More highs
November 9, 2003
I like everything about my surround-sound system except I
wish the highs were more brilliant. I have fairly old ADS speakers with a KEF center
speaker and a Klipsch subwoofer. I know they aren't supposed to match, but it really
sounds good together, and I'm somewhat sentimental. Is there anywhere I could just
purchase some really high-end supertweeters with a corresponding crossover to increase the
highs in my system?
Scott
There are supertweeters on the market, but these are
usually designed to accommodate the increased frequency response of the new
advanced-resolution music formats such as SACD, not for correcting existing systems. While
you could go that route, I'm not confident that the results would be adequate. A far
cheaper solution would be to experiment with speaker positioning. High frequencies are
directional, meaning you lose some treble energy the further off-axis you sit. Simply try
pointing the speakers more toward your listening position and see what happens. The other
option is a simple tone control, if you have that available on your receiver or
preamplifier. If you do, simply turn the treble up to the desired level.
Dolby, DTS, or something else?
November 7, 2003
I'm going shopping for a new home-theater receiver soon as
the one that I have is almost six years old. Back when I got the one I have now the big
debate was over whether Dolby or DTS was better. Is that still a question, or do all
receivers have both modes? Is there a new processing mode I should be on the lookout for?
Darnell Holmes
You'd be hard-pressed to even find a new receiver
without numerous variants of Dolby and DTS processing. Not only will you see 5.1 modes,
but analog modes such as Pro Logic II (Dolby) and Neo:6 (DTS), as well as 7.1 modes that
add an additional one or two back surround speakers. So if you're setting up, or improving
upon, a 5.1 system, you'll typically get all the processing options you'll need and then
some with any current receiver. The more relevant "features" are usually ones
involving power output (you need more power for harder-to-drive speakers and big rooms)
and connections for all of your gear (make sure there are enough). If you cover power,
processing, and connections with your research, you have most of your bases covered.
Oh, and although both processing types are commonplace
these days, people still argue over whether Dolby Digital or DTS is better. Some things
never change.
Krix and NAD
November 5, 2003
I am currently in the process of buying my first "real
stereo." The dealer who I'm buying through has suggested some NAD equipment, which
I've listened to and sounds good. He has also recommended Krix speakers, an Australian
brand. I haven't heard much about Krix. Are they any good and do they suit a small audio
system?
Also, I saw an old NAD tuner for sale very cheap
at a second-hand hi-fi store. Would this be able to be connected to my new stereo and will
it sound OK? Thanks for all your help with this.
Chrissie
First, congratulations on your first "real
stereo." Second, although I have not personally heard Krix speakers, a reviewer
with oursister site, Home
Theater & Sound, has auditioned a home-theater system from them. You
can find that review here. Third, NAD has a fine reputation for making solid, good-sounding
equipment. This sounds like a fine suggestion by your dealer. As for the older
NAD tuner to pair with your new system, why not? Tuners are generally reliable with
few wear-out parts. If it's in good condition and is working without any problems,
then you may have just found a bargain. Last, make sure you have your dealer help with
setting up your new gear. That can make all the difference in the world with how it
performs. Good luck.
Thanks!
November 3, 2003
I just wanted to thank the GoodSound! Guys for
putting out such a great publication. It is very informative and something I look forward
to reading every month. I would like to see more reviews of "trade-up" products
in the $1000 price range, but other than that I have no complaints.
Richard Boucher
Thanks for the note. Be sure to check out the other
publications within the SoundStage! Network. You'll see lots of reviews of products in the
price range you mention. Also, our archives are located at www.audiovideoreviews.com, for
reviews you may have missed.
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