JBL S312 II 3-Way Floorstanding Speaker with 12" Woofer (Black Maple) Review

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(More customer reviews)Many people, unfortunately, make the mistake -- often encouraged by a sales person -- of spending more money for electronic components than for speakers. But the most important components for determining the sound of an audio system are the speakers. And in the world of superb-sounding speakers JBL currently is the king. The S312 II is a great speaker with clean, sweet highs, natural-sounding midrange and clean, deep bass. There is no speaker at this price which sounds as good. If you feel that you must have a lower price, I recommend the JBL S310 II which drops the woofer size from 12" to 10" But either way, if you want great sound, get JBL speakers -- preferable the S series.

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JBL's Studio Series S312 II is a three-way, full-range floorstanding loudspeaker capable of delivering clear, dynamic sound for both music and movies. It's sold as a single speaker. Buy two for stereo uses or pick up five or merely three for use in surround-sound applications--only three if you'll be using two other speakers to serve as the left/right front or surrounds. If your TV is on a high shelf or mounted on the wall, as would a flat-panel set, you can simply position the "center channel" speaker beneath it.Be aware that you don't need a television to enjoy multichannel surround sound: the SACD, DVD-Audio, and DTS-CD formats all make ample use of full-range center-channel speakers, providing you have the space and the inclination to set up speakers for 5- or 5.1-channel music listening. Use a powered subwoofer for the .1 low-frequency effects channel, or configure your surround receiver to fold the .1 signal into the audio feeding the other speakers--with the S312 II's 35 Hz bass rating, you'll have plenty of bass even without a subwoofer.The speaker's Elliptical Oblate Spheroidal (EOS) waveguide imbues sound with unparalleled spaciousness and definition. The pure-titanium tweeter and the midrange transducer are mounted on a Linear Field Proximity (LFP) bezel that ensures a seamless transition between the middle and high frequencies. The PolyPlas (polymer-coated cellulose fiber) cone woofer features traditional JBL engineering--the same technologies used in JBL's Professional equipment, which is found in stadiums, music halls, and movie theaters around the world.Shielded components allow speaker placement near video monitors. A high-temperature-capable, oversize Kapton voice coil and a HeatScape motor structure allow this speaker to play all types of movies and music with ease, no matter how dynamic the content. The unit's woofers are built on cast-aluminum frames, which reduce distortion and increase its power-handling ability. A low-diffraction IsoPower baffle directs the sound power into the room, reducing distortion from cabinet vibration.The speaker's lock-mitred, computer-designed enclosure requires no internal bracing. Its flared, FreeFlow port increases bass response without adding unwanted port noise (sometimes heard as "chuffing" when you really crank your tunes). JBL's custom-designed drivers allow the use of simple, Straight-Line Signal Path (SSP) crossover networks with high-quality electrical components that minimize processing that could degrade the signal. Finally, JBL has outfitted the S312 II with all-metal, gold-plated, five-way binding-post speaker terminals for secure and flexible hookups, from bare wire to banana-plug jacks. What's in the Box One speaker, a speaker grille, and a user's manual.

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Polk Audio TSi100 Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Excellent sounding speakers for the money...leaps ahead of the Sony SS B-3000 speakers I first bought and tried...took them back after listening to the models side by side...Polks have significantly better overall sound, presense, stereo imaging, and bass. It's always interesting how size isn't the determining factor--the sony's are twice as big, but don't sound nearly as good. I'm running these with a subwoofer for an entertainment system, but even alone, they're great for a small bookshelf speaker. (If you're really on the cheap, the Sonys at only $100 aren't "terrible", but have very weak bass and not nearly the sound of the Polks...night and day).
Tip for reviewers...I wouldn't give low stars for screw ups by Amazon...rate the product itself (Polk speakers), then put a comment if you had trouble with Amazon.

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BIC America DV62si Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I was looking to replace my Boston Acoustics a60 pair after about 20 years of use. I read as many reviews as I could find on the internet and also looked at Consumers Report. I kind of narrowed it down to the JBL S26,Venturi DV62si and Polk r15. The DV62si won the competition. I auditioned each of the speakers and found the BIC pair to have a singularly beautiful sound especially for classical and jazz (which are my mainstays). I was pleasantly surprised by the bass response since CR said they were a bit "bass shy". I recommend highly. (I have my speakers on 12 inch stands.) Bravo BIC.

