound much, much better mounted on stands with some space around them.
(If they absolutely must go in the entertainment center, try to arrange as much space around them as possible.)

Consider me a less than happy owner of the F2.2s and C1.2. In my setup, the F2's definitely overpower the C1. Spoken dialogue sounds extremely low, and most of my visitors have been asking "what did he say?" when watching movies.

However, if I turn the volume up to a level that the dialogue is acceptable, I'm in trouble the next time some music or a loud explosion comes into the movie.... my neighbors would call the cops, it'd be so loud.

Is running the C1 hot by a few decibals an acceptable solution? I had everything configured to similar levels with my SPL meter, but that didn't seem to do the trick for the C1.

yeah, try running the center a little hot, its easy enough to do. The dialog in that speaker is very clear, at least it is for me.

I have my C1 paired with B2 bookshelfs in one room and F1 floorstanders in the other. Maybe the F2 would overpower the C1 but it sounds fine with my Athenas.

I have the same setup but my Yamaha reciever setup itself and it seems to work well with bringing the C1 in line withthe F2s to an extent. I do run movies at a higher volume then other things but dialog comes though as clear as sound effects. I do not think the speakers are a perfect match though but the seem pretty close to me since I have had setups where they did not match at all and I really had to tweak things and blast volume to hear dialog.

Is a new AS-P400 worth $165? Is there any other subwoofer $200 or below that is better?

Is a new AS-P400 worth $165? Is there any other subwoofer $200 or below that is better?

New AS-P400 = AS-P4000. I cannot speak for how good the 4000 is, except that others have stated the 400 is significantly better. I have the 400, and I like it a lot. There is a P400 new on eBay right now for about that, but I don't think linking to auctions is allowed here. Just search for the model.

Nathan

New AS-P400 = AS-P4000. I cannot speak for how good the 4000 is, except that others have stated the 400 is significantly better. I have the 400, and I like it a lot. There is a P400 new on eBay right now for about that, but I don't think linking to auctions is allowed here. Just search for the model.

Nathan
I know that the 4000 is the "newer" 400, but not nearly as good. I was asking if the older P400 is worth $165 new, or if any other sub $200 or under would be a better choice.

I use F2s and a C1 upfront.

I've got the 4000, had it for about 3 months, I'm very happy with it. I ordered the Dayton for my other system and compaired them. The dayton was returned shortly after, no contest. I've just ordered the 400 and can't wait to compare between the 400 and 4000. I would say under $200 it's a good deal if it's in good condition. I'm kinda skeptical with ebay vendors on that, but I hope I'm wrong because I just won one.

The last of my audio equipment arrived today. All I can say is WOW! The Athena Point 5's ROCK! I am blown away by the quailty of these speakers for only $200. I have had a projector for a year now and an old Sony HTIB which sucked. Boy did I not know what I was missing. I can't explain the difference in the movie experience now. My wife didn't think it was going to make much difference so I locked her in the theater room today with the T-Rex scence from Jurassic Park. She almost wet her pants. She has seen the movie several times but the audio experience just adds another dimension. Thanks to everyone in this thread for all of the good feedback which helped me make my decision.

Here is what I purchased.
Athena Point 5 Speakers
Athena PS4000 Sub
Onkyo TX-SR503 Receiver
Total $550

I am not happy with my Point 5's. Seem too bright with my XR57 and bright room. I have 3 or 4 days left to return to xxxx.com but they have a 15% restock fee. That's $30, plus the $30 each way shipping = $90 "loss". Which option might bring best return (least loss):

1. Return to xxxx.com
2. Sell on Ebay
3. List here (after paying $35.00 to join)
4. Give as gift (to relative)

Tried Craig's list, no one seems to look much there.... Be nice not to have more than a $30 loss... but that may be wishful thinking looking at Ebay prices.

They are great speakers for music! But HT performance let me down. Just ordered a set of Orbs, will post feedback once I try those out.

I'm getting the Athena Point 7(C.5x1 & C.5x6) and an Athena P-4000 very soon.
I have an Onkyo 504 reciever, and I've very exited as this is the first time I'm going beyond stereo to true surround sound. I can't wait to rent some movies with DTS 6.1 Discrete :D
I was just wondering what the C.5s have on the back, some kind of key holes, screw holes, or what? Do you think the Atlantic Universal Speaker mounts I got from Walmart will work? I just have to order a stud finder now and then I'm gong to be all set to start drilling pilot holes.

I am not happy with my Point 5's. Seem too bright with my XR57 and bright room. I have 3 or 4 days left to return to xxxx.com but they have a 15% restock fee. That's $30, plus the $30 each way shipping = $90 "loss". Which option might bring best return (least loss):

1. Return to xxxx.com
2. Sell on Ebay
3. List here (after paying $35.00 to join)
4. Give as gift (to relative)

Tried Craig's list, no one seems to look much there.... Be nice not to have more than a $30 loss... but that may be wishful thinking looking at Ebay prices.

They are great speakers for music! But HT performance let me down. Just ordered a set of Orbs, will post feedback once I try those out.

What Sub do you have? Also from what I read you need to have them set as small even though the instructions say large.

I'm getting the Athena Point 7(C.5x1 & C.5x6) and an Athena P-4000 very soon.
I have an Onkyo 504 reciever, and I've very exited as this is the first time I'm going beyond stereo to true surround sound. I can't wait to rent some movies with DTS 6.1 Discrete :D
I was just wondering what the C.5s have on the back, some kind of key holes, screw holes, or what? Do you think the Atlantic Universal Speaker mounts I got from Walmart will work? I just have to order a stud finder now and then I'm gong to be all set to start drilling pilot holes.

The C.5's have absolutely nothing on the top, back, or bottom to provide the ability to mount on a wall. You would have to fabricate something if you really wanted to mount them. They're mainly intended to sit above or below your display as a center channel. The S.5's, on the other hand, have some decent mounting brackets that come with the speakers.
I think you meant to say the system included C.5x1 & S.5x6. Otherwise, you're getting 7 C.5 speakers without the ability to mount any of them (not to mention the fact that the C.5's are mainly intended for center channel use only)

I am not happy with my Point 5's. Seem too bright with my XR57 and bright room. I have 3 or 4 days left to return to xxxx.com but they have a 15% restock fee. That's $30, plus the $30 each way shipping = $90 "loss". Which option might bring best return (least loss):

1. Return to xxxx.com
2. Sell on Ebay
3. List here (after paying $35.00 to join)
4. Give as gift (to relative)

Tried Craig's list, no one seems to look much there.... Be nice not to have more than a $30 loss... but that may be wishful thinking looking at Ebay prices.

