SOUNDBAR or AVR in 2024? | The 10-Year Home Theater Plan
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ย. 2024
- The age-old question has come up again and again as of late, so I thought I would make an updated version of this topic. But it's more complicated than "which system sounds better?" So sit back, relax, and let me explain my home theater philosophies that will hopefully help you ultimately decide on the right system for you. :)
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MY HOME THEATER SETUP
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Valencia Oslo Luxury Home Theater Seating
us.valenciathe...
65” LG C1 OLED TV
Crutchfield - howl.me/chNr9O...
Amazon - amzn.to/3lTcHMQ
Marantz SR7015
Crutchfield - howl.me/chNr9O...
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IOTA AVX17 Preamp Processor
www.iotaenterp...
Outlaw Audio Model 7000x Amplifier
Amazon - amzn.to/3NO6oGZ
Aperion Audio E7 Energy External Amp
www.aperionaud...
Peachtree Nova300 Stereo Integrated Amp
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Emotiva BasX A3 Amplifier
emotiva.com/co...
FRONT LCR
Aperion Audio Theatrus T80 Cinema/Studio Monitors
www.aperionaud...
Aperion Audio Verus Theatrus T65S Slim Design Cinema/Studio Monitor
www.aperionaud...
FRONT WIDES & VOICE OF GOD
Aperion Audio Novus Slim N6SC LCR
www.aperionaud...
SURROUNDS
Aperion Audio Theatrus T65 Cinema/Studio Monitor
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SURROUND BACKS
Aperion Audio Novus N6T Tower Speakers
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ATMOS HEIGHT SPEAKERS
Aperion Audio A5 Height Module
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LG UBK90 4K Blu-ray Player
Crutchfield - howl.me/cjaQUP...
Amazon - amzn.to/2UtSnZ0
2022 AppleTV 4K WiFI + Ethernet (3rd Gen)
Target - howl.me/cisDkX...
Best Buy - howl.me/cisDm1...
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Nintendo Switch
Best Buy - howl.me/cjyeWi...
Target - howl.me/chNr9O...
Amazon - amzn.to/2Tqra96
14 AWG Copper Speaker Wire
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Monoprice Low Profile 22 Lb Capacity Speaker Mounts
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MY VIDEO GEAR
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Audio Interface - Focusrite Scarlett 18i20
Crutchfield - howl.me/civ2hf...
Amazon - amzn.to/3UDXK1w
Sennheiser MKE600
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B&H Photo - www.bhphotovid...
Sony A7 II Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
Adorama - howl.me/cjyeYX...
Best Buy - howl.me/chNr9O...
Amazon - amzn.to/3GJqFty
DJI OM 4 SE
Adorama - howl.me/cjyeZT...
Best Buy - howl.me/chNr9O...
Amazon - amzn.to/3zXAYcY
Shure KSM32 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Crutchfield - howl.me/chNr9O...
Amazon - amzn.to/2QEVuLr
XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable
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JOILCAN 81" Tripod
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B&H Photo - bhpho.to/2Ua1L...
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LINKS
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Everything you need can be found at the link below! Woohoo!
linktr.ee/eala...
#soundbar #hometheater #dolbyatmos
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DISCLAIMERS
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I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites
Hope you feel better soon!❤ 🍀
Thank you! Much better as I type this. 😊
I believe I’ve mentioned this before on your videos. In my opinion, each type of home theater system works best in a certain room or set up. A system with a receiver, speakers and subs is great for a dedicated home theater where you have space for all the equipment. A sound bar is great for a living room, where space is at a premium, and there are certain expectations regarding the decor and aesthetics of the room. As weird as it would be to have giant speakers and subs in a formal living room, it would be just as weird to have a tiny sound bar in a dedicated theater space.
So true! 🤘🎉
Soundbars are a great upgrade from the tv speakers, suitable upgrade for bedroom or space limited area. AVR with 5,7 or 9 discrete speakers always the best option if you have the space and the money…don’t be scared with the hookup.