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Attention, all bass lovers needing small speakers: this stately pair of Venturi DV62si bookshelf speakers from BIC America uses a patented and specially tuned rear-panel Venturi port to extend the its low-frequency response to an impressive 43 Hz, nearly a full octave below the capabilities of most bookshelf speakers--the place where kick drums kick and bass guitars growl their deepest. The 2-way speakers would suitably fill out your home theater with surround sound, enliven your dorm or apartment with music, or provide gentle background ambience in your bedroom or business.Use one pair for stereo or surround applications or pick up 2 pairs (4 speakers) for use as the front and surround elements in a multichannel listening system. The speakers are magnetically shielded for distortion-free placement near your television or computer monitor. Video programs sound more lifelike and enveloping with timbrally matched speakers all around, and plenty of newer music formats--from the DTS surround CD to DVD-Audio and SACD--offer music from your favorite artists mixed expressly for surround-sound listening. (Alternately, you could use these as surround speakers with larger, floorstanding speakers for the front left/right channels.)Standing just under 15 inches tall, the DV62si speakers each use a custom-designed .75-inch, ferrofluid-cooled dome tweeter for extended high frequencies and a 6-inch poly/graphite-blend woofer is light yet rigid for tight, accurate, and remarkably extended bass.What's in the Box Two speakers with grilles, a user's manual, and warranty information.

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Sony SS-B3000 Bookshelf Speakers with 8-Inch Woofer (Pair, Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm in the unfortunate position of having audiophile ears but a small budget. So I shop carefully for audio equipment. I purchased a pair of Sony B3000s here recently ($84), and while I auditioned them I was also testing a pair of Klipsch B-3 bookshelf speakers ($329). I only use my system for audio, by the way, in combination with a 100w Sony subwoofer, and I listen mostly to classical music.
I noticed a big difference in sound right away- the Sonys seemed to be accurate up and down the frequency range while producing a very even, smooth ensemble sound in full orchestral passages. To my ears the Klipsches did none of these things well. I'm an orchestral musician and I know what different instruments sound like- the Sonys reproduce all the instruments very accurately. The Klipsches, on the other hand, were so bright and lively that I found them harsh and difficult to listen to. They're more efficient, so they produce louder sounds at the same volume setting, but that's not a consideration for me. All that I want is accurate reproduction.
I compared both pairs side-by-side with a wide range of recordings, for about 50 to 60 hours each, and ultimately, for my tastes, the Sonys far outperformed the Klipsches. And at 1/3 the price of the Klipsches they were a heck of a bargain. They're not high-end speakers so they're not going to blow your doors off, but for the money they're a great value.

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Small speakers, big sound: the SS-B3000 performance bookshelf speakers may not be large, but they pack a high-resolution audio punch. With their highly-advanced 8" woofer and stellar reproduction qualities, these durably-constructed speakers will refresh your appreciation for your music collection.

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Bose 161 Speaker System (White) - ideal for stereo or home theater use Review

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(More customer reviews)We bought several pairs of these 161 speakers when they were first introduced a little over a year ago. We use one pair for the surround speakers in our theater system, and a pair in each of the other rooms of our home.
Although we are longtime Bose fans, we decided to audition these in an audio store as we had been disappointed in a Bose center channel speaker we had purchased previously, (based on reputation, we didn't listen first!). We were favorbly impressed in the store and have been very pleased with them in our home. Regardless of room decor, the speakers produce clean, stereo sound. (Its possible to identify orchestral instruments and their location!)
These speakers are very linear above 80-90Hz, to the audible limits. They drop off rapidly below about 80Hz. Bass frequencies are adequately reproduced for orchestral music but will need to be augmented for heavy bass or special cinematic effects. (sub-woofer)
These speakers are intended to be wall mounted and are easily installed with the included brackets. They do not sit well on a shelf!

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Enjoy rich, full sound from music or movies with this compact pair of sleek Bose speakers. Whether placed on a desk or bookshelf or mounted on a wall for use as surround speakers, these speakers are designed to deliver balanced, spacious sound with minimal or moderate amplifier power (10 to 100 watts per channel). Automatic protection circuitry keeps the speaker drivers from being overdriven, heightening the speakers' reliability without interfering with your listening.

