My modest system to this point....

[HomeTeam]

What I've got at this point in trying to piece the necessary components to build my system

TV
Olevia 232V

DVD and Game
Toshiba HD-DVD A2
Sony Standard DVD (don't have the model number on me, but its an older one)
Nintendo Wii
EDIT 4/1- Sony PS3 40 GB

Speakers
Paradigm Atom (Black)

Other
Monoprice 3x1 HDMI Switcher

[Mike P.]

You're definitely on your way! Do you have plans for a sub?

[HomeTeam]

Yeah, I was planning on getting the Paradigm PDR-8. With my speakers, I'm pretty much going to follow what's recommended for the Atom Monitor System.

But that's going to wait as I'm focusing on my receiver next. I have my eye on a particular one, but I'm doing my research before jumping in and buying it because it does seem like there would be others that can do the same thing but with a better price.

[Mitch G]

I had an Atom/CC-170/PDR-8 system.
The first upgrade (within a year) was to the PDR-10.
But, then I went and upgraded that to an SVS PC+ about a year later.
So, the moral of this little story is don't necessarily box (pun intended) yourself in with the "recommended" Paradigm setup. In fact, much like the adage about buying a telescope, you should get the largest/best sub you can afford and fit in your room.

And, fwiw, I recently upgraded my mains from the Atoms to Ascend Acoustic Sierras.
That said, I really think the Atoms are one of those hidden jewels out there for the price. They still do a fine job as my surrounds.


Mitch

[eugovector]

Mike P. wrote:

You're definitely on your way! Do you have plans for a sub?

Or an AVR? I think I'd buy that first

[HomeTeam]

eugovector wrote:

Or an AVR? I think I'd buy that first

I have my eye on the Onkyo TX-SR605. I'm wanting something that seems like it would be future proof and can run Dolby TrueHD and all the other current HD audio as well as video. And since it has 2 HDMI inputs it'll be there when I do get a Blu-Ray player (right now my eye is on the 40 GB PS3 but that could change as well).

But I'm still doing my research on that one so it could change, but right now my eye is on the Onkyo.

[salvasol]

HomeTeam wrote:

I have my eye on the Onkyo TX-SR605 ... But I'm still doing my research on that one so it could change, but right now my eye is on the Onkyo.

What about a receiver with Pre-outs??? ... so you can add a separate amp for every speaker

[HomeTeam]

salvasol wrote:

What about a receiver with Pre-outs??? ... so you can add a separate amp for every speaker

Ok this one you're going to have to explain to me because I'm not understanding this one. I figure just connect the necessary speakers into the receiver.

[eugovector]

HomeTeam wrote:

Ok this one you're going to have to explain to me because I'm not understanding this one. I figure just connect the necessary speakers into the receiver.

Salvasol is saying that you can further future proof by finding an AVR with preouts, so that if down the road you like the processing in your AVR, but wish it played louder/cleaner with inefficient speakers, you could just buy separate amps for each channel.

Pre-outs are nice to have, but I wouldn't spend more money on an AVR just for pre-outs if you don't see yourself using them.

[salvasol]

Like Marshall said ... the pre-out is an option on receivers to be able to add an external amplifier to every speaker (you will get a better sound) but is not neccesary to have

You'll be okay if you get the Onkyo, here is a link to Amazon, and I think you can get it thru the Shack electronic store here at the forum, or you can check around for the best price (Amazon.com: Onkyo TX-SR605 7.1 Channel Home... )

You may also consider this set of speakers, like I say before, they will sound better than the Coby
Amazon.com: Polk Audio RM6750 5.1 Channel Home...
Good Luck

[jerome]

I think that the Onkyo TX-SR605 is a very good choice as a start. I heard it and it offers so many features at this price that I find it to be a bargain.

And you can always sell it later on to buy a better one (more powerful?) when you get the cash.