I got the go ahead to change up our living room area and will have more space to integrate a center channel into my system. I am running a pair of Polk SDA 2b as my front L/R and a pair of Polk S20 for the rear L/R. Looking for suggestions on what might pair well with the SDA’s. Might be a little challenging since they are vintage speakers and probably not much in use these days.
My big issue right now with my setup is that conversations/ talking in shows and movies can sound a bit muffled at times (partially I’m sure due to the odd way my speakers are positioned and partially due to my hearing loss I assume). So looking for something that is really going to give good clarity and bring out more detail with vocals and conversation would be ideal.
Another requirement is that it can’t be too large or the wife will not approve (too many black boxes already ). Hoping to stay under $300, but would consider going a little bit more if it was worth it. Does not need to be Polk either, open to anything. Thanks for any help/ suggestions!
So a 15in PA speaker is out of the question.
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Believe me I would use one of my Monitor 7’s as a center if I was allowed
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Im on a get close as possible to full range kick and searching for a center too. Came across a thread HT guys switching to passive 15in 8ohm horn loaded PA speakers for all floor channels crossing over at 80hz to the subwoofer… Reports are it sounds like being in a commercial theater or running floorstanders for all channels when using subs AVR crossed over to 80hz. Theyre even using 12in PA speakers for the atmos ch.
The HT leaning forums favor big centers or horn loaded centers over matching timber for the clear dialog youre looking for. getting back to using PA speakers the ones that went with the setup report the way to go is matching all the speakers for big improvement over any conventional hifi based speaker. Thinking of getting a 10in PA speaker for the center to test it myself.
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That is absolutely ludicrous and I love everything about it.
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I hope its like a poor mans cornwall if it is im switching over lol.
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lol, yeah I oddly like this as well. the monitor and tv look good set up like that
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Apparently the dynamics imaging clarity with just running L/R phantom center is amazing but the the drawback is no bottom end so subs are a must. Some have added PA subs instead of the coventional HT sub. Im mean if you can get no shit performance from a $142 4in driver bookshelf. Why not a $200 set of 15in woofer 1.4 in horn 8ohm 1000w plasitic PA speaker .
Technically I should be setting the SDA’s 6-8’ apart max for proper imaging. With that in mind a center may not be needed, but I have never been able to properly set the distance on the speakers and finally have the opportunity. For now I am exploring options to get ready for the switch around. I do run a SVS PB1000 right now, but my 1000 pro was delivered today, so that will be switched out.
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Polk came out with a new line. 3 new non ported centers their big center is 2 1/2 way 6in MTM.
I have considered the S35 to match the S20’s, but thought I would see what else was suggested that people actually have experience with. Made me go to their site and I see the white version is on extra sale and bonus for that is its not another black box.
klipsch RP600C lowest on amazon $399
Klipsch RP-450C 2 1/2 way $399
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Before and what ideally will be after. The dashed lines are rugs.
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slight variation that gets the front and rear speakers lined up. I like the idea of masking the sub with the table (also having extra space for equipment and such ) and keeping in corner, but with that plan front and rear are not centered with each other.
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Lowest for the klipsch 450C amazon 349.00 its popular a center.
The 450 seems to be one to get over the 600C.
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Polk Audio Signature Series S35 Center Channel Speaker (6 Drivers) | Surround Sound | Power Port Technology | Detachable Magnetic Grille https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LW8H3NX/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_fabc_2Y6YMPJQEF2WHA9B7YKZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
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My buddy has one and he loves it
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Thanks, I have considered that and the S30 I have considered. 35 for the low profile and the 30 for the larger woofers. They would work perfect I’m sure and will keep them as a possibility. Hopefully not towing in my speakers and better positioning in relation to seating should help immensely.