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$300 dollars to spend on speakers(HK 3490 driven)

post #1 of 58
1/3/12 at 4:52pm
Thread Starter 
I have recently sold my iPod touch 4g for $150.

I told myself from the beginning all the profits would go towards something fun. So being that I have the audio bug, I want to put the money towards new speakers.

I now have $300 to spend on speakers.

Keeping in mind they will be driven by a Harman Kardon 3490, and will be for music only, what speakers would you recommend I look at?

-Connor
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post #2 of 58
1/3/12 at 4:55pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

I have recently sold my iPod touch 4g for $150.

I told myself from the beginning all the profits would go towards something fun. So being that I have the audio bug, I want to put the money towards new speakers.

I now have $300 to spend on speakers.

Keeping in mind they will be driven by a Harman Kardon 3490, and will be for music only, what speakers would you recommend I look at?

-Connor

Cambridge. S30s.
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post #3 of 58
1/3/12 at 4:59pm
Thread Starter 
I should also mention I am not afraid to go refurbished.
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post #4 of 58
1/3/12 at 5:07pm
Energy RC-10s. I have a pair in a 2.1 setup driven by an HK 3390.
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post #5 of 58
1/3/12 at 5:14pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by pokekevin View Post

Cambridge. S30s.

X2

and look at this NHT
http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls....9;s-like-new-g
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post #6 of 58
1/3/12 at 5:22pm
Thread Starter 
Thanks for the responses so far.

Those RC-10's look pretty nice. How are you liking them?
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post #7 of 58
1/3/12 at 5:27pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Thanks for the responses so far.

Those RC-10's look pretty nice. How are you liking them?

I love them. I use them for near field listening in a PC setup. And I personally prefer them to the Cambridge Audio S30s, which I also own a pair of.
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post #8 of 58
1/3/12 at 5:55pm
audiogon/ pair of jamo c803's wants$350 obo offer $300 great speakers.had apair a few years ago. great bass. to bad the ex ended up with them
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post #9 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:32pm
Thread Starter 
Thoughts on these: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/hb-1.html
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post #10 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:38pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by cel4145 View Post


I love them. I use them for near field listening in a PC setup. And I personally prefer them to the Cambridge Audio S30s, which I also own a pair of.

If the op can still get em on sale than my votes go to the rc's
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post #11 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:39pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Thoughts on these: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/hb-1.html

I've had the hb1s, s30s, and the rc 10s. Loved the hsu's for ht usage. S30s were great as 2 channel music. Rc 10s were the ultimate compromise. (Opinions) also none of them were "broken in" yet when I tested them
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post #12 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:44pm
Thread Starter 
Would it help if I mentioned the type of music I like, and my source?

If so, I like all types of rock(classic, new era etc.), and I like rap and hip hop of all kinds-im 19 cut me some slack .

I will primarily be using my iPhone as my source(downloaded music and Pandora Radio), I will eventually get a decent CD player.


I also already have a subwoofer.
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post #13 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:47pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Would it help if I mentioned the type of music I like, and my source?

If so, I like all types of rock(classic, new era etc.), and I like rap and hip hop of all kinds-im 19 cut me some slack .

I will primarily be using my iPhone as my source(downloaded music and Pandora Radio), I will eventually get a decent CD player.

I also already have a subwoofer.

If you like to listen to music a lot with a touch of movies id recommend the rc 10s. Either way though all 3 are great and you can't go wrong with either. I honestly wanted to keep all 3 sets (pairs) but waf wouldn't agree. Ended up selling the hb1s and moved the s30s to a computer 2.1 set up
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post #14 of 58
1/3/12 at 8:54pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by pokekevin View Post

If you like to listen to music a lot with a touch of movies id recommend the rc 10s. Either way though all 3 are great and you can't go wrong with either. I honestly wanted to keep all 3 sets (pairs) but waf wouldn't agree. Ended up selling the hb1s and moved the s30s to a computer 2.1 set up

Gotcha.

Just so you know, this system is for music only, as it's going to be the stereo system for a home gym.

Which is why I am leaning towards the HB-1 slightly. I need big sound, as the basement is around 2000 square feet, all open.

I don't want floor standers due to price and size.

I currently have some Polk RTi4's, and they aren't cutting it(granted they were $150).
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post #15 of 58
1/3/12 at 9:18pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Gotcha.

Just so you know, this system is for music only, as it's going to be the stereo system for a home gym.

Which is why I am leaning towards the HB-1 slightly. I need big sound, as the basement is around 2000 square feet, all open.

I don't want floor standers due to price and size.

I currently have some Polk RTi4's, and they aren't cutting it(granted they were $150).

