I figured that since my speakers have left SVS' site at OH, and my CC charged, I am an "owner" now... :D

Please post YOUR impressions of the SBS-01 system (5.1/7.1) in this thread, after you hear it.

I got mine today at 6:30. I didn't get to really do much with them yet because I had to go back in to work till now. I only hooked up the two fronts and center. I recently moved the room around so I need to run wire for the rears. I also hooked up the PB10. Now I have two of them. I popped in WOTW and played a few scenes. Nothing is calibrated yet, but twin PB10's make a huge difference in my room. One shook the room a little. Two of them shakes the room alot, along with the closet doors in the hallway and foyer! If the neighbors didn't hear me before, they will now! I can't comment on the speakers themselves yet, because I didn't really sit down and listen to them. I'll do that this weekend.

come on you owners...provide some feedback:)

I don't think many of us have received our shipments yet.

According to my "Friends at Brown" mine will be here on monday.
God I hope my idiot of a driver does not screw up this delivery.
Would bet I get 3 of 4 boxes and then a couple days later get the missing box.
I wish SVS used BAX or a real freight company and not "Brown".

Will be at CES when they show on Monday. Will set them up and run
my AVR4806 on them and will report back my opinion by Wed-Thur next week. I bought the 7.1 setup. My neighbors are going to enjoy this upgrade as well.

I am sure this thread will be large in a few days as we report our findings and opinions. Its always fun to have new toys to play with.

bltserv

Will set them up and run my AVR4806 on them

good match.

come on you owners...provide some feedback:)
I havent gotten mine either - it's supposed to be here on the 11th (next tues). I got the 5.1 system. I am going from 2 Bose 201 Series IVs, JBL TLXCenter2 center channel, and 2 Sony surrounds (got them for $30 each).

Im pairing the SBS with a Denon 3805 - which just arrived a couple of days ago; even with the existing setup, watching (hearing really) "Polar express" was just amazing.

I cant seem to make up my mind between floorstanding vs. wall mounting for the surrounds - I am getting 4 stands just in case.

I picked mine up at UPS last night. I'm sure glad I drove a truck the boxes are BIG and HEAVY.

The boxes are all opened and speakers all over the living room floor waiting to be hooked up.

Craig

I picked mine up at UPS last night. I'm sure glad I drove a truck the boxes are BIG and HEAVY.

The boxes are all opened and speakers all over the living room floor waiting to be hooked up.

Craig

Lucky dog! I'm sitting here at work listening to XM streaming through my dinky pc speakers & you're getting ready to hook up some new SVS equipment! :)

Enjoy & let us know all of your first impressions!

Looking forward to hear what you guys think. Please write your impressions in this thread to keep them centralized.:)

My order is still being processed, but nonetheless I'm technically an owner now!

I went with the 5.1 system because that's what I have room for in my family room. Would anyone recommend going with the 7.1 system to get 2 extra bookshelves for $100 and use them on their own in another part of the house? Basically, would the bookshelves sound well on their own without a subwoofer for listening to the radio, CDs, or even mp3s off of the computer?

Thanks

-Lee

My order is still being processed, but nonetheless I'm technically an owner now!

I went with the 5.1 system because that's what I have room for in my family room. Would anyone recommend going with the 7.1 system to get 2 extra bookshelves for $100 and use them on their own in another part of the house? Basically, would the bookshelves sound well on their own without a subwoofer for listening to the radio, CDs, or even mp3s off of the computer?

Thanks

-Lee
Im mixed on this - based on the specs alone, I am not sure if the 2.0 setup would be a good choice with a computer - the speakers are not on the sensitive side (86db) so they would need a good dedicated receiver to drive them for quality output - not sure a computer would be able to accomplish that.

I went with the 5.1 system because that's what I have room for in my family room. Would anyone recommend going with the 7.1 system to get 2 extra bookshelves for $100 and use them on their own in another part of the house? Basically, would the bookshelves sound well on their own without a subwoofer for listening to the radio, CDs, or even mp3s off of the computer?
-Lee

I have a 5.1 HT and I ordered the 7.1 because I plan on using the extra 2 speakers in a 2.1 setup in my office. I think I'm going to get the 8" hsu sub (lot smaller then another pb10) and a 2 channel stereo like the Outlaw rr2150. For $100 more preorder you can't go wrong. I'f I don't like them I could sell them off for more then $100 since the 2 speakers will retail for $225.

Ed

I have a 5.1 HT and I ordered the 7.1 because I plan on using the extra 2 speakers in a 2.1 setup in my office. I think I'm going to get the 8" hsu sub (lot smaller then another pb10) and a 2 channel stereo like the Outlaw rr2150. For $100 more preorder you can't go wrong. I'f I don't like them I could sell them off for more then $100 since the 2 speakers will retail for $225.

Ed


Would they be worth using just as a 2.0 system? The price is definitely tempting, I'm just not sure how much I'll miss out on the lows, since I don't plan on putting a sub in the office anytime soon.

Thanks for the replies.

-Lee

Would they be worth using just as a 2.0 system? The price is definitely tempting, I'm just not sure how much I'll miss out on the lows, since I don't plan on putting a sub in the office anytime soon.

Thanks for the replies.

-Lee

Well my thought was I was going to get the svs 5.1 regardless so then I thought about speakers for my office and noticed that it was only $100 more for the 7.1. So for $100 for 2 speakers is pretty darn good deal I think. As for the lows you will miss out unless you get a sub.

Ed

Bastards! UPS was supposed to deliver my SVS speakers tomorrow, but all of a sudden there is some "error" in the shipment and it is now "rescheduled" to be delivered on Monday/Tuesday. ARGH! I was all ready to get them tomorrow and install them and test them.

WTF is wrong with UPS? Of the two packages sent, one is now in Orlando (acceptable, so it should be here by Monday, though that is still 2 days later than it should be) but the other package (these both left the same place at the same time, right?) is in . . . . .

CALIFORNIA? How the hell did THAT happen?

Hmm, let's see - FL is SO close geographically and in "look" on paper to CA - duh?

I was expecting delivery on Thursday. Sub came. The other pkg. ended up in Dallas and is just sitting there as of today. Pkgs. left SVS at the same time. I'm in the Boston area.

I was expecting delivery on Thursday. Sub came. The other pkg. ended up in Dallas and is just sitting there as of today. Pkgs. left SVS at the same time. I'm in the Boston area.


Wow - sounds like SVS needs to take this up with whoever accepts the packages from UPS locally, because they are obviously NOT doing their job correctly.

I ordered my set which came UPS but took 3 days. When I ordered my new sub (PB12-Plus/2) they sent it by BAX. It got here in 2 days! UPS smells more and more like the post office everyday!
Yesterday I got my final 2 speakers and set them in the rear surround position. I toed in my front 2 speakers a little then ran the YPAO on my Yammie HTR-5990. The sound is simply amazing and sooooo fun to listen to! When sounds sweep around the room it is truly wonderful. Hope the rest of you enjoy your system as much as I. Dennis

Damn - one of my packages (I have 4 incl. the 2 stands) - the 75lb one - which I think is either the sub or all the speakers hasnt left Hodgins, IL - while the rest show as DEPARTED.

Gah, I hate UPS and am sure when my speakers are shipped they will screw something up.

UPS is the worst courier company out there from my experience. I wish I could ahve my speakers sent via Purolator but I think Purolator might be a CDN only company. Too bad because they are solid.

FedEx is good to from my past experiences.

Guys/gals... I am really curious of these speakers.
As you receive them/set them up and spend some time with them, I would be interested to hear some comparisons in your reviews.
Like, what speakers you had/have and how the SVS's compare.
What receiver/amp(s) you had/have and how the SVS system pairs with your gear.
How big your room is.
What did you do to calibrate. Even if you did no calibration what so ever, please post your findings. I am sure we are all interested in what you have to say. ;)

I feel telling us your gear will give us the best idea as to how these speakers sound.

Happy listening.

Craig

I hope to take delivery of a set next week sometime unless they go on an excursion and have a question regarding placement, as I read elsewhere that the SBS have a more "specific" sound field. I have read other threads on surround placement and I'm still confused as to what I should do.

My family room is 12x24, with the TV centered on one of the 12ft walls and the viewing position (sofa) being about 10ft back from the screen. The front and center speakers are easily placed. Currently, my aging floorstanding speakers provide the surround (I'm only going for 5.1) and are either side of the sofa. This isn't ideal for many reasons, and I want to properly wall (or ceiling) mount the SBS-01s and finally get rid of the floorstanding speakers.

My problem is that level with the viewing area on the right hand side is a small, glass-enclosed fireplace. I figure that it would not be good for the speaker to be directly above the fireplace, or would it really matter? Alternatively, it would be neat to mount them where the wall and ceiling join, but to avoid the fireplace I'd need to place them about 2ft behind the seating area. Will this destroy the surround affect? (even if I point the speakers at the sofa)

What is the right thing to do? Any comments or suggestions greatly appreciated!

My problem is that level with the viewing area on the right hand side is a small, glass-enclosed fireplace. I figure that it would not be good for the speaker to be directly above the fireplace, or would it really matter? Alternatively, it would be neat to mount them where the wall and ceiling join, but to avoid the fireplace I'd need to place them about 2ft behind the seating area. Will this destroy the surround affect? (even if I point the speakers at the sofa)

What is the right thing to do? Any comments or suggestions greatly appreciated!

You don't want speakers in corners, as it can really distort the sound. If you're going to mount them on the wall, they should be about 2' above where your head is at your listening position. So if the room is 12' wide and 24' deep, try about 5-6' up off the ground, facing each other along the long walls, a few feet behind the couch.

Did you get the 5.1 setup? Can your receiver do 6.1 or 7.1? If so, you might keep your floorstanding speakers and put them behind the couch for the rear surrounds.

I am very interested in the new SVS speakers and have done a little reading up here on the forums. I have been saving money for quite some time preparing to get 4 Ascend 170's with a 340 center. I have also planned a SVS sub. Not sure yet which one.
Considering the price difference I am looking more at the SVS package now, but I did read somewhere that these speakers are not expected to be on the level of the 170's. My question to that is in what regard? My room is ~21x14.5 with 8-10 ft ceilings("tray ceilings"). Will the Ascends do better in filling this room considering the size? Although I would love to save a few $$, I certainly don't want any buyer's remorse. I will primarily be using the setup for 90/10 movies to music. I also expect that I will have some 'acoustic issues' with the room, as I also have hardwoods with no rugs at the moment. Any thoughts, comments?

My previous SS setup was simply the Logitech z-680's - that's right - quite an upgrade to the SBS package. Room is roughly 11x11, w/Denon 1904. Also using DEQ2496 for sub eq.

First impressions:

Finally got everything hooked up and roughly calibrated. My main demo so far was The Corrs - Live in London DVD concert (5.1 DTS)......absolutely amazing! I just kept turning it louder and louder, although I couldn't tell if that was because of the speakers - or because of Andrea Corr :) Far superior to the Logitechs.

Now, back to testing....hmm...maybe Minority Report next...muahahahahhaa

Far superior to the Logitechs.


surprise?

Was the huge difference mainly because of the speakers or the sub?

The sub almost goes without saying. Having the upgraded center speaker, however, was also the other big change.

Generally speaking, the surrounds are...well...just surrounds. Since most audio on any given movie is from the center, that's where I noticed the most difference. I had listened to the same Corrs performance the night before with the logitechs. If I had to give it a number, I'd say the voice and instrumentation were at least 75% better sounding.

You don't want speakers in corners, as it can really distort the sound. If you're going to mount them on the wall, they should be about 2' above where your head is at your listening position. So if the room is 12' wide and 24' deep, try about 5-6' up off the ground, facing each other along the long walls, a few feet behind the couch.

Did you get the 5.1 setup? Can your receiver do 6.1 or 7.1? If so, you might keep your floorstanding speakers and put them behind the couch for the rear surrounds.

cyberbri - awesome, thanks for your advice! I got the 5.1 setup, the area behind the viewing area is quite active (it is my family room after all), so the old floor standing speakers might just survive there. Wouldn't they pollute the quality of the existing 5? At the moment, it's all speculation as my receiver is 5.1 only, but I am planning to upgrade at some point this year (waiting for the new hddvd/bd audio formats to be supported)

cyberbri - awesome, thanks for your advice! I got the 5.1 setup, the area behind the viewing area is quite active (it is my family room after all), so the old floor standing speakers might just survive there. Wouldn't they pollute the quality of the existing 5? At the moment, it's all speculation as my receiver is 5.1 only, but I am planning to upgrade at some point this year (waiting for the new hddvd/bd audio formats to be supported)

I don't think they would "pollute", as the surround speakers aren't as crucial for matching as the front 3. If you can run 6 or 7 channels, however, with both side and rear surrounds, I do think it would sound great and add to the immersion a lot. I have a 7.1 receiver, but only 5 main speakers, so I am hoping to either upgrade to a whole set of speakers, like the SVS SBS-01 set, or at least get a couple of reasonably-matched bookshelf speakers to add to the back.

I Just spent the last few days helping SVS at CES and took a set home for my office HT (though I'm going to loan them to a friend for a while first). These things are nothing short of amazing for their price class. I demoed them dozens of times and just about every time I told folks after the demo that they are around $600 a set, someone would ask if I meant per speaker or per pair.

-Robb

Just got my speakers on Friday. Sub was "recheduled" for delivery today.

Any guesses on who is delivering??!! For anyone wondering about whether or not to use UPS in the future, here is a direct quote from a Founder/CEO of a company I did business with (after going through a nightmare situation with UPS) regarding why he made the decision to switch carriers for his company's products: "UPS must use catapults to load their trucks."

I couldn't agree more. SVS did pack the speakers quite efficiently though and everything seems to be OK. Now just waiting for the sub...

I can't test the speakers yet as my HT is wired for a Bose setup and Bose requires you to pipe everything through the Bass Module. So I have to wait until I can bring everything over to someone's house. Probably this weekend.

As for fit and finish, I was VERY impressed. They are solid bookshelves, but not as big as one reviewer described. They're about as big as what I was expecting.

I received my speakers on Thursday @ 6:45 PM. I was initially upset and had to call UPS because the stands arrived on one truck with out the speakers. Finally the speakers arrived later that night on another truck.

Needless to say I finally went to bed at 2:00 that morning. This is my first true 5.1 set up save a few plastic speakers added to my kenwood stereo system back in college. Which might I say never did work very well.

As I still haven't set the levels on the speakers yet these are just my initial impressions from just hooking up everything and listing.

Build quality is great
Sound is amazing, it fills my room (20 x 13) very easily with my AVR-335. I can't wait to get the speakers set to the right levels.

My wife even enjoyed turning the speakers up to very high levels and watching the incredibles. We found we could listen at high levels and not get tired of the sound (it didn't run us out of the room at any point.)

I don't have the experience that many of you have but I bought the speakers mainly based on reviews by other members here and on price. Wanting to get the best set of speakers I could for about $1,000 and so far I have no regrets. These speakers will be in my system till I move and my next house has a dedicated HT room.

I would like to know if anyone has received their entire order at the same time?

I would like to know if anyone has received their entire order at the same time?

I did. My entire order arrived at the same time, and only two days after being shipped. This included the sub box, the box with the surrounds and center channel, and one box for the speaker stands. I guess I lucked out...

I am just glad my speakers showed up in the same day.

I received the PB-10, SBS 5.0 box, SBS 2.0 box, and two pairs of stands all at the same time.

I don't think they would "pollute", as the surround speakers aren't as crucial for matching as the front 3. If you can run 6 or 7 channels, however, with both side and rear surrounds, I do think it would sound great and add to the immersion a lot. I have a 7.1 receiver, but only 5 main speakers, so I am hoping to either upgrade to a whole set of speakers, like the SVS SBS-01 set, or at least get a couple of reasonably-matched bookshelf speakers to add to the back.

Sounds great - thanks again! I'll have to think a little about placement for the rears as they'd be in a high-traffic zone.

It is the UPS employees. They are angry that anyone would ever think of making them lift such a heavy package. It is there method of protest.

It is not just audio equiptment, it is anything large and heavy.

You will see them dragging,sliding,shoving,dropping basically any thing other than using mechanical advantage.

A catapualt would be a step up for big brown.

I got my order with no problems. All the boxes arrived on time at the same time with very little damage. I have some pics, but since I have no posts yet, I can't post them or post the site address.

For comparison, here is my old setup:
Receiver: Denon 3801
Mains: Altec Lansing bookshelf 3-way 12" (don't remember m/n, not very good)
Center: Klipsch RC-3 (extremely happy with the performance)
Surrounds: Yamaha bookshelf 3-way 8" (minor damage, poor performance)
Sub: Klipsch KSW-12

I had originally planned to finish my setup with all Klipsch reference speakers, but that got put on hold during school. When I saw the preorder price on the SBS-01, I couldn't pass it up. So I ordered a 7.1 SBS-01 system with a PB10-ISD and one set of stands. Friday night I unpacked them, checked for any damage and then hooked them up. I only hooked up a 5.1 system so I did not have a chance to listen to all seven speakers together. After I hooked them up, I could only do some listening at low levels to make sure everything worked.

Saturday morning I used Avia to calibrate the speaker levels. Even during the calibration, I could tell the PB10 goes a lot deeper and plays cleaner the the KSW12. During one of the frequency sweeps down to 20hz, my brother in law walked into the room laughing. He said it was the first time a stereo produced bass that made his stomach queasy. After calibration I watched War of the Worlds. Even though I only watched at moderate levels, the system was still impressive. The sub definately shined during the movie. Although the KSW-12 has pretty good max output, the pb10 played much lower and cleaner. The SVS bookshelves were clear, detailed and had much better imaging then my old setup. With my old speakers, I had to run my center 5-6 db hot during movies to get clear dialog. (The altec lansings and yamahas have poor midrange performance) Needless to say I no longer have to do that. Overall the SVS system produced a much cleaner and more submersive (less localized around the speakers themselves) sound. I didn't get a chance to do any other listening becuase it was time for football.

On Sunday I did not have a chance to do any good listening tests. I only played some classical music in the background. I'm going to try to do more music tests during the week and watch some familiar movies this weekend. I can't wait to watch LOTR or Star Wars at room shaking levels.

Sorry about the poor review, but if anyone has any specific questions or would like some specific pictures, let me know.

