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Bookshelf + sub vs. floorstanding

I have room which I currently use 50% for music and 50% Home Theater (I wish I could split, but no way at the moment). The room is 15 x 21 x 10 feet and I'm working on some acoustic panels to help with overall image and definition. I'm looking forward to make an upgrade on my system, more specifically buying new speakers for left and right channel. The budget is $14,000 max. I see lot of people happy with bookshelf speakers, especially for their imaging and ability to "disappear". Main complain is the lack of bass. 
I'm considering buying a nice pair of bookshelf plus a pair of sub woofers, instead of going with classical floorstanding ones. I really like a sound stage "reproduction" and that "separation" of instruments. 
What would you recommend and why? 
fabifrac
Post removed 
gdnrbob
4,444 posts
 
With a small room, 10x12x8, I had to go with bookshelf speakers and subs.
I initially tried Zu Omen Bookshelf speakers with HSU subs (2), but it really didn't cut it.
I am now converting to a pair of Vandersteen VLR's and a pair of 2w subs that I had lying around.
As I write this, I have the VLR's and Hsu's hooked up. It sounds pretty good (better than the Zu's). When I get things in their final position, I will add the Vandy subs. I think the Vandy subs will be a better integration than the HSU's- which are running parallel to the speakers, so there is some overlap, which I think muddies the sound.
I know this is overkill for an office system, but, hey, I had to try.
Bob
audiokinesis
2,737 posts
 

@gdnrbob said:  "I think the Vandy subs will be a better integration than the HSU's- which are running parallel to the speakers, so there is some overlap, which I think muddies the sound."

If you have a phase control on the Hsu's, you may be able to find a setting where there is enough partial cancellation between your mains and subs that you won't have over-emphasis in the region of overlap.

Duke

erik_squires
16,051 posts
 
Satellites with a well integrated sub are magical. 

Few ever end up with a well integrated sub. 

How about a large 2-way that can do bass? 

If you do a floor stander, stick to 2.5 ways, they are more efficient and integrate better in a room. 
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,051 posts
 
Dear @fabifrac: Satellites plus two self powered subwoofers always is a great option. Due that you will use it for music and home theater is very important to know the maximum SPL and sensitivity spec of the satellites.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.
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