Wall plates for speaker cables

August 9, 2004

Do you have any first-hand experience with wall plates for speaker cables? I want something that is high quality so I don't miss any sound quality. Any ideas?

Brandon

After looking at several brands I settled on Niles wall plates. Not only are they heavy-duty, but they are designed to accept banana plugs on both sides of the plate. This feature alone makes them a cut above to me, because trying to thread heavy-duty speaker cables into multiple binding posts butted right up against each other (so they will fit within a standard wall-plate's dimensions) is a nightmare. Overall, I couldn't recommend them more strongly.

Magnepan review

August 6, 2004

Is someone from GoodSound! reviewing the Magnepan MMG W speaker? I know this model has been reviewed by another of your publications, but I was looking for a GoodSound! perspective since you guys know what to look for in an inexpensive speaker (like when compared to Ascend Acoustics). Thank you for a great website.

Roland

Look for a review on September 1st. We'll have a review of not only the MMG W in stereo mode, but paired with the matching MMG C and a second set of MMG Ws for a full 5.1-channel review.

Amp and preamp online?

August 4, 2004

I am in the market for some great speakers. The Axiom M60ti speakers are right in my price range. I am having trouble finding some decent preamps, amps, or integrated amps in my area -- I feel the speakers will deserve better components than I currently have. I am currently using a Yamaha stereo receiver, which was given to me. I was wondering if it would be possible to recommend components that add up to my price range ($1000 to $2000 excluding speakers) and would be easy to find on the Internet.

Brian

Many of the companies I'd typically recommend have policies against selling online. If you have no dealers in your area perhaps you could call around and explain you plight and maybe you'd find someone that would work with you. Companies such as Anthem, B&K, and Parasound all make separates priced within your budget and they are all quite good. We have a review of the Parasound Halos upcoming and you can find the Anthems and B&Ks in our archives.

Best receiver under $500

August 2, 2004

I have one question. I'm looking for the best budget receiver under $500. Can you help?

Rajesh

Although I've not heard one myself, I have heard great things about the Panasonic SA-XR50. It features a digital power-amplifier section that produces 100W into each of six channels along with all of the usual decoding options, including Dolby Pro Logic II. If you shop around online you should be able to find it for around $225. The digital design allows it to be small and light (around 8.8 pounds), which will also save you money on shipping charges!