Hello folks,
I have been lurking on this forum for about 4 months and have been the proud owner of a set of M3s for a couple of months. I purchased the M3s for a small room that did not have any possibility for a subwoofer, they are hooked up to a vintage Marantz 2270 for stereo music listening and I think they are pretty close to the perfect tool for my application, I absolutely love them (I would ask to be buried with them, except I don't want to deprive one of my heirs the enjoyment of their sound).

I am looking to confirm and possibly get some advice on a HT application, this will be my first one. I have a room that is only 9x12, the seating position would only be 8 feet from the screen. I am pretty sure about a VP100 and QS4s and a Hsu STF-1 or 2 subwoofer (only $20 difference between the two right now and I can pick it up locally). My internal debate is M2 or M22 for the R/L. Not really on a budget, just really hate spending anymore than I have to in order to get the job done.

Also, as far as a receiver I am partial to Onkyo and they have a refurb TX-SR508 for $199 or I could pick up a new TX-SR608 for $379, looks like the 508 has more features than I will ever use?

Any and all comments are welcomed, thank you.
Scott

Hi Scott, welcome.

I think you've got a good plan!

I've had good luck with Onkyo refurbs and think they are quite a good value. In a small room like that, I think the 508 would be a clever choice.

If you can afford the M22's, they are probably going to give you greater long term flexibility and satisfaction.

Lots of people recommend a vertical center channel (like a single M2) if you like that sort of look and can position it well. Personally, I have a VP100 in a very large room and I think it is wonderful. So, you're probably going to get recommendations for either 3 M2's across the front, or a pair of M22's and an M2 center. You can't really go wrong either way.

Everybody likes Hsu subwoofers

Have fun!

Welcome to the forum!

I have recently heard the M2's and am the proud owner of M22Ti's and IMO you could easily get by with the M2's even 3 across the front if you can fit one above or below the TV. The Vp100 is also an admirable choice. I have one as well(also a Ti) and it has been very good to me over the years. If you plan on listening to music then the little better lower end of the M22 would be beneficial other than that difference the M2 is great bang for the buck.

I would get the STF2, you can never have too much subwoofer, but you certainly can have too little You are in control of the output but you can't get more out of one that is too small.

Get the 508, that is a very good deal.

In addition to Jay's and Tom's excellent advice, consider the QS8's over the 4's. They offer greater range, power and use the same drivers as the M22's so would be a better match aside from being the better value(not significantly more $$) vs the QS4's....imho of course!

Scott, welcome. Your plan looks good. The M22s with dual mid-woofers will have a capacity to play a bit louder in the mid-range and upper bass(above the STF-2 coverage), but this may not be a significant advantage at your listening distance of 7' or so and keeping at safe levels. The M2(or M22)should also be selected for the center speaker under the screen.

The 508 should be an excellent choice. Note that the Accessories4less price is $179 plus shipping(if that isn't what you were quoting).

What they said!

I ordered the Onkyo TX-SR508, $200 otd, purchased from SHOPONKYO, $3-$4 less than Accessories4less, given I had 15onkyo points to offset the sales tax.
So if I take the advice given here for the speakers , which is much appreciated, L/R= M22, center = M2, surround QS8 and the HSU STF-2 as a subwoofer.

Thanks for the advice, any more comments regarding positives for components not included or negatives for the includes selections, thank you in advance?
Scott

Yes, I would have also mentioned ShopOnkyo if I was aware that you had that ClubOnkyo credit that could be used.

No further suggestions; you should be really pleased with that setup.

Post some pics of the system once you have it set up

I have the STF-2. It rocks. Nice, tight bass. No flab.

I also have the SR508. My room is about 13 X 20 - about double your size. Volume has never been an issue running 7.1 high def surround sound. Don't hesitate on the 508 - it's a nice amp that will surely get the job done.

Hey Scott

Your room sounds just like mine. I have 10x14 and my Theatre setup is "the wrong way" with my seating position 8' from the screen.

My sig below details my setup which is just *great*. The Outlaw Sub is overkill for this size room though. If I had to do it again, I would probably go with an Elemental Designs A2-250 or A2-300. The Outlaw LFM1-Plus is great, but I had to turn the volume way down on it (2) to get it balance with my system.

Also, as you can see I went with a Phantom Centre so I could get the QS8s... a situation that will be rectified by Christmas!

Thanks
snazzed

Quick status update:

The Onkyo 508 is prepared for shipping.

The HSU STF-2 is ready to be picked up at lunch today.

Axiom auctions worked well for me, I was able to pick up the M22s and the QS8s at the bargain rate and then purchased the single M2 at retail.

So all said and done, what should be a pretty awesome 5.1 set up for just under $1,600(incl receiver). Thanks for all of your help and suggestions and I will post photos when it is all in place.
Scott

That's great, Scott, congratulations!

You've made some great choices. You're going to love it.

Congrats.

+1 congrats!

Dude!

Werd!

Nice! Post your thoughts and some pics when you get some time after they arrive

+ 3/4

Cam,
Where did I go wrong to warrant a 1/4 pt deduction?

Actually, I messed up my arithmetic. I should've posted 1/4 because I can only use a 1/4 of my body due to my disability (so full marks ).

Nothing to do with you, bud; it was just me being goofy.

Sem problema, I was being a goof also.
Scott