Thanks for the great video and get well soon!
I prefer AVR I think the sound is much better then A sound bar.
Next upgrade for me will be A new AVR with more channels on it.
Hell yeah! 🤘🎉
I have a Q990C paired with my LG C2 as it is easy to set up and I live in an apartment, so the power delivered by this sound bar is more than enough for me. It provides a good immersion as well, so I'm fine with it. Though I almost got the ht-a9, at the end price made me go with the Samsung
Good choice, I think the top tier Samsung systems represent incredible value for money, especially when a new models come out and they drastically drop in price. I was very impressed hearing one recently for what they are, esp if you don't want the hastle of an avr based system they are pretty great.
@@calibre00that's correct, I got mine for around a thousand dollars in my country and it sounds amazing for the price, also it is basically plug and play, the ease of set up is a plus
Yeah, the flagship Samsung bars are dope. 🤘
Over the past 3 years i have been upgrading my system. I finally have a 7.1.4 set up with my denon x3800h and emotiva basx a3 running my fronts. After using magic beans and dirac, my wife finally agreed that it was worth it. All those hours in the attic and running cables and calibrating was sooo worth it! Not to mention your guidance! Start with a 3.1 then work your way to what you can. Soundbars just cant do what avrs can!
Exactly! And only AVRs will allow you to make those fine tweaks and use things like Magic Beans. 🤘🎉
WHOA! Very well done!! (As for your questions and my answers, I am actively subscribing to both of your concepts. Each has its role and purpose in different situations depending on the content we want to watch. Each system gets upgrades in 5-7 year increments.)
Might as well, if you can! 😎🎉
@@ealanosborne MAJOR improvements seem to occur on a five year timeframe-ish, and if you want those improvements you have to upgrade “certain pieces” - but very “strategically”. That is why I watch your reviews: “which pieces” and most importantly - “when” after being convinced of the build quality and its projected longevity. important to spend - wisely!
Great video. I love setting up new equipment
Sounds like you need some vitC, Zinc and high dose D3 there mate, sort you right out👍 My system has also evolved over the last few years to a Denon x3700 based (preamp mode) to an Emotiva a700 (based on your reviews of the Basx line) 5.1.2 towers and in ceiling atmos aimable speakers. And its pretty great, I have heard leading brand soundbar systems and would pick my setup any day, but imo for what they are top teir soundbar based systems (with discrete rears and sub) represent great value to someone that wants no fuss, great results quickly and affordably.
Exactly! Thanks for sharing!
I started late on the home theater hobby. I started off with a sound bar, then after getting more into the whole surround sound effects thing I decided to invest and go the separates way. Separates totally changed my home theater experience. If you can afford it and have the space in your home for a traditional home theater system I strongly recommend that you go for it.
Separates should be the goal of any home theater enthusiast. 😎
Great job once again and you’re 100% right. In my situation I’m close to selling my Ambio Max to get the dragon. 🐉 😂
The issue I have with the theatre quad is $3500 that can not be upgraded. For the same money an AN1000 + Q350 fronts and Q150 surrounds.
Yeah. That “Sony tax” can be a real bother.
I by no means have a high end setup. I’ve got a Samsung Q800B with rear surrounds in my living room because its shape would be a nightmare for a traditional wired system. I thought it was great, before I put together a 5.1 system in another room with a Denon X1700 and Emotiva speakers. No comparison. I still appreciate the simplicity of the soundbar and it crushed the tv speakers but the 5.1 system is better in every way. Can’t imagine what higher end systems sound like
This is just the beginning, my friend. 😉🎉
I can agree with your basic premises and there are a few HDTVs out there with decent sound. BUT if you desire impact in your movies and music then you must go with a soundbar or step up to an AVR home theater. Thank you for reviewing the basics because your Life Partner has input on this topic!
So true!
