I have a Sony BDP-S350 blu-ray player thats about four years old now, and I think it's about time to upgrade. I have my sights set on a new 2012 model Panasonic DMP-BDT 500 blu-ray player with two HDMI outputs, one for audio and the other for connecting to a 3D TV, built-in wi-fi, and 7.1 analog audio outputs. I would expect better audio quality from the Panasonic than my old Sony BD player. Later, if and when I decide to go 3D route, all I will need to get is a 3D TV.
However, I have a weakness in my HT audio setup. It's the center channel. Dialogue isn't always clear as I would like it to be especially when voices are low, while the rest of the speakers are loud and clear. I have run my AVR's audio calibration setup program many times at multiple locations but to no avail. My center is an entry level one that I bought in 2006, an Energy C-C100. I bought matching C-300 towers which I really like. I though it might be time to up grade the center. Vanns has the RC-LCR speaker which can be used as a center. The price is unbelievably low. They sure aren't going to be around long at those prices. I don't care that they won't be timbre matched to my C-300s and surrounds. I know the RC-LCRs are in another league, and if so they ought to deliver that clear and distinct dialogue that I long for.
So my dilemma is which to upgrade first, the audio at the source, i.e. a new blu-ray player, or at the end of the audio chain, i.e. the center channel speaker? I don't have enough cash right now to get both.
Any suggestions?
However, I have a weakness in my HT audio setup. It's the center channel. Dialogue isn't always clear as I would like it to be especially when voices are low, while the rest of the speakers are loud and clear. I have run my AVR's audio calibration setup program many times at multiple locations but to no avail. My center is an entry level one that I bought in 2006, an Energy C-C100. I bought matching C-300 towers which I really like. I though it might be time to up grade the center. Vanns has the RC-LCR speaker which can be used as a center. The price is unbelievably low. They sure aren't going to be around long at those prices. I don't care that they won't be timbre matched to my C-300s and surrounds. I know the RC-LCRs are in another league, and if so they ought to deliver that clear and distinct dialogue that I long for.
So my dilemma is which to upgrade first, the audio at the source, i.e. a new blu-ray player, or at the end of the audio chain, i.e. the center channel speaker? I don't have enough cash right now to get both.
Any suggestions?