I am thinking about getting the m2, but wonder would it be worth it to get a vp100 to go with it. Just trying to figure the best bang for the buck. Would I be better off with just a stereo mains or should I add a center channel. What is the benifit to adding the center? Also if I am going to spend that much would I be better off just buying towers and running a stereo setup? The problem I have is that this is going in a room in which I have a plasma tv but I wonder how the big speakers will look next to the slim tv? I don't think it would look bad, but what have you guys found out.

JH, probably the main advantage of having a separate speaker to handle the center channel sound is that the sound(notably dialog in movies)will be anchored to the screen in the center even for listeners who are sitting away from the center. Using the mains to reproduce the center by using the "phantom" effect works well for someone sitting in the center, but as the listener moves away from the center the center image moves to the side with him(but not farther out than the main on that side). Another factor is that with a separate center speaker its level can be adjusted independently of the mains, for example raising it a little to try to make dialog more understandable.

You might try using M2s mains alone first to see if the phantom center satisfies you. Then if not, you could later add a center speaker(possibly a vertical M2)to improve the results.

How far apart are you planning to place your left/right speakers in relation to the television? If close, a center channel might be useless and not needed.

Well, it is a small room width wise so they will be about 5 or six feet apart and there is really only one place to sit and that is in front. I will most likely be the only one watching movies or anything of substance that I will need the speakers for. It will also be used for music as well.

It appears that the M2s alone would be very satisfactory. You might try temporarily disconnecting one of the speakers from your other setup and using it as center with the M2s, to see how much difference it makes.

ok thanks, What would be really cool would be to get the 80s and bring my 60s in here, but I really doubt the wife would go for that. thanks guys!!!

Well, you never know until you try! (not that I would try, but maybe you should and let us know how it goes)

I really like the idea of moving the M60s and going for the M80s, I am sure your wife will never notice the difference

Probably only in the bank account... (or if that suits better)

well, I ordered the m2's but I think I am going to play with my 60's over there just for the heck of it sometime. Then I'll probly get the bug to just go ahead and get those instead!! We shall see

Maybe she will se how happy you are to have such great speakers in both rooms, it will convince her to let you get the M60s for Christmas.

Wait, what happened? I thought he was asking for the M80s for Christmas?

da boss put the hammer down!

Speaking of the boss, as a very loosely related comment, when discussing the potential upgrade to an EP800 with my wife, she told me I could upgrade to whatever I wanted in the Axiom department as long as our landscaping budget received the same "financial dedication."

Speakers, ergo trees... a very easy choice!

Jason

Can outdoor speakers be considered "landscaping"?

Jason, boy I can relate.

Most definitely, unfortunately though she already got me the Algonquins for my birthday just last week. So that excuse won't take me very far!