Hi all. Here's my previous posts in : Best HDMI AV Amplifier...

And the replies for my posts ( including mine ) Reply #1...

Also Reply #2...

Then Reply #3...

After that Reply #4...

Afterwards Reply #5...

And currently Reply #6.

Now, I'm not a person with deep pockets, and I always prefer paying stuffs by cash. I intend to replace my current ageing Sony Wega tv with Sharp Aquos LC32A53M. Now I've got the HT bug, since I'm the kind of fella who enjoys loud, deep bass sounds.

So, after some searches and recommendation from apisgogo, I'm thinking of going with Yamaha RX - V661 receiver unit, as the cash prices seem to be hovering around the RM 1.7k mark. I also intend to only start off with two speakers, and was recommended by apisgogo again to go with two floorstanding speakers ( I presume these are those tall speakers, right? ) 1st.

Now, can anyone recommend a nice pair of floorstanding speakers, than I can keep and update the sound system via adding one subwoofer 1st, then a pair of rear speakers ( or should I go for a pair of rear surround speaker set? ) and finally a centre speaker? Future plans is a PS3 ( for both gaming and BluRay media ) and a 1080p upscaling DVD player.

Budget wise is :
- LCD : RM 29xx currently
- receiver : RM 17xx currently
- two floorstanding speakers : still unsure since I myself do not know which brand and spec should I go for ( to match my HT upgrade plans after I buy this initial set of LCD< receiver and 2 speakers ).

Date of implementation : earliest is June 2008, as I need that long of a time to save cash!

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Added on February 9, 2008, 2:22 amI also intend to do my own basic AV rack to keep all these stuffs and to put the LCD tv on top.

Is MDF a good stuff to use? Will it be able to handle all the weight?

I've calculated the size and weight of all the stuffs that will be placed on the home - made AV rack. Max weight ( LCD, receiver, PS3, 1080p upscaling DVD player ) is approximately 42 kg. Can I build the AV rack to put both the centre speaker and the sub inside it?

Plans include putting up PC cooling fans at the back of the AV rack, is this a good idea, or should I just scrub it. My apartment tarak aircond wan, so how?

Speaker placement is something I really do not know. As I've posted earlier, I intend to keep to 5.1 system only, as for me, I believe this is more than enough since I just want a system that when completed, will give me that "in the movie / game" feeling enough oledi, no need earth - shaking system that will bring the neighbours to knock on the door.

Can anyone show me the diagram for a good speaker placement. Home is basically an open space, whereby the living hall and makan area in one place, so no walls dividing 'em etc.

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Added on February 9, 2008, 2:31 amMy cap - ayam MDF - home - made - AV rack.



The top is the LCD, the three racks underneath is for receiver, DVD player and PS3, while the two sides is for both the centre speaker and subwoofer. If placing both the centre speaker and sub is wrong, do correct me for I am only less than one week in HT!

This post has been edited by poyo: Feb 14 2008, 05:08 PM

receiver needs proper 'breathing' space as it runs hot. Best to put the center speaker below your LCD in this instance.

I am no good in furniture thingy and this MDF stuff. So, cant comment.

If you are not too particular, you can grab an entire HTIB in a box for < 1.4k. It would sucks to start off with 2 speakers without a sub for movies and games......or around 2k+ can get u a really nice decent HTIB comparable to some low end DIY system which is more than enough to wake ur neighbours.....check it out and test yerself at the shops.

Htkaki, thanks for your input. I oso thought about this in the afternoon just now, and now I have revised my DIY AV rack dream.



I think going for three separate racks is a better idea, after reviewing Dolby's own recommendation for 5.1 speaker placement ( so can put both the TV and centre speakers together at a corner ).

Right underneath the TV is the centre speaker ( not sure of how large a centre speaker would size up graphically so simply sized it up like a 10" sub. The thickness is a bit more for this rack to support the tv, who knows lah if anything goes wrong ).

On the left, bottom is receiver. Bottom is receiver, on top of it would be the Astro decoder. The whole left rack is slightly larger compared to the right, to allow the receiver to have more "breathing space".

On the right, bottom is PS3, and on top of it, DVD player. The extra space, I dunno. Maybe can fit a sliding - out CD / DVD rack?

I dunno how MDF will work out. I chose MDF because it's easy to work with them ( I only need to buy sharp saws at hardware shop, some measuring jigs, some super glue, or maybe polymer glue, or maybe 3M Super 77 glue, as MDF don't really need screws. Or maybe just some one - time self - grooving screws? ) and spray layers of primer and paint, or maybe just get 'em wrapped ( ooohhhh...that is nice! ) in cloth. Then put lockable casters!

Matrix, I've thought about that too. But comments like too sharp of a sound etc puts me off. I enjoy doing things on my own bit by bit. I suppose it's the :

First, doing the rack by hand for a couple of weeks. Slowly and carefully wrapping 'em up, bolting the MDF boards together, then put the caster. Result : Wah! Tired, but the result is worth it ( since it's done to my own specs )!