They are great speakers for music! But HT performance let me down. Just ordered a set of Orbs, will post feedback once I try those out.

Did you use the .5's for a full 100 hours? Without doing so, you may not have allowed them to fully break-in. After the first 100 hours, they tend to lose some of the "brightness" you spoke of.

I have the AS-P4000 sub (which I am keeping). Set all at small. My main complaint is they are way too bright/"echoy" at mid to low volume watching HDTV.

No not broken in, it would probably take me a 3 months to put 100 hours on them. I put maybe half hour on them. I am fairly happy with the Paradigm CC and 70 surrounds I have, and an upgrade to Cinema 110's is my next step if the Orbs I ordered today don't work out.

This forum will drive a guy nuts! The Point 5's are so highly regarded here (as are the Orbs)... just have to keep "playing by ear"...

The C.5's have absolutely nothing on the top, back, or bottom to provide the ability to mount on a wall. You would have to fabricate something if you really wanted to mount them. They're mainly intended to sit above or below your display as a center channel. The S.5's, on the other hand, have some decent mounting brackets that come with the speakers.
I think you meant to say the system included C.5x1 & S.5x6. Otherwise, you're getting 7 C.5 speakers without the ability to mount any of them (not to mention the fact that the C.5's are mainly intended for center channel use only)


You're right, the center speaker will just sit on top of my tv, it's the 4 surround S.5s I meant to talk about, as the front S.5's will be on stands.
BTW, let me get this straight, the Athena Point 5 System actually comes with 2 mouting brackets INCLUDED? You mean just the 2 mounting brackets I bought will be enough for the extra 2 rear speakers and I don't have to buy any more brackets? That's great news if true.

You maybe should have snatched up 4 Polk R15s when they were on sale(just about once a month on outpost) and get the Csi25 later when it went on sale. Others disagree, but to me the Polks seen very UNbright and they may therefore work well with the Panasonic Digital recievers. You can get them less than $52 a pair, and you can always buy the center new on ebay if you don't want to wait for the sale.


I am not happy with my Point 5's. Seem too bright with my XR57 and bright room. I have 3 or 4 days left to return to xxxx.com but they have a 15% restock fee. That's $30, plus the $30 each way shipping = $90 "loss". Which option might bring best return (least loss):

1. Return to xxxx.com
2. Sell on Ebay
3. List here (after paying $35.00 to join)
4. Give as gift (to relative)

Tried Craig's list, no one seems to look much there.... Be nice not to have more than a $30 loss... but that may be wishful thinking looking at Ebay prices.

They are great speakers for music! But HT performance let me down. Just ordered a set of Orbs, will post feedback once I try those out.

You're right, the center speaker will just sit on top of my tv, it's the 4 surround S.5s I meant to talk about, as the front S.5's will be on stands.
BTW, let me get this straight, the Athena Point 5 System actually comes with 2 mouting brackets INCLUDED? You mean just the 2 mounting brackets I bought will be enough for the extra 2 rear speakers and I don't have to buy any more brackets? That's great news if true.
My Point 5 came with 4 mounting brackets for the 4 s.5. I however didn't use them because these speakers are too heavy for a wall imo I have the 2 fronts on my entertainment center and my rears on Sanos Stands.

No not broken in, it would probably take me a 3 months to put 100 hours on them. I put maybe half hour on them. I am fairly happy with the Paradigm CC and 70 surrounds I have, and an upgrade to Cinema 110's is my next step if the Orbs I ordered today don't work out."...
So let me get this correct you have only listened to them for 1/2 hr? And in that 1/2 hour you listened to music HDTV and a movie on it to come to the conclusion that you don't like them? Does your receiver have any settings to reduce the treble on it?

to visualcnc
The S.5s are bright speakers I tried them with a xr55 for a week and didn't like the sound. The sound will lessen in brightness the more you break them in, especially if you have only a half an out on them, that's nothing. I doubt it will change enough to make them desirable with your xr55 if they to your disliking this much now though. Might want to try the Polk R series for a budget speaker as they are the complete oposite of the Point5s and you might find the sound more to your likeing. I love the Point5s with my Onkyo and Pioneer receivers though. I would leave them playing 24/7 for the breakin period or at least while your awake to reduce the break in time. I did this while I was at work, reduces the break in time alot and gave the dog something to listen to while I was gone. If you do deside to get rid of them I would recommend ebay or personally selling them as they are discontinued and just sold out at the last retailer that I personlly know of that carried them. You'll probably take a loss on them but I seriously doubt the loss would = the loss of double shipping + restocking fee.

to Jack White
I don't understand your multiplication tables listed at all for speaker but as for mounting the C.5. You'll have to mount a shelf or shelf system to the wall and sit it on that, they have no mounting holes whatsoever, be sure and leave at least 3" clearance between the wall and the back of the speaker as they are rear ported, same goes with the S.5s but the included mounts will take care of the distance so nothing to worry about there. Each S.5 comes with it's own mounting bracket so you won't have to worry about anthing there and it's a very nice mounting system also, one of the best I've seen, especially inlcuded with the speakers.

My Point 5 came with 4 mounting brackets for the 4 s.5. I however didn't use them because these speakers are too heavy for a wall imo I have the 2 fronts on my entertainment center and my rears on Sanos Stands.

What do they weigh, like 6 lbs? I would think if you use a stud finder to find studs in the wall, and screw the brackets into the stud, then weight should not be a problem.

What do they weigh, like 6 lbs? I would think if you use a stud finder to find studs in the wall, and screw the brackets into the stud, then weight should not be a problem.

Jack is correct. They weigh 6 lbs. I made sure one side was screwed into the studs and then used the plastic wall anchors on the other side which were rated to hold 40 lbs because the brackets were wider than 1 1/2". The mounting brackets are very nice and sturdy. I used 3" screws to screw into the studs. These things are not going anywhere.

or just use a decently rated set of drywall anchors, I used some rated at 200lbs max and have had NO probs. Yes I know 200 lbs was overkill, lol, but it was what I had laying around.