Still using Stereo setup since beginning 😅. And it still provide decent experience. Maybe anytime, I may will try surround setup
Hope you get better soon! I had a damn cough for almost 2 months. Then i got some powerful meds from my dr and it went away in 4 days. It sucked!
Yeah, I usually don’t get sick too often, but this one I need antibiotics for. That’s VERY rare for me. But I’m feeling LOADS better at this point. 🎉
I have an AVR setup but wiring is nightmare so thinking of going to a soundbar wireless solution
Dont. It is so worth it in the long run. I learned how to patch up drywall. And yes it is a pain but when you finally watch a movie in 7.1.4 it is so worth it! Everyone that comes to my house now wants me to help them do the same to theirs.
@@brocinco I don't have dry walls they are brick so wouldn't go to effort plus my wife would kill me
@@4Kmichelinstarmovies oh yeah i wouldnt do anything in that case. Maybe move? Hahahahah jk
@@4Kmichelinstarmovies my wife still got mad at what i did. Lol
As for detachable rear speakers go , the jbl bar 1300x has them and i am pleased with their performance
I know! I wish all soundbars took that approach. Less power cords to deal with.
I have a 7.2.4 HT (Denon x4700h, Sunfire 7 channel TGA amp, JVC 4k projection, vintage NHT speakers) in my basement and a Sonos Beam Gen 2 in my living room. I prefer my dedicated HT but I appreciate both.
Exactly! To appreciate the different systems out there is key. But I also prefer an AVR system. Good logic! 🎉
No, it comes down to what sounds better for me
Soundbar for 2ch TV.
5.1 for movies/shows.
Best of both! 👍
Boom! 🤘🎉
Also very crucial:
1. how SMALL or BIG is your budget? Soundbar Samsung Q990C i get for 900$. If i go with all system, only AVR cost so much. All together you are quick over 5000$, especially if you want adding some external amps also. And, if you want pro speakers, 5000$, is a drop in the see. And OLED or a great Projector etc.
2. You need a dedicated room. If you have all that power of AVR, this is only logical move. And sound room treatmen also, and that means again even more cost and work. And cable installation ... Also the design of a room. Living room on 5.2.4 sistem will be crouded with speakers. If you are married, you have very high chance for no go :)
3. Wife, kids, ... ussualy they dont need so much power of the sound. For them is even soundbar to much. For my family is even TV sound to much :(
4. I'm not so sure about the guaranteed upgrade option either. I have a 10 year old AVR Pioneer 5.1. But today it's outdated, it doesn't have Dolby Atmos and it's only 5.1. The front speakers also need repairs (cons on the base). So upgrade for me is no upgrade, i need all new. I moved, so installation also. So I'm back at the beginning.
5. Be aware of Power consumption.
I think the AVR system is really only for those big enthusiasts and will probably always remain that way. I'm a bit like that myself, but I have very limited resources, time and space. In my living room I have all the routes ready in the wall for the cables, but I gave up on the idea of a new AVR system. Maybe one other room in the basement someday?
It should be soundbar vs TV speakers
I've never had a soundbar and I never will I'd rather work hard and get all the traditional 7.1 setup with speaker wire and sneaking whatever it takes
My man! 🤘
I’m definitely an AVR guy. But I do think sound bars aren’t a bad solution depending on affordability and living situation. These options are better than tv speakers all day
ALL DAY! 😆🎉
As tech changes a soundbar and avr are not imune to time.
I have upgraded my sony hx853 from 2012 to an a95l. My pioneer 922 avr from 2012 got quite obsolete overnight. Yes i have the speaker capacity but the 4k 30 is no good. To take advantage of the new sony sounds the tv can provide you need more new sony stuff.
Not bad i suppose for 12 years of service. Time to start again.
Thanks
You’re welcome, Craig!
We really need a company to come up with wireless, rechargeable atmos and rear speakers that are easily mountable. Will we get this soon from anyone?
