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3.1 or 2.1 Home Theater setup for desktop

So I am trying to setup my own hifi 3.1 setup (left,right,center,sub) and I was wondering how I should go about this. I have been trying to absorb as much knowledge as I can in doing this endeavor on my own, but I am left with so many questions and I would love to hear from others on their recommendations.

Now for the build I am running off a near $1000 budget and wouldn't mind it being cheaper than $500, but can work up to $1000. From what I have been reading, I think I would like to incorporate a tube amp instead of SS if possible, but it's not a requirement. I want the center speakers and the left and right speakers to hopefully not be too big as it needs to fit on a standard sized desk. Not that it needs to be stated, but high quality listening experience when at the desk is what I am aiming for. It'd be for everything (Music/TV/Gaming/Youtube Videos) I would love to hear everyone's suggestions.  
Also the center channel can be optional if that helps.
thatcdac
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Seeing as 1000 isn’t necessarily enough to build a whole system. Any recommendations on a start to building a whole high-end system.
Already gave you exactly what you are asking for.

Plow your entire budget into the best most efficient and easy to drive bookshelfs you can find. Run them right off your PC until you can afford a tube amp. Integrated. Build from there.



soix
9,456 posts
 
Forget tubes at this price level and forego the center speaker, which will allow you to use a stereo amp and put more $ toward better L/R speakers. Plus, listening in the nearfield you’ll unlikely need a center speaker anyway. I’d get a PS Audio Sprout100, which takes care of your amp and DAC, and a pair of Silverline Minuets. Used you’ll be under $1000 and new $1300 and then just add a sub later when funds permit — for your application I’d get an SVS SB1000 that’s $500 new. This will give you a legit full-range 2.1 system that sounds amazing, and if you upgrade the amp/DAC later (tubes or otherwise) it’ll get even better.

If this is still too too pricey you could go with Wharfedale 11.1 Diamond speakers for $300 (on sale at Music Direct) and it’d still sound pretty damn good. Hope this helps, and best of luck.
mahler123
3,322 posts
 
I strongly agree with @soix .  I would start without the center speaker in such a small setup.  You can always add one later as funds allow if you really feel the need.  I use the Silverline Minuets as fronts in one of my HT systems (with a Silverline Center and a Paradigm Sub) and the result is great.  A tube amp will eat a lot of budget; save that for later and you can still have great sound
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