-mike

It seems these speakers are getting great overall reviews, and look to be a sure hit w/ regards to bang for the buck. But they truly can't be the perfect speakers, can they? If some more people could post what they don't like about the speakers, that would be very helpful. Everyone's feedback is greatly appreciated thus far :)



Things that would be interesting are

1. How much would you pay if you did it again?

2. What other speakers have you owened or are familar with?

3. Are you thinking you should have went bigger or spent more?

4. Is that big sub worth the size tradeoff.

5. What music sounds best?

6. What music sound worse?

7. What is the best xover you have tried?

8. How do they sound 2 channel?

9. How do they sound with 4 5 channel ( no sub)

10. Would you reccomend them to your grandma and grandpa? How about your parents?

11. What size is your room?

12. Have you listened to them loud enough to hurt your ears? Did they still sound good?

13. How do they sound at very low levels?

14. How do they sound at levels you can talk over?

15. What are you preefeeding them with?

16. Pictures always help with understanding and credibillaty

I posted this in the Sub section, but thought I'd ask it hear, and maybe the SVS guys can answer this:

I have about a 14x20 foot rectangular room, and the subwoofer is in the rear left corner with the "grill" facing the couch (meaning, if I am sitting down, the grill of the sub is facing my left ear.)

Now, I still have my old crappy fronts (UPS screwed up the delivery for my SVS speakers), and I have a new HK AVR-240. I haven't done the "EZ-SET" calibration, and I have not adjusted the db or bass at all - everything is set at "0". Speakers are set at "Small".

When I listen to music, I can tell where the bass is coming from. I thought I wasn't supposed to. Have I set it up wrong? Should I turn the sub so the grill faces either towards the back wall, or the TV? Is this a problem?

I have the crossover set at 80 - I am new to this, so let me ask this:

Does the crossover set what hz the sub fires at and below? Meaning anything over 80 goes to the mains, anything under goes to the sub?

I have the "gain" set at about 1/4 - 1/3 on the dial.

It is a PB 10-ISD

As for placement, I had always read that the rear corner was the preferred space for it.

It seems these speakers are getting great overall reviews, and look to be a sure hit w/ regards to bang for the buck. But they truly can't be the perfect speakers, can they? If some more people could post what they don't like about the speakers, that would be very helpful. Everyone's feedback is greatly appreciated thus far :)


Well, I don't think the comments have been all hype.
I have read many comments saying they thought the sub was to large.
I read where someone stated they didn't like the finish of the speakers.
I also read one persons comments that they felt the speakers were at times a bit on the bright side. Even then, to the last of my knowledge, the poster still had not ruled out that the issue was his receiver.
But for the most part, I to have read nothing but rave reviews about the sound quality these speakers produce.

Craig

I posted this in the Sub section, but thought I'd ask it hear, and maybe the SVS guys can answer this:

I have about a 14x20 foot rectangular room, and the subwoofer is in the rear left corner with the "grill" facing the couch (meaning, if I am sitting down, the grill of the sub is facing my left ear.)

Now, I still have my old crappy fronts (UPS screwed up the delivery for my SVS speakers), and I have a new HK AVR-240. I haven't done the "EZ-SET" calibration, and I have not adjusted the db or bass at all - everything is set at "0". Speakers are set at "Small".

When I listen to music, I can tell where the bass is coming from. I thought I wasn't supposed to. Have I set it up wrong? Should I turn the sub so the grill faces either towards the back wall, or the TV? Is this a problem?

I have the crossover set at 80 - I am new to this, so let me ask this:

Does the crossover set what hz the sub fires at and below? Meaning anything over 80 goes to the mains, anything under goes to the sub?

I have the "gain" set at about 1/4 - 1/3 on the dial.

It is a PB 10-ISD

As for placement, I had always read that the rear corner was the preferred space for it.


When set to SMALL, the signal below the crossover point will be re-routed to the sub. However it's not a brick wall. There's quite a slope so the sub and speakers blend - just like the crossovers inside actual speakers to route sound to the tweeters/mids/woofers. So when crossed at 80Hz, the speakers will still receive signal below that, albeit gradually decreasing down from that point. The sub will also play somewhat above that point.

For sub placement, towards the front of the room is usually better, as it blends with the front speakers better. Placement near a corner can boost the bass frequencies, but it can also make the response really bumpy, which will sound boomy - you want the flattest response possible - due to room acoustics. Somewhere out a few feet along a side wall from a front corner may work good for you, or along the front wall by the speakers a few feet away from a side corner. With the sub really close to you, depending on room factors, the crossover point, and if the sub volume is balanced with the speakers, you may hear the bass coming from the sub. That just means you need to work on placement and adjustment and balance with the main speakers.

Finally got the speakers today! :D

(I just got 2 out of 4 packages, and those 2 happened to be the 5 speakers + sub, so I kinda lucked out amongst UPS' delivery woes!)

The speakers are sitting unpacked at home. I'll do some listening tonight and post my initial impressions tonight...

As for placement, I had always read that the rear corner was the preferred space for it.

Placement near the sitting area (near-field) is good for getting the biggest impact from your sub, not necessarily best for a seamless blend between the satellites and sub. With your room size, I don't think you'll be losing a lot with front wall placement. Try it in the front of the room and see if it sounds better.

Where are the reviews?

I plan on buying these speakers and will need to buy a receiver to pair with it. The svs site shows the speakers to be 85db.....can anyone advise what the minimum power level should be to push the speakers...I can get a denon 3805 for $799, but am worried this would be too much power..125 watts....I have a 15x14 room...any thoughts? I am still trying to learn so please be gentle. Don't need a denon, just looking for a good, strong, reliable receiver with easy set up....looks like I would need to buy the denon set up mic separately,..

Don't worry about over-powering. Your main concern should be under-powering. That Denon should work just fine.

Don't know if the WAF will allow me to place the sub near the front of the room. Perhaps I just need to adjust the volume and output of the sub and keep it where it is at for now. Also, maybe I'll eventually get used to the sound of the bass coming from my left. My wife doesn't seem to hear it or get bugged by it.

Calibrate definitely, but you are probably sitting too close. Put it behind her and see if she'll let you move it to the front :D .

I plan on buying these speakers and will need to buy a receiver to pair with it. The svs site shows the speakers to be 85db.....can anyone advise what the minimum power level should be to push the speakers...I can get a denon 3805 for $799, but am worried this would be too much power..125 watts....I have a 15x14 room...any thoughts? I am still trying to learn so please be gentle. Don't need a denon, just looking for a good, strong, reliable receiver with easy set up....looks like I would need to buy the denon set up mic separately,..

Per a post from Ron S I saw somewhere else. if you can give these guys 35watts, they are fine. Some 110wpc receivers are challenged doing this but that's another story :) .

Don't know if the WAF will allow me to place the sub near the front of the room. Perhaps I just need to adjust the volume and output of the sub and keep it where it is at for now. Also, maybe I'll eventually get used to the sound of the bass coming from my left. My wife doesn't seem to hear it or get bugged by it.


When you have the place to yourself for a few hours or more, move it to the front of the room, adjust it so things sound better, and leave it there. If she mentions anything, tell her that you just spent $X and you want to get the most of your money by placing everything where it sounds the best, not where it necessarily looks the best (or most out of the way). You wouldn't buy a new TV and put it where you can barely see it, or a new piece of furniture in a corner where it won't get used...

It'll help if you have an SPL meter and Avia and can verify that the new location does in fact give you the best response/blend.

Why sacrifice best performance because your wife may not like it at the front of the room? I mean seriously...when did men stop being men? Are most guys really that p-whipped they do everything their wife/gf says?

Am I married? No. If I was married would I not put a sub in its optimal placement because my wife wouldn't think it looked all cute there? No, I'd put it where it damn well performed the best. Would I even marry a woman who would bitch about something so trivial? No.

Is there any HAF (husband acceptance factor) involved in marriages? If a wife wanted to put something in a place the guy didn't like would he be able to say "no" and she'd say "ok honey"? Doubt it.

Sorry for my off topic vent and I mean no offense to anyone. To each their own I guess even if I think it is silly.

If a wife wanted to put something in a place the guy didn't like would he be able to say "no" and she'd say "ok honey"? Doubt it.

ROFL :D :D

Ron,
I understand what you mean by the watts comment....years ago I bought Klipsch KG4's and bought a Nakamichi 40 watt receiver, based on recommendation of a knowledgeable sales person....true 40 watts...that is a great receiver and drives the speakers...for grins I hooked up a friend's 100 watt pioneer...sounded like crap..,

I will be using the sub as an end table to one of our couches, up front....wife actually likes the idea.....

I am lucky to have a very understanding wife when it comes to my HT. Recently we were cleaning up after Christmas, and I decided to try moving the sub from behind the couch (5-6' from back of couch to back wall - sub shook the couch quite nice there, but didn't blend too well with the front mains) and see how it sounded on the front left wall. I ran some sweeps with it in two spots, and moved it up there. My wife asked what I was doing, and I told her the sub sounded better there. She shrugged her shoulders, said OK, and we rearranged the area behind the couch (play area for kids).

In the past, we compromised about where the DVDs would go as well. I had them as well as my books and CDs on a couple of long shelves in the back, but I wanted my DVDs over the TV on the shelves around the center speaker. So recently we compromised, and I put the DVDs over the TV, and moved the CDs and books to a hidden-away bookshelf, and gave her the the shelves to decorate (except for where one of my rear bookshelf speakers sits).

So I agree with Rob for the most part on this.

My order showed up Friday and included a 2.0 and 5.0 set as well as a PB-12. Stayed up until 2:00am putting stands together and hooking them up. I knew a 7.1 setup would require lots of speaker wire so I had already armed myself with a new 100' roll of Monster XP before hand and some dayton banana plugs. Also got one of the silver serpent cables for the sub connection since the discount when ordering them fom SVS was so much better than from better cables direct.

My first thoughts regarding build quality were very favorable. These things are solid. The nice rounded edges and seamless corners are a very nice touch. I mated the speakers to a panny xr55 I got a few weeks back which had been patiently waiting on the shelf for them to arrive. The xr55 is connected to an s97.

Saturday, after getting some sleep I finally got to demo them a little at more respectable sound levels. I tried a few of the standards, Super Speedway, U571, LOTR, WOTW, T2, and even some DVD audio. Also tried some Harry Connick and Polar Express.

Terrific sound. That PB12 is intense. My entire room (18x16) was rumbling. The xr55 didn't have any trouble driving them at all. I broke out the avia disk and spl meter and tried to calibrate. Eveything went well except for one item. I thought I was detecting a slight drop on my left front channel, requiring a 3db or so bump to bring it even with the center and right. This was a problem because the xr55 only has a center level adjustment and no left or right channel augmentation other than balance. But after substituting another SBS-01 in its place the drop vanished. So I tried to calibrate the surround left channel (where I had swapped out the left front bookshelf) and low and behold there was another 3 db drop.... hmmm.

After listening closley to the pink noise tests from avia I have decided that it now isn't really a drop so much as it is a difference in highs not being produced by the speaker. Its as if the tweeter isn't producing sound at all or possibly at a reduced level. It is most noticable when listening to the moving pink noise from channel to channel. The texture of the sound changes when it is played from that one speaker.

So for the time being I have just set up things as a 6.1 format and will work with SVS to get the single bookshelf looked at. All the other speakers sound great. The sub sounds great. I am very pleased with my order and would order it again. Great value for the money.

I am still tweaking and geeking out over them, trying out different sub placements and varying toe in on the fronts. DTS sound tracks on movies are great fun to revist now and I seem to be hearing lots of detail from the combination of the xr55 and the SB's with no noise.

My current favorite clip is the WOTW scene where the first tripod is about to errupt and the huge circle of asphault is rotating. The details of bricks falling and earth rumbling is insane.

I will post again with more later... gotta go listen to some more movies :)

My current favorite clip is the WOTW scene where the first tripod is about to errupt and the huge circle of asphault is rotating. The details of brocks falling and earth rumbling is insane.


If you haven't checked out House of Flying Daggers, now's the time!! :)

I will be using the sub as an end table to one of our couches, up front....wife actually likes the idea.....
by, steelerhater

Sounds like it's time to get a matching end table for her side. lol wink wink

Sounds like it's time to get a matching end table for her side. lol wink wink


Now THAT'S an idea... :D

I just got my set and quickly wired them up. First question: a few years back, a friend told me that all my speaker cables should be the same length to prevent unbalanced stress on the receiver. Is this still true today? (or was it ever?)

The SBS-01s have supplanted the following:
front/mains - Polk RT35i
center - Polk CS245i
surrounds - old Toshiba floorstanding (I forget the model #s)

They are to complement my PB-10 sub. I haven't run through Avia with them yet as I still need to wall mount the surrounds which will probably end up being a weekend job. As they're not calibrated, the center is distinctly pronounced compared to the mains, and overall the setup sounds a little top and bottom heavy compared to the previous menagerie. I haven't changed the gain on the PB-10, so is it possible that my receiver isn't driving them sufficiently for the mids to be more balanced? I'm guessing that calibrating them will make quite some difference, but I have already listened to several of my favorite chapters across a couple of DVDs and have noticed details I hadn't realized before. So more simply, could it be that my old Polks were more muddy? I paid good money for them back in the day :D

First question: a few years back, a friend told me that all my speaker cables should be the same length to prevent unbalanced stress on the receiver. Is this still true today? (or was it ever?)

Nope, never.

Definitely calibrate and let us know what you think after that (my friend also just set up a set and the center had to be down 3 dB from the others).

-Robb

The spec's clearly state that the center (87dB@1W) is more sensitive than the satellites (85dB@1W).

My pair of SBS-01s had been sitting at my buddy's house over the weekend, as I was away on business. I hooked them up last night and we listened for about 3 hours before I packed them up and brought them home. I'll post more details later, just thought for now I'd post a few early comments for those anxious folks who are thinking of ordering these.

First impressions? I LOVE THEM. We crossed the SBS-01s over to my buddy's PB12 Ultra/2 at 100 Hz (80 sounded a tinch thin in his 22' x 12.5' room) and we spent about 3 really pleasant hours enjoying a variety of music on them, in 2.1 stereo. I previously had brought over my BIC DV62CLR-S pair with Ed Frias' excellent crossover mods to try in the same room, and at the time we had thought they were pretty good for the low price I paid, but we weren't motivated to spend more than a few minutes listening to them. They wouldn't play loud enough without distortion to fill his room sufficiently and the sound quality was not bad but definitely not magical. We had to force ourselves to put the SVSs away after 3 hours (so I could take them home) because they sounded that good -- and they have the Magic. Any true audiophile knows what I mean by that; if you get it, you get it.

For reference, we used my buddy's new Rotel RSP-1068 pre-pro and his Rotel RMB-1095 200 watt/chan. 5-channel amp to power them. We sat them on stands that are too low, probably only about 2' high or less since they were designed for my buddy's older DM602s which are very tall, and we basically sat them in front of and inwards of his 802s, maybe 6 feet apart and at least 5-6 feet out from the back wall and probably 3-4 feet from the side walls -- about 1/3 of the way in from each side. We toed them in slightly. The left speaker had a large leather chair sitting too close to the front of it which definitely had a negative affect on the imaging.

We played a lot of smooth jazz and acoustic music along with some pop, rock, funk, and some singer-songwriter folk stuff. Material included Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Patricia Barber, Gavin DeGraw, Fourplay, David Lanz, Destiny's Child, Filter, Counting Crows, Dishwalla, Eric Clapton, Eve 6, and some mixes I've done of live recordings of funk/horn bands I work with (so you might say I'm rather familiar with what those mixes should sound like ;). Fourplay in particular is a fantastic artist for really hearing the sound of your speakers; there's incredible detail, excellent stereo positioning, and a full range of very cleanly recorded instruments. Track 6 on their Heartfelt record really shows off a speaker's abilities or shortcomings, and we were really impressed with how the SBS-01s handled this track. Everything from the most subtle percussion to the natural piano, the acoustic bass (lot to do with the sub here of course), and even the sound of the piano's footpedals being released at the end of the song were reproduced in beautiful lifelike detail. Very sweet. On lesser speakers, reverb tails on this kind of material lose their realism and make the mix sound messy; on the SBS-01s, reverbs sounded just as they should, very natural, sweet and spacious.

Now keep in mind my buddy's main L/R speakers are B&W Nautilus 802s (with the aluminum tweeter, not the diamond), which retailed at $8,000 new. Let's just say they're not bad speakers. ;) Being used to listening to those, we both agreed that if we were stranded on a desert island with nothing but the SBS-01s and the sub to listen to, we'd definitely survive and be quite happy with them. As pro sound engineers we're a bit particular about our speakers so that's serious praise from us. We didn't bother trying them as surrounds in his system, though we probably will at some point and we were both very confident they'd perform beautifully.

Of course in his largish room, the sound wasn't anywhere near as "big" or full as his N802s or his DM604s they replaced and of course not as dynamic, but naturally we expected that. They were definitely capable of playing at very solid volumes without audible distortion (and WAY louder than the BICs); even when we deliberately pushed them too hard, they never really distorted so much as they lost dynamics and started sounding a bit "hard" and compressed. In other words, they began showing in a very polite way that they were approaching their limits, rather than just losing it. Very nice.

We were especially impressed with the tweeters, which had a very clear, detailed, airy, open, and pleasant sound. We experienced no fatigue whatsoever in our 3 hours of listening at pretty decent volumes. The mids were extremely natural too, and surprisingly full for such small midrange drivers. Acoustic instruments like piano, guitar and sax sounded right and very natural, and vocals were really clean and natural on them. We thought the soundstage and imaging were very good, though we acknowledged that they weren't properly positioned in the room and would probably sound better if we took the time positioning them correctly.

The main thing we kept thinking (and expressing to each other) as we listened was, these should NOT cost $225!!!! Of course there are plenty of better speakers available, but for that price range??? I've never heard anything close for that price. If you told me these cost $400 or more, it wouldn't surprise me in the least. I recently auditioned a set of Paradigm Signature S4s which I could have new for $2,200, and I thought they were really impressive. Considering their beautiful cabinets and big (for their size), natural sound, I thought that price was a bit high but not completely out of line. Their bass response was outstanding for their size, and of course they were capable of playing LOUD without distortion. But if you will be crossing your bookshelf speakers to a good sub in a small to medium-sized room, and you compared those S4s to the SBS-01s under those conditions, I would have to seriously question why you would ever pay that much for the S4s (besides of course the great looks). Side by side or in a blind test, who knows, I might prefer them to the SBS-01s, but just the fact that I'm not SURE I would definitely says something.

