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Passive soundbar

Looking to de clutter and move my current second system to become a third system and in doing so am looking to replace my pioneer elite Andrew Jones Dolby Atmos L/C/R towers and center with a passive sound bar being driven by marantz 7007 receiver. I have multiple zones and things hooked up so a powered soundbar is not an option. Guessing I will need to add a sub or two as well given physical limitations of the sound bar.  I have about 43” width and somewhat varying height and depth let’s say 6 to 8 inches high and 7 deep. Not looking to break the bank but doesn’t seem like there are many cheapish options out there.  Am I missing a quality speaker somewhere ?  Would like to keep under $500. 
esthlos13
12 responses Add your response
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
I don't think there is anything out there which is that cheap.  Probably your best bet is to get three matching "center channel" speakers and line them up.  The other problem you has is that your width is limited to about 43".  Most center channels are at least 20-21" which would require about 63" width.

You could try to find something small, such as Cambridge Audio SX-70 center channel speaker, which is 14-1/4" wide (three would require 43" exactly).  They are $180 each from Crutchfield.

There's only one truly passive soundbar that I know of.  Legacy Audio has a "Soundbar" passive speaker, but it's 48" wide and going to cost around $1300-1400.
imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,123 posts
 
If your Marantz 7007 receiver can setup without a center channel speaker, you can get two matching "center channel" speakers instead of three, use it as left and right front speaker as @auxinput suggested.

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_107SIGS30/Polk-Audio-Signature-S30-Washed-Black-Walnut.html?awcp=&...

esthlos13 OP
90 posts
 
Interesting suggestions. I see Dayton audio has a relatively cheap center and 10” powered subs for just a few hundred- anyone have any experience with those?
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
I have used Dayton parts (such as a full-range or a woofer).  They are actually very nice for the money.  However, don't go for the ultra cheap stuff.  If you are looking at the Dayton center channel speakers for $50 or less, they are pretty much crap.  Also, the packages that have sub and speakers for $300-400 are also going to be crap.  The idea that you can get more product for "less money" is not a valid one.  In the end, you get what you pay for.
esthlos13 OP
90 posts
 
Yep fully aware of the get what you pay for!  The system that’s impacted is a super casual-need-better-than-tv-sound with occasional two channel as background to fill a large space (48x16).  Looks like monitor audio and def tech also have some passives. 
erik_squires
15,760 posts
 
I have only seen these as kits from Parts Express.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Parts Express does sell a number of pre-built center channels and sub/speaker packages, but they are all crap stuff.

The Parts Express "kiits" are actually pretty decent.
soix
8,726 posts
 
For only $299 the Yamaha YAS-209 may get the job done, and it comes with a wireless sub.  CNET Editor’s Choice and several Amazon customers were impressed with its sound versus competitors.  FWIW, and best of luck. 
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
@soix - he wants a passive soundbar.  Not a normal "powered" soundbar.
soix
8,726 posts
 
Yup.  My bad. 
bache's avatar
bache
503 posts
 
I can make it , just take out amp from my regular
kingnoob
5 posts
 
Andrew Jones are tiny there size is bothering you ? Soundbars have became way more expensive in last few years . Anything cheaper then $500 is probably active ...
I don’t know if any passive ones are that cheap . I suggest getting two pairs of bookshelves or two budget level towers and run phantom center until you find something you like 👍 .
Any special budget brands you prefer ?
Or get this https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/kefhtf8003/kef-htf8003-home-theater-sound-bar-pas...
a little over your budget, I never bought from this site but people suggested it to me.
CHeck all over I guess .
I never had the Dayton 5.1 packages but glad people said they suck now I known there not superb . But I’m sure there the best you can get for $350-489
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