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Sony SS-MB150H Bookshelf Speakers (Pair) Review

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(More customer reviews)These are great soundings little speakers for the price. The frequency range sounds fairly flat through it's advertised range 80MHZ-50KHZ. The highs don't roll off at 20KHZ like some cheaper speakers due to the extended range tweeter. This is important if you listen to any piano or electronic type music that produce frequencies in that range.
The bass frequency response is good for it's size, but you will want to add a subwoofer if these are your main speakers. They do not sound good if you turn up the bass and play them too loudly. For surrounds though, these speakers are exellent. The larger diameter woofer will allow you to low pass the frequncy being fed to these speakers at a lower range, which is essential for creating a richer surround effect. Too small of a speaker necessitates crossing the bass over to the sub at too high of a frequency for my tastes, and in addition to ruining the localization effect can make male voices sound too boomy without some tweaking. I've never been a fan of those all-in-one systems like Bose with the array of tiny satellites and single bass module, besides being way over-priced, they just don't sound as good to me as larger speakers do. And while even these little Sony speakers can't go toe-to-toe with a larger bookshelf or tower, you can create a pretty nice system for a whole lot cheaper than Bose or comparable brand by adding a few of these together with a sub.

One caveat, these speakers are not pre-made to wall mount. They have no keyhole or mounting screw made into the back. If you wish to mount them on the ceiling or wall, you will have to drill into the back of the speaker with wood or metal tapping screws to attach a mount. It's not really a big deal, but some people may find that intimidating. It would be nice if Sony would have added that feature; however, you can always put them on stands.


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Polk Audio Monitor 30 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)First, don't be mislead by the price. The Polk Monitor 30 has great potenial and a huge bargain at its close out price (replaced by TSi series which is nearly identical). A bookshelf with depth, both in that it protrudes twelve inches from front to rear when placed on a wall, and, also, provides ample bass for its stature. It matches well with Polk's CS1 or CS10 center channel speaker for surround systems as a front and surround channel, or can be paired with the larger M40 bookshelf, or M50 and M60 towers as a surround speaker. It should be able to outperform most satellite speaker systems, but will stand out prominently from the wall when hung from it's bracket. On opposite end of the hanging bracket, short legs keep the speaker evenly spaced from the wall and allow the rear port to breathe.
Since both Polk's Monitor/TSi bookshelf and center channel speakers provide ample levels of bass (55Hz), it offers more flexibility when used with a subwoofer than small satellite speakers. Subwoofer crossover can be set lower allowing the sub to handle the lower frequencies with more detail. While crossover with a satellite speaker generally should be set no lower than the 120-150Hz area, which is at the uppermost range of most subwoofers, the M30 can easily be adjusted down to the 60-80Hz area. Of course the extra speaker size can take more power and produce more volume than satellites, as well.
However, for front channel use the Monitor has limitations. For mid size rooms the Monitor 30 is a bit small as a front channel and noticeably lacking in bass detail no matter what the room dimension. There are bookshelfs that use larger mid/woofer drivers or at least two 5 inch drivers (and one tweeter) that can produce quite a bit more detail and volume in the lower frequencies. However, you'll have to spend at least $300 for such a pair that match the clarity and quality design of the Monitor 30. The other option is to purchase the Monitors for $100 and spend an additional $100-200 on a subwoofer to have even greater range than the larger bookshelfs.
I use four Monitor 30's as surround and rear channels in a fairly spacious room (16x24 & vaulted ceiling) with Polk Monitor 60 towers and CS1 in the front. Though the 30's are much closer to the listener than the fronts, the levels must be adjusted a couple of decibels higher to make surround effects really come out. In fairness, the front channels employ eight 5.25" drivers versus only two to four drivers depending on 5.1 or 7.1 soundtrack. While listening to music, I prefer using Dolby ProLogicIIx (7.1 surround), rather than two channel stereo. Since the Monitor 30's match so seamlessly with the other speakers, the soundstage is opened up and less volume is needed.
Again, don't let the price fool you. There are many steeply priced speakers using same size drivers that will only marginally outperform and sometimes underperform the Monitor 30. The Dynaudio 52SE for example, costing around $1,000, when tested by Audioholics produced great lower bass until it bottomed out due to lack of internal bracing and overall driver design. When given time to break-in, matched appropriately with other speakers, and tuned with the latest A/V Receivers, the 30 can be a very solid performer.