What I'm most excited about is not even these speakers, but what SVS's upcoming mid-size and full tower speakers will sound like!!!!!! If they perform proportionately to their size and price like the SBS-01s do, I want on the pre-order list right now for the full towers. :)

I'm confident the reviews of these speakers will soon silence the cynics who complain about all the SVS hype, and who opine that just because you make a great sub doesn't mean you'll do as well with speakers. Shoot, at this point if SVS announced they were introducing a line of cars and minivans, I'd be outside in 10 minutes getting my minivan ready for trade-in! :p

Nice review. We seem to agree on the great sound of these speakers. I just finished the LOTR series (again!) this time I played it in straight DTS with no eq other than my HT room treatments and level matching. OUTSTANDING! I think I like the sound even better than with the THX Select 2 setting. I will try it this way with other movies and compare. It is amazing how clear these speakers are. Thanks for taking the time to post. Mine are mated to the SVS PB12-Plus/2. Makes for some great fun. Dennis

WOW that is some very high praise indeed! Great review w/ good detail, congrats on your purchase :)

Drdoan, did you have the PB10 previously? I've been listening to these speakers every chance I've had for the last week, and I couldn't be happier with the price and performance. The only thing is, I thought the PB10 would absolutely blow me away (since I'm only used to listening to passive Bose subwoofers), but I think I might have expected a bit too much. The room my system is setup in is 17x13x10 (closed dedicated room), and I was wondering how much better the PB12+/2 is.

Drdoan, did you have the PB10 previously? I've been listening to these speakers every chance I've had for the last week, and I couldn't be happier with the price and performance. The only thing is, I thought the PB10 would absolutely blow me away (since I'm only used to listening to passive Bose subwoofers), but I think I might have expected a bit too much. The room my system is setup in is 17x13x10 (closed dedicated room), and I was wondering how much better the PB12+/2 is.

How did you calibrate the sub? Did you try different locations in the room? I ask this because I have a PB10 in an 18x15x8 room and it rocks.

I have a 28x22 room where only 17x17 is really used for a Home Theater. Would these speakers possibly work well for this area?

Drdoan, did you have the PB10 previously? I've been listening to these speakers every chance I've had for the last week, and I couldn't be happier with the price and performance. The only thing is, I thought the PB10 would absolutely blow me away (since I'm only used to listening to passive Bose subwoofers), but I think I might have expected a bit too much. The room my system is setup in is 17x13x10 (closed dedicated room), and I was wondering how much better the PB12+/2 is.

Before you decide to upgrade, how did you set it up, and where? Have you calibrated your setup with a meter and Avia, setting phase, volume, balancing the levels across the speakers and sub, verified it's in the optimal position of the possible locations? The room is like one big speaker, and if you have bad placement/settings, upgrading isn't going to help all that much.

Before you decide to upgrade, how did you set it up, and where? Have you calibrated your setup with a meter and Avia, setting phase, volume, balancing the levels across the speakers and sub, verified it's in the optimal position of the possible locations? The room is like one big speaker, and if you have bad placement/settings, upgrading isn't going to help all that much.

No calibration tools were used. I did, however, lug the subwoofer to every possible area in the room. The shape of my room is a bit odd, and but I found the area where it feels and sounds the strongest to me. Don't get me wrong, it's much better than any sub I've listened to. I just don't get the gut rumbling feeling that I thought I would. I wouldn't mind paying a few hundred more to have a sub that will make the average joe think I'm insane.

But the upgrade is just something on my mind for the time being. I will definitely be picking up an SPL meter soon. I will also definitely be building a few acoustic panels and bass traps. I think I will also pick up a BFD along the way. Then, if I'm still not satisfied, the route of upgrading my sub would be taken. I just remember reading one of drdoan's previous posts where he mentioned upgrading too. I was curious how much of a difference he noticed.

I finally received my SBS-01 5.1 setup today. Its replacing a Micra HT system. The receiver is a Panny XR55. The DVD is a Sony ##?70# with the digital coax going to the receiver and the HDMI going to a 40" LCD Bravia.

The SVS system is slick. The speakers are well made and flawlessly finished (for vinyl). The Sub is great, and is placed in a back corner. The manuals are clear and correct (e.g., start the gain way down...). Setup as "small" with a 80hz crossover. I used the receiver test tones to calibrate - the center had to be knocked back a few db, as well as the RS that is closer to my preferred chair (I have to work around my wife...). I calibrated at 74db which was -15db on the Panny. The 85db speaker sensitivity is a non-issue to me. My hearing is still intact.

Movies - some Starwars, Nemo, T2, WoTW. Music - some rock, piano, guitar, classical, organ & opera. I don't have a long history with HT, I really can't imagine anyone wanting anything more for movies. Its clean, clear, and plenty loud. Sub had no problem moving this 24 x 16 room. Still playing with the sub for best position. Wife commented that she heard a lot more the high frequency stuff - a lot of the background sounds can be identified. I'm pleased with it for HT.

Music - the 2.0 speakers do fine for piano and guitar and vocals. The fake 5.1 (IIx, neo) sounded cool, but I don't have much experience playing with it. The classical/opera in 2.0 stereo showed that these are small bookshelf speakers. Sounds like both the highs and lows were rolling off. Not unexpected. Not bad. These just aren't big floor standers, and the tiny XR55 might be part of this too. Still a lot more playing to do. The organ music was cool with the 5.1 Neo and SFC and the sub.

Comparison to the Micra is unreasonable, and comparison to other speakers and HT (friends and B&M shops) would be based on my poor memory (and confounds the XR55 too). Overall I think the system matches the previous descriptions and my expectations quite well.

M.

Drdoan, did you have the PB10 previously? I've been listening to these speakers every chance I've had for the last week, and I couldn't be happier with the price and performance. The only thing is, I thought the PB10 would absolutely blow me away (since I'm only used to listening to passive Bose subwoofers), but I think I might have expected a bit too much. The room my system is setup in is 17x13x10 (closed dedicated room), and I was wondering how much better the PB12+/2 is.

my jaw still drops from time to time watching FOTP, WOTW, and just recently the LOTR trilogy with my 1-yr old PB10. my room measures roughly 15.5'x19.5'x9' with no treatments. wow indeed.....

einsteinjb...great review...

I'm going to get a chance to hear a full set this weekend. I'm looking forward...

subbedout...Those old Polks should hold up pretty well, hopefully you got an upgrade.

Interesting reviews by all.
My brother is looking for speakers, and does not want to spend much money on them. ($1000 tops) So I think these look like the ones I am going to recommend.
You guys that are posting your reviews should be careful though or this thread will be closed as well due to paranoia that we are all on the SVS payroll. :rolleyes: :rolleyes:


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=629506


Craig

Comparison to the Micra is unreasonable, and comparison to other speakers and HT (friends and B&M shops) would be based on my poor memory (and confounds the XR55 too). Overall I think the system matches the previous descriptions and my expectations quite well.

Thanks for the honest frame of referance. Good observations.

einsteinjb , great review, I found the direct comparisons usefull as I am familiar with those speakers.

For those that have it or know more that I could ever know. I have a 28x22 room where only 17x17 is really used for a Home Theater. Would these speakers possibly work well for this area? They are right in the price range I am looking at.

I am looking to get a new pair of bookshelf speakers for my in-laws house and am considering the SBS-01's. However, due to space restraints, the big sub is out of the question. Has anyone set up a SBS-01 system with a smaller less expensive sub and how did they sound?

My room is 15 x 11.8 with 10 ft vaulted ceiling. The PB10 in my room did almost as well as my 16-46PCi. When I used both it was simply stunning with the impact felt and heard. I upgraded so I could get the same or better headroom in one speaker instead of a cylinder and a box. I think that if you will follow the directions carefully in the sub's manual, you will get that sub to woof well. You may be sitting in the "null" part of your room. (Each room has a null spot where the bass will be attenuated). That PB10 is an amazing sub, and in your room, it should do great. Dennis

All,

Thanks for taking the time to post your impressions. It's a bit of an SVS tradition to be a tad conservative with into'ing new products (though the usual critics will label anything we or others say as "hype". I had the honor or personally setting them up for European dealers in December then doing it all over again with two systems at CES. I know on a personal level I like them alot, but then again I'd be in a world of hurt if I didn't ;^)

Credit is due to the past year's work done by the R/D crew back in Ohio and the subcontractor we worked with closely to get them out the door.

The bad news is we undershot demand and will soon be dead out of the 5.0 systems (in the next two weeks for sure). We already are out of the 2.0 packages (so those looking to build a 7.1 system will have to get by with 5.1 for a bit till stocks catch up). As a result, we'll ask you all to remain flexible as we work hard to fill up the pipeline and keep it full.

Many have e-mailed us about the MTS-01 speakers too. Work is proceeding, fast. Some concept speakers were shown at CES that might indicate the direction we go at least for the bookshelf componenent of that new product line (I'm sure pics are floating around already). Keep an eye on our news page in the mid-March timeframe where some updates should start to be available.

Anyway, shortages might loom until March, but we should be clear after that. Just figured you might want to have an update from the OEM corner. Only the quick, the lucky and the patient will be able to chat with authority for the moment (though something like 1,500 people got to hear them at Alexis Park), but I hope the product is proving they'll be worth any wait those seeking them might incur.

Thanks again for sharing. We're enthusiasts first and foremost so we get a thrill out of new stuff being discussed from several perspectives. AVS members are all part of this product, we might never had even built them if not for folks egging us on here.

All the best,

Ron
SVS

It's great to hear an update from SVS themselves. Thanks, Ron. I was surprised to see you're in Colorado Springs too. Does SVS have a local operation/office? I have to build my HT first, but at this point I plan to buy the SVS 7.1 setup.

Guy

Interesting reviews by all.
My brother is looking for speakers, and does not want to spend much money on them. ($1000 tops) So I think these look like the ones I am going to recommend.
You guys that are posting your reviews should be careful though or this thread will be closed as well due to paranoia that we are all on the SVS payroll. :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=629506

Craig
If we're all on the SVS payroll, I have two questions:

1. Where are they keeping the money tree?? Cause they're sure not paying us all out of the massive markups on their products! :rolleyes:

2. Where's my checks?!?? LOL. :D

If we're all on the SVS payroll, I have two questions:

1. Where are they keeping the money tree?? Cause they're sure not paying us all out of the massive markups on their products! :rolleyes:

2. Where's my checks?!?? LOL. :D

einsteinjb,

Well, I am probably already pushing it here, but if you read that thread which I posted the link to then you will see what I was refereing to.
I can't believe how some people interpreted all of this excitement of a new product as some sort of conspiracy by SVS. :rolleyes:

Craig

I just put some more sound damping material behind the 2 front speakers and realigned them. Still more improvement. I would love for someone to come by and hear this amazing speaker package. If anyone is around the Oklahoma City area and would like an audition, please contact me by PM or my email: drddoan@yahoo.com. These speakers are simply wonderful, come by and prove it to yourself! Dennis

Got mine set up last night
Have the 7.1 but only finished 5.1. Ran out of wire !
Have a 17x18x8 room.
Got the AVR-4806 and did the quick EQ via front panel.
Need to redo with the tripod. I used a tall candle stand.
Almost had it at ear level.
Sounds great. Way better than my old Blose 28
Speaker mount kits via drywall not so good.
Will remount in the studs over the weekend.
Overall sound is clean and crisp. Very nice for the price.
Speakers are well designed externally and are rugged.
I did not turn the Sub up past 50%. But it was rocking.
Will provide a detailed review after full tuning is complete.

As far as "hype" and "payroll comments".
I own a company that sells high ticket storage gear.
IMHO. SVS is a quality outfit with a good reputation.
When you do a good job like them. Business is easy and you
will be satisfied. So all the "cynics" take your attitude to a different thread.

bltserv

Digital Man,

My office is the only SVS presence in "the Springs". We might set up a commercial office/showroom down town but so far time just doesn't allow me to cover that and other tasks too. Ohio is where most activity is centered. Drop me a line sometime and I'll be only too happy to pull myself away from real work and give demos for a few hours in my personal HT/music room (though I'm in line for a full SBS-01 system for my location just like everyone else, they are too short in supply for it to be otherwise).

Einstein, heck you have more experience listening to music than I do. Thanks especially for your feedback. I'm always humbled with professional musicians or producers get our gear and like it. I mean everything we do is designed to hold up well to such scrutiny, but as an OEM we still bite our collective lips a bit when someone with that much time behind a console actually stands up to give his/her opinion.

We've said it 100 times, at least, by now. Speakers are a very very subjective area of audio. What one guy/gal might love, another might hate. Objective testing created these speakers, backed by probably thousands of hours of listening, but it's not THAT that sells a speaker. It's what customers feel they do or don't do. The best design approach (in our view) is to strike a balance that all users COULD like, if they listen to them a bit and appreciate what a flat FR and high output combined can provide a customer on a tight budget (or anyone I suppose. It's important to note that playback is still dependent on a sub too, these are not "full range" speakers on their own).

So, as I suspect you know Einstein, you can test and tweak and KNOW you have a high output, utterly neutral design that does not color music or movie audio, but that does mean someone will like it. If you are used to bright speakers (with heavy emphasis on treble), or "warm speakers" (essentially the opposite situation), more power too you. You probably won't like these speakers, or the wine I prefer for that matter. The sound of the SBS-01 was no accident. We meant them to disappear in a room. To never call attention to themselves with "their own sound". I hope we achieved that. Your report (and others coming in) gives me some reason to believe we did (though I can't trust my ears, I'm clearly too biased in any judgement I might lend).

Oh yeah the day we pay anyone to say anything (not what Suffolk meant of course, though others certainly allude to it whenever we intro something new) THAT is the day I demand a raise for myself. Fact is we're too cheap to bribe a reviewer or even someone just posting on the web. The thin margins (by industry standards) of a factory-direct business model means you had best look elsewhere for a way to get rich, or even create a nice pool for which to buy reviews.

I'm sure it's happened out there somehere, but there's no "money tree" in this company. We're picking that damn tree and putting all the "leaves" in new product man. Every new product you see or hear about (not just at SVS, anywhere) costs tens of thousands of $$ just to make it to production, forget about stocks enough to keep up with demand if your new product is a hit.

Ron
SVS

Well said, Ron. I still will challenge anyone to hear my setup and go and listen to any other speakers and see (hear) for yourself how good these speakers really are! Disappear they do! Neutral they are! Dynamic they are! I can't thank you guys at SVS enough for 1) making audiophile quality speakers and subs, 2) Keeping the price ridiculously low, and, 3) allowing me to get the complete set before the rush! I hope we can meet someday, love to see you guys face to face. Dennis

PS-Colorado Springs, what a lousy place to live. What with all those mountains, clear air, etc. You must be suffering! (I used to live there, can't remind my wife as she would go there again in a heartbeat!). Dennis

Okay, I pulled the trigger on the 7.1 system. I now need a receiver. Knowing my room size, 15x14 and the fact that I will not go any larger than this speaker set, I want to make a good selection. I want something that optimizes these speakers and is not overly difficult to set up...but am willing to invest the time to tweak it....I like nice equipment, not going to cheap out, but am really a novice and now have the "frozen by indecision" problem. Can some of you recommend your receiver and if you feel that it is what you will stay with for this set of speakers...I have learned a lot from this forum (especially for my initial HDTV purchase) and look for one more assist....Thanks...

With that sized room, you won't need a lot of power. I'd start at looking at the Onkyo 503 or the Pioneer 815. The main differences are that the Onkyo has 3 optical & 1 coaxial inputs, and the Pioneer has 2 of each. Also, the Pioneer has an auto set-up feature, but I'd rather use an SPL meter and calibrate it myself. If you want component video conversion, look at the Denon 1706, Onkyo 603 or the Pioneer 1015.

subbedout...Those old Polks should hold up pretty well, hopefully you got an upgrade.

I was planning on getting the Polks to help out the TV in the dining room (terrible habit, I know :) ). If I get with the technobabble, I'd have to guess that the Polks are definitely on the warm side. Having used them alongside my PB10 for some time now, I can't say I'd noticed, lacking frame of reference of course.

I've ran a quick Avia balancing and things are looking pretty good in my acoustically-challenged family room, the center being the only one needing to be taken down a couple of dB. Also, for me it's a bonus having the same speakers all round instead of the menagerie from before, which must help them blend in better.
The SBS-01s in particular produce a nice clear, detailed sound. As I mentioned above, that's not what I'm used to, but it's what I prefer (typically with music I add emphasis to the higher bands - obviously, I was compensating for my previous speakers' characteristics). I haven't had much more of a chance to listen to my old favorites, but hopefully I will this coming weekend. Early impressions are that these are keepers!

One final point that really took me by surprise was the size of the units. I know they're bookshelf speakers and all, but the footprint of the SBS-01 is actually smaller than the footprint of my front stands! Made me chuckle for sure :D

More reviews!

I'm one of the MTS-01 e-mailers....

With that sized room, you won't need a lot of power. I'd start at looking at the Onkyo 503 or the Pioneer 815. The main differences are that the Onkyo has 3 optical & 1 coaxial inputs, and the Pioneer has 2 of each. Also, the Pioneer has an auto set-up feature, but I'd rather use an SPL meter and calibrate it myself. If you want component video conversion, look at the Denon 1706, Onkyo 603 or the Pioneer 1015.

Thanks,
this Denon comes with the mic also unlike the 3805...my 3yr old hitachi has DVI input (no sound) so I guess I don;t need hdmi switching...trying to learn but the HDMI conversion issue is tough to get my arms around, even doing the search...
so 75 watts is enough?
Can anyone who owns these speakers now say what wattage they have and room size? Last piece I need so I can "justify" my purchase to myself....
can't wait for the speakers...in my excitement I forgot to order the front stands...argh...

I just pulled the trigger and bought a 5.1 system. (With the intention of later this year buying the MTS-01 pair). My question is what receiver now? I had been debating about the HK-635 and the Pioneer 1015. They both seem to be highly recommended. The problem is the HK is selling it seems in the upper $600 where the Pioneer is right at $500. I'd take the pioneer in a heartbeat, but I am afraid the lack of Lip Synch correction would be noticeable. Although, I have noticed a lip synch issue with my current receiver it doesnt seem to be a common occurence. So I could just be sweating something that really is not an issue?

That being said, I need a 7.1 and 3 digital inputs (Mainly for movies). Ideally I would like to stay in the 500-550 range. Are there any other recievers that can be recommended? Or should I stay with 1 of the 2 above?

Any Help is appreciated.

Well it's not my place probably (takes SVS hat off head), but I've always been a big fan of the quality and feature set of Denon receivers. Our CES suite had an "old" Denon 3805 in the "showroom" (surely available on E-bay for a song nowadays) and a 3806 in our main demo room.