Then, buy LCD. Result : Fuiyoh! Very "nipis" lah the TV, now can show off off to friends oledi!

A couple of months later, receiver, 2 tower speakers and a sub. Result : Waaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!! Really "layan" wooh! Never knew the sound in the ahem DVD is this nice!

2 months later, add two rear speakers ( or should it be surround speakers? ) and centre speakers. Result : WHOA!!!! Now I feel like I'm in the movie oledi liao!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I suppose it's the excitement building up from month to month, until one can really complete his / her basic HT system, then it's the fun of getting 'em work together, tuning the stuff etc.......and finally after a few months of saving money and having fun everytime you add something new to the HT, you can really enjoy the fruits of your labour ( and the hard - earned cash ).

Maybe it's also because I want to stop having ICE in the car ( current car dreams is having it stripped with a 6 point street roll cage, only ICE is a nice HU with enough juice inside the HU to supply power to a nice set of comps ), come home, cook dinner, bath, makan and enjoy the HT for both Astro and gaming. Weekends, pump up the volume a bit more and enjoy ahem DVDs, or BDs!

Anyhow, buying a HTiB do sounds feasible, but I know that I'll be asking a bit more ( and no, I won't go to those high end HTs, maybe midrange HT lah ), then hafta put the HTiB for sale ( dunno how long it'll take to sell it off ) and restart buying stuffs lar, fitting stuffs lar, tuning 'em lar.....

But seriously, your idea is lingering in my mind too.

I'm also setting up my HT set. I already got the LCD and PS3. Now I'm looking for the audio set. Still undecide whether to go for the Yammy 661 or Onkyo 605. For the speaker, an entry level 5.1 speaker set like the Whaferdale Cyrstal, Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 or Jamo 606 will cost around RM2k+. Next level, you can go for the MS Avant 9 series, Whaferdale Diamond 9 series or PSB for around RM3k+. I'm actually thinking of buying this stuff in Singapore because it's much cheaper there. Eg Onkyo 605 is only around RM1.6k compare to here which is around RM2.5k.

Thanks for the info yfyap69.

I know diff in prices between SG and MY is there, but never thought for HT stuffs oso that much of a difference! I think nowadays SG import duties, is around 7 - 10% only. MY I think at least 20%. Forgot lah, haven't had time to take a peek at MY Customs import duty book year 2008.

Buying in Singapore? Only 1 problem, if you don't time your entry into Johor Customs ( a good time to avoid them asking you to open the bonnet is usually peak hours. Summore I think only the one near the bridge is ok, 2nd Link I heard a bit more on the "stiff" side ), but you'll have to be prepared to spend : at least one hour, in the car, motionless, on the bridge. Then another 30 - 45 mins at checkpoint, then another 30 mins - 1 hour to get out of the hellish JB town jam.

On the 5.1 speakers, do we really hafta buy the whole set ah? I'll search the recommendations you gave. Seems like the price is ok, summore proper HT stuffs can at least sell back to the shop ( when buying new ones ), if HTiB, I oso dunno how lar.

Say, can you tell me where can I look around for HT stuffs at SG? Mustafa Centre got ah ( since they sell whole load of stuffs 24 hours a day! ), or Sim Lim Square, full name and complete shop address enough for me to find out where is the shop's actual location.

This post has been edited by poyo: Feb 10 2008, 02:18 PM

Thanks for the tips on the custom. I know a shop in Adelphi which offer good price for Onkyo receiver. I was quoted S$728 for the SR605. The shop name is KEC. You can refer to the website here : http://www.hifibargain.com/

You can always buy separately. Maybe you may want to start with 2.1 setup first. Then add the center speaker and follow by the surround.

Btw, make sure the rear end of your car don't look heavier than the front, that's a direct giveaway and they'll stop your car. Sometimes, you'll get lucky ( no Customs officer waiting at the booth you entered Malaysia back, so no one will check your car ) too!

Owh, KEC @ Adelphi. This shop is pretty popular for both HT and Hi - Fi aficionados over there. Thnaks for the info!

Yeap, buying separately is one way to go. Only problem for me is how fast can I save moolah, as I'm not fond of buying stuffs via CC, rather pay cash. Haih!

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Added on February 13, 2008, 12:46 pmPretty sad to see that noobie threads is not popular here. Anyhow....

I've made more and more reading thru a few hi - fi / HT forums around, all of them foreign, like AVS, av123 and xtremeplace ( extremely informative ), also plenty of webbies like audioholics and playbackmag.

Now, some questions.

