[radrd]

I currently have a decent home theater system (well, I think it's decent). My M-Audio Revolution 5.1 digital to Pioneer VSX-1014TX receiver, SVS PB10 Sub and Athena Point5 MKII 5.1 speakers. I love the receiver and the sub, but I'm thinking about upgrading the front L/R and center. The surrounds are perfect.

The front L/R are decent for movies, and okay for music, but nothing to write home about and the center is a bit harsh, that is voices can sound brittle and unnatural if they are not the most well-recorded.

Any recommendations for a center speaker and a pair of matching front L/R bookshelf speakers? They absolutely have to be bookshelves, as I have no space for larger.

I want some that are going to be great for rock music and movies, and my budget is $1,000 give or take. I will not be upgrading anything other than the speakers, so make sure my receiver can handle your recommendation.

I know, I should audition first, and I will give it a shot.

Thanks!

 

[soundboy]

Based on your budget, sounds like you are shooting for something better than the Athena bookshelf speakers (the B1 and B2 for bookshelf speakers, with the C-1 being the center channel speaker). As you probably know, it's best to keep speakers of a surround sound system as closely matched as possible. Aside from using speakers from the same series, using speakers from the same company will give you a higher chance of that synergy. I am afraid that by moving away from Athena speakers for the front, you'll risk the new speakers "mis-matching" with what you have for the rear.

I would recommend the NHT SB3 and its companion center channel speaker. Also, the Energy C-3 and the accompanying C-C3 center channel speakers should also be on your short list to audition.

 

[radrd]

I knew that matching the front l/r and center was important, but are the rears that important?

If so, then you guys might as well recommend me a full 5.0 system (sub ain't going anywhere). I don't mind replacing the whole thing, as I got the most amazing deal on these speakers. I've already practically gotten my money's worth out of them in just a couple of months.

Budget is not firm at all. I could see spending closer to $1,500.

 

[ucbEE]

I would suggest that you go give a listen to some Definitive C/L/R speakers. I really like them, and they match your price-point perfectly.

 

[soundboy]

I would get the L/R and center channel speakers first and see if they match well with your Athena surround speakers. Perhaps they will match, or that the difference doesn't justify the added expense.