These are about as mainstream as receivers get, and probably about what someone pulling out $1K for speakers will spend for one. Frankly I find the 3805 to be all I'd need in most circumstances (if you don't need the HDMI or XM radio features of the 3806). I've used the 1805 (not sure about the model number, but it's about their bottom of the line) and have had the predecessor to the 2805 too and never found them wanting in power or difficult to set up.

I never had a problem with a Denon receiver before CES, but the first one (NIB) was DOA in Vegas and we had to send out for a new one (which worked flawlessly) the night before the show started. The inclusion of the calibration mic, HDMI and XM make the 3806 worth looking at for sure if you need those things. Didn't get enough time with the new remote for that unit though. The 3805 remote was universally panned but I actually started to like it recently.

Anyway, there are more quality receivers in the $500-1000 price range than you can shake a stick at, and anything with 50 wpc or more will be enough to drive you out of the room with this set of speakers. I know neither receivers we used ever became more than moderately warm even though we were running full reference level for several hours each day at CES.

People tend to recommend stuff they are comfortable with so don't discount personal recommendations for sure.

Ron
SVS

I just pulled the trigger and bought a 5.1 system. (With the intention of later this year buying the MTS-01 pair). My question is what receiver now? I had been debating about the HK-635 and the Pioneer 1015. They both seem to be highly recommended. The problem is the HK is selling it seems in the upper $600 where the Pioneer is right at $500. I'd take the pioneer in a heartbeat, but I am afraid the lack of Lip Synch correction would be noticeable. Although, I have noticed a lip synch issue with my current receiver it doesnt seem to be a common occurence. So I could just be sweating something that really is not an issue?

That being said, I need a 7.1 and 3 digital inputs (Mainly for movies). Ideally I would like to stay in the 500-550 range. Are there any other recievers that can be recommended? Or should I stay with 1 of the 2 above?

Any Help is appreciated.

Spacehog, if you are interested in the Pioneer 1015. Check out this site. ;)
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7034112&type=product&productCategoryId=cat03031&id=1099395572329
I think it is in your budget. ;)
I will also confirm what Ron says about the Denon 3805. I won one. I have it mated with an Outlaw 770 amp. (200 watts x 7)
In your case, and as Ron stated, I would bet the Denon will do just fine on its own. ;)

Craig

Ron, thanks.....best wishes for your continued success.

Looks like the Denon AVR-2106 is sufficient for my needs...has audio sync and comes with Mic.....plus 125 watts.......

Has anyone done any FR charts with these speakers? the Secrets FR chart sucks because the dB range is between -40 and 120 db, that's way too large to be able to see the peaks and nulls.

There are charts on the SVS page itself (http://www.svsound.com/products-spks-sbs01.cfm).

I just received the 7.1 set-up with one small problem, it only came with 5 speakers and the sub. apparently SVS grossly under estimated the popularity of the 7.1 system and ran out of speakers :o. Anyway This isn't a big deal to me, I have dealt with SVS in the past and I know they will make it right. My only Dilemma is the system was bought by my uncle and this is his first time dealing with an on line dealer, so I have to convince him they will get his order straightened out and he will get his other speakers. Well anyway for anyone that is expecting a 7.1 system be aware you may only receive a 5.1 setup to start with. ;)

I just received the 7.1 set-up with one small problem, it only came with 5 speakers and the sub. apparently SVS grossly under estimated the popularity of the 7.1 system and ran out of speakers :o. Anyway This isn't a big deal to me, I have dealt with SVS in the past and I know they will make it right. My only Dilemma is the system was bought by my uncle and this is his first time dealing with an on line dealer, so I have to convince him they will get his order straightened out and he will get his other speakers. Well anyway for anyone that is expecting a 7.1 system be aware you may only receive a 5.1 setup to start with. ;)

from my understanding, they ship a "5.0" system where you get 5 speakers and the extra 2 speakers for 7.1 come in a separate "2.0" box. ups prolly just misplaced it and the extra 2 speakers will show up monday.

i ahve the 7.1 system on the way (thought it'd arrive today but ups sucks soo....) and there are 4 boxes which i am guessing are- 5.0 system box, 2.0 system box, pc-ultra sub and the 4 sets of wall mounts. the weights for each box based on tracking numbers appears to back this up.

UPS only showed 2 boxes being shipped with my order, but you are correct they ship the 5.0 system in one box the sub comes in another box. The extra speakers must come in a box all of their own, however I spoke with SVS today and they are backordered on the 2.0 speakers to make up a 7.1 system and they will not have any in for a month or so.

UPS only showed 2 boxes being shipped with my order, but you are correct they ship the 5.0 system in one box the sub comes in another box. The extra speakers must come in a box all of their own, however I spoke with SVS today and they are backordered on the 2.0 speakers to make up a 7.1 system and they will not have any in for a month or so.

when did you order your system?

I placed the order 1/1/06.

gotcha. So did you set up the 5 speaks that you got? If so, how do they sound?

Just got them yesterday I will be helping my uncle set these up in a couple weeks when he gets his new 50" plasma. I think I am more execited to get these hooked up then he is. He has never had any kind of surround sound system or stereo for that matter, I turned him on to SVS I know he will be satisfied, I absolutley love my PB12/plus2. I will post my impressions ASAP.

from my understanding, they ship a "5.0" system where you get 5 speakers and the extra 2 speakers for 7.1 come in a separate "2.0" box. ups prolly just misplaced it and the extra 2 speakers will show up monday.

i ahve the 7.1 system on the way (thought it'd arrive today but ups sucks soo....) and there are 4 boxes which i am guessing are- 5.0 system box, 2.0 system box, pc-ultra sub and the 4 sets of wall mounts. the weights for each box based on tracking numbers appears to back this up.

I had five boxes for my order. The 5.0 box, the 2.0 box, the PB-10, and two boxes for two pairs of stands. Each pair of stands counts as its own box.

Thanks to a couple of members of AH and HTF, I got a chance to listen to a 5.1 set with a PB10 in a 19X15x8 room. We listened to music exclusively. My conclusions are that while due to room limitations the setup wasn't perfect, but these speakers are wonderfully natural sounding. The tweeters are very smooth and precise, midrange detailed and neutral. As Dennis said, vocals are pure joy. I would have liked to move the speakers out another 2' each and toe them in to broaden the soundstage, but it just wasn't possible. Off axis depth was very good as well. I'm not an audiophile or an engineer like einsteinjb, but I was very impressed.

And I take back everything I said about the PB10 not hitting hard (slam) on the sub forum. I did say I'd only heard it in a huge room. In this medium size room, it has gobs of chest thump, as well as, clean extention. I'm even more impressed with this sub now.

If you've got $1500, $500 speakers - $400 - sub - $600 receiver(or less). I don't see how you can do better than this package. You guys that are getting this are getting a great product. I envy you...

Spacehog, if you are interested in the Pioneer 1015. Check out this site. ;)
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7034112&type=product&productCategoryId=cat03031&id=1099395572329
I think it is in your budget. ;)
I will also confirm what Ron says about the Denon 3805. I won one. I have it mated with an Outlaw 770 amp. (200 watts x 7)
In your case, and as Ron stated, I would bet the Denon will do just fine on its own. ;)

Craig

I got my pioneer off of ebay brand new for $375 buy i tnow with $30 shipping

Well, I just got my speakers yesterday (they got sent to CA instead of FL and sat there for a week, but Ron and Erik from SVS got them moving again and were really great to deal with - VERY fast replies to my emails and very generous.)

So, I got them set up (took a while, as I had to run wire, connect to the HK AVR-240 receiver, get the stands set up, install the wall mounts for the surrounds, go to Home Depot because one of the nuts that was critical to the wall mounts was the wrong size, etc.)

So, I haven't even done the "setup", the EZ-Set, used and SPL meter, etc. Just hooked them up and started watching some programs on satellite, including some music channels and now the wife is watching the Phantom of the Opera in DTS.

Her words echo mine:


WOW! We can hear every nuance of the tracks, crystal clear, neutral, great bass, etc. At one point I thought I was hearing static from the center, but it turns out we were hearing the ever so faint sounds of a woman's hair beads rustling as she moved her head and spoke. Wife also watched the last 30 minutes of Spiderman II in digital surround through the satellite and was amazed at the bass.

Will do more research and movie watching later - can't wait to watch LOTR trilogy!

If you've got $1500, $500 speakers - $400 - sub - $600 receiver(or less). I don't see how you can do better than this package. You guys that are getting this are getting a great product. I envy you...

watch out for that bug ron...its persistant and evil! :D

I've been reading this thread with interest. My current speaker setup consists of a pair of Polk RT35i mains, a Polk CS245i center, and a pair of small Polk R10's for surround. Sub is a Klipsch KSW12. Everything is powered by an old Kenwood VR-309 receiver I got with a HTiB setup several years ago.
I've been interested in an SVS sub for awhile after reading all the rave comments both here and at HTF. My Klipsch sounds pretty good, but I know that I'm missing a lot of that really low bass, and it sounds like SVS will be able to give me what I've been missing for a reasonable price.

Now that I find out SVS is also making speakers!! I am now thinking that I'll go ahead and eventually upgrade my speaker s. Just from reading a couple comments here, from someone who has the same front 3 speakers I have, and from someone else who has the same sub that I have, that this current system would be a winner. Would this setup be enough of an upgrade to go through the trouble of selling my current speakers and sub? Right now my intention is to go ahead and wait until the MTS-01 is available, as I really want some speakers that look more impressive. I'm also hoping they'll have some wood veneer finishes, as I want something classy too!

Also, I'll probably upgrade my receiver first. I like the Denon 3806, except for the price. There's a similar Denon I think I saw mentioned in this thread, except it doesn't have HDMI switching, which I really would like.

I will continue to follow this thread closely

Brian

Not sure if this is an unfair question but.... How do these SVS marvels compare to say M&K (S85's in particular) speakers?

I've got this wanting to spend money bug thats going around. I have replaced everything in my AV setup and the speakers feel left out :rolleyes:

After checking out ths SVS site (nice looking now :) ) I noticed that the SVS family are expecting two new arrivals in the near future (you must be proud :D ). Worth waiting for?

Many thanks in advance guys.

PS Sorry for all the brackets and smilies. Thats another bug :p

Thinking about getting just SBS-01 without the sub. Would anyone recommend this system for a smallish living room (11'x12')? I'm afraid the sub is a little on the big side for this size.

The PB10-ISD is pretty big, but, at that price you will like the performance much better. Music does have some content below 80 hz which you will miss unless you get the sub. Maybe they would let you get the set and if you don't like the sub, return it. Dennis

1. How much would you pay if you did it again?
Up to $1300 for the 5.1 system.

2. What other speakers have you owned or are familiar with?
These speakers are replacing Paradigm Performance Series Esprit's, CC-270, and ADP-170's. I've also owned Bose Acoustimass 15 and some JBL bookshelves.

3. Are you thinking you should have went bigger or spent more?
No. I'm happy with what I have.

4. Is that big sub worth the size tradeoff.
Yes. I now have two of them.

5. What music sounds best?
Just about any newer recorded music.

6. What music sound worse?
Older music, say from the 70's and early. (I'll explain this further below.)

7. What is the best xover you have tried?
I've only tried 80 so far. It blends the sub and the speakers very well in their current position. As soon as I re-wire the room, I'll be splitting the subs. One up front and one next to the couch.

8. How do they sound 2 channel?
They lack the low end that the Esprit's have. It's not really a fare comparison though because the Esprit's are towers. They have the detail, just not the low end.

9. How do they sound with 4 5 channel ( no sub)
Haven't tried it.

10. Would you recommend them to your grandma and grandpa? How about your parents?
Yes.

11. What size is your room?
16'x13'x8' with openings into kitchen, hallway, and foyer.

12. Have you listened to them loud enough to hurt your ears? Did they still sound good?
I believe that I have driven them harder than I have the Paradigms. They remained clear and undistorted at levels that I would never listen at. For reference, I normally listen to movies at -15 to -10. I've had them to +5 without them or the receiver giving up. I haven't tried any further though.

13. How do they sound at very low levels?
At low levels, I think that they are still clear, but I prefer them at a higher power level.

14. How do they sound at levels you can talk over?
I'd say same as above. To me, they sound their best (for movies at least) at a mid to upper power level.

15. What are you preefeeding them with?
Onkyo TX-SR602

16. Pictures always help with understanding and credibility
I currently don't have any pictures. The way that they are currently setup is as follows:

Fronts - Sitting on top of Paradigms (at sides of TV)
Center - On top of TV (TV is in corner of room)
Rears - One on an end table, the other on stand. These will be wall mounted in the corners of the room.


As of right now, I still don't have everything setup and configured the way I want it. I just don't have the time with work. I did use the auto calibration on the Onkyo 602 to set up the speakers for me. It decided to set all 3 fronts to LARGE so I had to change them to SMALL. I still need to get a sound meter and do a proper calibration. Room size and configuration can be seen above. I bought this system basically for movies. I almost never sit down and listen to music. Usually I'll turn it on to listen to while I'm doing something else. I did sit down to listen to some music today though. I decided to buy these speakers because I've never had sealed speakers before and with the return policy, why not. Plus I got to buy something new. So, off to my review.

Movies

First up was WOTW. I have to admit, I watched this first because I wanted to see just how much more bass that second PB10 would add. In this room, the answer is lots more. The speakers did a great job with this movie. They never gave up when I pushed them hard. And this was the movie that I pushed them the hardest too. They were clear throughout the entire movie. I could actually hear what the actors were saying in the basement when the plane crashed. I never could hear them with the CC-270. I watched to the lobby scene in the Matrix. WOW! The combination of the guns being fired, the shells hitting the floor, and the music playing just sounded amazing. I've watched this scene on 3 different systems and this one sounded the best yet. On to Master and Commander. This movie actually broke one of my Esprit's. The cannon fire in the beginning scenes cooked the voice coil on the midrange. I don't know if it just decided to go out then or if it was the movie. I did play these harder than the Paradigms without them giving anything up. Voices were clear. The creaking of the boat again, makes you feel like you're right there. We Were Soldiers was another good movie to test the speakers. The "Broken Arrow" scene had dialogue along with guns firing, explosions, jets flying overhead, and bullets flying everywhere all at the same time. The only thing that I came across that hurt my hears was the THX intro for Phantom Menace when the ball explodes. It was a very high pitched sound. I never remember it sounding that high pitched with the Paradigms. To me, these speakers are well worth every penny for watching movies. If I had to do it all over again, I'd buy them in a heartbeat. The sounds just seem to place you right in the movies. These will be keepers for me.

Music
I used my Sony DVP-NP725P DVD player. Normally I don't sit and listen to music. But, today I did just so I could comment on how they sound. I listened to cd's and mp3's recorded to disc. One thing I found while listening to the Rolling Stones "Forty Licks" (cd) was that there was a static/hissing noise in the background of their earlier stuff. It kind of sounded like I was listening to a record player. Their newer songs did not have this. It may very well have been how it was recorded though. It wasn't horrible, but it was very noticeable. I wonder if this is somewhat the same experience that Axiom owners had mentioned while listening to less than ideal recordings. The Beach Boys "20 Good Vibrations" sounded like these speakers were created for them. This was one of my mp3 discs. It didn't have that static noise that the Rolling Stones had. The speakers seemed to blend with the subs flawlessly. They sounded as if they were floor standers. If I would have turned the subs off, it would be a different story. Another cd that I had the static noise on was the Beatles. Again, stuff recorded a long time ago and put on a newer disc. It still sounded good, but distracted me a bit. Other cd's/mp3's that I listened to were Poison, U2, Beastie Boys, Green Day, Lenny Kravitz, and Big & Rich. They all sounded good, but the speakers need a sub to back them up. They are capable of playing a wide variety of music. For me, the speakers matched perfectly with the PB10. There's nothing like the feeling of a kick drum slamming you in the chest.

Now in no way am I claiming to be an expert or that I have professional speaker reviewer skills or lingo, but I know the type of sound that I like. These speakers have it. At the time, I was happy with my Bose until I started listening to other speakers. I went in and demo'ed Paradigm's Performance Series and liked what I heard. I tried out the Atoms, Titans, Focus', Esprits, and Phantoms. I tried out both the CC-170 and CC-270 along with the ADP-170's. Compared to the SBS-01, the Esprit's and the CC-270's tweeter seems too harsh. I like the sound that the SBS-01's tweeter makes. It seems a lot softer. To me, these speakers sound good and do so at a good price. I'm completely happy with them. Now I just need to sell the Paradigms.

myers212,

Thanks for the review. The fact that you said you would pay up to 1300.00 for the system puts it into perspective.

Seems like these are probally some of the better speakers in there price class +/- 15%.

Without talking about the sub for a moment, I figure the other speakers are about $70 a piece(?), so besides an HTIB (with rcvr, sub,etc), who has a list of anything within 15%?....

Without talking about the sub for a moment, I figure the other speakers are about $70 a piece(?), so besides an HTIB (with rcvr, sub,etc), who has a list of anything within 15%?....

I think this is the math...
5.1 system = $899; starting 1/16/06 it is $999
sub itself = $429
so 5 speakers = $470/570 or $94/$114 a speaker...

Jake Sm,

Just start a new thread titled something like this " List all 5.0 systems approx, 550.00" Place a link here in this thread.

That way this owners thread does not get trashed. I think it is important to take into account the center channel cost. For example you can find speakers that are 90-110 each but then the center is 250 or so. That would throw the total 5.0 price off.

Without talking about the sub for a moment, I figure the other speakers are about $70 a piece(?), so besides an HTIB (with rcvr, sub,etc), who has a list of anything within 15%?....

I think this is the math...
5.1 system = $899; starting 1/16/06 it is $999
sub itself = $429
so 5 speakers = $470/570 or $94/$114 a speaker...
How much if you buy the speakers without the sub? Edit: It is on their website, $210/pr.

In package deals Ascend's HTM-200's with a Hsu STF-2($998 total) and Axiom's M2's with their sub are in the same price range(not 100% sure about the Axioms' price)..but the speakers purchased seperately are about $280/pr. Edit again: The Axiom package is a bit over $1200.

So there are other 5.1 packages that are priced similar. No doubt about it.

I am not sure if they are still selling them, but av123 sells the ELT lineup that is $1000 with sub.
I have not heard the Rockets to give a review though.

