Is Full-size speakers for L-R Rears advisable?


I’m slowly upgrading my Stereo setup to HT.

Currently, I’ve full-size (FS) Tyler Acoustics Linbrook System II speakers for LR connected to Luxman M-900u Amplifier (150W @8 Ohm) & matching Center speaker (unused). To match sonically, I’m considering buying a pair of either bookshelf or similar/ better FS speakers from the same brand (Tyler Acoustic).

The questions I have are:

1.) Will a pair of FS rear eliminate the need for a dedicated Subwoofer or it would be better to get a dedicated Subwoofer & buy either a pair of bookshelf or FS speakers for Rears?

2.) If I get a dedicated Subwoofer, getting a FS speakers for rear will make any difference compared to Bookshelf speakers?
3.) Will I notice any positive difference if I buy more expensive fullsize pairs from Tyler & use them as Front LR & move the existing Linbrook System II pairs to Rear or it’s always better to keep the LRC with the same model/ series?
4.) Since they’ll be connected to a separate Amp anyways, does it matter if the Front & Rear speakers have different impedance (8 vs. 4 Ohms)?
5.) How should I drive the remaining 3 channels? Should I get 2 pairs of Stereo Amps (one will remain unused) or buy 3 Mono Amps?
6.) Does Amplifier’s Power Output wattage also have to exactly match for all the 5 channels or it can be close (+/- 50 Watts)?

7.) Do the Amps also have to be from the same brand? 


LRC: Linbrook System II
Frequency Response: 32-25k
Sensitivity: 89db
Impedance: 8 ohm
Power: 30-250wpc

hitsofmisses

Showing 1 response by erik_squires

1&2 - A subwoofer is especially useful between 16Hz and 40 Hz or so.  The full answer depends on the in-room response of the speakers.  HOWEVER - If you don't use full sized speakers for the surrounds their bass will have to go somewhere.  Having full sized surrounds can reduce the load on the sub and L/R depending on how they are set up.   There's also something to be said for having multiple bass sources being better for overall bass reproduction.

3 -  This is really up to your hearing.  Are the more expensive speakers actually wroth the ask to your ears?

 

Generally speaking, I've mixed LCR speakers with different drivers but they were all very smooth performers.  If you end up with the same tweeter and similar midwoofer from the same maker you should be OK.  The room correction software should be able to help match below there.

4 - No

5 - You could get a multichannel amp.  Bryston for instance makes a configurable HT amp you can put 3 channels or more into, Parasound makes at least one 3-channel amplifier.  I'm sure others do as well.

6 -  Not at all, but they should all have meters.... <grin>  Just kidding.  You can use your current amp meters as a guide of how much you'll actually use.  Sadly, the surround speakers are more or less effect speakers and rarely have continuous usage.   Many HT receivers have surround amps that are significantly less powerful than the fronts, so this can be a guide.