Also, more soundbar companies need to take a page out of sennheiser's playbook and provide a subwoofer output so folks can use their own better subs. Imagine how much better the samsung 990C could be paired with an 18 inch Rythmik sub, etc...
Definitely this. It seems such a logical next step for home cinema and would open up AVRs/separates to more people. Why are wired speakers still the go to in the current era?!
Exactly. The tech is there. Just implement it already! 😄🤘
AVR is always the best but more money
Yea. For example buy new avr + 5.1 speakers for $1000 and compare this with good quality soundbar. I think soundbar could win. If you have more than 2-3k then the avr system takes the lead.
Get better my friend. I watch a few home theater channels on You Tube. With you it always seems like I’m getting advice from a friend or relative…
Thanks. I really appreciate that sentiment. 😊
Most importantly it depends on what you can afford. Then what your media preferences are ( music / video or both). My onyko is a eBay special £260 with legacy jvc speakers 7.1.2. Yep I’d love a 7.1.4 but it would take over 5 years to get one plus I’m also going deaf. Of the Yamaha /sony and Samsung bars I’ve had I’ve never been happy with a bar. Avrs are more controllable especially with atmos. Unless you have mega bucks you can’t get a good sound stage with bars
Good logic! 🎉
I had a JBL sound bar with sub for the last 10 years that I loved. Finally died today. I’d like something simple, easily installed, and no visible wires. I’m struggling to find a sound bar I think I’ll be happy with.
If I want to run something like a klipsch R34C, what do I need for a receiver/amp? Preferably something I can hid behind my wall mounted TV
Well, is it just the R34C you want to connect? Because that’s a center speaker only - 1 channel. It doesn’t spread out the Left, Center and Right info across the bar like a soundbar would. 🤷♂️
Oof. Thanks for saving me some money.
I have too much cash into my system to switch but I might one day decide the time is up for the separates. It would be nice to sit down & watch a movie without the constant need to tweak and fiddle with the sound, settings & colours. I swear one day I'll get through Avengers assemble & actually get to watch the movie and find out what are they assembling for?
Haha! The struggle is real. 🤘
Considering the price, these are incomparable systems. If it be possible that regular Sounbar is better, then something would be very wrong indeed. AVR system must be much much better! Is it?
Great video! Another question that might be included in this? What about those of us who HAVE a older AVR system (AVR is on its last legs, a 20 year old 5.1 set up). Do we do another AVR system and build up over time? Or the Quad/Sound Bar route knowing it will probably sound better than what we are about to throw away 🤷🏻
Well, again it’s your long term goals, I guess. Since you’re already coming from an AVR system, might as well stick with that path? 🤷♂️ But there’s no shame in switching things up if you so desire. 🎉
@@ealanosborne That is true. I’m not a “purists” with how sound is made anymore. With how technology has grown. I’m leaning towards a sound bar. My room acoustically and lay out wise is similar to your living room. Not theatre sound/speaker layout conducive. Mine room can’t handle more than a 5.1 wires wise. So it’s either sound bar with more speakers? Or 5.1 again with newer speakers.
Question: I’ve had a soundbar my whole life basically. I’m looking of changing to a AVR system. Can I use 4 bookshelf speakers instead of 2 tower and 2 bookshelf for my 5.1 system?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s better to have all the same speaker, if possible. Although I understand it’s hard to pull that off, typically. But timbre matched speakers gives you a cohesive sound all around, as opposed to different speaker brands or speaker types that might have their own coloration.
Thanks for this, very helpful. What about quad vs traditional satellites? I'm assuming satellites are still better (???).
Correct. 😎
Sony Bravia Quad or Klipsch Reference Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 costo system?
Depends on your long term goals. 😎 Quad short term. Klipsch long term.
Advise to newbies . You are never done upgrading, there is always a new version of dolby , New hdmi format, new version of screen materials.. you get the picture, but this is the beauty of this hobby. Make.no mistake about it though .... a good soundbar these days will give a modest home theater system.a run for.its money.