Craig

Thought it was 7.1.....and only thinking about "street" package price not what's listed as seperate prices.
Just start a new thread titled something like this " List all 5.0 systems approx, 550.00" Place a link here in this thread.

Good idea, then we could also see about who may have conducted comparisons...I asked elsewhere if any current owners are familiar with the Mirage AVS500 system, and could comment on VISUAL similarities.

Did any of you get any screws that allow you to attach the center speaker to the swivel base? I didn't - could someone tell me what size screws I need for this? Thanks!

I'm not a SBS-01 owner yet, but I hope to be in a few weeks and I have a couple of questions.

I already own a PB10, and I'm now concidering buying another PB10 because of the discount when buying the 7.1 package. But I've also been thinking about buying a bigger SVS, so I'm very unsure.

Would two PB10's make a big difference, or should I save my money, sell the PB10 and go for a PB12 Plus or Plus/2?

My main concern is integrating two subs. My room is about 20 x 13 feet. The subs would be placed most likely between the two main speakers and the center speaker.

My second question is about the 7.1 set up. Since the SBS-01's are monopole speakers, would it be a bad idea to place the surrounds on the side walls directed towards the listening position? This would be the best sollution in my room, and I guess dipole speakers would've been optimal, but I'm hoping the SBS-01's can handle it.

Did any of you get any screws that allow you to attach the center speaker to the swivel base? I didn't - could someone tell me what size screws I need for this? Thanks!


Look for a small clear plastic bindle. Tightly wrapped. Has the screws and some
black plastic speaker pads. You may have tossed it with the packing.

E-mail SVS. I am sure they will give you the DIMS

bltserv

With direct-firing, the side surrounds should be at the side of the listening position (either directly at side, or a foot front/behind, a few feet over the ears, facing inwards (at each other), with the rear surrounds in the back firing forward.

You might contact SVS and see what they say, about the speakers and about the sub upgrade, etc.

Would two PB10's make a big difference, or should I save my money, sell the PB10 and go for a PB12 Plus or Plus/2?

My main concern is integrating two subs. My room is about 20 x 13 feet. The subs would be placed most likely between the two main speakers and the center speaker.

My second question is about the 7.1 set up. Since the SBS-01's are monopole speakers, would it be a bad idea to place the surrounds on the side walls directed towards the listening position? This would be the best sollution in my room, and I guess dipole speakers would've been optimal, but I'm hoping the SBS-01's can handle it.

You should get a minimum of 3db increase in output with 2 PB10s, as well as, a more even bass response in your room. It will be very noticeable. If located within 3' of each other, you might get a 6db gain. This maybe a better solution unless you upgrade to a Plus/2 which I don't think will get you 6dbs, but will provide more articulation and variable tuning. Of course it's more expensive, too. :)

cyberbri is right. It should work fine, especially for multi channel music. Surrounds facing inward towards the LP, back surrounds facing forward.

Thanks for the answers!

I didn't know that two PB10 can result in a more even frequency response. I actually thought the opposite was the case. They will be placed about 3.5' from each other, and maybe even closer. I do have a few dips and peaks in my room, nothing too serious though, but a more even bass response would be great.

If they are both in the front and crossed the same, you should get the benefit. The closer the better. If you put one in the front and one in the back, there might be some cancellation issues. For sure it's gonna take some tweaking no matter what.

I had the 16-46PCi and the PB10-ISD in my HT room. They sounded awsome together. I then replaced both with the PB12-Plus/2. I have just a bit more headroom and it was easier to eq with my BFD. You will be happy with 2 subs over just one, but, that will depend on your budget and need for bass! Dennis

Well after a typical UPS story (UPS flatout BLOWS and I swear they hire other courier rejects to work for them) I got my sbs 7.1 system yesterday but I upgraded my sub to the PC-Ultra.:)

Hooked up the Ultra and the left, centre and right speaks last night and spl matched them with the sub running at 77dB. They are hooked up to the Pioneer Elite 49Tx receiver.

For some background...I moved in mid Nov and am building another dedicated HT room but it is 1.5 feet less in width than my previous one so I decided to look into getting a bookshelf type system that I could wallmount as my current setup has bipolar towers that would be a bit tight in the new room. My current setup consists of Def tech BP30 L&R fronts, CLR2000 centre, SVS 20-39PCi sub and 4 BPX surrounds meaning it is an all bipolar setup naturally aside from the centre and sub. I plan to keep this setup in my family room (which is where i have it now and tested the front SVS speakers) and again, move the SBS system to my HT room when it is finished. The SBS system is going to be 100% HT use. I didn't get this system for budget reasons...I got it because I was hoping it would have great movie performance for a low price, so basically for good value and bang for the buck.

On to my impressions...

These speakers are great!!!! I just tested some scenes from dvds I had unpacked (most of my 900+ dvd collection is still packed up) but did get to check out some Jurassic Park DTS, Star Wars Ep 3, Batman Begins. Batman and Star Wars sounded great. Jurassic Park didnt sound all that great aside from the bass but this is because the soundtrack isn't all that great. It has a thin/harsh sound to it and this is one key area of this system, specifically the SBS centre....it is very revealing so if you feed it not so good material it won't sound good. I noticed this with these 3 dvd tests and also while watching 24 and other tv stuff where some of the commercials sounded quite bad. With the DT CLR2000 you don't get this same type of feedback although crap stuff with that speaker does not sound all that great...it is just that the SBS centre seems more revealing and material dependant. I LIKE this because I want what is there to be reproduced rather than cleaned up like an ugly girl does with makeup. The SBS centre may have worse sibilance than the CLR2000 but may not...it may just be the material because again, with stuff like batman begins and 24 and star wars 3 I didn't hear any real sibilance. The biggest diff aside from that is the CLR2000 just sounds fuller but it isn't a HUGE diff. All in all I think the sbs centre compares quite well with the CLR2000 even if the CLR2000 still has an edge but that is no biggie since the CLR2000 cost almost as much as the whole sbs 7.0 speaker (not including the sub of course) package.

The sbs bookshelves did a GREAT job with the soundtracks. I was surprised the soundstage was as big as it was and coupled with the centre speaker the soundstage was SEAMLESS like a big wall of sound which is how it should be. The diff between the SBS speaks and the DT BP30 bipolars? Depth of soundstage. Naturally with the BP30s being bipolar you have more depth to the soundstage and that was the biggest diff which is what I was expecting. Also, like the clr200/sbs centre, the BP30s just have a bit more fuller sound but it isn't a HUGE diff. In fact, at times while watching 24 I kept thinking I had my BP30s hooked up...that is how good these SBS babies performed.

Even though I have no intention to play music on the sbs setup (I have a Sennheiser HD600 headphone rig for music listening which incidentally costs almost as much as the sbs system including the ultra sub and the 600s are INCREDIBLE for music) I did decide to try some music on them and while music sounded pretty good, it would be the system's "weakness." What I noticed was the speakers in stereo mode seemed to have a "laid" back approach meaning the sound between the speakers seems to be more in the back as if you were a few rows away from the stage. Now the 49tx by nature creates a big soundstage "wall" that floats above the speakers and slightly behind but the SBS speakers seemed to create the sound further back than what my BP30s did. If I had to put a distance aspect to it I'd say the SBS speakers output the sound as if it was say 4-5 feet back from the BP30s/the actual speakers. I also noticed the quality varies with the type of music playing. I found that music that has a lot of crap going on (loud guitars and drums and more heavy rock stuff) didn't sound as good as some classical or less "intense" music. Oh and while the soundstage was nice, it didn't have the same blend as my BP30s did...in stereo mode sounds were being localized closer to the speakers than before which again creates a bit of thiness to the middle section of the soundstage. By no means was it bad but it isn't like these speakers are incredible for music playback. Other than that they seemed to be pretty accurate and like the centre with movies, if the music recording is garbage it will sound like garbage so they are very revealing. If I actually had a desire to listen to music on speakers I'd have no probs doing it on this system but then again I am not some huge music nut so if you are you may not like these for music playback and I'd say if great music playback is your goal then to look at a different alternative because it is obvious these speakers were designed more for multichannel HT playback than for 2 channel music.

So that's basically it. Oh one more thing...I have my receiver crossed over at 100Hz and I found it blends in great. I ran some frequency sweeps and the sub and SBS speakers blended GREAT. The only way I knew the SBS speakers were taking over from the sub at 100Hz was that the output dropped ever so slightly which I chalk up to the fact I had the sub 2dBs or so higher than the speakers. But yeah, a 100Hz crossover worked great and never was I able to localize the sub. I of course did 100Hz instead of 80 because I knew the sub was good enough to handle the extra work and because I figured it is better to cross the speakers up higher since they aren't designed for lower bass.

I am amazed these speakers cost what they did (750 or something for the 7 speakers) because they perform waaaaaaaaaay better than what the price indicates. I'd say based on my listening they are like 85-90% of the Def Tech setup which is impressive. I would say I have no idea how speakers that perform this well can be this cheap but then maybe the more logical thing to do is wonder why "bigger name" and retail brand speakers cost what they do.

I personally think you can't go wrong with getting this setup for this price. I am by no means some self proclaimed audiophile who thinks because he thinks something should sound a certain way that it MUST be FACT so take what i say as my personal opinion. All i know is I am happy with this system and for 1800 bucks total (with the ultra sub) I am beyond impressed at the performance and would recommend this system to ANYONE who is looking for a HT biased system. I would though recommend that unless it is a tight budget issue that people get one of the 12" svs subs instead because my belief is the sub is super important with a system like this and the better the sub the better the overall performance.

As for the PC Ultra, that thing is KILLER. The 20-39PCi is a great sub but this thing is better in every way. Bass is cleaner and the impact is insane. I have the PCU set at a lower dB level than I had the 20-39Pci yet it produces much more sound. Jurassic Park was HILARIOUS with this thing. hehehe

Oh yeah...my family room size is like 18x12x9 and the back half of the right wall opens to my kitchen (which is then open to main hallway and front foyer and dining room, etc) which is like 22x18x9. This system had no problems with loudness with my listening levels ranging from -20 to -12dB under reference)

Great write up Rob... wish they would have been around a bit earlier like 6 months ago when I outfitted my kids rooms. Bummer... oh well.

Nice review :)

...it is just that the SBS centre seems more revealing and material dependant. I LIKE this because I want what is there to be reproduced rather than cleaned up like an ugly girl does with makeup.

HAHAHA that was awesome, there were too many a time where I was shocked to see who I came out of the club with lol

Set up everything yesterday. Took forever and haven't been able to test too much, but just a couple observations, questions...

- speakers arrived in 2 giant, heavy boxes - very well packed. I didn't have problems with UPS like so many here. I ordered the 7.1 set, only rec'd 5.1 and have been informed of the shortage and that the other 2 speakers should arrive in March. No biggie.

- the sub rocked my 15' x 19' room with Beastie Boy's Licensed to Ill (Paul Revere!). I've never had a sub like this PB10 before. The sub on my old Pioneer HTIB was useless.

- can't wait to watch "The Shield" tonight, and some movies (WOTW) over the next week

- the SBS-01's are pretty big for surround speakers, but anyone looking for stands might want to check out the Omnimount 400AH. Adjustible height, very solid, look good. They've been discontinued but still available at J&R for $60/pair...

http://www.jr.com/JRProductPage.process?Product=4006313

Questions:

- crossovers? Couldn't manually set these in the HTIB, shouldn't fronts/center/surrounds all be the same? The HK EZ Setup set them different, something like 120/100/60 - can't remember exactly but I changed all three to 80. Sound good?

- "Gain" and "Phase". Is gain nothing more than volume? Right now I've got mine at about 1/3. Same with Phase - which I don't understand at all. Any input on setting these would be much appreciated.

TheCMB,

Crossovers - use 80Hz or 100Hz.

Gain - yes, the Gain/volume knob on the sub should be at about 1/3, give or take. EZ Set may have lowered the LFE level (-10 to +10 available on all channels) as well.

Phase - if you have the sub at the front of the room, you'll probably want it set to 0, not 180. This is helpful if, for example, you have the sub in another part of the room, where the timing from the main speakers is off, meaning that the overlapping frequencies between the sub and the mains are cancelling each other out (drop in volume around 60-100Hz). Mainly you want the sub to be in phase with the front left/right and center. If the sub's at the front of the room, it most likely needs to be set at 0.


If you really want to get the most out of the speakers, you'll want to get a Radio Shack SPL meter and the Avia setup disc (helps with both audio and video). This will help get the speaker levels correct for each speaker (your EZ Set probably has them close, but this is more accurate if done right), phase, placement, as well as help with tweaking your display. I got both a meter and Avia last summer, and they have really helped get the most out of my system. I also found that by mounting the meter to a camera tripod and setting it on my couch, I was able to get a lot more consistent results (than sliding down and holding up the meter).

If you really want to get the most out of the speakers, you'll want to get a Radio Shack SPL meter and the Avia setup disc (helps with both audio and video). This will help get the speaker levels correct for each speaker (your EZ Set probably has them close, but this is more accurate if done right)

if the ez set is anything like the system pioneer uses then it will get the levels exactly the same as an spl meter although obviously, it is good to have a meter on hand to make sure it did its job.

Thanks Cyberbri. One funny thing about that EZ Set, I've run it 3 times now, and I'd swear every time it sets the crossovers quite differently! (and every time I struggle to figure out how to go in and manually override the crossovers - the trick is you have to take out the EZ Set microphone FIRST!)

Is running EZ Set repeatedly bad for the speakers (with all the loud static being sent to the speakers)?

I will eventually get the AVIA and sound meter. Right now I'm a little burnt, after spending so much time research and setting up all new stuff. It's weird getting new stuff after having something for a few years and knowing all the settings and sound modes inside and out.

If they are both in the front and crossed the same, you should get the benefit. The closer the better. If you put one in the front and one in the back, there might be some cancellation issues. For sure it's gonna take some tweaking no matter what.

Do you have experience with the cancellation with the front/back configuration? Just asking since the Harman white paper suggests the opposite.

Thanks Cyberbri. One funny thing about that EZ Set, I've run it 3 times now, and I'd swear every time it sets the crossovers quite differently! (and every time I struggle to figure out how to go in and manually override the crossovers - the trick is you have to take out the EZ Set microphone FIRST!)

Is running EZ Set repeatedly bad for the speakers (with all the loud static being sent to the speakers)?

I will eventually get the AVIA and sound meter. Right now I'm a little burnt, after spending so much time research and setting up all new stuff. It's weird getting new stuff after having something for a few years and knowing all the settings and sound modes inside and out.

You're very welcome.

For varying results, are you sitting on the couch holding the remote/mic? Or do you have it placed on something? If possible, do the latter, with the mic set on something where your head/ears would be. And try to not stand behind it, because that will block sound when measuring the surround speakers.

And no, it's not bad for the speakers. The only thing like that that would be bad, would be playing low frequency sine wave tones through your sub for longer periods of time without giving the voice coils a while to cool.

I found that the HK receiver manuals are pretty informative. Reading the manual is always a good idea (I've read through parts of mine many times), because it has all sorts of details that are good to know (ie., bass/treble controls only affect left/right channels). It helps to know how everything works when you're setting up.

The UPS stories are getting to me...For those who have received their svs's, did UPS leave anyone's boxes without obtaining a signature? They were on the truck for delivery at 5:58 am this morning for delivery today....my wife was home all day except for about 45 minutes... in the past they have left a $3000 select comfort bed on the porch so I would think they would have left the boxes...It's a good neighborhood, not the city....

did UPS leave anyone's boxes without obtaining a signature?

Luckily I was home when the speakers arrived to sign for them. However, the pair of stands I ordered apparently didn't get on the same truck, so they came out the next day when I wasn't home. The driver left the Panasonic XR55S that I had ordered from B&H but didn't leave the stands because a signature was required. I assume SVS requires signatures on their deliveries.

Luckily I was home when the speakers arrived to sign for them. However, the pair of stands I ordered apparently didn't get on the same truck, so they came out the next day when I wasn't home. The driver left the Panasonic XR55S that I had ordered from B&H but didn't leave the stands because a signature was required. I assume SVS requires signatures on their deliveries.

I guess I should call them and see if I can pick them up during lunch since no one is home a good part of the days...thanks for the heads up on svs requiring a signature.

these are definately on my tobuy list..... probably going to wait for a used set or bstock version (unless i come across a good deal on them from svs).

Already have a pb10 (its great) so all i need are the speakers.

Can anyone tell me the size (length) and thread size of the screws that screw the tilt base into the center speaker? I didn't get any and figure if I knew the size I could just pick some up at Home Depot.

One funny thing about that EZ Set, I've run it 3 times now, and I'd swear every time it sets the crossovers quite differently!

I've seen this a lot.

I did some more listening last night with some diff DVDs (as well as some tv) and again, these things are very dependant on the source fed to them. If you feed them mediocre material they won't sound that great but by no means is it horrible. If the material has good quality then they sound great. It is insane to hear the huge diff between shows like say CSI in HD and other well produced HD shows and just normal crappy commercials where the commercials sound very "thin" with lacking midrange.

Also, I notice a range in dvd quality specifically in dialog/centre channel info. I checked out some of "Be Cool" and the dialog sounded a bit hallow whereas on other dvds like say the new Office Space the dialog was a lot fuller sounding and realistic sounding.

I didn't notice this drastic a diff with my CLR2000 which I think helped make lesser quality stuff sound better as it probably doesn't have as flat a response curve and possibly brigther at the top end. Also, I need to get used to the difference in tweeters as the CLR2000 uses an aluminum tweeter so it has a bit more "snap" there (brighter?) compared to the SBS tweeter. I do know that I think I can listen to these things at a much higher level without any fatigue setting in and I'd guess that is because of the diff tweeter. If I tried to listen to my Def tech system at reference level it'd have killed me but I am willing to bet if I truly wanted to I could listen to these things at reference and be fine with it. The highs are easier to deal with at loud listening levels but that by no means says the Def techs are shrilly or whatever....just have different characteristics which I have read is common with aluminum and silk tweeters.

This characterisitc of revealing mediocre material as being well, mediocre reminds me a lot of my Sennheiser 600s.

I just received my set of the SVS speakers. I know what you're all thinking . . . great, another guy with really low post count buying the SVS speakers. Well, that's true; and while I've been lurking around here for awhile, I have also been a very active member over at home theater forum for about 2 years.

Anyway, I've got my font sound stage setup. I haven't had time to calibrate using Avia yet, but I quickly calibrated using an SPL meter and the test tones on my reciever (will use Avia when I have time this weekend). I have only listened to a couple of DTS tracks and a few CD tracks. So far I am blown away!

