Low-down speakers
October 13, 2003
How low does a speaker (or system, if it includes a
subwoofer) have to play to be considered for a home-theater system? That is, what
specification should I look for so that I don't miss any of the music or film soundtrack?
I know specs don't tell you everything, but I'm just looking for a guideline. Thank you.
Jennifer
The ideal low-frequency extension would be 20Hz
-- this is rarely achieved, though, and in most systems can only be approached by a good
subwoofer. The practical specification to look for is a bit higher, around 30Hz, which can
be reached by most good subwoofers and many floorstanding speakers. Remember, too, that
your room's acoustics will augment low bass, so when you see, for example, -3dB at 30Hz
(meaning the speaker will be 3 decibels down in reference to the rest of the frequency
spectrum), you may actually get a bit more bass in reality.
Universal audio/video players
October 8, 2003
Do you still recommend that people look at universal
audio/video players as sources for budget systems, or as they come down in price do you
see the quality dropping due to the do-everything-nature of the players?
Ron Montgomery
We have a review of the Pioneer DV-563A coming soon --
it's the least expensive universal player we've seen yet. So we'll be able to give you a
definitive answer very soon. Generally, though, due to the economy of scale involved in
producing a machine that'll likely sell in huge numbers, I'd expect the quality to exceed
what's usually expected from a sub-$200 player. If it's good, it might be the no-brainer
solution for a budget system.
Low-impedance load
October 6, 2003
I just bought a set of vintage Bose 501 speakers in very
good condition and was surprised to learn that these speakers are rated at 4 ohms. I am
also now wondering what options I have for amplifying them. The receiver/amplifiers I am
seeing on the marketplace right now seem to all require speakers rated at 8 or more ohms.
Will I have to go vintage? I would welcome any information about this topic.
Eric Kirtley
Vintage is not a bad way to go if you don't mind
yesterday's features. Some of the older components' amplifiers are quite robust. An old
McIntosh would be a fine match, I'd bet. But don't count out today's offerings; you just
may have to shop around a bit. Many of the current crop of receivers are rated to drive 4
ohms. I know some of Onkyo's receivers are rated for this load. You could also go with an
integrated amplifier, many of which can drive a 4-ohm load, but you would likely be
locking yourself into a two-channel system. So you have options, but you're going to have
to work to uncover the best one for you.
Best upgrade strategy
October 2, 2003
I am interested in upgrading my system. I am happy with the
sound of my system, but I feel as if there may be several more upgrades that would make
sense, although I can only afford one upgrade at this time ($500). System components that
I am happy with include a Denon AVR-1083 receiver, Totem Arro fronts and Totem
center-channel, and Speakercraft rear-channel speakers. I have invested in pretty good
cabling. I mainly use this system for music, although I enjoy the occasional DVD in
digital 5.1. I have a five-disc Denon CD changer (seven to eight years old) and a Toshiba
DVD player (two years old, $169 from Best Buy). I have no subwoofer. I have purchased and
enjoyed DVD-Audio discs, but 99% of my music listening will be CDs. Have there been
significant improvements in CD players to justify buying a new one? Or would I round out
the edges better with a subwoofer? If CD, should I look at the all-in-one-players? I am
not interested in multi-room listening of separate sources.
More simply: old CD player with subwoofer, or new CD
player, no subwoofer?
John Birchfield
In your case, a subwoofer is the best bet. Your Totems,
although floorstanders, are not quite full range. You'll gain a full octave of extension
with the right sub and significantly increase the dynamic range of your system. You'll be
able to hear information in music and movies that you never knew existed. Do be prepared
to research your purchase thoroughly and take care in setup. Articles such as "Bass in Place Setting Up Your
Subwoofer" will give you a head start. Good luck and let us know how it works
out.
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