I've made a change in receiver selection. I think I might want to go for Yamaha RX-V861, since this one offers ( what I believe as ) true 1080i upscaling and interlacing ( more than enough for the LCD I'm aiming for, also should match the Sharp's 100Hz too ), slightly more power too ( minimum RMS power at 105W x 7, compared to the 661 which is at 90W x 7 ). Weight is at 13.1kg, which is only 1.5kg heavier than the 661, maybe should go for thicker MDF board to support the extra weight.

Now, since I only intend to have a 5.1 speaker setup, what happens to the extra 105W x 2 power, where does it goes? Will the receiver auto - distribute the power back to the 5.1 speakers, therefore getting more power? This question also goes hand in hand with my plan to have floorstanders. As far as I understand, floorstanders need more power to drive 'em compared to bookshelves unit. Is it possible for me to distribute more power to the two floorstanders and the sub via the receiver somehow ( setting in the receiver etc? )?

On the speakers, I was told it's better to have the complete 5 speakers from the same company, same unit ( like Wharfedale 9 series front speakers with Wharfedale 9 series rear speaker, also centre speaker as well ), is this true, or can I still mix and match speakers?

Now in my list :
- Front speakers + centre speaekers + rear speakers / surround ( bookshelf & floorstanders ) : Wharfedale Diamond range / Monitor Audio BR Series / Mordaunt - Short Carnival 9 range / Jamo S606 HCS3 or HCD6 range
- Sub : Velodyne CHT - 10R / Wharfedale SW 250 / Mordaunt - Short Avant 309 or Carnival 9 / Monitor Audio BRW 10
- Cables : still dunno.

Back to more reading and dreaming then!

This post has been edited by poyo: Feb 13 2008, 12:46 PM

yo~ I'm also same situation like you. noob in ht. receiver already have an idea in my mind. but now is the speakers. need to experience it myself that I did before. but cannot always go to showroom testing frequently, lazy to drive

sorry for noob questions:
what I see mostly ppl using whardedale, jamo, mordaunt. (not talking about superb high end like ProAc, etc.. ) how bout jbl and yamaha speakers? inactive why?

I looking for compact floorstanding front speakers, rear speakers(usualy will mount on top), center speaker and sub.
my budget for speakers only around less than rm 2k. any recommendations ? ( i know that experience it myself will be the best but before go I would like to prepare myself wat to look for and test)

djlah,

What I understand is, once you've got your list of speakers etc, it's wise to audition them. I read around, it's also best to bring your amp / CD player / receiver with you as well, so you can really test the performace of the speakers in your selection with your amp / CD player / receiver.

Also depends on what you want to use the amp / CD player / receiver for, I understand that for more music - related usage, need speakers that can really shine. For HT, they say usually the sub is very2 important ( to introduce the low octave rumble etc ), then front speakers must match with centre speaker ( because front speaker usually is the one carrying voice, sifus pls correct me if I'm wrong, and usually both the front speakers and centre speaker work together, I think? ). Rear speakers usually...hhmmmmm, that I'm not sure yet!

On the topic of Wharfedale etc, maybe it's because the ease of availabilty here, and pricing which is kinda more gentle to your pocket?

For a budget of RM 2k, that is very impossible. For RM 2k, you might be able to :
- Purchase a pair of cheapo floorstanders that might ( I stress might ) make you hate your haste and small budget later on
- Or, purchase a pair of acceptable quality bookshelf speakers for the front speakers 1st.

But, you can also buy a set of Q Acoustics 1010 Home Theater Package ( front bookshelf speaker, centre speaker and surround speaker only ) from Hi - Way Laser for RM 1950.00, but dunno whether they still have that offer or not. For 1950.00 you can also buy from Hi - Way Laser, Eltax Home Theater package, but the front speakers are floorstanders lah, but I dunno the quality.

I'm not sure, but to me, the receiver is the most important item in a HT. Next is the sub, followed by front speaker + centre speaker, and finally rear / surround speaker.

My personal opinion, if you have such a small budget, buy stuffs one by one. A lot of people recommend for those in a small budget, to go for receiver + front speakers + sub 1st. Then centre speaker and finally rear / surround speakers. A 2.1 system can still be pretty good for a noobie, provided that you buy a good pair of front speakers and a very good sub to begin with.

For the speakers, so far this is what I gather :

Entry Level (< RM2k)
1. Whaferdale Crystal (CR40, WH2 Surround, WH2 Center) - RM1680
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 - RM1700
3. Jamo S606 HCS5 - RM1700

Intermediate Level (RM2k - RM3k)
1. AAD (C550, C305, C44 CH) - RM2533
2. Q-Acoustic (1030, 1000c, 1010) - RM2950
3. Mordaunt Short Avant (906, 905, Carnival 9 Surround) - RM3050

High Level (above RM3k)
1. Acoustic Energy Neo (Neo 3, Neo Center, Neo 1) - RM4590

Sub Woofer
1. Whaferdale WH210 - RM750
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 Sub : RM880
3. Whaferdale SW150 - RM1050
4. Q-Acoustic 1000 - RM1250
5. AAD C12 - RM1950
6. Acoustic Energy Neo Sub - RM1990
7. Velodyne CHT12R - RM2550

As for receiver,

1. Yamaha V661 - RM1750
2. Yamaha V861 - RM2600
3. Onkyo SR605 - RM2530
4. Yamaha V1800 - RM3800

Superb list yfyap69!!!!!!!!!!!