However, I should put this in perspective. I am a 23 year old grad student. This is my first "real" system, so I have little to compare it to other than the listening I've done in various stores. Overall I'm extremely happy with the speakers. I would appreciate more bass, but will get that after the tax refund comes in and I have the money to get a sub.

PS I have a 2.0 set of these speakers available in the "For Sale/For Trade" section over at the home theater forum.

Well, I learned last night that my SVS Speakers are cat-proof - the hard way!

Little bastards knocked one of my fronts, which was on my $100 stands, over (stand and all) - the speaker is a little dinged up cosmetically, but still works and sounds great. Can barely see the gouge in the cabinet.


They are now resting on bookshelves, velcroed down, and the speaker stands are in the garage, waiting for . . . . . something to come along I guess.

So, add very tough build quality to the kudos for these speakers.

Well, I learned last night that my SVS Speakers are cat-proof - the hard way!

Little bastards knocked one of my fronts, which was on my $100 stands, over (stand and all) - the speaker is a little dinged up cosmetically, but still works and sounds great. Can barely see the gouge in the cabinet.


They are now resting on bookshelves, velcroed down, and the speaker stands are in the garage, waiting for . . . . . something to come along I guess.

So, add very tough build quality to the kudos for these speakers.

I hear you....I've kicked the darn beagle about 20 times to reinforce the fact that he is not welcome near my new sub.....

I hear you....I've kicked the darn beagle about 20 times to reinforce the fact that he is not welcome near my new sub.....

Just play WOTW at about -10, he'll leave it alone.

The initial invasion or the battle between the army/NG and the aliens? I thought the battle was kind of weak actually...even the battle sounds were unnatural...it was like "CG sound" : P

Now Black Hawk Down...especially during the late night battle where everyone was down to their last ammo, just laying cover fire and waiting for the UN Convoy...that was pretty damn noisy : P

Caveat: I'm pretty green when it comes to listening to and picking out speakers.

I've had the 5.1 system for about a week and a half now after upgrading from a Boston Acoustics VR10 center and 2 20 year old Realistics for mains. So, this is my first real surround system. I'm actually quite impressed with the system for action scenes in movies. However, so far I'm underwhelmed by dialog from the center and the music performance from the mains. Basically they don't sound as full as I'd like them to. When switching the VR10 with the SCS-01, my wife and I both preferred the VR10 for dialog.

I spent a month reading these forums and listening to some PSBs at a local store before trying the SVS system. The price seemed right and the reviews have been fairly positive. I guess I'm wondering whether they just don't work well in my space or if my ear just prefers something else. My listening area is about 3000 cubic feet, but the right "wall" opens up to another ~2000 cubic feet. I'd love to be able to fill that whole area with music, but only the 3000 cubic feet when watching TV/movies. Is this too much space for these speakers? Is there something I can do to tweak the sound more to my liking?

I plan on trying to do some direct comparison with some PSBs this week at the local store. I've also been toying with trying some Axiom speakers. It looks like I might have to increase my budget a little.

-Lee

Caveat: I'm pretty green when it comes to listening to and picking out speakers.

I've had the 5.1 system for about a week and a half now after upgrading from a Boston Acoustics VR10 center and 2 20 year old Realistics for mains. So, this is my first real surround system. I'm actually quite impressed with the system for action scenes in movies. However, so far I'm underwhelmed by dialog from the center and the music performance from the mains. Basically they don't sound as full as I'd like them to. When switching the VR10 with the SCS-01, my wife and I both preferred the VR10 for dialog.

I spent a month reading these forums and listening to some PSBs at a local store before trying the SVS system. The price seemed right and the reviews have been fairly positive. I guess I'm wondering whether they just don't work well in my space or if my ear just prefers something else. My listening area is about 3000 cubic feet, but the right "wall" opens up to another ~2000 cubic feet. I'd love to be able to fill that whole area with music, but only the 3000 cubic feet when watching TV/movies. Is this too much space for these speakers? Is there something I can do to tweak the sound more to my liking?

I plan on trying to do some direct comparison with some PSBs this week at the local store. I've also been toying with trying some Axiom speakers. It looks like I might have to increase my budget a little.

-Lee
I haven't heard the VR10 but Boston Acoustics speakers historically have been somewhat bright, whereas the SVSs are designed to have a very flat, neutral FR. I'm betting you prefer the brighter center because you're used to that sound.

Yeah, your space may be too big to "fill" the whole space with sound from the SBS-01s. They're geared more towards small to medium sized rooms.

Most importantly, have you calibrated using Avia (or another setup/test DVD) and an SPL meter? This is really important to get your system set up correctly. If you think the system sounds a bit thin, you might try a higher crossover frequency in your receiver. 80 Hz (or even lower) is preferred if your mains can handle it, but with the SBS-01s you might like 100 Hz better. It should fill out the low mids/upper bass region better, and give you a bigger sound.

What are you using to power your system (receiver, etc.)? And what gauge speaker wires are you using? 12 gauge is recommended. If you're using thin speaker wires (or something less than oxygen free copper) you might need new speaker wires, especially for longer runs in a big room. Just a thought.

It is hard to comment on that because "fullness" to one person is diff than fullness to another. I won't touch the music performance comment but will say the centre speaker is damn good and dialog sounds great with it in my system. The more I use the system the more I think it is closer to the Def tech CLR2000 and thye may be equal.

myers212,

that hiss is in the recording - its very annoying. I dont have these but i can hear all the limitations of the recording equipment and crappy mixing of old albumns with ease.

Its also VERY obvious in video applications when the recording is not as good as current stuff - I just watched pulp fiction and it looked like ass compared to recent stuff.

Enjoy your fine system - soon you will be worrying about recording quality alot.

Worth

Just tested my new 5.1 set this weekend. Switched from a Bose 5.1 Acoustimass set. Can you imagine what my reaction was to the SVS? I'll give you one guess!

I won't go into all the details because most has already been said, but I will say this: I finally know what others have always talked about when they say they are hearing sounds they never heard before. After this weekend's boot camp with these speakers, I couldn't agree more. I am floored. You know you hit magic when you hear something so awesome, that everyone in the room looks at eachother at the same exact time, with that little grin.

This is Home Theater. We literally need to watch everything we have again to hear what we've been missing. And to think I considered the Axioms at one point. I think the SVS tweeters were plenty "high". I can't imagine how much more the Axioms would be.

Stereo was a little underwhelming...until we switched to MultiChannel in the Receiver. For some reason, this made a world of difference.

FYI: We calibrated using an SPL and receiver tones. AVIA disc is en route.
FYI 2: We were considering PSB, Aperion, Axiom and SVS. SVS won because of the pre-shipping discount. I made the right choice.

...have you calibrated using Avia (or another setup/test DVD) and an SPL meter?

I did use the Avia DVD and an SPL meter. All I did was adjust the dB levels a bit. Hopefully I did it right, it was my first time. I didn't find any calibrations for adjusting treble/bass... I assume this is just to taste.

If you think the system sounds a bit thin, you might try a higher crossover frequency in your receiver. 80 Hz (or even lower) is preferred if your mains can handle it, but with the SBS-01s you might like 100 Hz better. It should fill out the low mids/upper bass region better, and give you a bigger sound.


I did change the crossover to 100 Hz from the SVS recommended 80 Hz. It did make a difference, but it still sounds a little thin to me.

What are you using to power your system (receiver, etc.)? And what gauge speaker wires are you using? 12 gauge is recommended. If you're using thin speaker wires (or something less than oxygen free copper) you might need new speaker wires, especially for longer runs in a big room.

My receiver is the Panasonic XR55. My front 3 speakers are using relatively short (6') thick Monster cable I was talked into buying when I got the VR10 9 years ago. My rear speakers are using about 50ft of 14 gauge in-wall wire from Home Depot.

When I turn up the volume the speakers sound great. There is no distortion and they are very clear. At our normal listening levels, though, there doesn't seem to be much behind the voices.

I would really love to love these speakers. They look great, are well built, the right size, a good price, sound great in certain situations, and SVS has been a pleasure to deal with.

I'll keep fiddling. Thanks for the response, einsteinjb.

Just tested my new 5.1 set this weekend. Switched from a Bose 5.1 Acoustimass set. Can you imagine what my reaction was to the SVS? I'll give you one guess!

I won't go into all the details because most has already been said, but I will say this: I finally know what others have always talked about when they say they are hearing sounds they never heard before. After this weekend's boot camp with these speakers, I couldn't agree more. I am floored. You know you hit magic when you hear something so awesome, that everyone in the room looks at eachother at the same exact time, with that little grin.

This is Home Theater. We literally need to watch everything we have again to hear what we've been missing. And to think I considered the Axioms at one point. I think the SVS tweeters were plenty "high". I can't imagine how much more the Axioms would be.

Stereo was a little underwhelming...until we switched to MultiChannel in the Receiver. For some reason, this made a world of difference.

FYI: We calibrated using an SPL and receiver tones. AVIA disc is en route.
FYI 2: We were considering PSB, Aperion, Axiom and SVS. SVS won because of the pre-shipping discount. I made the right choice.


Have you played around with placement/toe-in at all? At least with my room and my speakers, I find that having the left/right mains aimed at the listening position sounds much clearer. Many speakers sound different "off-axis", with different frequencies falling off the farther off-axis you are. Room acoustics also come into play. But you may find that a further/lesser degree of toe-in may improve how they sound in stereo - ie., aiming them at the middle listening position, or say your shoulder at the middle listening position, etc. (I make sure I see the same amount of the side of the speaker both ways, or stand behind the couch and see how far I have to lean to the right/left to look straight - this gets me close enough). If they are on stands, experimentation with distance from the wall, etc. might improve their sound (SVS may have recommendations on placement). My speakers (not the SVS) are on bookshelves in the front (see my gallery), so I don't have room to play around with stands/distance from the wall. But toeing them in definitely improved the sound, both for movies and for music - they are clearer now without being overly loud or harsh (less reflections off the side walls, I presume). I've always had my center speaker aimed down at the listening position for the clearest dialog, but left/right is more speaker-, room- and preference-dependent. Anyways, it won't hurt to experiment a little.

Einsteinjb - regarding changing the crossovers to 100, would it make sense to leave the center channel at 80, just to even out the LFE a bit?

Or would some other manner of mixing up the crossovers work better? FWIW, I think my HK EZset put the fronts/surrounds at 150, and the center at 60 (before I changed everything to 80). Btw - my sub is in a front corner of the room, not far from one of the fronts...

cmb,

i'd say to keep the crossover the same for each speaker.

Hi, i have a quick question for all you owners:
I'm close to ordering the 5.0 and leaving the sub out,i'll then use my old JBL sub from a 5.1 ScS260 system.I'm living in Hong Kong so my listenning area is only 500sq feet.My amp is a yamaha 757, and so onto the question (which you have probably figured out alrdy).
Will i lose what these speakers can give out if i don't get the sub or do these speakers perform well with eny decent sub?
Many thanks
Will.

Got the SVS SBS-01 delivered last week. Great stuff. Problem is I have an older 9xx series Sony receiver and I need to upgrade. I've read the Denon 3805 with these speakers is outstanding. I've also looked at the HK635. Anybody powering them with Outlaw Seperates? I've thought about waiting for the Denon 2807, but I'm only using one HDMI input as it is on my 60"SXRD. I'm looking to stay in the $1000 or less range. Opinions.

My opinion would be to get the sub as it is such a great performer for both music and HT. Most other subs of lesser quallty will sound "boomy" and probably not do justice to music, let alone HT. The price for the set is just too good to not get the sub. Dennis

The price for the set is just too good to not get the sub. Dennis

This is true but, i live in Hong Kong so there is added $$ for shipping + i would need the stands, another added cost.
All in all if i drop the sub it'll still cost just over 1k for the 5 speakers and stands, although if your sugesting that dropping the sub is a bad idea it might be better to hold of, in eny case many thanks for your response.
Will.

Rover,

They are nice values but really the stands are nothing you can't find locally cheaper I'm sure. NO need to rely on our stands at all if you are working on a limited budget.

Ron
SVS

Just wanted to add I really like the Omnimount stands(I think 400's?) I got from J&R for $50 or $60/pair. The key for me is that they're adjustable - I had to get the height of the surrounds to just over the top of my sofa. Also sturdy & look good.

How would these bookshelf speakers compare to the Polk Floor Standing Monitor 50's?

Do the SVS SB01's have enough power for a room 16 X 20 with a cathedral ceiling.

I am interested in upgrading my old KLH home theater speakers with subwoofer, and I am sure there should be quite a difference in the sound. I currently have a Technics SA-DX940 receiver that has 100 watts per channel.

What do you guys suggest, the Polk monitor50, Polk 10" Subwoofer, Polk Center Channel CS2, and Bookshelf R30's or the SVS SB01's speaker system? I know that most here are posting on the SB01's. So please try to be unbiased if possible.....hehe!

How about the old Technics Receiver, do I need an upgrade to that also?

I have just recently begun this search for a better speaker system, so any help or opinions would be helpful.

Amerikes,

What are your main priorities? Looks? Price? Sound? Is music important too?
The sub in the SVS system is definitely going to be much better than the Polk, but I can't tell you which one would sound better. There are many, many speaker options out there for $1K for 5.1, much more than just the SVS and Polk.

And about your receiver. Does it have DD and DTS? How many digital audio inputs? Does it do component video switching? Is it 5.1, or 6.1 of 7.1? What kind of bass management does it have? If you have the manual, what's the THD (distortion) for those 100wpc? $200-300 would get you a decent newer receiver.

How would these bookshelf speakers compare to the Polk Floor Standing Monitor 50's?

Do the SVS SB01's have enough power for a room 16 X 20 with a cathedral ceiling.

I am interested in upgrading my old KLH home theater speakers with subwoofer, and I am sure there should be quite a difference in the sound. I currently have a Technics SA-DX940 receiver that has 100 watts per channel.

What do you guys suggest, the Polk monitor50, Polk 10" Subwoofer, Polk Center Channel CS2, and Bookshelf R30's or the SVS SB01's speaker system? I know that most here are posting on the SB01's. So please try to be unbiased if possible.....hehe!

How about the old Technics Receiver, do I need an upgrade to that also?

I have just recently begun this search for a better speaker system, so any help or opinions would be helpful.

I own Polks and I've heard the SBS package...initially I thought the SBS was superior to my Polks for music. After doing some more listening, I'm inclined to think that I liked the SVS tweeter more. It's very neutral. When I upgrade I'll probably go for a more neutral speaker. I still like my Polks though. Floorstanders are going to give you more impact and a larger soundstage, but of the two systems you described the SVS package would eat the Polks for lunch for HT on the strength of the sub. There is no comparison. If you like an accurate, neutral sound go with SVS. If you like a brighter sound go with Polk, but get another sub.

cyberbri is right, you're going to have a bottleneck with either package with that receiver. It needs to be upgraded to.

Ok guys, Thanks for the input, and here is what I know.

Sound is of the greatest importance to me, and a decent price would be good. I was thinking/hoping to be able to get the speakers and receiver for around $1500.

I primarily will be using the speaker's to listen to Movies, and High Definition/Digital programming on my TV. Music listening would be secondary. My TV is a Panasonic 50" HD Plasma, so putting money into some good speaker/receiver combo would seem to be worth while, compared to what I paid for the TV.

The Technics(Panasonic) Model No. SA-DX940 is a 5.1, has 3 Digital Optical inputs, has Dolby Digital, Dolby Surround, and Digital Surround. From what I can tell, the THD is 0.05% at rated power and 20HZ to 20KHZ. The specs/manual can be found at the follow link, if you don't mind taking a look at it.

http://www.usersmanualguide.com/panasonic/av_control_stereo_receiver/sa-dx940

Most of the info requested, does not mean much to me at this point, and I do not know what I would be looking for as far as THD would be concerned. I have been trying to learn on the fast track about this info.

Basically, some manufacturers claim they have 100x x 7 receivers. But if you look at the specs, they only achieve 100w by pushing it so hard that it's 10% distortion. Real world numbers are more likely around 20-30w, if that, if they were to measure at the same <.1% distortion. Or they only rate it for 1 or two channels driven rather than all 5 or 7. Or they only rate it for 1KHz rather than the full 20-20KHz. Ie., the manual you link to says it's 100wpc 2 channels driven at 20-20KHz at .05% distortion. But all channels driven is 100w at .9% distortion. And distortion is just that - distortion, garbled sound.

The manual looks like it does have DTS and DD, so that's good.


My father's old receiver, upstairs now (before his Onkyo) was a low-end Panasonic, like the one you have. Nothing personal against you, but I very much disliked the Panasonic remote (clunky, hard to use, change settings) and set-up, and in looking at even higher-up receivers, they look like pretty much the same remotes. I'm used to my Harman/Kardon remote where I have a button for each input at the top, I can change speaker settings and levels with the buttons/arrows/OK in the middle, and at the bottom I have the sound mode keys that cycle through the different DD (DD-EX, DPLII Music, Movie, DPL, 3-chan stereo, etc.) Logic 7 (Music, Movie, Enhanced), Stereo (2-channel, 2-channel no DSP, 5-channel), DTS (Normal, ES), DTS:NEO 6 (Music, Movie), etc. modes. All of this can be done through the front panel controls on the receiver itself. The Panasonic's designs are very poor, IMHO.

So if it was me, I would do some research and upgrade to a cheap Harman/Kardon, Pioneer, Onkyo, Denon, etc., especially if I was going to upgrade my speakers as well.

$1500 for speakers, a sub and a receiver should be no problem. $300-400 for a receiver, $1000-1100 for speakers and a sub, and $100 or so to get cables, wire, etc. from Parts Express, Monoprice, etc.

Well, ........cyberbri

I didn't like the remote much either...... :D

Now, do you have any suggestion as to a specific receiver/receivers? Will $400 to $600 get me a good receiver with optical inputs, and good THD, etc, etc, etc..

I am still in question about the SVS SB-01. My gut feeling, is that these are great speakers, however if I order, then do not like, then that means shipping them back, and I saw the large boxes that they come in. That would be a pretty good price to pay, to ship them back.

And please, anyone is welcome to respond.......and thanks cybebri.

Amerikes look into the Pioneer VSX-1015. Well within your budget and it is a great 7.1 receiver.

I recently upgraded all my stereo gear, and after much research went with the Harman Kardon AVR-240. 7.1, all the bells and whistles I needed, sounds GREAT, easy to operate, and very high quality. Got it for under $400 online.

