Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Home Theater m22 / vp 100 / vp 150 for center?

Hello. As of right now, I have two m22ti speakers in my front soundstage. I've been debating between these three speakers as a center. I've been told that having all 3 front speakers match is optimal, but is this really a concern if the center speaker is timbe-matched? Plus, If I used the m22 as a center -- it would be placed on top of the television -- rather high compared to the other two speakers.

I would love to get the VP150 -- but my concern with that is my receiver is a cheap Kenwood VR-407. I'd love to get a new receiver -- but funds right now don't permit it. The receiver is rated at 500 watts total, with an 8 OHM load. Though, those numbers are probably inflated. That's why I'm concerned that my receiver may not have the power for that lovely-looking speaker.

So, is it worth the risk trying the VP150, or would I be better off with the m22 or VP100? If not the VP150, I'm leaning toward the VP100 simply for cosmetic reasons. I just don't want to underpower any speaker.

And this is for a small room currently -- about 12x14 ft. Though I don't plan on staying in this room forever. Nor do I plan on having that el-cheapo receiver forever. And for the record -- sources will include DD5.1 soundtracks, DTS, and SACD / DVD-A music disks.

Brian, your 407 should have no problem with the VP150, but I'll repeat my previous suggestions that a vertical M2 be considered for center-channel duty. Above about 90Hz it's nearly a perfect match for the M22s and is considerably shorter for placement on top of the TV.

ditto, Vp150 will work just fine with your amp.

M2 may work well in your smaller room and would be considerably cheaper. VP100 is still supposed to be an amazing speaker so do not knock it too much, the 150 is just a little better.

It sounds to me like your reciever is living on borrowed time and stands to be replaced in the near future. So why buy a speaker with the idea of complimenting THIS reciever. The reciever you have will run the VP150 no problem. A good speaker is going to last you ten years or more. Do you want to up grade your speakers when you up grade your reciever? Doubt it. I would go with the 150 now and when you do get a better reciever, look forward to getting even more from the same speaker. Thats just me though.

Hmm. Seems like the VP150 it is, then. And Kittel -- your view is pretty much spot on. Thanks everyone.