The s.5s are light for a bookshelf speaker, drywall will handle them no problem if you use and anchor although finding a stud is always optimal eather will work.

I own these speakers !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I used some serious drywall anchors. Talk about falcon grip.

Question by a newbie though. What is the best way to connect the speaker wire to the speakers (professional)? Do I just unscrew them and slide the wire in and screw it tightly (after stripping the wire of course)? Just seemed a little primitive. Also I will be getting a Pio elite or Denon and they say they use banana plus. How do I get around this? Are the same kind of unscrew slide in and screw tight configuration on the back of these receivers?

Also, I think I made a big mistake although I prolly had no choice. My room is 12x13 but because of the bed and desk (college student in an apartment) I was forced to have the front speakers about ear hieght off the floor BUT they are 4 ft apart. The center is about 2ft above the two fronts. Did I serious mess this up and should I have the rears ear high using the stands because the two seater couch that I have is against the way (10 ft from the fronts) and has a window 10 inches to the right side when sitting?

Need some serious help.

BTW have the AS-P4000, I hear it should go as close to the fronts as possible. Is that true?

I own these speakers !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I used some serious drywall anchors. Talk about falcon grip.

Question by a newbie though. What is the best way to connect the speaker wire to the speakers (professional)? Do I just unscrew them and slide the wire in and screw it tightly (after stripping the wire of course)? Just seemed a little primitive. Also I will be getting a Pio elite or Denon and they say they use banana plus. How do I get around this? Are the same kind of unscrew slide in and screw tight configuration on the back of these receivers?

Also, I think I made a big mistake although I prolly had no choice. My room is 12x13 but because of the bed and desk (college student in an apartment) I was forced to have the front speakers about ear hieght off the floor BUT they are 4 ft apart. The center is about 2ft above the two fronts. Did I serious mess this up and should I have the rears ear high using the stands because the two seater couch that I have is against the way (10 ft from the fronts) and has a window 10 inches to the right side when sitting?

Need some serious help.

BTW have the AS-P4000, I hear it should go as close to the fronts as possible. Is that true?

Your receiver will have the same type speaker terminals as the speakers. It's your choice about connections, yes to use bare wire you just strip the ends and unscrew the terminal stick the bare wire in the terminal and tighten it down. Personally I woulnd't use banana plugs unless you're going to be disconnecting and reconnecting them often, that make it easier in that aspect, or biwiring, otherwise it's just and extra uneeded expense and will make no audible difference, imo, yes bare wire connections are premitive lol but it makes as good or better of a connection as using plugs, in short fire is fire, weather you get it from rubbing to sticks together or lighting a bic, it's still hot.

As far as your center being higher than the rest of your speakers that's no big problem, placement options sometimes can't be helped, you can always experiment with tilting the back of the center speaker to aim at the seating position at the same height as the others.

Placing the sub in line with the front speakers is usually optimal but again sometimes this can't be helped, get it as close as you can and then experiment with different placement options as to what sounds best.

So my fronts being 4 ft apart will be ok?

I have two old Big Monitor Polk Speakers up front and 2 Polk Surround that are 7 years old in the back(think I paid 400 for the surround).

I am thinking of upgrading to Athena my room is 12x15 what do you guys recommend?

I need to buy the little black plastic mounting bracket for the .5 speakers. Does anybody know where i can buy one. I refuse to pay 17.00 for one from Athena. I have the metal screw/bolts, but the black plastic, but one was missing from the package. Can't find the receipt, so i have to pay to get it

Hey I have two and I am not using it. I can send you one if you wish.

I sent you a PM---Sounds Great

Great Boards---Thanks Goes out to "Management" for lending a helping hand to a fellow Athena Owner in need! Now it is time to put it all together over the evil eyes of my lovely spouse.

Now this is what this board is for. I was getting on here to let hime know I have one as well, and management beat me to it. I guess it's a good thing I usually keep all the left over parts. :)

I am so happy to find this post as recently I purchased 3 pair of AS-B2 as 6.1
Has been tried so many speakers before, but never find the satisfaction with the price vs the quality it deliver ~~

Want to ask you guys' opinion what AV receiver should I choose.
At the moment, I'm using my Sony STR-DA777ES... but it's getting old.
I love this baby with the new AS-B2, the surround effects are perfect.. but because of these, I may want to look for another new toy....

1). The amp can't power on by the remote (it is still okay, as I can power it off manually, but my wife is not happy...)
2). it won't support 6.1 DTS_ES (only virtual)
3). No video up-scaling, no DVI/ HDMI output (as I got OPPO 971 and a HTPC, struggling how to connect to my plasma and projector...
4). No "6-Channel pass-thru"....
5). No video upscalling... (i.e. VHS --> RGB / DVI / HDMI)...

Does anyone have recommendation ?
Many thanks

I e-mailed Athena in order to find a dealer that carries their product. So far their web site dealer locator only lists BB. I've spoken with 3 BB stores and all told me they do not carry Athena in the stores anymore. So I've never seen or heard them.

If the S.5 spkrs are being discontinued, is something new supposed to take their place?

I e-mailed Athena in order to find a dealer that carries their product. So far their web site dealer locator only lists BB. I've spoken with 3 BB stores and all told me they do not carry Athena in the stores anymore. So I've never seen or heard them.

If the S.5 spkrs are being discontinued, is something new supposed to take their place?
I hope Athena doesn't end up putting themselves out of business due to lack of distributors. I think they are down to audioadvisor and *******.

Wow. Apparently I am not allowed to mention the name of that distributor! (I typed it, and it got replaced by *s.)

How would an Bic H-100 sub sound w/ my current setup. 2 F2s, 1 C1, and 2 R1s. Are there any other subs in the price range that would do a better job?

I called Athena this morning for dealer info. Was referred to their rep in my area. I called & explained was looking for a local dealer. They confirmed BB does not have in stores anymore. Rep said he'd get back to me with info. Now after 5pm and no word from him. So I guess I won't be shopping for these this weekend.

Neither Athena nor rep knew about a replacement model for the .5.

I always find it puzzling when you are interested in a product & the manufacturer cannot tell you where to buy it.

