I just purchased some Outlaw gear-950 Pre/Pro, 770 Amp (7 X 200 W) and the LFM-1 subwoofer. All great value for the money that have made my home theatre come alive with the best sound I have ever owned! I don't suppose I will ever go back to a receiver after hearing this setup-night and day difference between Outlaw gear and my Marantz receiver. I currently have entry level Paradigm speakers (Phantom Towers, Titan Surrounds, CC 270 Centre) and of course want to upgrade these as well.
My room is 25' X 20' X 8' and I enjoy both movies and music equally as well with a slight edge to more movie watching.
I have religiously read the Axiom forum and am confident in purchasing their product (7.1 system-2 M80's, VP 150C, 4 QS8 surrounds) as they seem to be the Outlaw's of the speaker world. However, my local stero store carries the Monitor Audio line (Silver 8's etc, Gold series are incredible but too $$) and these too are beautiful speakers to listen to but also are pricier than the Axioms. As well, I have read great things on the Rockets( 750 Sigs,etc-perhaps pricier than the Axioms) so I am as confused as ever just when I thought it was Axiom for sure.
Can anyone steer me in the right direction for this important "next" upgrade. Anyone own these systems or compared these same lines?
Thanks in advance
Wecome Dannic,
You could look
Here and see if there is someone in your area to audition some Axioms for ya.
Man, I read your question and was wondering if you are a clone of me. I have not upgraded to the Outlaw 950/770 "yet". But I do have the LFM and I agree it is nice. Your room size is about the same as mine and I did almost the same exact research as you minus the Monitor's. I have read quite a bit on the Monitor line and I think that it is NeverHappy that has them. Not sure though.
Regarding the systems you are looking at... I too looked into the Rockets and in the end settled on the Axiom M60's. I have not heard the M80's yet from what I hear they are almost the same as the 60's just with more base. You might want to think about the M60's and with the saved $$ go with another sub in that big room. It will pay off. I did listen to the Rocket 750's and compaired to the Axioms they are brighter. I do know that a lot of people over at Outlaw have the Rockets so you may have a resourse there to get some feedback from. All in all, the Axiom M60 does a great job for me. I listen to about 70% movies, 30% music and they carry both in a way that can only be experienced in person. I know that there are a lot of people found here and on av123.com that will invite you over to listen and that is the best way to go. If you like the Rockets, keep an eye on their B stock inventory because they pop up there from time to time for about $750, a great savings. I am sure someone will come in with their thoughts on the M80's and Monitos so you are in good hands but again, as with almost all the posts to come, everyone will say what they think but the best things you are going to hear are with your own ears.
Just took a look av123 has the RS750 in B sotck for $899.00.
lomb 7
Thanks for the heads up
In reply to:
I have read quite a bit on the Monitor line and I think that it is NeverHappy that has them. Not sure though.
Yep, it's me. Very nice speaker but yes they are a little $$$$$.
dannic,
You told us what gear you have but you have not said anything about what you listen to etc. Do you like to crank it? Is this for HT only or do you listen to a lot of music? At the end of the day you can't go wrong with any of the speakers you have listed but keep in mind they all sound unique.
Dannic,
You can see my thoughts on Monitors and Axioms in
this thread.
Both are excellent speakers.
Hi Chessaroo
Thanks for the link to the thread regarding your terrific comparison between Monitor Audio vs Axiom and others. Considering I will be going with a 7.1 system, if Axiom can compare to Monitor Audio in sound ( I agree, no substitute for REAL wood, however extra $$) then I figure I can't go wrong with Axiom all around. ( That is until I win the Lotto 6/49! )
Considering I can pick up 2M80's, VP 150 C, and 4 QS8 surrounds for $3165 Can. landed cost, I doubt whether I can match the same system in Monitor Audio Silver for that price and certainly NOT Gold.
Regards,
Not to dissuade you from your Axiom choice (it's a good one - I love mine!) you could buy the Silver 8 mains, and Silver center, use Bronze surrounds (and maybe the bronze center, too) and save a couple bucks. They would probably match pretty well. The main difference I heard between the Bronze2s and the Silver2s (A/B side by side comparison) was the bigger fuller bass of the Silvers. Not really a factor for surrounds. Matching finishes would probably only be possible in black.
Or, like I said, stick with the Axioms. I have the means to replace mine, but I'm still very satisfied - and often awed - by their performance.
In reply to:
Axiom can compare to Monitor Audio in sound
I don't think that statement is 100% accurate. Some Axiom speakers do share certain sound quality's with some of the speakers in the Monitor Line but to paint them all with the same brush is a little to broad a statement. Both brands are excellent and make great speakers but to say Monitor is better based only on the fact they have a real wood finish is not being fair to Monitor Audio. If it came down to that, the Rockets would be better then anything else. To me they are one of the better looking speakers out there and there fit and finish is second to none!!!!!
I have heard the M80's and I have heard the S10's from Monitor and I honestly thought they were 2 very unique speakers.
I hope that made sense! :-)
Like you I own an Outlaw but mine are the 950 and the 775 two less channels than yours. Nevertheless, it pushes my old Polks RTi55, CS245i and FXi300 very well. I just recently replaced my RTi55s with the Rocket 750 Signature B-stock about three weeks ago. These Rockets placed my audio experience to a different level. The finished alone is impeccable! The bar went up a couple of notches that's for sure. No more Best Buy or Circuit city speakers for me
B-stock prices on Rockets are unbeatable I think. That's probably the main reason why I own a pair of Rockets right now. Either way, Axiom or Rockets I'm pretty sure you will be happy with either speakers. They both have excellent customer services and if you call either one they will answer every questions that you may have. Good luck!
-Rick
Hi dannic,
Don't know much about Rockets but I certainly have an interest in the Axiom vs Monitor Audios. Y'see, I own a pair of S8s out of default (It's a long story...) but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The clarity and detail of the sound is truly an experience to behold. I've no doubt that there are better speakers but the trade-off is $$$$ and there has to be a limit in budget. Unfortunately, I don't have much exposure to Axioms (they are damn hard to find in Australia!) but was assured that the Monitors are right up there. Cheesero's very good write-up would be a helpful guide to your venture.
All the best with your hunt!
If you can wait, I just picked up a pair of Rocket 750 B stock. They come in a few days and I will do a write up for you.
Congratulations!!! Let us know how you like em...
Better yet I'll let you know if my wife kills me for getting them.
Open the speaker boxes in front of her. She'll be amazed on how beautiful the speakers are. But next time just to be in the safe side you have to consult the war department first. Sneak attack works only once.
Good luck!
-Rick