Which speaker package(s) around £1k with THX Pioneer VSX-AX2AV Receiver?

[ms8qt]

Hi everyone,

I've been into AV for about 8 years now and it's not like me to be completely dazed and confused about what to buy when upgrading!

I've just ordered a Pioneer VSX-AX2AV THX Receiver (link below for specs) and now want to buy a new speaker package around £1k (but £1.5k is too much so not the Mordaunt-Short THX 500 package!). The thing is I haven't got a clue what to buy - your opinions would really help.

http://www.avland.co.uk/pioneer/vsxax2/vsxax2.htm

I currently have a full Paradigm setup including large Monitor 9 fronts so I'm looking for a similar size/shape system...maybe a little smaller but with more clarity/quality/smoothness of sound.

The Mordaunt-Short Avante package looks like an option but it's not THX to go with the Pioneer receiver and, more to the point, are they even in the same league as the receiver I've ordered?! I've heard other Mordaunt-Short speakers in the past and thought they sounded very nice at the time.

Also, not sure at all if I should go for THX speakers - in my opinion I shouldn't buy them just because the Pioneer receiver is THX - your opinion?

Thanks all!
Mark.

[Helicon]

THX speakers will only really benefit if you're going to play them near cinema levels. As they're designed to reproduce 0db continously, that's how they're best heard. Playing in THX mode at average and safe volumes to please the neighbours will rob the sound of it's 'sparkle' or 'life', whichever you choose to call it.

[Ian J]

I don't think that the THX logo adds much value to speakers anymore so buy whatever your ears tells you is the best value for your money.

Add the Castle Compact sub/sat setup to your list of speakers to demo.

[ms8qt]

Right, thanks for the quick replies guys. I won't be listening at cinema sound levels as I do have a neighbour and my room is 15ft square! In view of this I'll forget about getting a THX speaker package.

A compact sub/sat system is a no-no - I need to keep the same physical size speaker package (front floorstanders, center and bi-polar rears) that I have now for a number of reasons.

So, is the Mordaunt-Short Avant one of the best systems under £1k or are there others I should look at too, e.g. Mission, etc.

Thanks!

[gazbarber]

http://www.superfi.co.uk/index.cfm/p...roduct_ID/1469 How about these? (I think this is the same pack cheaper http://www.hificonfidential.co.uk/detail.asp/sku=EVO3B)

Very well regarded and a few on the forum have them, as always once you've narrowed down your choice demo.

Also I think this here is the THX Mordent short package for just under 1k http://www.hificonfidential.co.uk/de...hort%20-%20THX

[Cable Monkey]

Originally Posted by Ian J

Add the Castle Compact sub/sat setup to your list of speakers to demo.

I have demo'd and subsequently ordered the Castle Compacts to go with my 3805. I was looking in particular for their ability to give me good definition and clarity during musical playback and they delivered that during the demo. The package is configurable. I opted for 3 LCR's up front and two surrounds. There is a dipole available also if that is what you are after. Have a listen and see what you think.

[Ed Selley]

Originally Posted by Ian J

Add the Castle Compact sub/sat setup to your list of speakers to demo.

Seconded with knobs on- a lovely lovely package.

Of course the Mordaunt Short Genie isn't bad either .

[ms8qt]

Morning all,

Thanks for the replies but I'm only interested in a full size speaker package with floorstanders for front L+R and ideally typical size bi-polar rears. The Mordaunt-Short Avant package seems to be about right but wondered if there's anything else similar to it that I should also consider.

Thanks guys - nearly the weekend now :-)))

Mark.

[avanzato]

Keep an eye out for the Monitor Audio 'S' series and Wharfedale EVO's.
Both ranges sound good, have recently been discontinued and can be picked up at good prices.
I've had THX speakers and they don't need to be run at full volume to 'work' but I don't think you'll find any that meet your spec for the price.

[MyBoxLife]

Kef Q Series has also recently been discontinued, replaced by the iQ, so can be had for bargain prices, haven't had a listen to many brands, but loved the sound of the Q5 when I listen to those, just to add to the confusion .