Given the choice, an AVR is always going to be better when one has the space for it. Furthermore, surround sound isn’t all that good when the studios don’t put much effort in it. Also, the AVR uses a lot more power.
AVR is a preference and need deep pockets, soundbar a compromise given your present living & financial conditions, real estate size, age, priorities and other challenges.
Very true! 🤘
Thanks for revisiting this topic again, Ealan.
I'm going through that "dilemma" right now again. I started with Home Theater during the mid-90s. Had a DENON AVR with Dolby Digital and a PIONEER LaserDisc player. When I moved back to New York City from Oregon, I ended up pawning off/giving away much of my A/V gear. Kept the LD player.
I've been through a few systems over the years here. I still have My first soundbar system which is the SONY HT-CT150. I could hook up everything to it. Even a Turntable. And the sound is still incredible. But when I finally got an apartment to call My own, and wanted something more immersive, I settled for a NAKAMICHI ShockWafe Pro 7.1.4. Being that I live in a Studio Apartment, I had to tamper down on My preference of Separates. And of course, all the wires.
Now that I've had that system for over 5 years, I've been doing a "back & forth" on this topic. Being a "Sound Purist" (as a friend keeps teasing Me) I thought of just going with a 2-Channel just for Music. And have been eyeing the SAMSUNG 990C for Movies. Especially since I've seen it go for under $700 at various points. Or just sticking with that SONY System for Music since it does such an impeccable Audio job.
I was also looking at the SONY HT-A9 for a bit. But the drop-out issues, paying extra for a sub, and ONE HDMI PORT (REALLY SONY??) doesn't make that a viable option. The same with the new BRAVIA.
Anyway Ealan,
Didn't mean to go on a diatribe. Always find your vids informative and FUN. Especially the ones you do with Brad.
Here's to getting better soon.
Thank you for the diatribe! 😎🤘
990c Rules my little town home. No point having super expensive AVR if I can’t blast it. Wish I could tho
Exactly! 🎉
'Budget & listening habits'
$2,000 and under, then one would have to go with a sound bar. Not unless, of course, ones listening habits favour music. The lack of dialogue intelligibility from an AVR would certainly be made up when listening to two channel stereo music, especially when that same music is coming out of a pair of stereo speakers.
Well said. 🤘
It’s all about the journey…boom, boom, boom…every boom is a step closer to Nirvana 😉
Up to today, which set up would you personally roll with in your living room for movies? Out of what you’ve heard/reviewed soundbar and Quad wise? Factoring in sound and cost “ratio” to.
I’d still prefer the customization and ability to fine tune with a traditional system, even if it meant opting for cheaper speakers. With things like Magic Beans, Techno Dad was able to make inexpensive Monoprice satellite speakers still sound incredible with proper DSP applied. I’m a tinkerer, what can I say? 😊🎉
@@ealanosborne Great to know thank you. It sounds like those coming from a AVR system wanting to try out the soundbar style? Might not appreciate them as much as those just looking to get something better than TV speakers. And who want a plug and play system. I wish there was a way we could “test” (6-8 years and older) AVR’s? To make sure they are performing and not time to replace. Meaning putting out the same amps as before.
I have a wall that will hold a 70" screen. Should I maximize screen size and put a soundbar or smaller screen with AVR setup?
Depends on if you want to take this opportunity to start your home theater journey with an AVR that you can slowly upgrade, tweak and improve upon over time? Or just need a kick ass audio upgrade that will last maybe a couple years tops? 😎👍
I might be able to put a center channel underneath and speakers (facing downwards) above screen if that will sound better.
@ealanosborne I want the best movie experience possible. My wall space from the top of my mattress to ceiling is 62" and width of 61". My headboard is 75" away to give an idea of viewing distance.
@@CVNTGETENOUGH oh, well if you want the best, then a traditional AVR system is still far superior than a soundbar system. Sure, it’s more work initially - dealing with speaker wire, etc - but worth the effort in the end. 🎉
@@ealanosborne even though the speakers I would need in my limited space would be small? Any recommendations on the best small speakers on the market?
