Quote:
Originally Posted by bigAWL 
So far so good. I think the GemXLs will do fine for me in front, but I really don't have any other good alternative to compare. I did have a little trouble initially with Audessey warning me that the left front GemXL was connected out of phase. I double- and triple-checked all connections and finally moved the left one to the other end of the bookshelf. Audyssey seemed to like that position better. Maybe it was getting a strange reflection somewhere?
Finally, the SVS sub.... I fully expected it to improve the bass extension, but I wasn't prepared for how much. I knew it was a highly respected small sub, but wow! I've never heard bass like this. The first thing I listened to (since I had it handy) was Finding Nemo and the fish tank tapping scene - I had read about the deep bass in this one. I was blown away by the sound coming from this small box (~14" cube). It did shake the room a bit which is large and very open to both living room and dining room - I even had to turn it down. I may have to play with the placement (it's currently in a pretty tight corner) because I think there may be a bit too much corner-load effect. Maybe that particular frequency is being overemphasized (maybe I do need some measuring equipment)? Reading the subwoofer threads, I used to worry that I'd be disappointed by the limitations of SB12+ and its small dimensions. Sorry, I'm no bass-head - but I can't imagine wanting any more bass than this little thing can put out.
I'll try to post photos later. Next, I need to finish things off with a couple Gem surrounds. Or perhaps I'll hold off and see what my next place is like. I'm moving this summer and might have a better configuration that will accomodate a pair of Mythos Twos in front, and I could use the GemXLs as surrounds.
So far so good. I think the GemXLs will do fine for me in front, but I really don't have any other good alternative to compare. I did have a little trouble initially with Audessey warning me that the left front GemXL was connected out of phase. I double- and triple-checked all connections and finally moved the left one to the other end of the bookshelf. Audyssey seemed to like that position better. Maybe it was getting a strange reflection somewhere?
Finally, the SVS sub.... I fully expected it to improve the bass extension, but I wasn't prepared for how much. I knew it was a highly respected small sub, but wow! I've never heard bass like this. The first thing I listened to (since I had it handy) was Finding Nemo and the fish tank tapping scene - I had read about the deep bass in this one. I was blown away by the sound coming from this small box (~14" cube). It did shake the room a bit which is large and very open to both living room and dining room - I even had to turn it down. I may have to play with the placement (it's currently in a pretty tight corner) because I think there may be a bit too much corner-load effect. Maybe that particular frequency is being overemphasized (maybe I do need some measuring equipment)? Reading the subwoofer threads, I used to worry that I'd be disappointed by the limitations of SB12+ and its small dimensions. Sorry, I'm no bass-head - but I can't imagine wanting any more bass than this little thing can put out.
I'll try to post photos later. Next, I need to finish things off with a couple Gem surrounds. Or perhaps I'll hold off and see what my next place is like. I'm moving this summer and might have a better configuration that will accomodate a pair of Mythos Twos in front, and I could use the GemXLs as surrounds.
Congrats, Big AWL--I know your system has been a long time coming with a lot of thought/research behind it--glad it's finally there. Also, thanks for the tip on the Nemo disc. (Hopefully it will be out on Blu-ray soon--I just got selected for the second EAP wave for the Oppo BDP-83, so I'll need something to feed it with
)
I instantly fell in love with the ST Super Towers. I could not believe what I've been missing all these years. Don't get me wrong, my trusty ole BP2006 system provided many years of enjoyment but when I heard these babiesgeeze! Where have you been all my life?
I bought everything listed above on the spot but won't take delivery for a few weeks since I'm having work done in my home.
I can't wait to set everything up.
I probably sound like a jerk but I'm grateful I can swing these toys. By the way, the work being done in my home is due to a massive fire in October. Everyone is fine, I was the only one home at the time and man all I can say is I'm blessed to be here. Life's too short, might as well enjoy every minute. 
) jibe very closely with the DT numbers. Of course, mine are in-room, so HTM's close mic - 6dB point (29Hz) is probably nearer to my listening position - 3dB readings, which obviously include boundary gain.