This was probably discussed somewhere, but has anyone tried a surround setup made up of 5 AS-C1 centers and a AS-P400 ? I already have 2 of the centers and the sub also, all of the original series. I'm thinking of a surround setup for my PC. I understand this center can stand verticle as well
Thanks

How do you like your Athena setup? What's your room size, receiver, sub, speakers that you are using and what is your usage percentage (movies/music). Are you planning on upgrating anytime soon? If so, why and what is your upgrade path? What speakers have you owned prior? How would your rate your setup on a scale of 1 to 5? Feel free to include coments on individual components, things you like or dislike.


My very modest setup (but I like it ;) ):

Room: 12x12
Receiver: Pioneer VSX-D811S
Sub: Acoustic Research PR808
Speakers: Point 5 MKII
Usage: 50/50 Music/movies
Upgrade path: Putting together an all black Point 5 system
Owned prior: Polk, Cambridge SoundWorks, Klipsch, Nht
Scale of 1 to 5: 4 /5
My components are on order:

Receiver: Onkyo 503 -- refurbished with warranty, shoponkyo
Speakers: Athena Point 5 -- new in boxes, eBay
Subwoofer: Athena P4000 -- audioadvisor. New.

Will come back to this thread after hookup in about a week.

Glad this thread exists. I'll have questions.

Cheers,

Sam

My components are on order:

Receiver: Onkyo 503 -- refurbished with warranty, shoponkyo
Speakers: Athena Point 5 -- new in boxes, eBay
Subwoofer: Athena P4000 -- audioadvisor. New.

Will come back to this thread after hookup in about a week.

Glad this thread exists. I'll have questions.

Cheers,

Sam

That is my exact setup. I have had it for a couple of weeks now. I love it. Hope you enjoy.

My components are on order:

Receiver: Onkyo 503 -- refurbished with warranty, shoponkyo
Speakers: Athena Point 5 -- new in boxes, eBay
Subwoofer: Athena P4000 -- audioadvisor. New.

Will come back to this thread after hookup in about a week.

Glad this thread exists. I'll have questions.

Cheers,

Sam

Hey I have the same speakers and the same sub both from the exact same places. How crazy is that. I have the speakers hooked up and the Sub sitting in my room. I just ordered my receiver. I was going to get that exact receiver but decided to spend the extra money and get the Pioneer Elite VSX 52tx.

Is that avr too much? Its rated at 110 Watts per Channel. I know the speakers are for 100 Watts each. Did I over do it or can I just not blast my speakers and still be good? After reading the manual it seems to me that the 52tx had a lot of options when it comes to calibrating the speakers. Plus its THX certifed lol if that means anything. Has a lot of decoders too, again if that means anything. Help would be great in analyzing the merits of this receiver. But yeah thats why I got it or did I not have to?

Hopefully wehn can compare setups because I won't get mine until Friday :(

Well I received an e-mail response from Athena on where to buy their spkrs - Best Buy online. They said there is no retailer in the Chicagoland area where I can go to audition them. Of course BB online only lists some of their spkrs.

Speakers really need to be heard. And once you get them home they sound different anyway. Which means you need a source with a good exchange or return policy.

Where the heck do most people go to see & listen to Athena? Are most purchases being done online with the hope that they will sound right for you?

Well I received an e-mail response from Athena on where to buy their spkrs - Best Buy online. They said there is no retailer in the Chicagoland area where I can go to audition them. Of course BB online only lists some of their spkrs.

Speakers really need to be heard. And once you get them home they sound different anyway. Which means you need a source with a good exchange or return policy.

Where the heck do most people go to see & listen to Athena? Are most purchases being done online with the hope that they will sound right for you?
I bought my Athenas back when BB had them in stock and I could audition them. Now they are competing with ID brands directly. I will be surprised if they manage to stay in business that way, unless they start selling direct.

I'm presuming there will be a difference, but how would you compare:

The Point 5 system with the 4 sats and 1 center & with a P4000 subwoofer, to

B1.2 front, L&R with a C1.2 center, point 5 sats for the surrounds, & P4000 subwoofer.

I have read good reviews on the Point 5 system and would like to use these smaller spkrs, but would I be taking a real big hit in performance compared to using the 1.2 spkrs for the fronts? Or do you think it would be just a small loss?

I had that same thought this morning because I already purchased the athena Point 5s and they sound great but really I would like to know if I should use those F1.2 fronts instead of the S.5 fronts. Some help please.

I'm presuming there will be a difference, but how would you compare:

The Point 5 system with the 4 sats and 1 center & with a P4000 subwoofer, to

B1.2 front, L&R with a C1.2 center, point 5 sats for the surrounds, & P4000 subwoofer.

I have read good reviews on the Point 5 system and would like to use these smaller spkrs, but would I be taking a real big hit in performance compared to using the 1.2 spkrs for the fronts? Or do you think it would be just a small loss?

Well I have both of those setups and I still can't decide which system I like better. I prefer the smaller point 5's because I like smaller speakers, however the 1.2's do sound slightly better. The 1.2's have a little better low end and midrange that gives you a fuller sound. I think you will be happy with just the point 5's. If I could do it all over again I would have bought the point 5's and called it a day.

Indeed, this is crazy yet reassuring. I almost bought a HTIB!

I'll let you know how my setup sounds next week when it is hooked up.

Cheers,

Sam

Hey I have the same speakers and the same sub both from the exact same places. How crazy is that. I have the speakers hooked up and the Sub sitting in my room. I just ordered my receiver. I was going to get that exact receiver but decided to spend the extra money and get the Pioneer Elite VSX 52tx.

Is that avr too much? Its rated at 110 Watts per Channel. I know the speakers are for 100 Watts each. Did I over do it or can I just not blast my speakers and still be good? After reading the manual it seems to me that the 52tx had a lot of options when it comes to calibrating the speakers. Plus its THX certifed lol if that means anything. Has a lot of decoders too, again if that means anything. Help would be great in analyzing the merits of this receiver. But yeah thats why I got it or did I not have to?

Hopefully wehn can compare setups because I won't get mine until Friday :(

After more and more reading I am also thinking about adding the AS-R1 Athena to the back corner wall (which is actually above me). I have a 13ftx12ft room that is about 8 to 9 ft tall. Can I get away with this (6.1) if my couch is against the back wall?

Anyone know where all of these new first series Athena audition speakers are coming from? More than one dealer on my favorite auction site have various models new in the box at very good prices.