Prices here is local @ KL, correct?

YES, this is superb
If my budget quite too low as poyo said, then maybe i only get front speaker and sub 1st. later only add rear+center. good idea.

Yeah, the price is mostly in KL although some are from Pen (eg whaferdale crystal). Let's update the list as we get more info.

If you feel that there is a possibility of you upgrading your system at a later date, then I suggest from whatever amount of money you have put aside for your system, spend more on the subwoofer. To me, it's because once you get the right sub for you, the urge to change the sub is very low, furhtermore, all subs have their own amps, so it wouldn't be using much power from the receiver, right? Do correct me if I'm wrong here, for I am a noobie!

Some bookshelf front speakers are said to be better than some budget floorstanders. Usually, for a floorstander to have the same power, quality etc with a similar ( as in similar specs etc ) bookshelf unit, the floorstander will cost a bit more. That I got from reading around too, so take it with a pinch of salt.

Let me add to the list of speakers that I think could be ok, but no prices lah, since I dunno about that, mine is in bold. Do correct me if my addition is wrong.

Entry Level (< RM2k)
1. Whaferdale Crystal (CR40, WH2 Surround, WH2 Center) - RM1680
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 - RM1700
3. Jamo S606 HCS5 - RM1700
4. Denon 5.1

Intermediate Level (RM2k - RM3k)
1. AAD (C550, C305, C44 CH) - RM2533
2. Q-Acoustic (1030, 1000c, 1010) - RM2950
3. Mordaunt Short Avant (906, 905, Carnival 9 Surround) - RM3050
4. PSB Alpha T1
5. Monitor Audio BR5/6
6. Mordaunt - Short Avant 908i ( floorstander )
7. Jamo S606 HCD3( floorstander )
8. Quad 11/12 L2 ( floorstander )
9. Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 ( bookshelf )

High Level (above RM3k)
1. Acoustic Energy Neo (Neo 3, Neo Center, Neo 1) - RM4590

Sub Woofer
1. Whaferdale WH210 - RM750
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 Sub : RM880
3. Whaferdale SW150 - RM1050
4. Q-Acoustic 1000 - RM1250
5. AAD C12 - RM1950
6. Acoustic Energy Neo Sub - RM1990
7. Velodyne CHT12R - RM2550
8. Wharfedale SW250 - RM2000
9. Mordaunt Short Avant 309
10. Monitor Audio BRW10

As for receiver,

1. Yamaha V661 - RM1750
2. Yamaha V861 - RM2600
3. Onkyo SR605 - RM2530
4. Yamaha V1800 - RM3800

This post has been edited by poyo: Feb 14 2008, 02:39 AM

Update in red

Entry Level (< RM2k)
1. Whaferdale Crystal (CR40, WH2 Surround, WH2 Center) - RM1680
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 - RM1700
3. Jamo S606 HCS5 - RM1700
4. Denon 5.1

Intermediate Level (RM2k - RM3k)
1. AAD (C550, C305, C44 CH) - RM2533
2. Q-Acoustic (1030, 1000c, 1010) - RM2950
3. Mordaunt Short Avant (906, 905, Carnival 9 Surround) - RM3050
4. PSB Alpha T1 (Front) - RM1300 & C1 (Center) - RM550
5. Monitor Audio BR5/6
6. Mordaunt - Short Avant 908i ( floorstander )
7. Jamo S606 HCD3( floorstander )
8. Quad 11/12 L2 ( floorstander )
9. Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 ( bookshelf )
10. Infinity Primus (P252, P142, PC250) - RM2500

High Level (above RM3k)
1. Acoustic Energy Neo (Neo 3, Neo Center, Neo 1) - RM4590
2. AAD M series - RM4299

Sub Woofer
1. Whaferdale WH210 - RM750
2. Mordaunt Short Carnival 9 Sub : RM880
3. Whaferdale SW150 - RM1050
4. Q-Acoustic 1000 - RM1250
5. AAD C12 - RM1950
6. Acoustic Energy Neo Sub - RM1990
7. Velodyne CHT12R - RM2550
8. Wharfedale SW250 - RM2000
9. Mordaunt Short Avant 309
10. Monitor Audio BRW10

As for receiver,

1. Yamaha V661 - RM1750
2. Yamaha V861 - RM2600
3. Onkyo SR605 - RM2530
4. Yamaha V1800 - RM3800

[/quote]

yfyap69, great work bro, I really appreciate this. It'll help me and HT noobies in terms of doing their HT system budget! Thanks for the update!