The Behringer B2030P did very well in this Audioholics budget speaker shootout: "Performed well in a large room . . ." The bigger model, the Behringer TRUTH B2031P, falls within your budget, has an 8 3/4" driver, and is 150 watts at 4 ohms. They have slot ports in front, so you can hang them right up against a wall. Might be worth adding them to your list with the HB-1s.
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post #16 of 58
1/3/12 at 9:19pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post


Gotcha.

Just so you know, this system is for music only, as it's going to be the stereo system for a home gym.

Which is why I am leaning towards the HB-1 slightly. I need big sound, as the basement is around 2000 square feet, all open.

I don't want floor standers due to price and size.

I currently have some Polk RTi4's, and they aren't cutting it(granted they were $150).

What's your issue with e Polk RTi4's if it's lack of bass I would add a subwoofer for $300
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post #17 of 58
1/3/12 at 9:25pm
I have run some Hsu HB-1s and some Behringer 2031p monitors with the HK 3490, both were terrific. If you aren't going to use a subwoofer, either are ideal since they both have pretty good bass for bookshelf speakers, we are talking very good output down to 60 hz. I think the Behringers were a bit more detailed, but if you wanted to run the speakers at louder volumes, I think I would trust the Hsu speakers more, since I have blasted them so hard, and they have rocked high volumes like a champ. Also, they can run with any receiver which furthers their usefulness, whereas the 4 ohm Behringers would work with the HK 3490, but I wouldn't run that load on any entry or mid level receiver. Still, I think you would be very pleased with either speaker.
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post #18 of 58
1/3/12 at 9:31pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by cel4145 View Post

The Behringer B2030P did very well in this Audioholics budget speaker shootout: "Performed well in a large room . . ." The bigger model, the Behringer TRUTH B2031P, falls within your budget, has an 8 3/4" driver, and is 150 watts at 4 ohms. They have slot ports in front, so you can hang them right up against a wall. Might be worth adding them to your list with the HB-1s.

Quote:
Originally Posted by crazyrob425 View Post

What's your issue with e Polk RTi4's if it's lack of bass I would add a subwoofer for $300

Quote:
Originally Posted by shadyJ View Post

I have run some Hsu HB-1s and some Behringer 2031p monitors with the HK 3490, both were terrific. If you aren't going to use a subwoofer, either are ideal since they both have pretty good bass for bookshelf speakers, we are talking very good output down to 60 hz. I think the Behringers were a bit more detailed, but if you wanted to run the speakers at louder volumes, I think I would trust the Hsu speakers more, since I have blasted them so hard, and they have rocked high volumes like a champ. Also, they can run with any receiver which furthers their usefulness, whereas the 4 ohm Behringers would work with the HK 3490, but I wouldn't run that load on any entry or mid level receiver. Still, I think you would be very pleased with either speaker.

Thanks for all the responses guys.

@Crazyrob- There is nothing wrong with the Polk's, but I know I can do better. I recently returned my Pioneer VSX-821-K, and bought the HK 3490. I figured I might as well upgrade the speakers(selling the iPod had a big sway).

After doing some more research, the Energy RC-10's may be in the lead. They have great reviews, look like they can handle power, and are aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

Edit: I have, and will be using a sub.
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post #19 of 58
1/3/12 at 9:58pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Gotcha.

Just so you know, this system is for music only, as it's going to be the stereo system for a home gym.

Which is why I am leaning towards the HB-1 slightly. I need big sound, as the basement is around 2000 square feet, all open.

I hate to say this, but the only one of those speakers that has a chance of filling a 2000 sq ft basement is the HSU's. In my opinion, even the HSU's dont have much of a chance filling that room with decent sound. If you just want some light background music they should be fine. But if your trying to "rock out" for parties or while working out they are not gonna cut it. I have both the HSU's and the Energys, they are probably only great sounding in about up to a 500-600 sq ft room...thats just my experience though.
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post #20 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:17pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by nixonrsx View Post

I hate to say this, but the only one of those speakers that has a chance of filling a 2000 sq ft basement is the HSU's. In my opinion, even the HSU's dont have much of a chance filling that room with decent sound. If you just want some light background music they should be fine. But if your trying to "rock out" for parties or while working out they are not gonna cut it. I have both the HSU's and the Energys, they are probably only great sounding in about up to a 500-600 sq ft room...thats just my experience though.

First off, what are you powering the RC-10's with?

Also, the actual weight room is prob around 700 sq ft, but the basement is mostly open.
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post #21 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:23pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

First off, what are you powering the RC-10's with?

Also, the actual weight room is prob around 700 sq ft, but the basement is mostly open.