Just won a pair of s.5's via auction. This will complete my second system consisting of an Onkyo 573 receiver, Athena B2 fronts, and C1 center.

I just got a AS-P400 for my computer setup for 165.00 delivered. It was advertised as new, and it looks and smells like it too. According to the date code, it's 2 years old. Must have been a stockpile of these somewhere. Of course, right after getting it, I find a certain web site selling the as-P4000 for 169.00 plus shipping. Oh well, still not a bad deal.

can i mount .5 sideways??? it will be in a 5th wheel small area,center will be as it should....

Well it looks like several people got the Athena Point 5 spkrs on eBay. I presume no warranty was not a factor. If there are any pitfalls to getting them this way, feel free to PM me. Or if there is a better source, please let me know.

Thanks in advance,
Mike

I just got a AS-P400 for my computer setup for 165.00 delivered. It was advertised as new, and it looks and smells like it too. According to the date code, it's 2 years old. Must have been a stockpile of these somewhere. Of course, right after getting it, I find a certain web site selling the as-P4000 for 169.00 plus shipping. Oh well, still not a bad deal.
Actually, you got a very good deal. The 400 is a much better sub than the 4000 (I have owned both.)

Actually, you got a very good deal. The 400 is a much better sub than the 4000 (I have owned both.)

Good, I was wondering how they compared. Thanks
I wonder if Athena dumped a bunch of the first series themselves. Sure is a lot of them out there.

Well, looks like I'm gonna have some space problems trying to put the Athena audition speakers around my PC. I'm moving the PC into a different room, and I just don't have the space I used to. I'm now leaning toward the Point 5 setup with the as-p400 sub. Anyone have experience using the Point 5 package around a PC? I'll be sitting pretty close to it. Thanks

Well it looks like several people got the Athena Point 5 spkrs on eBay. I presume no warranty was not a factor. If there are any pitfalls to getting them this way, feel free to PM me. Or if there is a better source, please let me know.

Thanks in advance,
Mike


Well, I paid so little for my pair of s.5's, $25 plus shipping that its worth the risk. It said brand new in open box so I'll know better once I receive them.

Well, I paid so little for my pair of s.5's, $25 plus shipping that its worth the risk. It said brand new in open box so I'll know better once I receive them.


That sounds like a good deal to me also.
I need a whole setup & thought about trying to find the 5 spkr package (4 sats & center).

Well, looks like I'm gonna have some space problems trying to put the Athena audition speakers around my PC. I'm moving the PC into a different room, and I just don't have the space I used to. I'm now leaning toward the Point 5 setup with the as-p400 sub. Anyone have experience using the Point 5 package around a PC? I'll be sitting pretty close to it. Thanks
Would stands help? You can get some pretty cheap ones from Wal-Mart that will work well for the Point 5's.

Would stands help? You can get some pretty cheap ones from Wal-Mart that will work well for the Point 5's.

Thanks, I looked online at Walmart, I don't see any stands that work. Did you find them at the store or online?

Does anyone know where I can get the stand for the Athena S.5???? I can't find them anywhere online!!!!!!!!! :mad: Can other stands be used and would look good!!!!!!!???????

Thanks, I looked online at Walmart, I don't see any stands that work. Did you find them at the store or online?
In the store. They are the adjustable satellite stands for around $25/pr. (I still have a pair, so I can check the brand later today.)

In the store. They are the adjustable satellite stands for around $25/pr. (I still have a pair, so I can check the brand later today.)

That would be great. I'll wait for the brand name.

In the store. They are the adjustable satellite stands for around $25/pr. (I still have a pair, so I can check the brand later today.)


Thanks. Any idea about using the ASP-400 sub with the Point 5 instaed of the original sub that was meant for it? I'm wondering about getting the crossover correct.

Does anyone know where I can get the stand for the Athena S.5???? I can't find them anywhere online!!!!!!!!! :mad: Can other stands be used and would look good!!!!!!!???????

There's a 10 day backorder for them at audioadvisor. You can find cheaper stands that will work.

Thanks. Any idea about using the ASP-400 sub with the Point 5 instaed of the original sub that was meant for it? I'm wondering about getting the crossover correct.
Since it is bigger and more powerful, you will get even better results. I am not sure what the low frequency limit of the Point 5 satellites is, but just set the crossover around 10-20hz higher than that.

Since it is bigger and more powerful, you will get even better results. I am not sure what the low frequency limit of the Point 5 satellites is, but just set the crossover around 10-20hz higher than that.

It's 80hz for the S.5s and 70hz for the C.5

That is my exact setup. I have had it for a couple of weeks now. I love it. Hope you enjoy.

I'm going to have almost the same setup too once I get everything.
Onkyo 504
Athena Point 5
Athena AS-P4000
2 Athena S.5 for Back Surrounds

Speakers stands here.
http://shoptronics.com/audresstan.html

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/pshowdetl.cfm?&PartNumber=240-762&DID=7&raid=45&rak=240-762

It's 80hz for the S.5s and 70hz for the C.5

So, if you had these would you set your audio receiver's crossover to 100hz?

So, if you had these would you set your audio receiver's crossover to 100hz?


Yes, and I'd give 120hz a try if your receiver has it.

I'm looking over the features of my Creative Xtrememusic card for my PC I got last week. It's got the settings for crossover in the software interface. I'll just set it on the card, and go to the direct in jack on the AS-P400 sub. Real easy.

Yes, and I'd give 120hz a try if your receiver has it.

I'll give it a try. Thanks!

So, if you had these would you set your audio receiver's crossover to 100hz?

I find 100 is optimal for my taste, I've tried it at 80 and 120 also and 100 seems the best blend for my ears and room. It may vary depeing on preference, room, placement and probably a million other things but in most cases 100 will probalby work best.

I have been reading more about the "system creation technology" Athena has with the presets on the sub for several of the Athena speaker line. I have the AS-F2 already in my main setup, I just never took the time to read in depth about the procedure. I took it before to be just a preset point to dial in the crossover easily, but the Sound and Vision review of the Point 5 system says the system creation technology "automaticallysets the optimal crossover and a preset equalization curve for the point 5 system" Are they just saying that Athena knows the frequency response of the satellites, so they know what the crossover should be, and they give you an easy way to get it?

