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Hi all,

6 months ago, i switched to Energy because i had a deal for a complete EX serie package. Since then, replace the subwoofer by a B&W ASW650. I want to return to Axiom because it didn't met my expectations. I have a pair of AXIOM M50 in my closet...

So here's the question. I will probably have 700$ to spend and no need for a subwoofer... My room is 11" x 24" with 8" ceeling. What should i buy? I'm more in direct radiating than di-bi-quad poles... Do i keep my M50s? Is 5 M2s a good bet? 2 M2s and a VP150 with my M50's? else?

Thanks,

Jerry

Have you tried the M50s with the Energy surrounds and centre? What exactly do you feel you are missing?

The highs are not as crystal clear as the axioms. I've tested it and the tonal balance between the 2 brands is not well balance...

I'd stick with the M50s and buy M3s for surrounds and the VP150 for the centre. BTW, I had direct-radiating surrounds at one time and I do admit that it took me a while to get used to my QS8s. I have to tell you that the diffuse effect from the QS8s is far more realistic than direct-radiating. You may want to re-consider direct-radiating.

What is the + value of the M3s vs. the M2s if i don't need their bass extension? I thought that the mid range of the M2 was better?

I would recommend the M2s over the M3s for surrounds, if only based on size its worth it. THe M3s are way too bulky for surrounds IMHO, the M2s are much nicer sized and do have a crystal clear mid-range when crossed over at 80hz they will not be a problem.

I thought the M2s started dropping off at 100Hz. But after examining the graph, they don't start dropping until 80. So it looks like they would indeed be a good choice if you have indeed decided on direct-radiating.

Conventional wisdom considers the M3s to be a closer tonal match to the M50s than the M2s. Whether the difference is significantly noticeable is moot.

Will an M2 would do a good center or should I stick with the VP150?

I think an M2 centre would work as well, how far are you seated? Your room is only 2100+- cu.ft., an M2 centre would work quite well I think.

However, in order of tonality (thanks Ajax) I would recommend an M3 centre to match your M50s. Keeping your M2 surrounds will still work just fine IMHO, surrounds do not need the woofers to match 100% with the mains and front IMHO.