2. speakers
  3. 1028201951

Considering the Rule of Diminishing Returns.......

I have made up my mind to purchase an Aerial Acoustic system, model 7B and CC3B center. However, I really can't afford this system and am having a hard time writing out the check (or swiping the credit card).

Considering the law of diminishing returns, and utilizing the experienced knowledge base on this forum, what other options might I have that might offer 95% of the performance of the Aerials at 50% of their cost? Am I being realistic to assume such a speaker system exists?

I am 80% HT and 20% music.
jdlynch
tacs
220 posts
 
check out newform research or VMPS for great speakers on lower budget than the aerials.
take all the time you need, there's no justification for feeling queasy writing a check when you can do some more research and ultimately feel better about your choice in relation to the money spent.
Paradigm is pretty good, with an entirely different sound than the Aerial, brighter sounding in general.
aram
98 posts
 
Like everyone else I would suggest Paradigm but also even on here there are some VMPS being sold for 3500 $..RM40..I would not miss that opportunity..great deal...if you can find a second-hand RM40 then don't miss it..
soix
8,936 posts
 
An optimal compromise that might save you a good amount of money are the relatively new Energy C-9 towers. They go down to the low 30s, which will serve you well for HT even if you don't have a sub, yet they are refined enough to compete with much more expensive speakers on the audio side in case that bug ever bites. At $1300/pr. they will be tough to beat given your situation and preferences. My guess is they offer a matching center channel, but I'm not sure. Best of luck.

Tim
esoxhntr
196 posts
 
Energy C-9 speakers are indeed an excellent value - good call Tim! BUT, if you really dig the Aerial sound, think about a pair of Aerial Model 5 speakers (will you be using/do you already have a sub?) with a Vandersteen 2W sub. Very close to the 95% performance/50% price parameters that you have set. Happy hunting!
alliedtvandsound
74 posts
 
Check out the PSB Stratus Goldi speakers (approx $2,500 US$). They are a three-way tower featuring 10", 6" and 1" drive units. These speakers are accurate, musical and of very high power handling. Bass extension is impressive, staging and realism are really very good.
Strangely, they work very well with good (higher-power)A/V receiver's and surprisingly, shockingly better with very high resolution/higher-end seperates. They ARE NOT room/placement fussy (although placement further from room boundaries results in cleaner bass), are very well built/constructed. A perfect speaker for HT as well as 2-CH stereo.
Give em a listen, I have not heard anyone who did not really like them!

peter jasz
More to discover