I got that Jamo system for $129 from amazon and even for $129 I returned it. One thing is that if they are even a bit over driven the voice coils bottom out and do it rather obnoxiously, they cant take a lot of power. However they just dont sound that good...
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Upgrading an old surround system - Advice Needed
Hey there -
This is my first post on this forum, although I've gleaned much information from it in the past. I am looking to upgrade my somewhat older home theater system and looking for some advice, since my knowledge of these things is limited.
My current setup (speaker-wise) is:
Energy XL-C100 - My center speaker
Boston VR-M50 - A pair of these for left and right
Boston CR65 - another pair of these for left and right surround
I live in a medium-sized apartment with neighbors below me, so I've shied away from a subwoofer. Although, I think the time has come though to bring one into the equation, assuming I can control the volume via a knob...
Everything is being routed to a Pioneer VSX-820-K receiver.
I'm looking to upgrade the system and I was looking at the Jamo S426 HCS 3 system. Price-wise it is perfect for me, but I wonder if I will notice a substantial shift in quality. People seem to like this system very much, but I'm not sure how it compares to the speakers I already have. If I went with this Jamo system, I'd also want to pick up the Jamo Sub 210 (the nicer looking Sub 260 is a little pricey for me at the moment).
So here are my questions. Any help would be much appreciated!
1 - Would these Jamo speakers provide me a noticeable boost in sound quality? I watch a lot of movies, and my main priority would be clarity from the center speaker. I hear the Jamo's center speaker described as too "tinny", but is it a step up from my Energy XL-C100? And are the floorstanding and surround speakers a big step up from the Bostons?
2 - Would the Jamo speakers fit nicely with the Pioneer VSX-820-K Receiver? Any special adjustments I should make in terms of ohms or speaker size? If need be, I was thinking of upgrading to the Denon AVR-E400, but that may be down the road...
3 - Can I (or should I) keep the Boston VR-M50s and use them as additional rear speakers, creating a 7.1 sound system? As I said, I'm a big fan of these and wondering if they could be integrated into the new system.
4 - If I picked up the Jamo Sub 210, would this sub be compatible with the Pioneer receiver and would it allow me to adjust the volume and LFE power so as not to disturb my downstairs neighbors too much? Is it worth the extra money going for the Sub 260?
---
Again, any help would be appreciated and please let me know if you need more clarification! Happy to be part of the community and looking forward to this long-awaited upgrade!
Hey there -
This is my first post on this forum, although I've gleaned much information from it in the past. I am looking to upgrade my somewhat older home theater system and looking for some advice, since my knowledge of these things is limited.
My current setup (speaker-wise) is:
Energy XL-C100 - My center speaker
Boston VR-M50 - A pair of these for left and right
Boston CR65 - another pair of these for left and right surround
I live in a medium-sized apartment with neighbors below me, so I've shied away from a subwoofer. Although, I think the time has come though to bring one into the equation, assuming I can control the volume via a knob...
Everything is being routed to a Pioneer VSX-820-K receiver.
I'm looking to upgrade the system and I was looking at the Jamo S426 HCS 3 system. Price-wise it is perfect for me, but I wonder if I will notice a substantial shift in quality. People seem to like this system very much, but I'm not sure how it compares to the speakers I already have. If I went with this Jamo system, I'd also want to pick up the Jamo Sub 210 (the nicer looking Sub 260 is a little pricey for me at the moment).
So here are my questions. Any help would be much appreciated!
1 - Would these Jamo speakers provide me a noticeable boost in sound quality? I watch a lot of movies, and my main priority would be clarity from the center speaker. I hear the Jamo's center speaker described as too "tinny", but is it a step up from my Energy XL-C100? And are the floorstanding and surround speakers a big step up from the Bostons?
2 - Would the Jamo speakers fit nicely with the Pioneer VSX-820-K Receiver? Any special adjustments I should make in terms of ohms or speaker size? If need be, I was thinking of upgrading to the Denon AVR-E400, but that may be down the road...
3 - Can I (or should I) keep the Boston VR-M50s and use them as additional rear speakers, creating a 7.1 sound system? As I said, I'm a big fan of these and wondering if they could be integrated into the new system.
4 - If I picked up the Jamo Sub 210, would this sub be compatible with the Pioneer receiver and would it allow me to adjust the volume and LFE power so as not to disturb my downstairs neighbors too much? Is it worth the extra money going for the Sub 260?
---
Again, any help would be appreciated and please let me know if you need more clarification! Happy to be part of the community and looking forward to this long-awaited upgrade!
1 - 20 of 25 Posts
I think the Boston VR50 is better than the entry level Jamo. Keep what you've got but look into upgrading your center speaker to a Boston VR Center.