HT noobies, this is some info I've learned from some of the HT seniors here in LowYat.

LOWER Hz VALUES :





HT noobies, read up!

It is always to read these useful articles before you part your money for the speakers. With the required information and knowledge, it would be less likely that you bought something that you will regret later.

I'm new in AV.
Plan to setup a new HT system (5.1 entry level).
Sg Wang shop quoted me Yamaha V361 + PSB Alpa + Subwoofer (5.1) =RM2900. ok ke?

I know this shop is fr A & L.
Cos i bought the H/T system few week ago.
Which PSB Alpha model they quoted u?

penyu3,
The price A&L offers seems ok, but as always, for noobies either in Hi - Fi or Home Theater ( HT / AV ), always read up as much information as possible. This advice from htkaki ( one of the HT super seniors here ) is very2 good indeed. Check out audioholics website, a lot of very2 good information there!

Advice : your A/V receiver will be the heart of your system. I seriously advice you to do your search thoroughly for a nice receiver unit, if not you might regret later on.

Care to disclose your setup and price from A&L?

Hi guys,

Haha I'm another noob in this HT thingy.

I myself woud like to set up HT slowly.

Currently only have the following:

24" Dell LCD monitor
PS3
5.1 Creative speakers.

With the above i'm only able to unleash the Dolby digital or DTS only which is good enough but want a bit more.
Right now i think i would like to have a good AV receiver as a start for the HT. After looking at this thread wah didn't know
those receiver can cost a bomb.

I have a set of speakers:

Front:
1 left speaker
1 right speaker

1 left woofer
1 right woofer

Center:
1 speaker

Rear:
1 left speaker
1 right speaker

-------------------------------------------

Here are the specs of these speakers (copy from manual):

Super Woofer x 2
-- Bass-reflex bookshelf type
-- 20cm 1-way cone type

Front Speaker x 2
-- Closed-box bookshelf type
-- Mid-range - 10cm cone type
-- Tweeter - 5.2cm cone type

Nominal Impedance (total) - 6 ohm
Frequency Response (total) - 38Hz to 20kHz
Maximum power (total) - 140W

Center x 1, Surround x 2
-- Closed-box type
-- 8.7cm 1-way cone type
-- Nominal Impedance - 8 ohm
-- Maximum power - 30 W



These speakers are taken off from a mini hifi system. unluckily, the main unit spoil
already. so, i plan to connect these speakers to an amplifier/receiver. i'm hunting for a cheap one such as sony STR-DK5 receiver. or can u guys recommend a better one with budget about RM600?

here are a few questions:

1. since all the speakers have their own cable, how am i gonna merge the normal front speaker and the super woofer to form a single channel? (frontL+wooferL for left channel, frontR+wooferR for right channel). or is it impossible to do that due to wrong impedance? if due to impedance problem, i'll just ditch the 2 woofers.

2. can i use the woofer instead of the normal front speaker? i know i may loose some highs due to lack of tweeter. but i found out that most karaoke type speakers also have a big driver. so..how does it sound like?

3. what's the typical impedance for a subwoofer? is it same like normal speakers (6-8 ohm)? need to know just in case i wanna buy a subwoofer.


This post has been edited by Skylinestar: Feb 18 2008, 06:12 PM

Just my 2 cents..
1. You cannot merge the cables of speaker and subwoofer. Your speakers are 5.2 setup. You should get receivers that has at least 5.1 support to utilize most of the speakers. If you use a 2 channel receiver, I think you will have to ditch your subwoofers away. If the receiver supports 2.1, the receiver will have jacks for the subwoofer.
2. No. Usually the woofer produces only low frequencies. This would probably mean that you can't hear much music.
3. Unsure.

Edit: STR-DK5 supports 5.1. You can easily plug your speakers. You can even tap both your subwoofer together if you want.

This post has been edited by mengsuan: Feb 18 2008, 06:28 PM

Thanks for your reply, I wish i can read more, but I don't know where to start?
Do you think Yamaha V361 is a good AMP, that shop did a demo to me, I very impress!
Feel like want to pay booking this few day!

Hi all, I m very interested in getting a HT System but getting it separately is too expensive for me now.

That's why i m thinking of getting a HiTB (Home Theather in a Box) but the current models in m'sia market is not up to expectations. No DD True-HD and DTS-MA support.

But i found this Onkyo HT-908 and it fits my requirements. 7.1 Speakers with latest 1080p, 1.3a, DD True-HD, DTS-MA etc. It's about USD770 and if convert only around RM2600.

My question is that can i find this HTiB system in MY or SG? Anyway i can bring it in from Oversea? If i get from Amazon how much will the tax be?

