New system coming together Stands/Sub for 805s?

Shawn,

If you look at my system, it is VERY similar to the one you are assembling. I understand your desire to maintain a high return for your dollar. Here are my thoughts...

A REL Strata III is an amazing piece of hardware. Many will tell you to go for a bigger sub - even the larger RELs. I say that if a single Strata III doesn't give you the bass that you're after, buy two of them. The REL Strata III and the B&W Nautilus 805 sound as if one seamless unit. Actually, it's better because it's very difficult to get good imaging and good bass response from the same physical location. Plus, the light cherry finish of the REL matches the light cherry finish of the N805s almost perfectly. If you lived in the DFW area, I'd invite you over for a listen. Run the N805s as "large" speakers and cross over the REL at 42Hz (run the sub at speaker level) and you'll be amazed.

As for speaker stands, I use Sanus Ultimate Foundations 30" Speaker Stands purchased from Audio Advisor. These are heavy stands on their own, but once you mass load them with sand they are in a whole 'nother league. There are definately better stands out there for the N805s, but I believe that these are what you are looking for. Use the spikes with the stands and use some metal "coasters" to protect your floor.

I just bought the 805 stands from a local dealer and paid 460.00 (600.00 list) and some change. I have not filled with lead or sand as yet but I agree with Nrenter on that and the spikes.

Great comments Nrenter/Valleyplastic ... a) I think I'll go for a Strata III, especially if I can find one for less than retail here or elsewhere. Also, how typical is it to get gear for less than retail price?

All the local stores I've visited gave the presumption that you would pay full retail price, no questions asked. Is this the case or is it negotiable to a certain percent (10%, 20%, etc.)? If I can get the 805 stands for $460, I may as well do that and be done with it.

In general, if I'm spend $7-10K on a system, what is reasonable to ask in terms of a discount/break?

Shawn

A normal discount in this area runs about 10%. You can do better than that on demos or last year's models. Don't beat the dealer unmercifully, ask respectfully.

Particuarly since you are buying a complete system, this is quite reasonable. Once they give you the discount, a dealer will usually continue to give it to you for any additional pieces you buy.

A 10% discount is pretty common (as long as you a pleasant to deal with). Personally, as long as I can get a discount to cover the sales tax, I claim victory. If you are willing to pay cash, you may do even better. Remember, salesmen have to make a living, too.

I paid $270 (I believe) for my Sanus stands, then another $6 for the sand I filled them with.