2. home-theater
  3. 162369-76759

Passive soundbar

Looking to de clutter and move my current second system to become a third system and in doing so am looking to replace my pioneer elite Andrew Jones Dolby Atmos L/C/R towers and center with a passive sound bar being driven by marantz 7007 receiver. I have multiple zones and things hooked up so a powered soundbar is not an option. Guessing I will need to add a sub or two as well given physical limitations of the sound bar.  I have about 43” width and somewhat varying height and depth let’s say 6 to 8 inches high and 7 deep. Not looking to break the bank but doesn’t seem like there are many cheapish options out there.  Am I missing a quality speaker somewhere ?  Would like to keep under $500. 
esthlos13
esthlos13 OP
90 posts
 
Interesting suggestions. I see Dayton audio has a relatively cheap center and 10” powered subs for just a few hundred- anyone have any experience with those?
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
I have used Dayton parts (such as a full-range or a woofer).  They are actually very nice for the money.  However, don't go for the ultra cheap stuff.  If you are looking at the Dayton center channel speakers for $50 or less, they are pretty much crap.  Also, the packages that have sub and speakers for $300-400 are also going to be crap.  The idea that you can get more product for "less money" is not a valid one.  In the end, you get what you pay for.
esthlos13 OP
90 posts
 
Yep fully aware of the get what you pay for!  The system that’s impacted is a super casual-need-better-than-tv-sound with occasional two channel as background to fill a large space (48x16).  Looks like monitor audio and def tech also have some passives. 
erik_squires
16,118 posts
 
I have only seen these as kits from Parts Express.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Parts Express does sell a number of pre-built center channels and sub/speaker packages, but they are all crap stuff.

The Parts Express "kiits" are actually pretty decent.
More to discover