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VP-160 arrived - questions
#374797 04/30/12 11:42 PM
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Just got my VP-160 today. Hooked it up to replace my VP-150 v2. Re-ran Audyssey. I'm going to need more time to evaluate the sound difference. I was expecting a center that was more in my face, but what I'm hearing so far is a more blended/integrated experience. So, it is definitely different than what I expected. I am going to re-run Audyssey tonight when it is more quiet and see if that changes anything.

My questions so far:
1. 60hz is a great crossover setting for my M80's in my room (I have an SVS sub). But, should I set the VP-160 at 60hz as well? I know it can go down to 40hz, so I'm wondering what other people have their crossovers set at?

2. Are others having the experience of a seamless experience as well? I really was expecting a louder center. Maybe it's too soon to tell. So, is the VP-180 more of a punchy center or is that a seamless integrated experience as well?

Last edited by VoicOfReason; 04/30/12 11:44 PM.

Epson 8350 * Denon 4311CI * XPA-5 * M80/VP180 * 2 QS8's+M2v3-DSX * SVS PC13-Ultra ** Buttkicker LFE
Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374798 04/30/12 11:55 PM
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I would think that the desired result would be a more seamless experience. I mean, the ultimate goal would be super seamless all around, not just the front stage.

THAT should be a sign of a nicely matched set of speakers. Your receiver can always be bumped up a dB or two if need be to increase the volume of the center channel if you would like.


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Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
nickbuol #374800 05/01/12 12:05 AM
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Yeah, good point. I'm just not used to it yet because the VP-150 sort of stuck out, and maybe not so much in a good way. I noticed it more while I notice this one less. What I certainly did notice so far that was good is that I can push the volume up to reference level and it is much less harsh. In fact, it is quite enjoyable at that level.


Epson 8350 * Denon 4311CI * XPA-5 * M80/VP180 * 2 QS8's+M2v3-DSX * SVS PC13-Ultra ** Buttkicker LFE
Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374803 05/01/12 12:20 AM
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Try it without Audyssey and just set the levels manually.


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Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374804 05/01/12 12:27 AM
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Originally Posted By: VoicOfReason
Yeah, good point. I'm just not used to it yet because the VP-150 sort of stuck out, and maybe not so much in a good way. I noticed it more while I notice this one less. What I certainly did notice so far that was good is that I can push the volume up to reference level and it is much less harsh. In fact, it is quite enjoyable at that level.


In essence, what you are dealing with here is a center channel that is closer to "full range" in design, hence, unlike the VP150, the more seamless integration with the L/R speakers that you noticed. Although good, speakers like the VP150 are like the vast majority of small center channels in that they operate in a more limited frequency range especially emphasizing the mid-range(300-1000Hz)which is where the human voice predominates and the more "in your face" sound you are hearing.
This sound however, to me, is much less natural than a speaker the size and design of the VP160.

Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374806 05/01/12 12:45 AM
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I've calibrated my system and listen to it both with Audyssey on and off, sounds far better with Audyssey on. Most people that don't like Audyssey, don't run the setup correctly or assume it is like previous setup products from the past. My VP180 is a huge improvement over my 150, can't comment on the 160. One thing you could try is to bump up the dB levels of the center channel a little.


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Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374809 05/01/12 01:09 AM
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I've ran Audyssey a few times, correctly from what I've read, and I personally don't care for what it sounds like.

OK, back to the OP. I have my 160 set at 60HZ as is the M80s. A seamless soundstage is just what you should be looking for.


Rick


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Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374810 05/01/12 01:22 AM
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Peter, as some of the other replies have indicated, what you describe is exactly the way things should be. The auto-calibration has set the VP-160 at the correct level to blend with the other speakers. If a speaker(or sub)stands out as a separate entity, it hasn't been calibrated correctly and it's too loud.


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Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
JohnK #374813 05/01/12 02:20 AM
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Originally Posted By: JohnK
Peter, as some of the other replies have indicated, what you describe is exactly the way things should be. The auto-calibration has set the VP-160 at the correct level to blend with the other speakers. If a speaker(or sub)stands out as a separate entity, it hasn't been calibrated correctly and it's too loud.


Sounds good. I'm sure once I get used to it, it's going to be great.

I do love Audyssey. My room acoustics are absolutely horrendous and so I need a lot of correction. However, I HATE Audyssey for 2-channel music listening.


Epson 8350 * Denon 4311CI * XPA-5 * M80/VP180 * 2 QS8's+M2v3-DSX * SVS PC13-Ultra ** Buttkicker LFE
Re: VP-160 arrived - questions
VoicOfReason #374826 05/01/12 04:01 AM
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Thanks everyone. So far, the Axiom forums have been a good experience for me.


Epson 8350 * Denon 4311CI * XPA-5 * M80/VP180 * 2 QS8's+M2v3-DSX * SVS PC13-Ultra ** Buttkicker LFE
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