Hey,

I bought the point 5 system earlier this year along with a used CHT-10. Anyways i was thinking about upgrading the mains to the Athena F2.2 or one of the F tower speakers and then move the rest of the .5 to the surrounds. Would that work or would the towers overwhelm the surrounds and center?

I have been reading more about the "system creation technology" Athena has with the presets on the sub for several of the Athena speaker line. I have the AS-F2 already in my main setup, I just never took the time to read in depth about the procedure. I took it before to be just a preset point to dial in the crossover easily, but the Sound and Vision review of the Point 5 system says the system creation technology "automaticallysets the optimal crossover and a preset equalization curve for the point 5 system" Are they just saying that Athena knows the frequency response of the satellites, so they know what the crossover should be, and they give you an easy way to get it?
I don't think it does anything "automatically". You set the dial on the sub to the corresponding speaker. (Note: the sub's crossover is bypassed when using line-level input anyhow.)

I don't think it does anything "automatically". You set the dial on the sub to the corresponding speaker. (Note: the sub's crossover is bypassed when using line-level input anyhow.)


Yeah, I knew that. I did not realize until yesterday that the AS-P400 has a preset for the Point 5 setup. I might use it, but I bet you might get a more accurate dial in if you use the direct in on the sub and let my sound card determine the cutoff.
Did you find out the brand of your Walmart speaker stands?

Thanks

Did you find out the brand of your Walmart speaker stands?

Thanks
I'm sorry. I was going to check that last night and it completely slipped my mind.

On a related note. can you guys think of any advantages to using the AS-C1 vertically as surrounds in a 5.1 setup instead of the as-B1 or as-b2?

I'm sorry. I was going to check that last night and it completely slipped my mind.
It turns out that the little stickers with the brand name have come off. Just go to the electronics area in a Wal-Mart and look around. The ones I have are painted grey with cast-iron bases and a curved bracket to use with a screw.

Thanks for all of your help, I appreciate your time.

Small Comment on the Athena Point 5.

These speakers are probably the best things I have ever purchased. The value is amazing. Right out of the box they sounded great and the AS-P4000 worked well when integrated into the setup.

I poped in Final Fantasy VII Advent Children and the sound track sounded amazing. The reason I watched this first was because I just love the music that is played during the fighting scenes. I love the piano in Cloud's place where Tifa was fighting. This was in stereo and it sounded much better than anything I have ever had. Can't wait to really experience 6.1 surround.

Next steps:
Purchase SPL Meter
Purchase Stands
Add 6th speaker
Use Pioneer Auto Cal
Use SPL Meter to Cal Speakers
USE SPL Meter to get Frequency Response
Attempt to Flaten Response
-Try the Equilization in my AVR

If there are any recommendations on what I am doing next. Please let me know, I am a complete newbie. I will post my graphs and what not later. My receiver is a Pioneer VSX 52TX if anyone has that setup too.

I look forward to getting my Point 5 setup for my PC. I'll be using three of the Sonic Impact T-amps to power them and my Creative Xtrememusic soundcard. The Sonic Impact T-amp is an amazing little amp, you should read the reviews on the web. It has the Tripath chip in it. This technology is being used in several of the newer digital amps. Not much power, but enough for my needs sitting at the PC.

Small Comment on the Athena Point 5.

These speakers are probably the best things I have ever purchased. The value is amazing. Right out of the box they sounded great and the AS-P4000 worked well when integrated into the setup.

I poped in Final Fantasy VII Advent Children and the sound track sounded amazing. The reason I watched this first was because I just love the music that is played during the fighting scenes. I love the piano in Cloud's place where Tifa was fighting. This was in stereo and it sounded much better than anything I have ever had. Can't wait to really experience 6.1 surround.

Next steps:
Purchase SPL Meter
Purchase Stands
Add 6th speaker
Use Pioneer Auto Cal
Use SPL Meter to Cal Speakers
USE SPL Meter to get Frequency Response
Attempt to Flaten Response
-Try the Equilization in my AVR

If there are any recommendations on what I am doing next. Please let me know, I am a complete newbie. I will post my graphs and what not later. My receiver is a Pioneer VSX 52TX if anyone has that setup too.

Might also want to play a CD on repeat and break the speakers in a bit before you calibrate. Or just recalibrate after you reach the recommended break in period and verify the settings.

Yea thats what I did today and while I am out play football (soccer). I'm going to do it next week too but the thing is that I read on here (a link provided by someone) thats showed people that did years of research to show that there is no such thing as breakin in speakers. I forgot the link but I'm going to be anal and break them in anyway. Protect my investment lol.

I'm going to have almost the same setup too once I get everything.
Onkyo 504
Athena Point 5
Athena AS-P4000
2 Athena S.5 for Back Surrounds


I presume this means Point 5 spkrs for all 3 fronts? I finally had time this weekend to hook up my Onkyo 504 and it sounds great with my big old spkrs. The Athena Point 5 setup seems to consistently gets good reviews, so I will have to keep a lookout for the 5 piece system. Let us know how yours sounds when you get it all hooked up.

Mike

On a related note. can you guys think of any advantages to using the AS-C1 vertically as surrounds in a 5.1 setup instead of the as-B1 or as-b2?

I'd stick with the bookshelves if possible: they are cheaper, and IMHO, better speakers. The B1s would be more the adequate as surrounds, and are often significantly cheaper then either the b2s or a c1.

I just got some B1's to go with my C1 center. They replaced the micra satellites that I had as fronts. Obviously, the mid-bass improvement is huge. Especially with the center, dialogue isn't nearly as strained as it used to be.

Something is lacking though, I dont think I have found the proper positioning for the fronts. I sit 6-7 feet away from a 34" widescreen so the B1's are about 6 feet apart slightly ahead of the AS-C1 and toed in, creating an arc. The room is not large, like 12 feet wide by 18 feet long with the rear micra speakers about 2/3 of the way back and above ear level (leaving a small void behind the listening area). The sub is near the front-right corner but away from the wall to reduce boominess.

The system sounds great as it is, but I am definitely aware where the speakers are located in the room. I want to make movie soundtracks more seemless and create a better soundstage for 2-channel music.

Any suggestions?