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.XBoston+VR+Center&_nkw=Boston+VR+Center&_sacat=0&_from=R40
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.XBoston+VR+Center&_nkw=Boston+VR+Center&_sacat=0&_from=R40
Thank you both for the reply. So it sounds like my Boston speakers are still perfectly fine - I would just need to upgrade my center speaker. In looking over the eBay links that afrogt posted, I like the VR-MC. Is there a particular model that anyone would recommend that would compliment my existing setup?
And since I'm potentially keeping the Boston speakers, is there a good subwoofer that would fit the bill (Keeping in mind that I'd want to be able to adjust the power of it, so as not to disturb the downstairs neighbors) ?
Thanks again for the great feedback!
Thank you both for the reply. So it sounds like my Boston speakers are still perfectly fine - I would just need to upgrade my center speaker. In looking over the eBay links that afrogt posted, I like the VR-MC. Is there a particular model that anyone would recommend that would compliment my existing setup?
And since I'm potentially keeping the Boston speakers, is there a good subwoofer that would fit the bill (Keeping in mind that I'd want to be able to adjust the power of it, so as not to disturb the downstairs neighbors) ?
Thanks again for the great feedback!
You can get the Boston CS225C center speaker for $200. That's what I would suggest.
That would be much better than the center speaker you have now IMO.
The Jamo speakers are very limited; not even close to the quality of the speakers you have now. You don't want them.
The JBL ES250 subwoofer might be a good choice.
You can always turn off a subwoofer or reduce its volume, so you have a lot of flexibility there, depending on the music and time of day.
That would be much better than the center speaker you have now IMO.
The Jamo speakers are very limited; not even close to the quality of the speakers you have now. You don't want them.
The JBL ES250 subwoofer might be a good choice.
You can always turn off a subwoofer or reduce its volume, so you have a lot of flexibility there, depending on the music and time of day.
Quote:
Originally Posted by valentinice /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed-on-jamo-s426-hcs3#post_24342498
Thank you both for the reply. So it sounds like my Boston speakers are still perfectly fine - I would just need to upgrade my center speaker. In looking over the eBay links that afrogt posted, I like the VR-MC. Is there a particular model that anyone would recommend that would compliment my existing setup?
And since I'm potentially keeping the Boston speakers, is there a good subwoofer that would fit the bill (Keeping in mind that I'd want to be able to adjust the power of it, so as not to disturb the downstairs neighbors) ?
Thanks again for the great feedback!
Ignore the advice above the VR-Center is the exact matching center channel to your front speakers. As for subwoofers the JBL is a tad over priced for what it is.Quote:
Originally Posted by valentinice /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed-on-jamo-s426-hcs3#post_24342498
Thank you both for the reply. So it sounds like my Boston speakers are still perfectly fine - I would just need to upgrade my center speaker. In looking over the eBay links that afrogt posted, I like the VR-MC. Is there a particular model that anyone would recommend that would compliment my existing setup?
And since I'm potentially keeping the Boston speakers, is there a good subwoofer that would fit the bill (Keeping in mind that I'd want to be able to adjust the power of it, so as not to disturb the downstairs neighbors) ?
Thanks again for the great feedback!
Thanks again for the feedback, everyone.
On eBay right now, I'm debating between the following models from Boston Acoustics: VR12 and V910 - Any substantial differences between these two?
And as for Subwoofer, I've got my eye on the Pioneer SW-8MK2 which matches my receiver and seems to be decently priced. I'm also looking at an Auralex AmpDude to dampen the sound to my downstairs neighbors. Any thoughts on this combo?
Thanks again for the feedback, everyone.
On eBay right now, I'm debating between the following models from Boston Acoustics: VR12 and V910 - Any substantial differences between these two?
And as for Subwoofer, I've got my eye on the Pioneer SW-8MK2 which matches my receiver and seems to be decently priced. I'm also looking at an Auralex AmpDude to dampen the sound to my downstairs neighbors. Any thoughts on this combo?
Unless you have a very small room or on a tight budget an 8" subwoofer is not the way to go. It wont play that deep, probably bottoms out at 35hz.
Good call on the subwoofer afrogt. Is there a subwoofer you would recommend in this price range? And would I still need some sort of dampening pad?
And while I debate the VR12 and VR910 - I noticed the newer Boston Acoustics CS226C on Amazon. It's not a VR series, but the cherry wood does match my two side speakers. Would this fit in, or am I better off with the VR series?
Good call on the subwoofer afrogt. Is there a subwoofer you would recommend in this price range? And would I still need some sort of dampening pad?
And while I debate the VR12 and VR910 - I noticed the newer Boston Acoustics CS226C on Amazon. It's not a VR series, but the cherry wood does match my two side speakers. Would this fit in, or am I better off with the VR series?
