Suggestions for a 2.1 System

panthro

panthro

panthro

Soldato
Joined
19 Nov 2004
Posts
12,682
Location
Wokingham
I want to connect my Samsung LCD TV, my PS3 and my Dell Vostro Laptop to some decent speakers. Not interested in surround systems, just something with a good sound, but not too big or bulky. Ive got no idea on what to go for, or how to connect all 3 up.
PS3 will be used for gaming and blurays, the laptop will be used to watch divx films etc on. Any help would be appreciated!
 
Some clues about budget would be of assistance, and would prevent me suggesting amps like the Naim Supernait.
 
As well as a budget hint you probably don't need 2.1. A simple stereo set-up with decent speakers and amp should provide you with good sound rather than having to spend budget on a sub as well. Decent subs aren't cheap.
 
Sorry, struggling to think about something for £150. Would be easier if you had £200, but challenges are fun so lets give it a go.

I'd look at putting as much into your speakers as you can at this point but reducing what you spend on the amp. In order to get something you'll be hapy with I'd also suggest going second hand.

You can pick up a Cambridge Audio A1 amp on ebay for around £50 so that's a good starting point.

With regards to speakers I suggest you search ebay for Celestion, Mission, Mordant Short and Tannoy and see what you can get for your money.

Remember that you need speaker cable and possible interconnects as well. Cheap RCA interconnects can be picked up for a could have quid each and I wouldn't pay more than 50p per meter for speaker cable (less if you get this from ebay as well).
 
Thanks :) if I make it £200 then how much of an improvement is that? And would it be able to connect everything up at the same time?
 
The amp I've listed has about four different inputs so you connect everything and then just flick the selector according to what you want.

If you were to add another £50 then I'd add £25 to the amp and speaker budgets each.

Have a look at this thread.
 
Just as a thought... if you wanted a challenge you could build your own amp very cheaply and then spend most of your budget on the speakers?

Like is said, its just a thought as your budget is low and it may be a good option (to get you a better sounding hi-fi) if you're prepared to invest time and effort to build your own.

Check out the DIY Audio thread.
 
Stupid question, but whats the difference between an amp and a reciever? It is just the fact a receiver can produce Dolby digital/THX etc sound?
 
panthro said:
As in an FM/DAB tuner? Im such a n00b, sorry.
Click to expand...

Generally an FM / AM tuner.

The difference between producing multichannel over stereo is massive in terms of design. As a result receivers are usually more expensive and are substantially poorer at producing stereo for music.
 
[DOD]Asprilla;12438526 said:
Generally an FM / AM tuner.

The difference between producing multichannel over stereo is massive in terms of design. As a result receivers are usually more expensive and are substantially poorer at producing stereo for music.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the info :) I am going to look into the Cambridge Audio Amps as you suggested because they seem to get good reviews. Maybe pop into the shop that has rich sounds (possible competitor?) on the way home.
 
panthro said:
Thanks for the info :) I am going to look into the Cambridge Audio Amps as you suggested because they seem to get good reviews. Maybe pop into the shop that has rich sounds (possible competitor?) on the way home.
Click to expand...

RS is ok to say on here.

Cambridge is an RS own brand so it's the only place you'll find them. It's a pity you missed it, but one just went for £35 in postage in the members market.
 
badbob said:
The retailer just happens to be a advertiser in the magazine just a coincendence? ;-)
Click to expand...

[DOD]Asprilla;12438584 said:
RS is ok to say on here.

Cambridge is an RS own brand so it's the only place you'll find them. It's a pity you missed it, but one just went for £35 in postage in the members market.
Click to expand...

haha, ok, I will look into some independent reviews. Have they always been owned by RS?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom