I got a system 4 months ago with M22 x2, QS8 x2 and VP150. I added HSU-2 sub. The room is 22'x16'with two storey ceilings and opening into a breakfast area and kitchen. I debated a lot and got the M22s based on space and WAF constraints. I am happy with the sound, but I think I am having the M22 remorse now. My brother-in-law wanted to buy a system, and I strongly recommended the M60s since he did not have any space constraints. He is very happy with them. I am visiting him this week, and I am convinced that I will feel awful for having gotten the M22s. I am going to brace myself and take the m22s to his house and compare them, but I already see what is coming.
My questions are, should I get the M60s making some adjustments to the TV placement? Do I need M80s? If I get the towers, what should I do with the M22s? I could use them for rear speakers in a 7.1 setup, but is that overkill?
Here's my setup.
Ravi's Setup
Ravi
Axiom M22 front
QS8 surrounds
VP150 center
HSU-2 sub
Samsung HLN61W TV
HK-525 receiver
Panasonuc Cp-72 DVD player
You have a very nice looking HT / listening room. I can't see where to put floorstanders in there unless you move the TV to the wall on the right side of the photo. As much as I love my M60s (and I do), this decision -- where the TV goes -- seems more important than the speakers. I'd try to decide that independent of the speaker choice -- you could try the right-wall configuration with your M22s for instance, to see if you like it. Only then, if you like the room arrangement that way (all parties like it that is), only then would I worry about M60s vs M80s. And at that point, just to trump your brother-in-law, I'd definitely get M80s. (And from what M80s owners say your room is a good fit for them.)
If it's any consolation, while my wife and I love our M60s, I find myself thinking, "Should I have bought the M22s and wall-mounted them instead?" The excitement of fellow Axiom owners just makes me want to try ALL of their speakers.
Just curious....
Doesn't the VP150 center channel have rear ports? Doesn't having the speaker right up against that TV hinder the sound?
Thanks for the support. I cannot put the TV to the right wall. One, there will be too much light from the open windows and two, I certainly will not be able to get okay from my wife. What I did do, is move the TV towards the left covering one of the windows and also brought it forward. This made a little more space on the right and there is some space already on the left. I will post the new picture tonight.
As for the center channel, I have since moved it to one of the racks below, taking out the DVD player. I will post the new picture.
Ravi
the VP-150 and the QS-8s are sealed enclosures.
will, thought i was replying to curtis, sorry.
dan
I think you have a very nice set up. There is always the desire to upgrade. I have M50's in the home theater system and M22's for the bedroom stereo. Can you imagine what it is like to have M50's when everyone says the m60's & 80's are where its at? The truth is that the M50's are extemely enjoyable as are the M22's. When I get going on the upgraditis track I could convert my workshop to a dedicated home theater get a front projector, huge full range towers, dedicated mult-channel and stereo amps, dedicated stereo and multi-channel processors etc.etc. How long until you upgrade your residence, where does it end? My system is nowhere near the ultimate, I don't even have a sub. But the fact is it is extemely enjoyable. I like it better than the theater experience.
no need to be sorry! Merry Christmas Dan!!! I read where you said no rear ports, but I thought I would add that they are sealed speakers...there are no ports in the front either.
Sorry guys...I stand corrected.
Austibirdman
Here's the altered arrangement. As you can see now, there is room for towers. What do you think?
Ravi's Setup
Ravi
WOW! That is a really nice view and a gorgeous home!
the reason i ask is because with a sub the difference between the m22 and m60 is that the sound is wider and the bass extension is better. WIth a sub the only difference(what i have read) is the wider soundstage of the m60.
i am in the same boat you are and am considering upgrading to the m60 in a 15x17 room. fortunately i am still under the 30 day trail period
By all means take your M22's to your bro-in-law's. You may be surprised by how good the 22's sound in comparison, and your upgradeitis may go into remission. If this does not happen, then using your M22's as rear channel speakers would probably sound awesome if you listen to much multichannel audio, otherwise they would be overkill. You could always keep them for a second system, say for listening to music only in the bedroom, or sell them on Ebay.
Mark
I like the advice from mhorgel (new nickname?), except that even in the new setup, I still don't see a good spot for M60s or M80s. If you set them up so the woofers are unobstructed by the fireplace, then they will be only 4 to 5' apart. I've watched plenty of movies like this, due to toddler- and wife-induced layouts, and it's fine, but it's really more optimal to have them 8' or further apart. Seems like the Axiom insiders here have recommended M22s or other bookshelves when the speakers are inside of 6-8' apart. My guess is that your current set-up is the best for your room configuration. New Year's is always a good time to resist temptation!
After serious thought and some serious listening to the system, I think I am happy with the current setup. I agree with austinbirdman that even with re-organizing, it will be tight fit for the towers and probably would not have optimal dispersion.
I have not yet decided on the issue of direct comparison with M60s, but if I do compare I will post my findings. But, thanks very much guys, you made significant contributions to my mental peace;-)
I agree that the setup you have now would be very difficult to improve on. I say keep it as is.
Sweeeeeet looking place you've got there!