Lol! My speakers are all 4 inch!
with the price of soundbars these days.. i just don't think you actually get the sound quality that you pay for compared to an AVR of similar pricing.
Nakamichi Dragon Says Hello
@@cordcuttercam ex-room mate bought hte dragon for his new place.. was disappointed that it doesn't sound as good as my 9.2 AVR and speakers that cost around $2500 sounded FULLER and better than the dragon.
@warmfreeze whatever floats your boat but the dragon blows me away
@@cordcuttercam i am sorry that you wasted almost $4k for a soundbar that will never be able to compete with an actual AVR setup at half the cost.. *shrug* ?
@warmfreeze I'm sorry but you wasted your comment cause I don't have the dragon , I did a DEMO of the dragon and it's just better to me in my humble SUBJECTIVE OPINION
My plan is to, once we move, convince my wife we need an external 7 channel amplifier and two additional speakers for 7.1.4
The convincing is real… 😄🎉 I wish you the best of luck on that, my friend!
@@ealanosborne I think the secret is to just keep joking every time a package comes to the door that “Oh it’s my pre-amp”! When she knows it’s something she ordered. Because one day, one day it’s gonna’ be that amp. I’ll save it for a dedicated room someday. She’s off the hook for now ;)
@@Rockovissi Hahaha! Good strategy!
I prefer avr.Never like soundbar.
AVR... Comparison is unnecessary
My take on this is simple and clear.
I started my journey with traditional/custom home theatre setup and a separate dedicated stereo setup for music, and always for traditional home theatre. I know how the giant towers sound, outstanding even at low volumes, the depth of sound is just incredible.
I've replaced all that luxury into soundbars (Samsung q990) and it's more of a compromise than my personal preference and taste.
I'm 15 years older than when I started my hobby with traditional setup, then a bachelor, now a family man, same house, less real estate to fit in my hobby, have to care about my neighbours to avoid driving my SVS SB16 ultra. All that turned myself from a crazy hobbyist to a rational man. So, with all that situational constraints factored in, I look for a soundbar as an inferior option that is conducive to my current lifestyle and living conditions. How odd it'd be if cinema theatres had sound option called 'night mode, unrealistic use cases that works, you get the idea.
Thanks for being honest in your opinion. I think, if one owns a real estate big enough, there's a room for both options, having a dedicated traditional HT setup mancave and also having soundbar in smaller rooms, like bed room or living room etc.
Both have their use cases based on situation and your mood, the brain cannot settle on any 1 thing. After a long hour of serious listening of your audio stuff, you might as well like a small portable Bluetooth speker to listen to some light pop music, humans can't brood on one thing for long time, they do need change from the monotony to get refreshed. 'Unsettling nature, thy name is human' 😉
Hello my friend we had this conversation about 3yrs ago and I went the route of the AVR and glad I went this way. 3 yrs later and I’m running a 9.2.4 and still get amazed on the sound. Just upgraded to a Denon 6700 and as you mentioned it’s the flexibility that appeals to me and even if I’m not swapping out speakers or amps every couple of years it’s good knowing that when I do I will be able to. As always thanks for the great videos and your personal takes.
Hooray! Glad it worked out in the long run, and will CONTINUE to be flexible. 😊🤘
I have been in home theaters since dolby pro logic but with budget and time I am looking the route of a Klipsh 1200 cinema sound bar. Looking to replace my 2008 avr and tge 2013 infinity primus speakers.
invest in Apple and in 10 years??!! Anyways, thanks for your input. I'll go with 2 :)
I have the Sony ht a9 and it was an awesome upgrade from the bose soundbar 700 with the complete setup. The Sonys have made an easy access to good sound and it helps navigate towards philosophy no. 2 - The AVR route. It’s only after the Sony I have realized its limitation and appreciation to lean towards an AVR which is more future proof…
Totally agree! 🤘