Really hope can get this system, it's perfect for me at the moment hehe

This post has been edited by toytoy: Feb 20 2008, 01:14 PM

Wooohh...Onkyo HT 908? I think Hi Way Laser got kot? Can bring from SG but how to bring in is the problem. You want to order from overseas, be prepared for the expensive import duty, shipping + insurance charges etc, and it'll cost you at least 40 - 50% more than the actual asking price.

i think this one will sell here for @ least 4k+

Where is Hi Way Laser?

Yalor getting in from oversea is out of the question i think.

If the price more than 4k not worth getting here already.

Sigh really hope someone can bring this in. It beats other HTiBs hands down IMHO.

Here's Hi Way Laser location map : Hi Way Laser PJ.

Not really sure if they'll stock this or not, but give 'em a try.

What my understanding here about HT is, once you get the bug, and after reviewing your pal's HT setup etc, you might want to upgrade. Seems like buying a proper HT setup is a lot better. I don't know, but to me, RM 4k can just buy me the receiver I like, one centre speaker and some cables. The setup I want would cost between RM6 - 7k, and I believe it's only a beginner 5.1 HT setup.

I've tried searching for the Onkyo setup around Google SG, seems like it may be available in SG. You'll save a bit if buying from SG rather than ordering from overseas.

By the way, have you snooped around local electrical chain stores, sometimes they might have something like this too.

Update : vPost SG offers the Onkyo SP 908 only at SGD 739.97! Less than RM 2k! Plus shipping, I guess maybe under RM 3k. Only catch is u need someone you really know and can trust, living in SG. Here's the link : vPost SG.

This post has been edited by poyo: Feb 21 2008, 03:55 PM

hey guys just want ask with a budget RM2500 can you get any AV receiver that can process Dolby True HD and DTS-HD?

If can what are the brands and models?

Don't buy from US as the voltage is different (110V vs 240V). You will need a step down transformer. This will create a lot of noise to the receiver. Buy from Singapore still ok as the voltage is the same. I have not seen this package set in Malaysia or Singapore. Probably people prefer to buy speaker and receiver separately. Onkyo is not well known for the speaker. You may want to get the receiver only and match with a decent speaker. The similar range of receiver is the SR605 which is selling for RM2.5k here but in Singapore only cost RM1.7k. Then for the speaker set, entry level set like the Whaferdale Crystal is around RM1.7k.

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Added on February 21, 2008, 5:35 pmWhat type of source are you planning to use, blueray or std dvd? Only blueray type of player support True HD or DTS HD. Then you have to decide which player are you getting. The cheapest option is PS3. If you use PS3, don't need to get those amp that can decode True HD as PS3 can decode them. Eg Yamaha 661 will do (around RM1.7k). However, DTS HD is not supported by PS3. If you go for std alone blueray player then you can consider the Onkyo 605 which is around RM2.5k

This post has been edited by yfyap69: Feb 21 2008, 05:35 PM

Yes I'm using my PS3 as my bluray player.
So if i were to get onkyo 605 with the PS3 as the bluray player i still can't get DTS HD is it?

---

Added on February 21, 2008, 9:27 pmGot another question.
Let say i get either one of the AV receiver below:

Yamaha RX-V661 or Onkyo TX-SR605.

Can i use it to pair with my Creative S750 speakers (7.1) especially the sattelites speakers?

Some of the specification of the S750.
Speaker Power: 70 Watts RMS per
channel (7 channels)
210 Watts RMS subwoofer
Frequency Response: 25Hz ~ 40kHz


This post has been edited by khyron: Feb 21 2008, 09:27 PM

Yes, you are correct. You will not get DTS HD. Although 605 can decode DTS HD but PS3 cannot send the signal as bitstream to the 605.

I think you still can use back the Creative speaker but the sound quality may not be good as it's only satelite speaker. You need a good floor stander to fully utilized the receiver capability.

No choice lor... have to use these speakers temporarily.
Then slowly upgrade to better speakers since i'm very noob on HT thingy.
Besides playing HT ain't cheap!!!

This post has been edited by khyron: Feb 21 2008, 10:36 PM

Thanks poyo and yfyap69 for the suggestions and thanks poyo for the pricing in SG. For SGD740 it is very very cheap. All in only RM1700 WOW. hehe. My gf is working in SG, can i ask her to bring the system in for me? She comes back every weekend so i weekend take 2 - 3 speakers, after 1-2 months should be able to 'smuggle' the whole system in haha.

how much will they tax us if kena caught? if we buy them coffee how much will the coffee cost? hehe.

[UPDATE]
I wrote to ONKYO ASIA to ask about HP908 and this below is the reply i got from them.



I believe that guy don't know what he is saying lah, he said SP990 is a far better system juz becoz it is THX certified? It doesn't support any of the next-gen codecs. No DD TrueHD and DTS-MA.

Sigh, i think the only way is to get from SG lah hehe. If it really comes with 110v, and I need to use a stepdown transformer, will it still be worth getting?