Well, ........cyberbri

I didn't like the remote much either...... :D

Now, do you have any suggestion as to a specific receiver/receivers? Will $400 to $600 get me a good receiver with optical inputs, and good THD, etc, etc, etc..

I am still in question about the SVS SB-01. My gut feeling, is that these are great speakers, however if I order, then do not like, then that means shipping them back, and I saw the large boxes that they come in. That would be a pretty good price to pay, to ship them back.

And please, anyone is welcome to respond.......and thanks cybebri.



You can get a great receiver, for that or less. I got my refurb HK 330 for under $300. You should be able to get a HK 435 or 635, or a nice mid-range Denon or Pioneer in that range as well. I'm not sure about the good models, prices on those, though, as I just upgraded last year and haven't followed them.

But if you are looking at $500-600 receivers, and your budget is still $1500, that'll cut a bigger chunk out of what speakers/sub you can get with the remaining money.

While the SVS speakers are nice, accurate, etc., it's the PB10 subwoofer in the $1K pacakge that really makes the set worthwhile (it's about 40% of the price of the package, and you can order a better sub with it if you want). You can look into other 5-speaker sets and combine that with the same subwoofer or something from HSU, Velodyine, Mirage, or get a smaller sub and better speakers.

If you are worried about return shipping if you don't like the speakers, Aperion offers free return shipping - although their speakers are a bit more - you could get two 532s and a center channel for the price of the 5 SVS speakers. They have slightly smaller speakers as well. 5 Ascend HTM-200s would put you at around $600. Axiom speakers are also nice but they will put you a little higher, like the Aperions. You might be able to find some lower-end Athena speakers locally or on a site like Audio Advisor that would match the price of the SVS speakers. All of these have different kinds of looks/finishes. SVS is black, Aperion have glossy black and wood, Axiom has different wood finishes, Athenas are grey IIRC, etc.

Basically, if you are looking at $1000-1100 for the speakers + sub, the SVS is a great package with a great sub. You can look at other brands with more expensive speakers, and get a slightly less expensive sub. Or you can look at some speakers around the same price as the SVS (about $600 for 5) and still get the SVS PB10.

But the SVS set looks very promising, especially with the PB10. Say you got the 5.1 setup now, and a 7.1 receiver. Down the road, you could add another pair of the speakers, or once SVS comes out with their bigger speakers, add a pair of towers to the front and move the front speakers to rear surround duty. Some people upgrade in parts, ie., a new sub, or 3 front speakers (and get the surrounds later), etc. Some companies also allow you to upgrade within a year of your purchase, where you can trade up with the full purchase price to get something nicer.

Lots of choices, but it comes down to what you want to look at and listen, how it fits into your room and budget, etc. There are a lot of good ID brands, and you can't really audition them anywhere except in your own home or if you know someone locally that lets you come and listen. But by going ID, you can get things for around/give-or-take what a company would sell to a BB/CC store for, without the middle-men mark-up. That's why a $400 ID subwoofer out-performs subs sold in stores at 2x the cost. So you basically have to do your research, go with your gut, and just know that you can return them if you don't like them (even buy 2 speakers of a couple of brands to listen for a month and compare - then go with the one you like better, and don't pay return shipping for a full set).

Yeah, it looks like I may need to spend more than what I first expected.....

That Pioneer VSX-1015TX Reciever looks nice......And I have also discovered some Ascend 340 SE speakers, coupled with an SVS subwoofer.

How does that sound?

Excellent choices. I don't know how it would literally "sound" though, as I've never heard them personally. ;)

..........However, so far I'm underwhelmed by dialog from the center and the music performance from the mains............
-Lee
Start your calibration with the center channel to either 75dB or 85dB. Use this as the basis to level match the rest of the system. This should alleviate the weak center channel problem.

Quote:
Originally Posted by lmarlow
..........However, so far I'm underwhelmed by dialog from the center and the music performance from the mains............
-Lee

Start your calibration with the center channel to either 75dB or 85dB. Use this as the basis to level match the rest of the system. This should alleviate the weak center channel problem.

I'll give that a shot. Thanks

I actually took them into a local PSB dealer and did some A/B testing against their Alpha line, which is around the same pricepoint. I liked the PSBs more. They sounded more open. The guy at the store said the SVSs sounded like they weren't as efficient. To me they sounded further away than the PSBs when driven with the same power.

This weekend I plan on auditioning a few other speakers against them at home, PSB B25s, Paradigm Mini Monitors and B&W 600 series bookshelf. This probably isn't a fair comparison for the SVSs, but I think I'm changing plans for my speakers and am willing to spend a "little" more. Actually, it might end up being double. :o

$1500 for speakers, a sub and a receiver should be no problem. $300-400 for a receiver, $1000-1100 for speakers and a sub, and $100 or so to get cables, wire, etc. from Parts Express, Monoprice, etc.

Is this the usual breakdown that people are going with? Especially in terms of the ratio between speakers and receiver? I'm looking at spending about the same amount of money and am leaning towards the Panny XR55/70.

Is the $300 range of receivers powerful enough to produce optimal quality from the speakers? or is it a waste/overkill to get such nice speakers where cheaper speakers will be able to produce the same effect?

I actually took them into a local PSB dealer and did some A/B testing against their Alpha line, which is around the same pricepoint. I liked the PSBs more. They sounded more open. The guy at the store said the SVSs sounded like they weren't as efficient. To me they sounded further away than the PSBs when driven with the same power.
Did you level match the speakers with a meter when switching? If the speakers are not matched in output, it could make all the difference....the salesman probably knew that.

Did you level match the speakers with a meter when switching? If the speakers are not matched in output, it could make all the difference....the salesman probably knew that.

No, we did not do any level matching. That makes it sound like there is no way to do genuine A/B testing, since you'd have to adjust levels each time you switched back and forth. I haven't returned the SVSs yet, so they will be in the mix when I bring the PSB and Paradigm loaners home. I'd like to be fair when testing, so what is the best way to test one set of speakers against another?

My plan was to just setup 2 sets of mains, one on A and the other on the B output from my receiver and just switch back and forth while listening to some music. I'd like to keep it as simple as possible, but I want to do it right.

While instant switching between A and B is best.....you should always take the time to level match. Once you know the variance between the two speakers, changing the level between listening should be pretty quick.

While instant switching between A and B is best.....you should always take the time to level match. Once you know the variance between the two speakers, changing the level between listening should be pretty quick.

So, if the speakers on A are 3dB lower than the one's on B when my receiver is on -35dB, then just go to -32 on the receiver when on the A's? Sounds simple enough.

Thanks

That's about right. It's like the volume difference between DD and DTS - IIRC DTS is 4db higher than DD.

One person somewhere else said that rather than A/Bing back and forth quickly, he would listen to some songs all the way through, write down impressions, then switch speakers (same location, match levels), and listen again - compare notes/impressions.

Is this the usual breakdown that people are going with? Especially in terms of the ratio between speakers and receiver? I'm looking at spending about the same amount of money and am leaning towards the Panny XR55/70.

Is the $300 range of receivers powerful enough to produce optimal quality from the speakers? or is it a waste/overkill to get such nice speakers where cheaper speakers will be able to produce the same effect?


It's good that you are questioning this.
Actually with the internet, closeouts, factory refurbs, etc., you can get a lot more receiver for your money.

For example, in 2002 I bought a Harman/Kardon AVR125 for $400 new from Circuit City. Last year, I bought an AVR330 (original retail $800), factory remanufactured, from HK's HarmanAudio store on ebay for under $300.

Also, the technology is getting better, so you can get clean power and lots of features for under $500 now. With a $1500 budget in mind, a $300-400 receiver should be enough, assuming you get a good deal on a receiver. Pioneer, HK, and Denon are good brands and they have good receivers in that price range with plenty of power. It seems like the extra $ gets you more features like video conversion (to component video), more inputs, more EQ features, plus incremental steps up in power ratings. Panasonic has a cheap digital amp receiver (maybe several models), but I personally don't like Panasonic's remotes/usability (user-friendliness), so I personally wouldn't get a Panasonic.

A little research on the Receivers forum should find you some good model #s to look into from the brands I mentioned.

No, we did not do any level matching. That makes it sound like there is no way to do genuine A/B testing, since you'd have to adjust levels each time you switched back and forth. I haven't returned the SVSs yet, so they will be in the mix when I bring the PSB and Paradigm loaners home. I'd like to be fair when testing, so what is the best way to test one set of speakers against another?

My plan was to just setup 2 sets of mains, one on A and the other on the B output from my receiver and just switch back and forth while listening to some music. I'd like to keep it as simple as possible, but I want to do it right.

It is pretty pointless to try and compare speakers if they aren't level matched.

To each their own but dialog from the SVS centre is damn clear in my system. I am amazed this centre is as low priced as it is.

Is this the usual breakdown that people are going with? Especially in terms of the ratio between speakers and receiver? I'm looking at spending about the same amount of money and am leaning towards the Panny XR55/70.

Is the $300 range of receivers powerful enough to produce optimal quality from the speakers? or is it a waste/overkill to get such nice speakers where cheaper speakers will be able to produce the same effect?

I'd say to get a good quality receiver. Many don't realize the differences between receivers and how it can impact sound. The better your receiver the better the sound from your speakers so while you may not want to blow your load on a 4K+ receiver, I'd say not to cheap out on one either.

I'm looking to upgrade my speakers (7.1) with a budget of $1,000 to $1,500. For a receiver I have the Outlaw 1070, use the system for only movies and TV and the room is 16X10X7.

I have been strongly considering the SBS-01 System, but the last couple of posts has me looking into the Ascend's or a combination of Ascend & SVS.

The following combination falls within my budget, but is $348 more than the SBS-01 system...

Ascend 170 SE's for the L&R and the 340C for the center
SVS SBS-01 for the Surrounds and Rears
SVS PB10


I am looking for opinions on if this combo is worth the extra $348 and if any one sees a problem with mixing the two together.

I could also just blow the budget and go with the 340SE’s for the L&R (an extra $220) instead of the 170’s

Your thoughts on how I should go would very helpful.

Thanks,
JR

outsider,

I got the 7.1 svs system (with upgraded pc-ultra sub) for movies/tv only use and it is fantastic in this area. It's only "downside" is in two channel where it is good but isn't spectacular simply because IMO, the l&r mains have a bit laid back sound creating the "centre channel" area (me thinks the system was designed as a multi channel set-up first and foremost) but to be honest this could just be how the speakers are set-up now with less/more toe-in need or whatever....the fact is the actual sound is good from the speakers meaning instruments sound good and there is a lot of detail. I wouldn't let the comment about dialog from the centre turn you off...the centre speaker is great and dialog is solid. In my other setup I have a def tech clr2000 centre and the svs centre is practically on par with it.

No doubt I am sure the ascend system rocks and may be worth the extra cost but I truly think if your main/only purpose is HT use then the svs system is tough to beat simply because HT and music playback are two diff beasts. Before I got the svs system I was considering an all Ascend 170 system with 340 centre but saw the diff in price and felt that it may not be worth it for my use (again, all HT) so went with the svs system knowing I could return it if I felt there was something missing with movies...well there isn't and I have no desire to "upgrade" to the Ascend system which I would gather is better in 2 channel playback for music and obviously the 340s and 170s SEs can go lower which works if you want to use a lower crossover or attempt to run them as large/full range instead of small.

My svs system compares very favourably to my other all bipolar def tech speaker set-up (right now I have the SBS l/r mains on top of my BP30x towers and most of the time I keep thinking the sound is coming from the towers) in ht use for much much less in price and that impresses me becuse I wasnt expecting them to sound as good as they do. I'd say the SBS speakers even have more detail than the DT speakers and the biggest diff is the DT speakers create a bigger soundstage (mainly depth) and they can go lower but that is meaningless to me since I never run them as large and cross them over at 80Hz....with the sbs system I have things crossed over at 100Hz because the ultra is a badass sub and blends in perfectly.

Your room isn't that big so it isn't like the svs system won't fill it up with sound.

If you do decide to go for the ascend system I'd suggest getting ascend speakers for the surrounds instead of the sbs speakers.

If you do decide to go for the svs system I'd say you may want to upgrade the sub. The sub is a key part in a bookshelf system like this (or the ascend system or any other system where you'll be running the speakers as small) so IMO you should get the best sub you can afford.

Take this all as my personal opinion based on my listening tests with my different equipment than what you are using.

Rob,

Thank you for your detailed reply. What you said is exactly what I have been debating.

I would much rather go with the SVS system if the movie watching performance is not that much of a drop of from the Ascends. The difference in the price would allow me to upgrade the sub or another component in my system.

Thanks again.

I might just eat the shipping and give both a try. Anyone else get a chance to compare these two head to head?

It's good that you are questioning this.
Actually with the internet, closeouts, factory refurbs, etc., you can get a lot more receiver for your money.

For example, in 2002 I bought a Harman/Kardon AVR125 for $400 new from Circuit City. Last year, I bought an AVR330 (original retail $800), factory remanufactured, from HK's HarmanAudio store on ebay for under $300.

Also, the technology is getting better, so you can get clean power and lots of features for under $500 now. With a $1500 budget in mind, a $300-400 receiver should be enough, assuming you get a good deal on a receiver. Pioneer, HK, and Denon are good brands and they have good receivers in that price range with plenty of power. It seems like the extra $ gets you more features like video conversion (to component video), more inputs, more EQ features, plus incremental steps up in power ratings. Panasonic has a cheap digital amp receiver (maybe several models), but I personally don't like Panasonic's remotes/usability (user-friendliness), so I personally wouldn't get a Panasonic.

A little research on the Receivers forum should find you some good model #s to look into from the brands I mentioned.

Ironically, researching the Receivers forum pointed me towards that Panny (as well as the 3 other brands you mentioned). Anyway, here's my thinking:

behold my awesome MSPaint/Photoshop skills:
http://i1.tinypic.com/mlpbgz.jpg

I'm worried that the potential of, even the best, $300 receiver will never reach what the SBS-01 is capable of. If that is the case, I might as well buy cheaper speakers that will still outperform the receiver.

Of course there will always be a bottleneck somewhere, but if moving down to cheaper speakers produces the same results as the SBS-01 due to the receiver being a bottleneck, I might as well do that.

Basically, where is the happy medium? Is the difference in potential between the SBS-01 and anything below that price so great, that I should be looking at purchasing a better receiver, so I can get closer to producin the sound that the SBS-01 is capable of?

Also, the point for the "$300 Good Receiver" might already be at the same potential for the SBS-01 system. Is moving to the next line of receivers (i.e. HK AVR635 @ ~$600) going to surpass the potential of the speakers. For example, right now, it seems as though the $300 receiver is below that point, so my next upgrade would be to get a better receiver or pre/pro. If I bought a avr635, would my next upgrade be nicer speakers?

I second rlindo's comments on the center. I thought it sounded great. I also agree with his comments on the sub. While I found it to be absolutely fantastic, I would look into upgrading if you have the $ in your budget. I don't know if SVS is still offering 10% off their subs but you can look into it.

Like I said, the PB10 blew me away (I have a thread over in the sub section with more details) but I now know what a "real" sub sounds like and of course I wonder what a better (one with more volume) sub would sound like. The PB10 has definitely made me a LFE hungry dude!

I think rather than the blue line being straight, it would be a curve.

And it depends on what your definition of a $300 receiver is. One that retails for $300? Or one that can be had on special, refurb, etc. for $300. But since you are looking at the 635 for $600, I'll assume the latter. But my HK 330, which originally retailed for $800, I'm sure would be more than enough for the SVS system. It depends on what you get for $300 you spend. The quality goes up a bit with price, but more money usually just buys incremental steps in power, plus more inputs and a few extra features.

The one thing to keep in mind right now is, speaker technology doesn't really change. Heck, I still have my Infinity speakers from 10 years ago, my first HT speakers (minus the Onkyo 100w 10" sub that now rests in my parents' living room).

But in the next year or two, we'll have hi-def DVD players coming out with new lossless DD/DTS audio formats (along with backwards-compatibility with current DD/DTS). And to take advantage of those new formats, you'll need a new receiver once that happens somewhere down the line (it could even be 3-4 years or more before prices are down on the players/media/new receivers). In that case, it might be wise to buy a less-expensive receiver, and put that money towards betters speakers or a better sub.

Maybe a happy medium, say $400-450, maybe in the range of an HK 435, or comparable Denon or Onkyo or Pioneer. Or, look at the different speakers sets, and see how much money that would leave over for a receiver. $1500 is kind of a tight budget for receiver and 5.1 speakers, if you want good quality stuff to start off with. But I'd say get better speakers/sub and hold back on the receiver ($300-$400), rather than spending a 1/3 or more on just the receiver.

The SVS system is about $1K. With Ascend, you could get 2 170s, a 340 center and 2 200s for the surrounds for $830, and a sub from HSU, SVS for around $400, or something cheaper like the Acoustech H100 or Cadence XSub (both about $250). 4 Axiom M3Tis and a 100 center would be $840, and you could add a sub to that. A similar system from Aperion, with 2 532 mains, a VAC center and 2 422s for surrounds would be $840 as well (plus free shipping - Ascend shipping would be about $60, not sure about SVS). One of those three plus a $250 Acoustech H100 ($250) would put you right around $1100, with $400 for a receiver. Down the road you could upgrade the sub if you wanted (or go over budget and get a low-end HSU/SVS off the bat), and look at upgrading the receiver once the new sound formats become more common. For movies, the SVS system would be great. If you are going to listen to more music as well, the other systems may have a slight advantage (they are more expensive anyway), although a sub that fits in the same budget won't be on the same level as the SVS PB10.

Lots to consider...

andy,

From what I understand the Panny was one of the receivers SVS tested with the SBS package and it passed with flying colors. For SQ you just need clean power, which it delivers. I also prefer HKs sound... Believe me the Panny won't be a bottleneck though.

thanks, cyberbri, and rlindo, and Ron!

The point on speaker technology is something I didn't really think about before. That pushed me over the edge, and I will definitely be going with the SVS system, as I barely use this setup for music.

I'm sure I'll get the itch to upgrade receivers in a few years regardless of what happens, so I might as well get some great speakers first. The tight budget has more to do with not wanting to drop that much of a lump sum... whenever I want to upgrade, I'll probably set the budget at a similar amount, but then I'll be able to drop the entire amount on a receiver or pre/pro & amp, and not have to worry about speakers.