Hey guys. Take a look at this Athena Point 5 setup and tell me whats wrong with it if anything at all. This is my room. I am still a college student (off-campus) and do not have big homes like you guys do. Also I am not putting this stuff in my living room because I rather people not mess with my stuff up because they do not know how to use it and its the worse living room for home theater because its connected to the kitchen. Note the subwoofer is directly under the left front S.5, just couldn't get the drawing. The side surrounds are on the Athena S.5 stands.

Also I have not put up the AS-R1 as of yet but how high should I put it above my head? Do I even need it at all? As you can see I have my couch against the wall. I can pull my couch a little from the wall but not a lot.

Also would anyone recommend putting the speakers in the corners? My friends said that I should but they know nothing (like I did :p).

Comments!!!!!!!!!! I can take bashing so letta rip.

Hey guys. Take a look at this Athena Point 5 setup and tell me whats wrong with it if anything at all. This is my room. I am still a college student (off-campus) and do not have big homes like you guys do. Also I am not putting this stuff in my living room because I rather people not mess with my stuff up because they do not know how to use it and its the worse living room for home theater because its connected to the kitchen. Note the subwoofer is directly under the left front S.5, just couldn't get the drawing. The side surrounds are on the Athena S.5 stands.

Also I have not put up the AS-R1 as of yet but how high should I put it above my head? Do I even need it at all? As you can see I have my couch against the wall. I can pull my couch a little from the wall but not a lot.

Also would anyone recommend putting the speakers in the corners? My friends said that I should but they know nothing (like I did :p).

Comments!!!!!!!!!! I can take bashing so letta rip.
The only real issue I can see with that setup (and one you may have to live with, given the room) is that the left-hand speakers have a wall next to them and the right-hand ones don't. (This may effect the overall balance.)

I would leave out the AS-R1, being right over your head it would not be as effective for a rear center speaker. Especially since it shoots out toward the sides, it would just blend in with the rear Point 5s

Actually the door is right there and the door has to be able to open. The door can completely open, so what you see (and I apologize) is after the door is open (which it won't during viewing). There is a something like a good two feet between the left speaker and the door when its closed.

Thank you for your quick comment.

Also, how high do you think the rear speaker should be?

I would leave out the AS-R1, being right over your head it would not be as effective for a rear center speaker. Especially since it shoots out toward the sides, it would just blend in with the rear Point 5s


What if I rotate the bipole AS-R1 90 degrees? Would that help the issue of it shooting out left and right blending into the side speakers?

Received my pair of s.5 speakers today that I bought online via popular auction site for $25 plus shipping. New in box, full packaging and included the mounting brackets. Definitely bigger than my Energy Take 5 satellites but not quite bookshelf speaker size. Set them up quickly on top of my F1 floorstanders during lunch. Changed the crossover on my HK to 100hz and gave them a short listen with some CD's. These things are crystal clear. Not a lot of bass but what do you expect from a 4" driver? What this does tell me is that my old Sony sub with the polyfil modification really isn't that musical. I'm going to look at the Mirage S8 down the road.

I'll leave these S.5's as my mains for a few days while they break in and then move them to the rears in my B2, C1 system.

Great little speakers. I don't think they're ugly at all.

I'm new to the forum and had been browsing while looking for my first set of speakers.. I went with the Anthenas.. C1.2 center, B1.2s up front and in the rear with the AS4000 sub.. Onkyo504 receiver so I can do 7.1, but the room setup would make it difficult for 2 side speakers. at any rate, I can get a pair of demo F1.2s or F2.2s for a good price. I'm going to be using the setup for 90-95% movies and very little music. should I stick with the B1.2s upfront since I have the sub, or go with the floor-standers? the room is 20x12 or so if that makes much of a difference.

I've heard the F2.2s can overpower the C1.2, so I'd probably lean towards the F1.2s if I went that route..

If you're only doing movies it probably doesn't matter all that much. I have the f1 with c1 and b1 rears and I really like it. But I listen to more music on that system than movies so the f1 towers are really beneficial to me.

My other Athena system is B2 fronts, C1 center and Point 5 rears with an Onkyo receiver. Its very good for TV/movies and only gets music play occasionally as background. And since you really don't have room for 7.1, why spend the extra $$?

How does the current setup sound to you?

I haven't had a chance to put the speakers on mounts or anything, so everything is just sitting on the floor right now.. I'll probably just stick with the 4 B1.2s

Well, I got my point 5 setup around my PC. It's really nice. Using the ASP-400 sub, and 3 Sonic Impact T-amps to power the 5 speakers. I have the Creative Xtrememusic sound card. The question I have regards the sub. As many of you guys know, on the ASP-400 sub, you can go direct in, that bypasses the crossover and volume controls, or you can go Sub In and set volume and crossover on the sub. I'm getting much more bass by using the Sub In jack versus the Direct In jack. Must be some other tone and or volume adjustment that the sub does when using the Sub In jack. I did not expect a difference in output between the Sub In and Direct In

My AS-P400 with direct input is the same as Sub In with volume set to max.

I found that out the hard way a couple times when I connected the RCA cable while the sub was plugged in. I got a nice loud humming noise until the cable was firmly connected on both ends.

I also discovered that even when using Direct In, the volume control should be set to 0 to minimize noise. When I was using Direct In and had the volume set to 10, I got some light humming that went away when I turned down the volume control.

I'm new to the forum and had been browsing while looking for my first set of speakers.. I went with the Anthenas.. C1.2 center, B1.2s up front and in the rear with the AS4000 sub.. Onkyo504 receiver so I can do 7.1, but the room setup would make it difficult for 2 side speakers. at any rate, I can get a pair of demo F1.2s or F2.2s for a good price. I'm going to be using the setup for 90-95% movies and very little music. should I stick with the B1.2s upfront since I have the sub, or go with the floor-standers? the room is 20x12 or so if that makes much of a difference.

I've heard the F2.2s can overpower the C1.2, so I'd probably lean towards the F1.2s if I went that route..
It will depend on what options your receiver provides for speaker calibration. I am using F2s with a C1 (original Athena models) and a HK 635 receiver, which allows independent calibration of the front, center, surround, and rear speakers. With that level of control over the speaker calibration, my F2s and C1 provide an excellent front soundstage. There is no problem with dialog from the front (C1).