Will the sound quality really be bad?

This post has been edited by toytoy: Feb 21 2008, 11:03 PM

If you buy from Singapore, it should be 240V like in Malaysia. Do not get AV amp from US as you need step down transformer which will create a lot of noise to the amp. If your budget is around RM4k, I would suggest the Onkyo SR605 with the Jamo 606 speaker which Harvey Norman is selling for RM4.3k in Pavillion. Go there and audition. I had tested it before. Sounds good.

imho, just dont go into HTiB route,.. build yer HT setup piece by piece. if it s took u 2 yrs -max- , then so be it.
put down yer budget, & happy hunting.

i got my subwoofer for RM1.1K almost 1/2 yr after i bought my receiver & speakers. still w/o rear centre speaker btw...

& if your are filthy rich, this HT is yer world, then spend yer $$ like there is no tomorrow lah...

hahaha

Sorry guys, totally forgot about this.

You can ask your gf to help you out, but how leehhh? If kena caught, tax should be around 30% from price.

Yes, do try yfyap69's suggestion, who knows. It might be a ncie set for you to start off your HT?

But personally for me, radiohead's suggestion here holds true. Nothing like buying the best you can afford, albeit slowly.

The problem is that i m not filthy rich hehe. I m thinking of getting this HTiB system first for a small room, then next time when i get into serious HT I will upgrade slowly.

The price for this system is nowhere near 4k lah, it's over my budget if 4k. SGD740 convert here around RM1700 if + 30% tax oso around RM2200.

RM2200 for a 7.1 next gen system. You all think it's too expensive? The Onkyo 605 amp oso around this price oledi lah hehe, and best of all if i don kena tax then the price only around RM1700 right?

So you all think it's worth it?

Thanks for your help and suggestions.

Just saw the Onkyo 605 in Harvey Norman selling for RM2999.

Well if you ask me if really kena tax and following your calculation shelling out another RM500 is consider still ok mah..... better than buying it in here....

Then again if warranty issues arise then its a bit troublesome lor.... so far away!!!

Wah RM2999 in HN, outside oso most to most around RM2700 gua. If this set really can get in SG for RM1700 then it's really really worth it lor. How? Anyone interested in doing bulk? Or anyone has any idea of bringing it in without tax? kekeke.

yalor.... anyones doing bulk? really interested on 605 but I stay in Penang. prices here like....

wah..... interested also if somebody do a bulk.

So who wanna do ah....

Hold on to your horses as Yammy 663 will reach our soil in few months time. I guess it should be cheap as its outgoing 661.

Interesting to see many of you here interested in next gen AV receivers. I have to agree that Spore is selling Onkyo at a too-hard-to-resist price.

Doing a bulk would be a great idea. But who? Erm, Elite rx330, can you help?

Yes i'm looking for a AV receiver as well. Doesn't matter what brand so long as its able to decode True HD and DTS HD. Ehehehehe...... price also must be reasonable lah....

This post has been edited by khyron: Feb 24 2008, 01:27 PM

Guys... guys...

If buy from Singapore, firstly, where to buy... since already buying from Singapore, which model should I buy then? Kakakak... sounds like stupid question.

we can buy in bulk, im one of the newbie waiting for the AV show. I said lets come out for teh tarik session and discuss.

who want to join this teh tarik session

1) hackwire
2)
3)

once we have all the list , we can order in bulk . same models for everyone after we are satisfy with the research. we can all go for testing out also.

what do u all think?

Looking for someone who can do a bulk for Yamaha RX-V663.
Siapa boleh organize?
hackwire can you organize?

This is retail price ...

Pioneer AV Receiver VSX-LX50 > RM4999

Pioneer AV Receiver VSX-LX60 > RM6499

wah..... too high end!!!

Then what is your budget ???

RM2.5K only ler.......

not sure if anyone's seen this

http://www.vpostasia.com/

Latest update in red.

This post has been edited by yfyap69: Mar 26 2008, 04:08 PM

By the time 663 is here, I bet 661 will be sold at a song.

Look like 661 fit into my budget. Where in KL I can get around the above price range? Rm1600, Rm1750?
Or 663 worth the wait?
I believe it will be above 2k when it reachs here, right?

Yeah, the 661's price already dropping. In Penang, I was quoted RM1600 for the 661. The dealer said the price has dropped due to annoucement of the 663. I'm now tempted to buy the 661. Is the 663 worth the additional $?

I will wait.... let's see what's the best price for 663 1st...

I have been waiting a budget hdmi receiver since CNY.
I played DMC4 till mission 10 and stop since my TV only have one hdmi port. And I use it for my upscale DVD player.
I bought few Blueray movies, but I haven't open to watch them since my current receiver only have optical input.
Heck, I even put my PS3 back into the box to avoid it collecting dust.
I can only wait for another 2 months, must get one before 12 June.
Singapore got 663? I might drive down there to buy one if the price really attractive.