Plus, with the SVS system, say down the road you want to upgrade to 7.1. SVS has more speakers coming, a set of towers, maybe other speakers. You can add a few more SVS speakers to your system, either towers and move the fronts to the back, or if they come out with some sort of dipole surround, you could get those for the sides and move the surrounds to the rear surrounds. That's true of any of the brands, though. You can always add a few more speakers for 7.1.


The Panasonic looks like a nice receiver with some good features. I just hate the remote. I love my HK remote (not that it's perfect), and even my father's Onkyo remote was pretty good compared to the Panasonic. I saw a picture of the remote for the Pioneer 1015, and that looks like it has enough buttons to do everything you'd want to as well.

Has anyone tested these against a set of Axioms? I have a VP100, M22Ti fronts, and QS4 surrounds. I was wondering if these would perform well in my small living room. If I'm not mistaken my living room is about 8 x 10 x 8. The sub I have right now is the PB12/2 - ISD. However most of the left side of the living room is open to the kitchen, breakfast area, and hallway.

Ok, so I have purchased the Pioneer VSX-1015TX-K Receiver, and the SVS Subwoofer Model PB10-ISD Black.

Considering the purchase of the Ascend 340 SE Mains, with the 340 SE Center Speaker, but considering the size of the CBM-170SE Bookshelf speakers, I am leaning towards the HTM 200's for the rear surround's on my back wall. Do you guys think that the HTM 200's would work? If Necessary, I could probably sacrifice the large size of the 170's, but the HTM 200's would better fit on my back wall..........???

Since the Pioneer receiver is 7.1, I could possibly purchase another pair of HTM 200's.

Please excuse me for talking about the Ascend's in this SVS thread, that is not how I started out. I was asking about the SVS speakers, and now it may be that the Ascend's could serve my purpose and set up better.

Comments please.......

amerikes,

yeah the 200s would work...they are the speakers the ascend owner recommends for surrounds.

I personally would go for the 170s as surrounds but that's just me.:) In your situation though you say the 200s would fit better so I'd say don't hesitate getting them.

I would like to know what is everyone impression of the finish of all cabinets? I had read that the finish is vinyl. The SVS system will be used in our family room. Are the seams apparent? This SVS system will carry me over until I build my 20’ x 14’ theater of which I will use NHT Classic 3’s in a 7.1 configuration.

viper,

IMO the cabinets look good but I admit I really don't care what my speakers look like so they may be ugly to some since they are just all black.

As for the seams...I do not see them at all so they aren't apparent. They did a greta job in that area.

viper,

IMO the cabinets look good but I admit I really don't care what my speakers look like so they may be ugly to some since they are just all black.

As for the seams...I do not see them at all so they aren't apparent. They did a greta job in that area.


Thanks, I am going to order a system with an upgrade on the sub...

I would like to know what is everyone impression of the finish of all cabinets? I had read that the finish is vinyl. The SVS system will be used in our family room. Are the seams apparent? This SVS system will carry me over until I build my 20’ x 14’ theater of which I will use NHT Classic 3’s in a 7.1 configuration.

I think they are the neatest small speakers I have seen - they have the same curved corners as the PB-10ISD subwoofer, and are all black. I prefer my speakers to look discreet, so I'm very happy with the way they look. If you want to add flames or wood effect panels, you'll have to do that yourself ;)

The only seam I've found is about halfway along the width of the speaker, running front to back. When the speaker is sitting on something (stand, shelf), it's almost impossible to see unless you deliberately look underneath it.

I think they are the neatest small speakers I have seen - they have the same curved corners as the PB-10ISD subwoofer, and are all black. I prefer my speakers to look discreet, so I'm very happy with the way they look. If you want to add flames or wood effect panels, you'll have to do that yourself ;)

The only seam I've found is about halfway along the width of the speaker, running front to back. When the speaker is sitting on something (stand, shelf), it's almost impossible to see unless you deliberately look underneath it.


Thanks for the reply. I am going to buy the SBS-01 5.0 and the PB12-Plus Sub.

Thanks for the reply. I am going to buy the SBS-01 5.0 and the PB12-Plus Sub.

The sub's killer...

I think they are the neatest small speakers I have seen - they have the same curved corners as the PB-10ISD subwoofer, and are all black. I prefer my speakers to look discreet, so I'm very happy with the way they look. If you want to add flames or wood effect panels, you'll have to do that yourself ;)

The only seam I've found is about halfway along the width of the speaker, running front to back. When the speaker is sitting on something (stand, shelf), it's almost impossible to see unless you deliberately look underneath it.

I have decided I will re-skin the speakers with veneer hardwood provided that the rear corners of the speakers look like the rear corners of the center speaker on SVS website.

Believe me I am purchasing these for the sound quality but need to match the decor of the room.

http://www.oakwoodveneer.com/products/venlayers.jpg

Guys,

Any owners running their SVS with a Yammy? I'm looking to purchase the 2600 and the SBS-01 7.1 with an upgrade to the PB12-ISD/V and wondering how they would match up?

See a lot of talk about Panny's and Denon but not much about Yammy's. Anyone have any experience that can fill me in?

Thanks

Crap. The whole lot (5.1's included) is now backordered until LATE MARCH.

I literally called yesterday to check and see if 1 day would be a difference maker for me, in terms of stock levels. Apparently that question is answered :)

I am using a Yammie HTR-5990 (same as the 1600) with great results. I don't use the eq setup,but do use the other auto setup functions. I have tried crossovers at 100 and 80. In my room, I prefer the 80 setting. Dennis

Dr. Doan,

Hey thanks for the info...I have zero experience with Yammies and have read and been told that they can be on the bright side. I know that it all boils down to the end user preference though and I have test driven a 1600 at a local audio store and liked it. Just wish I could hear that baby driving these SBS-01's :p

From reading this thread you were one of the first to receive your set right? You seem very satisfied with your purchase.....any regrets? Anything you would change? It seems that for the price these speakers come very close to perfection and to attain perfection you would need to spend many more thousands of dollars. Sounds as though for my first dedicated HT venture I (for the money at least) couldn't do much better than the SBS-01 set up.

RTROSE, I think you will be quite happy with the Yammie mated with the SVS's. I was the first paying customer to receive the set. If I had any regrets, it would be that I want a $17500/pr Vandersteen's with about @$20,000 of associated equipment. Since that is not possible, I am very happy with my system. I can't imagine doing better at this price point. When I did the music tests on the stereo pair, I had them positioned properly for audio. I found that they sounded quite good. I am a little puzzled when some claim they aren't as good for music as I found them to be far beyond their price in sound stage, imaging, etc. You will have to determine that yourself. I do have some room treatment which may play a role in the sound. Have fun, and congrats. Dennis

Guys,

Any owners running their SVS with a Yammy? I'm looking to purchase the 2600 and the SBS-01 7.1 with an upgrade to the PB12-ISD/V and wondering how they would match up?

See a lot of talk about Panny's and Denon but not much about Yammy's. Anyone have any experience that can fill me in?

Thanks

I ordered my on Saturday evening of the 28th and Ron had told me the supply was limited. I bought the 5.0 and will be ordering the PB12-Plus next week...

DodgeViper

I to had heard that there were some supply limitations but for me as of right now that is not the problem as it is for others. I am not ready to take that leap yet.....just in the begining stages of building my deicated HT in my basement. Who knows maybe when I ready to purchase the SBS-01 SVS's next level will be here and then I'll need to convince the wife that I'll need to spend even more money. :rolleyes:

Dennis

Thanks for your input and to "compare" these speakers to the "elete" speakers you mention is pretty incredible. As I said before it seems as though you need to spend lots more money for increased performance. I'm glad to hear that the Yammie is a good mix for the SBS-01 as for the musical aspect on the reviews I have taken that with a grain of salt as I do all reviews good, bad, or otherwise. :p
I'm planning on using the 2600 to run the show and perform the switching magic but that info is for another thread ;)

I'm looking forward to getting all this together and enjoying it soon. Just won't happen soon enough! :p

Is anyone running the SBS setup with a non-SVS sub? I have the Outlaw LFM-1 sub and am currently running an Athena speaker setup (see profile) and I'm considering the speaker only package...

Is anyone running the SBS setup with a non-SVS sub?

How about with a different SVS sub? I have one of the first (#16) powered cylinders (25-31) and am thinking about getting the 5.0 package.

There is a guy selling the 5.0 set on ebay the item number is 5861127842. It might be a good deal if you can get them below or near $599.

Ed

I've been jacking around researching this system, now they are backordered til March. :eek: My goodness! Kind of sucks. I guess waiting one more month won't be too bad. It'll give me time to research a good receiver to pair up with it. :D

I am currently using a Sony STR-DE885. Center is a Design Acoustics PS-24 (it's about 10 years old) and 4 satellites from a Sony HTIB that was bought about 4 years ago.

I am definitely looking forward to the upgrade!

I've been jacking around researching this system, now they are backordered til March. :eek: My goodness! Kind of sucks. I guess waiting one more month won't be too bad. It'll give me time to research a good receiver to pair up with it. :D

I am currently using a Sony STR-DE885. Center is a Design Acoustics PS-24 (it's about 10 years old) and 4 satellites from a Sony HTIB that was bought about 4 years ago.

I am definitely looking forward to the upgrade!

For what it is worth, I have the SBS 5.1 paired with a Denon 3805. I don't think you can find a better combo for the total cost of both.

For what it is worth, I have the SBS 5.1 paired with a Denon 3805. I don't think you can find a better combo for the total cost of both.

This combo would be placed in is my living room. It is rectangular shape that is 15' 6" wide by 21' 6" long and 8" ceiling. It has a big opening (kichen entry) in the rear of the room. Plenty of power to fill the room?

This combo would be placed in is my living room. It is rectangular shape that is 15' 6" wide by 21' 6" long and 8" ceiling. It has a big opening (kichen entry) in the rear of the room. Plenty of power to fill the room?

My room is 24x14. You won't have a problem filling the room.

My room is 24x14. You won't have a problem filling the room.

thanks for the repsonse.

Guess I will place an order for a Denon 3805 and for the SVS system (even though it won't deliver til March).

thanks for the repsonse.

Guess I will place an order for a Denon 3805 and for the SVS system (even though it won't deliver til March).

I too have the SVS system and the 3805....15x15 room...100+ watts of pure undistorted power....listening to Live's 2nd CD right now and I can't even take it past -15db or it might blow out the windows. Okay, I'm exaggerating, but it is just too damn loud....sounds great though...power is not a problem...obviously the wife and kids are not home right now.....ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. :D

Question - I 'm new to the HT set up (still shopping around) - I've heard great things about the SVS but where can I listen to them??? I checked their website an it looks like they can only be ordered direct

also - How do they compare to the Paradigms???

thx Dave

Question - I 'm new to the HT set up (still shopping around) - I've heard great things about the SVS but where can I listen to them??? I checked their website an it looks like they can only be ordered direct

also - How do they compare to the Paradigms???

thx Dave

you are correct svs is direct only....haven't heard the paradigms.

I owned the Paradigm Studio 60's v1. My son-in -law has them now. They live about a mile from my home. In my opinion, the SVS are better except in the bass (but, with the sub, no problem). I felt that the Paradigms are more sibilant than the SVS and, again, in my opinion, the SVS's sound clearer with dialog. I know that Paradigms are more expensive, and therefore, should be better, but, It is my opinion that the SVS's are better. I have never listened to the newer Paradigms, so my opinion is with the older v1 models. I know it is a long shot, but, if you are in the Oklahoma City area, you are more than welcome to come by and demo my setup. Please don't just take my word for it, try to get both sets in your home at the same time and A/B them. Keep the ones you like. I really don't think you can do better for the money than the SVS's. Have fun, Dennis

I've heard the Paradigms - they sound great - haven't heard the Klipsch yet (they next on my list) But I don't want to rule out the SBS with all I'm reading

Is there no way to hear them at a direct store rather than ordering them blind off the net?

Please forgive my momentary hijack of this thread, but I am considering these speakers to replace what I have now, and would like some opinions.

I have started a new thread, but not getting many opinions on my situation. If any experienced users could take a peek and if you have any suggestions/opinions, please reply either in my thread, or this one I would REALLY appreciate it!

Thread is here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=639181

-Alan

I've heard the Paradigms - they sound great - haven't heard the Klipsch yet (they next on my list) But I don't want to rule out the SBS with all I'm reading

Is there no way to hear them at a direct store rather than ordering them blind off the net?

you can order them and ship them back within 45 days for a refund, excluding shipping costs. No stores to go listen to them at...that is one reason why they don't cost more. If they were sold via retail outlets the price would be jacked like all speaker brands which are sold through stores like that.

Any SBS owners upgrade from Athena speakers? I have F2's, C1, and R1's. I'm currious if the SBS setup is a good move or not? I have to believe the quality of the SBS speakers is higher than my Athena's even though the Athena's cost more...

I'm only concerned about Movies, my girlfriend has some really nice stereo speakers for music, Phase Tech PC 9.1's, so I'm not worried about music, just movies...

Any SBS owners upgrade from Athena speakers? I have F2's, C1, and R1's. I'm currious if the SBS setup is a good move or not? I have to believe the quality of the SBS speakers is higher than my Athena's even though the Athena's cost more...

I'm only concerned about Movies, my girlfriend has some really nice stereo speakers for music, Phase Tech PC 9.1's, so I'm not worried about music, just movies...

Personally, I'd wait until the next release to insure that it's an upgrade. I've heard the package, but not the Athenas. A friend who went with me had owned B1s. We both liked the SBS quite a bit. You've read the descriptions, warm side of neutral sound. He felt the midrange on the B1 was close, but the tweeter is the difference. That's why he sold the Athenas. If you find the brightness of the Athenas fatigueing then maybe you're ready for an upgrade. But if you like them, it's probably a lateral move.

Thanks for the response. I'm kind of interested in the Ascends too...

My gripe with the Athenas is: 1) my towers are huge, 2) there is not a good tonal balance between them. When I pass pink noise to them for level setting they all sound different.

Thanks for the response. I'm kind of interested in the Ascends too...

My gripe with the Athenas is: 1) my towers are huge, 2) there is not a good tonal balance between them. When I pass pink noise to them for level setting they all sound different.

I have Polk R50s/CSi3/R15s, when I first heard the SVS speaks I was very impressed with vocals, midrange and the neutral sounding tweets. I went home and was disappointed playing some of the same content. It seemed that the Polk tweeter was the culprit. I've since been back, auditioned different content and came home and thought they were about equal. I think the SBS -01s are an upgrade, just not enough for me to change. Maybe the next rev.

Do any of you owners notice a hole in the bass? The only thing holding me back from the SVS is the curve which shows at 80 hz drop. Note - this will be 90% HT.

THanks

100Hz crossover should be adequate, assuming things are calibrated and set up properly so the sub blends with the mains.

mucho,

you can cross the speakers over at 100Hz. Mine are crossed at 100Hz and I notice no holes in the bass when doing frequency sweeps. I couldn't tell with normal material if there was one because my ears/brain can't point out specific frequencies. All I know is things sound good.:)

I received a tracking number for the 5.0 system yesterday and will have them next week. I will be ordering the PB12 Plus SUB next week followed by two additional SBS-01's once they become avaiable. Just wished I would be home to receive everything as it arrives...

mucho,

you can cross the speakers over at 100Hz. Mine are crossed at 100Hz and I notice no holes in the bass when doing frequency sweeps. I couldn't tell with normal material if there was one because my ears/brain can't point out specific frequencies. All I know is things sound good.:)

What about at 80? Any holes then?

I received a tracking number for the 5.0 system yesterday and will have them next week. I will be ordering the PB12 Plus SUB next week followed by two additional SBS-01's once they become avaiable. Just wished I would be home to receive everything as it arrives... Good luck, from what I understand you must have gotten one of the last packages. Why'd you wait on the sub, back order? The + is a great sub BTW.

I just won the Svs speakers off E-bay. I should get em tomm. and cant wait to listen to them. I have Klipsch Legends in my main setup and and Ascend 340c and 170`s classics in my second. I`ll keep u posted as to my personal opinions of these fine speakers!!!!

Do any of you owners notice a hole in the bass? The only thing holding me back from the SVS is the curve which shows at 80 hz drop. Note - this will be 90% HT.

THanks
Mucho, if you read the product descriptions on the SVS web site, the SBS-01s are supposed to roll off at 80 Hz, because they're designed to be matched with a subwoofer. They're not designed to be full-range speakers and if you try them full-range, you'll be disappointed. They're a product with a specific purpose and specific goals, and IMO they meet those goals and succeed at their purpose wonderfully.

An 80 Hz crossover works with them, though like these other fellas I prefer them crossed at 100 Hz if you use them as mains. No, I don't hear any "holes" in the response. I just feel the system sounds fuller and a bit more natural if you cross at 100, because you'll get more sound in the upper bass region from your sub (assuming you're using a decent sub like the PB10 or better that plays flat up to 100 Hz) than from the SBS-01s. But a "hole"? No, I wouldn't say that.

I would say that if you are looking for awesome 2 channel music performance, if you play your music LOUD, if you have a big room, etc., you might look at something in a higher class than these for your mains (Ascend CBM-170 SE for example). But to me their performance is awesome for their price, they're very natural sounding and meet their design goals beautifully, and I highly recommend them for a budget HT system.

Given a roll-off at 80, has anyone tried a crossover setting at 120 or 160 with these?

I just won the Svs speakers off E-bay. I should get em tomm. and cant wait to listen to them. I have Klipsch Legends in my main setup and and Ascend 340c and 170`s classics in my second. I`ll keep u posted as to my personal opinions of these fine speakers!!!!

I looked at that auction. $8 shipping to my home. Makes no sense. I put some other wildly differing zip codes and it only went as high as $10! The guy must have put the wrong weight/dimensions there, because it's not unusual for UPS to charge around $50-60 for a pair of bookshelves to be sent halfway across the country. And this is for 5!!!

That seems rather high about the crossover though, especially since computer speakers with 3" drivers seem to cross over just fine at 120hz. I can't say they sound good though.

What about at 80? Any holes then?

dunno, I haven't tested them at 80hz x-over however, I'd say you're more "safe" with crossing them over at 100Hz as maybe at 80 there is a slight hole in that extra 20Hz range since based on the graph at the site things start to roll off under 100.

BTW I totally agree with what "einstein" said above in response to the 2 channel thing and the basic purpose/design of the sbs system.

Yeah the guy off E-bay was a local pickup for me astrallite. The system was mint and the gentleman was in his late 50`s. He got the system and it made his wife and dog go nuts so that why he sold it. Listened to it a lil bit 2day and its definately what u`d expect from Svs. Great bang for the buck!!!