2.1 to 5.2 (Vandersteen 2C)

Vandersteen makes a center channel (actually 3). I also have 2CE Sigs. I thought about the Vandersteen as my center, but it is a bit of an awkward size for my set-up, so finally went with an Elac Debut 2 center, (after a few others), bought it used, and quite happy with it for dialog. I have 1C’s as my rears. Some use the Vandersteen VSM-1 for that application, but you have options. I just had the 1C’s after my 2CE purchase, and used them. Keep in mind, IMO, you do not need ‘great’ speakers for the rears.

That said, I keep my 2channel and HT set-up amplification totally separate from one another as my 2 channel preamp has HT pass though. Thus, my AV receiver/processor is only used in ‘tv mode’, nothing else. If you go that route, I would advise the same.

I am not overly critical about my HT quality compared to my 2 channel listening. But believe me, it is more than adequate.

@erik_squires

I used 2 channel stereo for my TV for years, and although what you say may be correct, and may work, for those as I who refuse to put their TV right smack in the middle between our ‘front speakers’, a center channel speaker is a must. In fact, in ‘TV mode’ it is the most important speaker I have. Yes, also for years, I had my TV in between my speakers in 2 channel stereo mode, but that doesn’t work for me anymore as my system set-up and ‘main speaker’ placement is optimized for 2 channel music listening, and again, my TV isn’t going in the middle.

And as I said, I would never use a multi-channel receiver/integrated/processor for my 2 channel listening again. I tried that. Not good. If others don’t mind, good for them, but not good enough for me, personally. I know you can spend gobs of money on ‘good’ multi-channel processors, but for me, I would rather spend most my money on dedicated 2 channel amplification/equipment for music, and keep them separate.

I guess it comes down to how much of a ‘true Home Theater’ experience you desire, and how important it is vs 2 channel system for critical listening. For me, my multi-channel set-up is fine, and sounds wonderful when I am watching/listening to the Berlin Philharmonic steaming live, or watching a football game, or a movie, TV show, or the news. Others may require more. It all depends what your priorities are.

But back to the original question by @holmz, yes, Vandersteen makes speakers you can use for a full HT set-up. But for the potential cost, how critical is that vs. money spent? You can always buy used, and as a Vandersteen ‘fan boy’ myself, that is what I would do if it made sense. But I also think that if ‘true Home Theater’ is the goal, there might be better speaker manufacturers who are more geared to that set-up.