2. home-theater
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Where do I start with a home theater system?

I have a 2 channel system. Ive never wanted a home theater system. Recently Ive decided to try it out, but I dont know where to begin. My stereo consist of a Mark Levinson #23 amp, a Classe DR-5 pre-amp, Theta DAC and transport, Yankee planars and Acoustat speakers, and other items. Being these items are old school can they be used in a home theater or should I start with everything new[up to date but not new]. I just brought a Panasonic 50" plasma television. Since I dont know if Ill like it I dont want to go real high end. Thanks for your help. Jim
jimikoby
finsup
289 posts
 
If you go 7.1 as Vicdamone advises, make sure your room can accommodate all the speakers, especially the back surrounds.
vicdamone
850 posts
 
Finsup, I have had very satisfying results setting up 7.1 in small rooms. In small rooms were the listening position is backed up to the rear wall I installing non dipole speakers behind and above the listening position. Pointed them directly at the ceiling and letting the room correction function works very good for the rear effect.

The side surrounds can also be mounted near the ceiling aimed at the listening position.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
I agree with Madhf.

I have incorporated a center channel, a 3-channel amp to drive center and rear speakers, a pretty good processor(Integra) and an Oppo BDP-95 for movies only. I integrated a sub I already had and run the processed signal through my 2-channel preamp and amps for the front 2 channels. After a little balancing and room correction, I have excellent movie sound when I want it without any deleterious effect on my 2-channel system whatsoever. Its a win-win and what I would recommend if you can pull it off.
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