700 sqft if more doable, but its still open. I have powered all the speakers with either a Emotiva UPA-2 amp or the same HK 3490 you will be using, so they are getting all the power they can take. The HSU's in my opinion will play louder however.
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post #22 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:26pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by nixonrsx View Post

700 sqft if more doable, but its still open. I have powered all the speakers with either a Emotiva UPA-2 amp or the same HK 3490 you will be using, so they are getting all the power they can take. The HSU's in my opinion will play louder however.

Gotcha.

While I still have you here, are you familiar with the Energy V-5.1?

How does it compare to the RC-10?

I ask because it can be obtained for a little more money.
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post #23 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:37pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Gotcha.

While I still have you here, are you familiar with the Energy V-5.1?

How does it compare to the RC-10?

I ask because it can be obtained for a little more money.

I have not heard them in person, but they are just meant to be a more refined version of the RC-10's, and reviews seem to be very good. But to be honest and not sound rude, its just a matter or physics, they both the 5 1/4" woofers and its just not gonna have the sheer output to fill big rooms. I would look for something with higher sensitivity, 94 or above. I know you said you dont want towers but for your situation its gonna work out better I think, and it seems like you have the room. I would check out craigslist for some heritage Klipsch speakers. Maybe the KG series or some small Herseys would be a great fit. Where are you located?
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post #24 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:42pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by nixonrsx View Post

I have not heard them in person, but they are just meant to be a more refined version of the RC-10's, and reviews seem to be very good. But to be honest and not sound rude, its just a matter or physics, they both the 5 1/4" woofers and its just not gonna have the sheer output to fill big rooms. I would look for something with higher sensitivity, 94 or above. I know you said you dont want towers but for your situation its gonna work out better I think, and it seems like you have the room. I would check out craigslist for some heritage Klipsch speakers. Maybe the KG series or some small Herseys would be a great fit. Where are you located?

West Chester, Pennsylvania


I also am reluctant to buy towers for two reasons:

1. More susceptible to damage in a weight room, where as bookshelves are hung, mounted etc.

2. I want to be able to move it around; take it to the pool room, set it up in my bed room etc.

I don't need deafening noise. The Polk RTi4's do an ok job, but when turned up, they become harsh and lose their sound quality. This where I hope spending more on bookshelf speakers will help.
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post #25 of 58
1/3/12 at 10:53pm
I would go with the HSU's then, they are very nice speakers and can do everything you are looking for. Here are what they look like all lined up next to each other.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attac...7&d=1274584161
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post #26 of 58
1/3/12 at 11:19pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by nixonrsx View Post

I would go with the HSU's then, they are very nice speakers and can do everything you are looking for. Here are what they look like all lined up next to each other.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attac...7&d=1274584161

I hear what you're saying, and I find your input invaluable.

However, the HSU unit is by no means aesthetically pleasing. As much as this 2.1 system will be used in our home gym, it will very well likely make it's way to other more well furnished rooms within our home; the Energy series will look much nicer imo.


Here is a good comparison (on paper) between the RC-10 and V-5.1:

http://www.energy-speakers.com/na-en...ds=43%3b343%3b

There are subtle differences, and I wouldn't have to put forth too much moolah to get the V-5.1.

Furthermore, the V-5.1 looks the nicest imo.

Regardless of the path I choose, I have no doubt all the choices will be superior to my Polks.
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post #27 of 58
1/4/12 at 8:12am
ascend acoustics cmb-170 se
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post #28 of 58
1/4/12 at 1:58pm
Thread Starter 
Just an update:

I recently got back from demoing a few bookshelf speakers at Best Buy.

*All speakers were driven by a Pioneer VSX-53. We listened to Nirvana and Led Zeppelin songs.

I listened to the Energy CB-10/20 and the Bowers and Wilkins 686/685.

At the end of my demo, it was the CB-20 vs the 685.

Me, my father, and the gentleman assisting us all thought the CB-20 sounded better than the B&W.

It sounded much crisper and clearer, and had punchy bass.

Seeing the CB-20 "do it's thing" makes me wonder how the Energy RC-10 would compare to it....
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post #29 of 58
1/4/12 at 2:14pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by shermanatorx View Post

Seeing the CB-20 "do it's thing" makes me wonder how the Energy RC-10 would compare to it....

Might want to read this thread. On pg2 They did a comparison of HB-1 vs RC-10 vs CB-20 vs Pio SP-BS21-LR
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1355638

Try to do a side buy side comparison with your current speakers if you can that way you can really justify the new speakers to yourself
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post #30 of 58
1/4/12 at 2:17pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by crazyrob425 View Post

Might want to read this thread. On pg2 They did a comparison of HB-1 vs RC-10 vs CB-20 vs Pio SP-BS21-LR
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1355638

Wasn't that thread mainly debating about tje mk1 and mk2 ? Lol
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