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:30 PM

Mission is more famous for speaker while Yamaha is more famous for amp. I have not listen to a Yamaha speaker before therefore can't comment much. As for Mission M33i , I think it's a very good value for money speaker. Of course there are other better speaker (eg AE Neo or Monitor Audio Bronze) but the price is much more expensive. Same goes to the sub. The SW150 is good value for money but if you can afford it go for the Velodyne CHT10 or 12 (more than RM2k).

where you get the price quote Mission M33i = RM1180 from?

fren, where did u get the price for Velodyne 10" Sub from?

Yap69 -

Then what about theMA Bronze BRAV 5.1 Pack ?



Not sure about price wise, but someone said the MA BR2 speakers are good, also not sure if they meant the other speakers in the BRAV set including sub woofer would be a good choice ...

What do you think ? Price performance comparison.


The compact BR2AV system marries the

- BR2 speakers

- BR-LCR

- BR-FX surround speakers

- BRW-10 active subwoofer



Aesthetics: 10/10

Performance: Not sure

Price: Not sure

Where to buy: Not sure



This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: May 11 2008, 08:14 AM

I just set up my 5.1 HT with the following components:

Amp: Onkyo TX-SR705
Front: Mission M32i
Centre: Mission M3c2i
Rear: Mission 760i (>10 year old pair but still sound great!)
Subwoofer: Wharfdale WH210 (great value for branded 10" subs)

I don't recommend Yamaha speakers...they are know for excellent amps but not for their speakers. I tested a top of the range Yamaha 5.1 set (>RM15,000) and I must say it sounded mediocre. My whole system cost me less than RM6k and I am very happy with it for its value.

This post has been edited by horray: May 11 2008, 01:03 PM

Where did you buy ? what prices for each of the speaker pairs i really would like to know

Front: Mission M32i - RM800
Centre: Mission M3c2i - RM700 (you can buy subsequent ones for 1/2 price i.e. RM350) - can function as front and rear as well - very good value!
Speakers bought at CMY Damansara Utama.

Subwoofer: Wharfdale WH210 - RM700 bought at Desa Home Theatre (LYP)

CMY ? is that the full name of the shop

Horray about the sub woofer, i heard that Wharfdale don't know how to make a decent sub woofer. Is that true ?

Ps: what did you get for surround ?

For a little bit more than the Mission M3i series, I would go for the Monitor Audio BR series. Quality of the cabinet/drivers and the sound are clearly better. You can check them out in CJ Audio in The Mall. BR2 is about RM1100+ and the center speaker about the same price.

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:32 PM

Yes, CMY. They're also located at LG Sg Wang Plaza & 1 Utama (old wing).

Wharfedale, not decent? I guess it is a matter of preference as well as budget. For RM700, it is definitely good enough for me.

My surrounds are my old Mission speakers 760i. Good enough to start off...slowly upgrade in future. I don't have a bottomless pocket full of money!

---

Added on May 11, 2008, 5:13 pmDid I say that?

This post has been edited by horray: May 11 2008, 05:13 PM

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:32 PM

You should try the surrounds using the Mission centre piece...it sounds really good and cost only RM700 (RM350 each @ 50% off). I didn't do so because I still have my old Missions which works well. No reason to upgrade.

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:32 PM

YEs, that's the one. Mine is black ash colour. Put them as surround, not bad!

I got it in Pen (Style Photo)

---

Added on May 11, 2008, 11:04 pmHifi Choice

---

Added on May 11, 2008, 11:06 pmYes, Monitor Audio is good. I tried the Bronze 4. The price is quite steep though.

This post has been edited by yfyap69: May 11 2008, 11:06 PM

how to step? closed to 10k?

I was quoted RM2.4k for the Bronze 4 only. If include the center and surround it will be around RM5k. Bronze 4 is not the latest model. The latest model is BR5 which is around RM3.5k.

RM3k only for 5 speakers - one pair BR2, one BRLCR and one pair BRFX.

ok wor []

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:32 PM

ha,

once u upgrade ur speakers, it will smoke ur creative speakers to downtown. after that u could throw it away

hm i do recommend MS carnival 9 sub. u could get it around 1k-1.2k. quite impressive sub. can go as low as 24Hz. already makes my house shakes.

This post has been edited by apisgogo: May 12 2008, 10:55 AM

mean time... watch out ur AMP click ur speakers


btw.. YB APIS

good sub not suppose to "Shake" check ur setting n volume knob

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:33 PM

get MA pls ! ! !


GOOD SUB not suppose to SHAKE ur "house"

it is the lower freq. sonic u getting


not a "AH BENG" BASS SHAKING experience

This post has been edited by Moogle Stiltzkin: Jul 14 2017, 04:35 PM