Initially, I had F1s for both fronts and surrounds with B2 rears. A few months ago, I was able to finds a pair of new F2s and substituted the F2s for the front F1s. The difference in both movies and music is dramatic. The F1 or F1.2 is a great speaker, but no comparison to the F2 or F2.2. Check out these two reviews of the F2:

http://www.goodsound.com/equipment/athena_asf2.htm
http://www.athenaspeakers.com/awardImages/ASF2%20Stereophile%20final.pdf

If you can get the F2.2s at a good price, you should be a "happy camper" :D!

web

web,

What makes the F2 so much better than the F1, the extra woofer? I remember reading the professional reviews of the f2 a few years back and wanting to get a pair for myself. But I got such an incredible on my F1's (under $100/pr clearance, open box) that I never looked back.

I won't be replacing my setup just curious of the sound differences.

I have some space limitations and was looking at possibly the WS series for a 5.1 setup. 2-WS-100, 2 WS-15, 1-WS-60.

I have a recessed space for my TV that is 6 ft and my TV and stand will be 5 ft wide...so I want to put a couple floorstanding speakers inside the recess in the wall but the can only be approx 5" footprint.

Anybody using these here have any feedback or thoughts on this setup?

Anyone out there want to comment on the AS2 system? Also, how are the rears? I don't know if I want anything that big in the back but if they are "great" sounding rears I'd consider them...

After much debate, I finally purchased a pair of Athena AS-F1. I plan to add a pair of B1.2 and a C1.2 center. Good choices?! Now i've a few questions!

I am most concerned with the sound quality of music, although I will also use for HT. Room size is about 20 x 25 w/cathedral ceiling.

I have read that the Athena's mate well with Marantz and am looking at the 5600 model, $450.00. Do you feel this receiver is overkill/underkill for the Athena set-up?

I do not see Marantz mentioned as often as NAD, Rotel, HK, Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer, Yamaha. Is there a reason for this that I have missed?

Which 7.1 receivers in the sub $450 range would you recommend I consider?

Since the system use will be mostly music [70's rock, Stones, Jackson Browne, Boz Scaggs, Springsteen, Tom Petty, Eagles, to name a few], how important is a sub with the above speakers? Am I correct in that one's sub need not match the other speakers?

I know I should listen for myself, but opinions are helpful, especially when buying through internet and cannot listen before purchase.

Thanks for your time!

I would think along with the Marantz 5600, you might like the Pioneer 1015 and HK 435 in that price range. All 3 are good receivers, it might be a matter of preference for you. I have an HK with my F1's and they sound great together. Doesn't mean the other two brands won't though. Marantz may be just a little less available than brands like HK, Denon, Pioneer, Yammy and Onkyo, you won't see them in big box stores, mainly specialty audio locales. They are a very well regarded product.

That's a big room so you definitely want a sub for movies. As long as you get a sub that's not boomy, it'll be good for music too. And you don't need to get the same brand sub as your other speakers. Look at HSU, SVS, Mirage, Bic Acoustech H100 for starters. Or Athena and Dayton if you're looking for a budget sub. The F1's by themselves do very well with music so you're off to a good start.

I migrated from Onkyo S780 HTIB to Athena later last year. Here it is what I have right now:

Center: C1
Main: B1
Sub: Onkyo S780 HTIB sub
Surround: Onkyo S780 HTIB main
Receiver: Panasonic XR55

Future upgrade: add F1 as main and move B1 back as surround.

Now I need to decide which sub to upgrade to: Athena AS-P4000 or AV123 X-sub?

Thanks for your advise!

Thanks for the input, afrogt!

Spent some time forum browsing:

Seems lots of folk own the Pioneer 1015 [$400] and are quite happy with it. No real complaints, although most feel the HK 635 [$450 -$550] is far better for music.

Posters are pleased with the HK 635's sound for both music and HT, but it does have QC issues. Still most feel this is a better unit, especially at the discounted price.

Found no complaints on the Marantz 5600 [$450 refurb], in fact I found very few posts with info on Marantz.

If the Marantz had the auto set-up features, which the others have, I would grab it!

If the HK AVR 635 can be had for $400, i'll take it, but have to ask myself "why"? w/the known QC issues.

If the Pioneer gets less expensive due to being discontinued, I'll give it another look!

Ooops, I was rambling...

Perhaps, I'll just plug those Athena's into a crappy old Yamaha HTR-5440 or Onkyo HT-R510 [both came w/HTIB] and take a listen. THAT should be enough to force me into purchasing one of the above!!!

Still welcome suggestions, input, etc. to this and my prior post!

I doubt you'll find the HK 635 for $400, but you can find the 435 for that price. Similar features but a little less power. Plenty enough for the Athenas though.

Guys, I just got a Optoma HD72 and I am getting the Pioneer 1015...I know guys in here are probably biased, but are the Athenas the best bang for my buck? Should I go with the B1.2 for front and surround or go with the S5's...is there really that much of a difference to make the B1's five times the price? As far as a sub goes, I am putting this in a rather large room...16x30 in a basement with 9 foot ceilings...should I go with the 4000 or 6000 subwoofer? THanks in advance for the help! Chris :)

Guys, I just got a Optoma HD72 and I am getting the Pioneer 1015...I know guys in here are probably biased, but are the Athenas the best bang for my buck? Should I go with the B1.2 for front and surround or go with the S5's...is there really that much of a difference to make the B1's five times the price? As far as a sub goes, I am putting this in a rather large room...16x30 in a basement with 9 foot ceilings...should I go with the 4000 or 6000 subwoofer? THanks in advance for the help! Chris :)

If you can live without a warranty, there are some bargains right now on my favorite auction site for new Athenas. Half price on some models. I don't know where all of the supply is coming from,but more than one dealer has the first generation Athena and some of the second generation models too. I just picked up a pair of new AS-B2 for 136.00 delivered. I got a new AS-P400 delivered for 165.00. Not bad, but remember, no warranty.

web,

What makes the F2 so much better than the F1, the extra woofer? I remember reading the professional reviews of the f2 a few years back and wanting to get a pair for myself. But I got such an incredible on my F1's (under $100/pr clearance, open box) that I never looked back.

I won't be replacing my setup just curious of the sound differences.
The only difference I know of is greater bass extension. F1's are great in small to medium rooms.

I am really considering the Athenas and my choice is between them and either the Axioms and Paradigms. I am just so skeptical because the cost is so much lower than these other bookshelves. Are they similar in quality???