You're better off with the VR series.
How much is your price for the Pioneer sub? I've seen it vary between $80 and $160 depending if there is a sale or not.
You don't need a dampening pad. That's more of a want than a need.
One of the Parts Express 10" or 12" subs would be better than the Pioneer, in my opinion.
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1000-10-100-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-628
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629
http://www.parts-express.com/bic-venturi-v1020-10-powered-subwoofer-160w--303-430
How much is your price for the Pioneer sub? I've seen it vary between $80 and $160 depending if there is a sale or not.
You don't need a dampening pad. That's more of a want than a need.
One of the Parts Express 10" or 12" subs would be better than the Pioneer, in my opinion.
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1000-10-100-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-628
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629
http://www.parts-express.com/bic-venturi-v1020-10-powered-subwoofer-160w--303-430
Wow, great stuff there. Thanks for the recommendations!
I saw the Pioneer for $99, but I'd rather spend more money if the quality is noticeably better. I know I don't need it, but would a sound dampening pad help with the noise level? I want to be mindful of my downstairs neighbors and don't mind spending an extra 40 or 50 bucks if it'll actually help.
And then lastly, do you have a recommendation for which center VR speaker I should get?
Thanks again
Quote:
Originally Posted by afrogt /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed-on-jamo-s426-hcs3#post_24359041
You're better off with the VR series.
How much is your price for the Pioneer sub? I've seen it vary between $80 and $160 depending if there is a sale or not.
You don't need a dampening pad. That's more of a want than a need.
One of the Parts Express 10" or 12" subs would be better than the Pioneer, in my opinion.
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1000-10-100-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-628
http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1200-12-120-watt-powered-subwoofer--300-629
http://www.parts-express.com/bic-venturi-v1020-10-powered-subwoofer-160w--303-430
Wow, great stuff there. Thanks for the recommendations!
I saw the Pioneer for $99, but I'd rather spend more money if the quality is noticeably better. I know I don't need it, but would a sound dampening pad help with the noise level? I want to be mindful of my downstairs neighbors and don't mind spending an extra 40 or 50 bucks if it'll actually help.
And then lastly, do you have a recommendation for which center VR speaker I should get?
Thanks again
I don't know which one is better for your needs but the VR12 has dual 6.5" woofers, a 4" midrange and 1" dome tweeter. It's 25" wide and weighs 40lbs. Pretty darn big speaker, so make sure you have room.
According to Crazyrob the VRC in the exact matching center so maybe you should get that instead.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Boston-Acoustics-VRC-center-channel-speaker-/321322427215?pt=Speakers_Subwoofers&hash=item4ad04f234f
According to Crazyrob the VRC in the exact matching center so maybe you should get that instead.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Boston-Acoustics-VRC-center-channel-speaker-/321322427215?pt=Speakers_Subwoofers&hash=item4ad04f234f
Wow, both look good, but reading the reviews of the VR12, I think it may be a perfect fit for me!
Thanks so much!
Wow, both look good, but reading the reviews of the VR12, I think it may be a perfect fit for me!
Thanks so much!
Update:
I ordered the Dayton Audio Sub-1000! Can't wait to try out my first subwoofer. Any tips on setup would be appreciated!
I also picked up a new center speaker - the Boston VR-MC, which matches the look of my two right/left speakers. It sounds crisp and clear, but from some reason the sound only seems to be coming out of ONE of the two speaker cones on the unit (the right-most speaker). Is this normal behavior for a center speaker, or have I gotten a bad unit on eBay? I have verified that it's hooked up properly, but nothing seems to be coming from the left side of the center speaker...
Update:
I ordered the Dayton Audio Sub-1000! Can't wait to try out my first subwoofer. Any tips on setup would be appreciated!
I also picked up a new center speaker - the Boston VR-MC, which matches the look of my two right/left speakers. It sounds crisp and clear, but from some reason the sound only seems to be coming out of ONE of the two speaker cones on the unit (the right-most speaker). Is this normal behavior for a center speaker, or have I gotten a bad unit on eBay? I have verified that it's hooked up properly, but nothing seems to be coming from the left side of the center speaker...
If one driver is not moving then something is wrong. I had something similar happen with a bookshelf speaker I received. In my situation the crossover had detached from the binding posts, during a supposed drop by ups. I had to remove the back cover and reattach and re glue everything. Was not simple. I would contact the seller.
Quote:
Originally Posted by valentinice /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed#post_24452126
Update:
I ordered the Dayton Audio Sub-1000! Can't wait to try out my first subwoofer. Any tips on setup would be appreciated!
