Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Advice from Axiom Owners What would you buy next?

Well, I know my humble system and aspirations are far below the level of many folks here, but I was wondering what your opinions would be on what my next equipment purchase should be...

In January I'll be able to spend maybe up to $2000 on my HT system. Here is what I have so far:

Mediocre HT components anchored by a Sony STR-DE1075 6.1 channel receiver. Attached to it are various Costco-quality peripherals, cd-changer, Sony single disc cd player, Proscan vcr, and a laptop for internet listening.

8 y.o. Panasonic 54" rptv.

Pair of Axiom M22ti as front surrounds. Other non-descript but functional speakers complete the 6 channels.

One given is I am getting a Hsu subwoofer soon, so thats taken care of.

But here is what has been itching me for upgrades, in no particular order:

A projector and screen. Like an Infocus X1, Panny L300, etc.

An Outlaw audio 950 pre-amp and 755 5.1 amp. (My room really isn't good for 6.1 channels - the sofa is right up against the back wall).

A new universal player for DVD, DVD-A, and SACD.

A turntable.

Or should I round out my Axioms with a VP150 and pair of QS8's?

Thanks for your thoughts. I enjoy lurking here and look forward to your ideas.

Walt

With $2K to spend, I would round out the Axioms and get that HSU sub, then look at upgrading your receiver with the money left over. If your current receiver has preouts, then you could also get an amp and use the Sony as a pre-amp until you have extra money to buy a dedicated one. However, now is the time for last year models with numerous brands, as they are discounted greatly. I got my HK 525 refurb from HK for $500 shipped and have loved it since getting it.

I too would complete the Axiom package first. The VP150 and QS8's will make a big difference.

That would be my first choice, and then use the pre-outs on the Sony to power a good amp. Or, you could get a Tivo!

It just occurred to me that I'm asking if I should buy speakers in a speaker forum. LOL! Oh well, 100% of you say go for the speakers. I can't complain about that! I appreciate the input.

We're pretty good on this board about being straight shooting. In your case though, it seems like the best option for now. You're already 1/2 way there. You should finish up the speakers, then move on to the next step.

There are many members of this board who don't even own an Axiom product.

Hi Surfaday
I'd agree with the other posters, these guys are sharp! If you have $2000 to spend, you should be able to pick up just about everything you need, short of an upgrade in the TV department.

Outlaw 750 amp $1100 (hookup to Sony preouts)
Axiom VP 150 $ 350
Axiom QS8s $ 470
Pioneer DV563 $ 200 (I think that's close anyways)
Total $2200

Just over what you want to spend, but would set you up pretty sweet.

You can always call them and get on a list for the B-Stock's to save some money. The Pioner 563 is supposed to be one heck of a bargin.

Dang Sony doesn't have pre-outs! Arrrgh! Actually, I've known this and have lamented it frequently to myself. Also, the WAF would be non-existent if I indulged in everything at once. I have to purchase one at a time. But thanks for the suggestions - its nice to dream....

As another cost-conscious (er, cheap) music- and HT-lover, I want to make these suggestions:

1. Listen to the speaker mantra heard on this forum. You will notice this difference more than the other upgrades right now. Sub ($400), QS8s ($470), and VP 150 ($350) is a great foundation, and as others say, you should buy the best you will want now with the money you have now, instead of compromising and kicking yourself later. That leaves you $780 to spend (leaving aside the troublesome issue of tax).

2. Now I'd buy the Panasonic F85 DVD player. It has a five-disc changer for playing CDs, it costs $125-135 at many stores and Internet outlets, gets great reviews, and it will play pro scan DVDs, DVD Audio, and SACD along with the expected run of everything else. You will have one slim, well regarded unit that can play CDs, DVDs, and DVD-A once you have your speakers. By purchasing this, you'll save money without sacrificing quality. Many audiophiles will disagree, but I think so long as you purchase a good, solid unit with a proven track record (important caveat) at a reasonable price, you're fine. Beyond that, the gains in quality you see with higher priced digital components can be hard for anyone to discern, except the people who lay out $1000 for a CD or DVD player and then find themselves needing to justify the purchase psychologically. IMHO there's more than a bit of the 'emperor's new clothes' syndrome when higher priced digital components are discussed.

3. You will now have about $600-650 remaining. That's enough to purchase a new AV Receiver, such as the HK 525 or the Yamaha 1400, both well regarded by people on this forum. Two notes here -- 1) you can enjoy your new system before purchasing the new receiver, then bring home the receiver for a test run to see what kind of difference it makes. This way you can be sure you feel the purchase is justified. 2) I don't think the HT separates route is for you. This takes you into a new league of expense and discernment. If you want to spend that much money, you could set up a much less expensive but higher performing 2-channel audio deal just for music. But I suspect like many of us you'll be thrilled enough with this new setup to pause and enjoy for quite awhile -- years and years if you like (or atleast until you decide to add 7.1 rears to go with your new receiver).

Sum:
* QS8s
* VP150
* New sub
* Panasonic F85 DVD / CD 5-disc player
* If desired, new AV Receiver like an HK 525 or Yamaha 1400

I envy your imminent outlay.