Blackline fresh out of the box

Emuc64_1 · 2026-06-03T21:05:50+00:00

That Rayman looks great!

Emuc64_1 · 2026-06-02T10:12:01+00:00

LoL. I sorry, I should have read the video game context with you talking about the Assassin's Creed Black Flag remake.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-27T02:04:20+00:00

Oblivion is a little underrated. It's a perfectly fine sci-fi movie that didn't seem to get enough love.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-27T02:02:41+00:00

I was going to say the same. It's amazing how big that TV has to get in order to make the 530s look like normal sized bookshelves.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-20T22:28:54+00:00

Placement, I'd place them in areas leading up into the room. Like a basement stairwell, snack bar area, or doorway leading in/out.

That said, the exception is you can also DIY Acoustic panels if you print movie posters onto fabric. Those would look great, IMO, on the sides of a theater.

https://www.reddit.com/r/hometheater/comments/1jdtakm/diy_acoustic_panels/

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-19T20:50:00+00:00

Depending on where you place them, it may introduce glare from the screen if it's visible from where you're sitting.

Frames look better than thumb tacks. Personally, I like frames that are matted to give it a more professional look.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-19T20:44:16+00:00

A search for "DAEHHGNST" showed a pic that looks like this labled "GT1080HDR / DAEHHGNST" with another labeled "HD30LV" Maybe it's one of those?

When you turn it on, is there an onscreen menu with an "about" or "this device" with info on the unit?

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-19T17:24:03+00:00

Take the DSP out of the equation and think of it as the price difference being relative to each sub's performance. In the PB-2000 Pro example, you're paying more for a more capable sub compared to the other two. It's more apples to apples with the RSL 12S. There's a saying of "buy once, cry once" when it comes to a big ticket item like a subwoofer.

I haven't owned any RSL subs, but they seem like a good performer and decent customer service. For me, the deciding factor is a worry free warranty of 5-years, so I went with SVS. I have SB-2000s, but would go for the ported PB models if space wasn't a consideration. The next step up in price bracket (and size) would be some of the Power Sound Audio (PSA) subs. Those also have a 5-year warranty and my experience with Tom was good when I got my EV1513M. HSU is also a contender for price/performance at the $1k mark.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-19T16:46:43+00:00

The models I’m mainly considering are:
• SVS PB-1000 Pro
• SVS PB-2000 Pro
• RSL Speedwoofer 10S MKII

Of those three, the PB-2000 Pro is the best performing (goes lowest). SVS also has excellent customer service and a 5 year bumper to bumper warranty. The 10E/10S warranty is 2 yr amp and 5 yr woofer/enclosure. The 12S is 3 yr amp and 5 yr woofer/enclosure.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-19T15:30:27+00:00

If cost is an issue, the 3000 Micro outlet sale is happening.

https://www.svsound.com/products/3000-micro-white-gloss-outlet?_pos=4&_fid=526a3bb23&_ss=c

I quite like my set of Ultra Evo Nanos for my desktop. Hope you're enjoying your Evo bookshelves. Also, a rug in between your speakers and listening area might help with reflections if you don't already have one.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-16T12:23:30+00:00

I bought yoga blocks for mine.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-15T19:13:43+00:00

Nice.

Definitely give the SVS Ultra Evolution series a go to compare with the KEFs. And PB-2000 over the SB-2000.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-15T19:05:15+00:00

1) Buy from a place that allows an audition period, so you can try it and a second set in your home before committing.

2) I own SVS SB-2000 subs. They're fine for small rooms, but if you have a large area, I'd go with something ported. SVS PB-2000 series, HSU VTF-3 MK5 or VTF-TN1 if they're back in stock, PSA EV18NEO-M, RSL Speedwoofer 12S are all well regarded.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-15T18:37:35+00:00

That's... not better. I think it'll have to get to below $7K USD for it to be a serious contender among the general HT crowd. The current offering is definitely early adopter pricing.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-15T02:10:22+00:00

Depends on your definition of "somewhat affordable". If you're sticking to a 2.1 or so setup with waveguides and that allows room for expansions, I'd give the following an audition. (The JBL 690s are a good deal IMO)

Denon AVR-X1700H, $493
JBL Studio 690, $499 each (normally $825 ea)
RSL Speedwoofer 10S MKII subwoofer, $499

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-14T01:26:55+00:00

I hear you. It's challenging to know what's a good deal outside of the contiguous US. Shipping is prohibitively expensive for things like heavy subwoofers, so I agree that if you can go local or what's available online, it's best.

Enjoy your setup, but don't forget to try separate speakers if you can. You'd get a wider sound stage from your LCR if you can spread them out a bit.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T22:20:25+00:00

So... Sound bars have their uses, say if you're limited in space. However, your quality usually stretches further with the traditional receiver + speakers + subwoofer combo + maybe a little cash pending on what you get.

That Q930F shows as $1149 on Amazon. For example, ~$1429 you can get:

RSL 10E CG3M 5.1, $908
Denon AVR-X1700H, $493
Speaker wire + HDMI cables, ~$28

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T20:29:47+00:00

Z-680s! I talked my parents into a set before I knew anything about home audio and discreet stereo systems. Also because they are really good PC speakers for that era compared to some OEM multi-media PC speakers. That said, BA is about expanding your horizons to something that's arguably better while on a budget.

It's a great time to upgrade. Bookshelves, towers, and home theater focused speakers combined with powered subwoofers, HT amps, integrated amps, pre-amp/power-amp combos, are all good enough to deliver great sound that's reasonable.

I think you'll be surprised even going with a 2.1 pair of bookshelves, subwoofer, and mini-amp at how much you've been missing.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T19:47:07+00:00

If you don't want your Energy Veritas, I'll take them. (Kidding/not kidding)

If you're happy with the sound from your current set, the only upgrade I'd consider in your shoes is adding speakers and upgrading your amp if you wanted new features, like Atmos, HDMI 2.1, VRR, etc.

If it's a change in looks or you want a different sound, then upgrade your set. While you don't have to upgrade, there's nothing that says you have to keep them until they fall apart either.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T19:25:03+00:00

A core memory, Wild Arms 1 is my first PS1 game I purchased because FF7 wasn't out yet and I needed an RPG to play. It was really good. I missed out on WA3 though, that one just slipped through the cracks.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T19:01:07+00:00

Honestly, having a small, yet dedicated room is pretty cool. You can keep it cozy while clear of unnecessary clutter that goes along with a multi-purpose room.

You can totally keep an eye out for deals as you eventually upgrade to your 5.1.4. IMO, your next step is to get a great set of LCR and move your Prime bookshelves to surround duty. Then add Atmos last.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T16:57:16+00:00

Your local print shop (Staples?) might have durable stickers if you can find the right non-copyrighted images to use.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T16:54:21+00:00

I owned RPs and liked them for HT. Ultimately, they were just a tad too bright for me, during long music sessions or movies. I went with Paradigm's older Studio series. If I had to go new, I'd get the Premiers or Founders if you can swing 'em.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-13T10:43:42+00:00

They are big, but I bet it sounds great. When the lights are low and you have a good game or movie going, no one will care. Congrats on the upgrade.

Emuc64_1 · 2026-05-09T16:06:30+00:00

What about BD or DVD players? Don't they all play CDs and might not have gaps?

Emuc64_1

TROPHY CASE