My surround sound is not room-filling and not rich - new speakers, amp or both?

[Chittagong]

I currently have a Sony surround speaker set and a Panasonic SAXR-25 amp. My problem is that this low-mid end set produces a rather thin, unfulfilling sound. Even compared to cheap speakers such as iPod Hi-Fi or Harman-Kardon Soundstick IIs, the sound is not as satisfying. Also, I suspect that the subwoofer requires also higher volumes than I can do in an appartment house to bring benefit.

Here are some pictures of the space to give you an idea (center speaker located wrong but it won't solve the problem):

What would you do - new speakers, amp or both? My only criterion is that the design should be stylish and that they are not overly expensive (i.e. not like 500e / speaker). For amplifier, I've got my eyes on Sony 5200ES because of it's multiple HDMI and Component jacks and on-screen XMB UI.

Comments?

 

[Mickey G]

When I first got my set up, it anoyed me that a friends £200 set up sounds better than me £1500 setup. I decided that my configuration must be wrong. So I spent a fair bit of time playing with the setup and now I'm very happy with the sound.

So my advice is to play with the settings until it sounds right.

 

[pixelpidgeon]

nice deal on the onkyo tx-sr674e here
http://www.av-sales.co.uk/ONKYO-TX-SR674E-367-.htm

and 1 free hdmi cable and i free subwoofer cable thrown in too.

and 20m of speaker cable! im tempted myself

 

[Chittagong]

When I first got my set up, it anoyed me that a friends £200 set up sounds better than me £1500 setup. I decided that my configuration must be wrong. So I spent a fair bit of time playing with the setup and now I'm very happy with the sound.

So my advice is to play with the settings until it sounds right.

Interesting. What settings did you mainly adjust? Naturally the balance between the speakers, but I suspect you needed to do something more to get such a dramatic difference.

 

[pixelpidgeon]

have you set your speakers to 'large' in the av amps settings?

also you might need to increase the vol levels in the speaker setup procedure. This could increase the overall volume.

Regarding the subwoofer, is it powered, like does it have its own plug?

Also i beleive the sub might need to be set at 100hz crossover?

Im no expert whatsoever, but what he just said about playing with the settings, and reading the manual again, is a great idea. Also, have you tried a search on these forums for your particular sony av amp?

cheers, pixel

 

[Mickey G]

Interesting. What settings did you mainly adjust? Naturally the balance between the speakers, but I suspect you needed to do something more to get such a dramatic difference.

Yes mostly it was playing with the levels. I'm of the opinion that this should be done by ear. I have four knobs on my Sub, I started with suggested settings from the forums then play with them to suit.

Good luck

 

[Phil Hinton]

Ok couple of things to try;
Have you got an spl meter? Have you set all speakers to the correct volume, all at 75db should help start things. Next set your mains to small so they are only handling things over 80hz and the sub control everything else, however looking at your speakers you may need a higher crossover, maybe 120hz. Get that centre speaker at the correct height so you are getting maximum performance from it. And make sure you enter the correct distance settings and crossovers (i.e. small). If none of those basic suggestions work, try moving the sub around to see what kind of response you get elsewhere in the room. There are more detailed tips to use, but try this first and if it doesn't help then there is more to do, also have a look at Dolby's website for information you need.
The problem you are having may be with the equipment you have, but more likely its the space in which you are using the system that is causing some problems. If you feel you do need to upgrade, remember that understanding the room and proper calibration will help you attain better results.