I also picked up a new center speaker - the Boston VR-MC, which matches the look of my two right/left speakers. It sounds crisp and clear, but from some reason the sound only seems to be coming out of ONE of the two speaker cones on the unit (the right-most speaker). Is this normal behavior for a center speaker, or have I gotten a bad unit on eBay? I have verified that it's hooked up properly, but nothing seems to be coming from the left side of the center speaker...
If one driver is not moving then something is wrong. I had something similar happen with a bookshelf speaker I received. In my situation the crossover had detached from the binding posts, during a supposed drop by ups. I had to remove the back cover and reattach and re glue everything. Was not simple. I would contact the seller.
Uh -oh. Sounds like trouble...
The left driver is vibrating, but it's only producing a bass sound, unlike the right driver, which is producing a clear sound. Is that normal behavior?
If not, I'll contact the seller and try and arrange a return.
Uh -oh. Sounds like trouble...
The left driver is vibrating, but it's only producing a bass sound, unlike the right driver, which is producing a clear sound. Is that normal behavior?
If not, I'll contact the seller and try and arrange a return.
Try playing system in all channel stereo. If it's not equal something could be very wrong
EDIT:
Also make sure if there are four binding posts that they are bridged and tight. I believe this center has 4 inputs
Quote:
Originally Posted by valentinice /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed#post_24452271
Uh -oh. Sounds like trouble...
The left driver is vibrating, but it's only producing a bass sound, unlike the right driver, which is producing a clear sound. Is that normal behavior?
If not, I'll contact the seller and try and arrange a return.
Try playing system in all channel stereo. If it's not equal something could be very wrong
EDIT:
Also make sure if there are four binding posts that they are bridged and tight. I believe this center has 4 inputs
OK, I played back some music and then a few scenes from a movie - in 5-channel stereo and then again in standard surround. Everything sounds good, but I still have the nagging feeling that something may not be right. The left driver just vibrates and rumbles. I'm not sure if this is normal behavior for this unit...
As for the bindings, I have both speaker wires plugged into to their respective top posts. There's a gold bracket on each of the posts that connects it to its bottom counterpart. If I'm describing it wrong, or you need pictures, let me know and I can try to snap a few.
I contacted the seller to ask him if this is normal behavior. We shall see. In the mean time, thanks for your help!
OK, I played back some music and then a few scenes from a movie - in 5-channel stereo and then again in standard surround. Everything sounds good, but I still have the nagging feeling that something may not be right. The left driver just vibrates and rumbles. I'm not sure if this is normal behavior for this unit...
As for the bindings, I have both speaker wires plugged into to their respective top posts. There's a gold bracket on each of the posts that connects it to its bottom counterpart. If I'm describing it wrong, or you need pictures, let me know and I can try to snap a few.
I contacted the seller to ask him if this is normal behavior. We shall see. In the mean time, thanks for your help!
Yeah it seems like the left driver is not receiving signal but only reacting to vibrations moving around the cabinet.
Can anyone else chime in here?
In all Chanel stereo the center Chanel speaker should be playing the exact same sound in both drivers
Quote:
Originally Posted by valentinice /t/1517126/upgrading-an-old-surround-system-advice-needed#post_24452391
OK, I played back some music and then a few scenes from a movie - in 5-channel stereo and then again in standard surround. Everything sounds good, but I still have the nagging feeling that something may not be right. The left driver just vibrates and rumbles. I'm not sure if this is normal behavior for this unit...
As for the bindings, I have both speaker wires plugged into to their respective top posts. There's a gold bracket on each of the posts that connects it to its bottom counterpart. If I'm describing it wrong, or you need pictures, let me know and I can try to snap a few.
I contacted the seller to ask him if this is normal behavior. We shall see. In the mean time, thanks for your help!
Yeah it seems like the left driver is not receiving signal but only reacting to vibrations moving around the cabinet.
Can anyone else chime in here?
In all Chanel stereo the center Chanel speaker should be playing the exact same sound in both drivers
So, I decided to open up the back of the speaker and see what I can see while I wait for the seller to get back to me.
Hopefully someone can shed some lights on these pictures and what they mean...
Here's the right driver. The properly functioning one:
And here's the non-functioning one:
Obviously, there's a noticeable difference. But is this a normal design? Is this how the speaker is intended to look? Or did this guy sell me a busted speaker?
Any and all help is greatly appreciated. And thanks Chris for your feedback throughout...
So, I decided to open up the back of the speaker and see what I can see while I wait for the seller to get back to me.
Hopefully someone can shed some lights on these pictures and what they mean...
Here's the right driver. The properly functioning one:
And here's the non-functioning one:
Obviously, there's a noticeable difference. But is this a normal design? Is this how the speaker is intended to look? Or did this guy sell me a busted speaker?
Any and all help is greatly appreciated. And thanks Chris for your feedback throughout...
1 - 20 of 25 Posts
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