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The Polk Audio Monitor 30 2-way Bookshelf Speaker is a quality-built yet affordable, high-performance loudspeaker for music and home theater. The Polk Monitor 30 provides open, spacious and clear audio even when driven by modestly-powered amplifiers and receivers, and is voice matched for lifelike surround-sound environments. This monitor boasts a stylish look that complements today's flat screen technology, with a discreet black finish, and built-in keyhole wall mounting brackets for strong, secure on-wall mounting with no added brackets to buy.
The Polk Audio Monitor 30 in black.

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KLH HT-9900 6-Piece Home Theater Speaker System Review

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(More customer reviews)I was extremely impressed with these speakers. The sub is not powered but it still thumps pretty good. We watched the X-men movie the other night and the house was almost shaking with the incredible sound produced by these speakers. Obviously not high end price, but certainly great quality for the cash outlay!

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KLH's six-piece home theater speaker set is a compact and affordable ticket to enjoying multichannel surround sound from your favorite movies. Best when used in conjunction with a Dolby Digital- and DTS-decoding surround receiver, the KLH HT-9900 handles 10 to 100 watts per channel and--at 8 ohms/88 dB sensitivity--will work nicely with almost any receiver.
Speakers The five central speakers in the HT-9900 consist of four identical satellites (left, right, front, and rear) and a slightly larger center channel speaker (since 70 percent of a movie's soundtrack is dialogue or center focused).
The two-way satellites each use a single 4-inch woofer and a 0.625-inch piezoelectric tweeter; the center channel uses dual 4.25-inch woofers and a matching tweeter. All speakers are magnetically shielded, so they won't induce image distortion now matter how close you set them to your TV (center channels often rest atop the set).
With the satellites, it's safe to use amplifiers pumping up to 100 watts per channel when the sats are wired through the subwoofer (see the enclosed hookup manual). Use a more conservative 60-watts-per-channel receiver if you'll be feeding them speaker-level signals directly from the receiver's back panel.
The satellites measure 8.625 by 5.125 by 5.5 inches; the center-channel speaker measures 5.25 by 17.25 by 5.5 inches.
Subwoofer The sub uses dual 5.25-inch woofers, which help push bass down to 50 Hz--impressively deep for the sub's diminutive size. A low-pass filter rolls the top end of the sub's frequency response at the low end of the satellites' range, ensuring seamless integration between them. The subwoofer measures 11.25 by 7.625 by 17.125 inches.
The system includes speaker wire and is covered under a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor.

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Bose 141 Pair Fullrange Bookshelf Speakers Review

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(More customer reviews)I've owned a pair of these for years. They are hooked-up to a sub woofer, and they sound better than the $1000. speakers that are being sold today. You will not be sorry you bought them.

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Bose 161 Bookshelf Speaker System (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Admittedly I'm a music lover, not a technophile. I'm more interested in Charlie Watts than I am in watts per channel. But my ear is well tuned and I know what sounds good. It would seem that there is some Bose backlash out there; perhaps in response to the Rolls Royce reputation it's carried through the years. I don't know, and frankly I don't care.
I will tell you that I bought my pair not as part of a surround system but as bookshelf speakers for my small home office and I couldn't be happier. They're attractive, have a low profile, and provide total range at all volumes. I tested them in the store with CDs that had lots of challenging highs, sizzling cymbals, that sort of thing. The definition was clear as can be. When you crank them up the sound holds together beautifully, no mud, no distortion. I find that solo piano is another good way to test speaker clarity, I went with The Koln Concert by Keith Jarrett and the results were mesmerizing.
As far as bass response is concerned, good grief, what's the fuss? Even at low volumes I can hear Mingus plucking the strings, when I listen carefully I can even hear him dropping ironic hints. As to the higher register, that's where the clarity of these speakers really shines, Stephanie Mills soars and swoops like an angel.
Then of course there are those irresponsible moments when I simply must blow off a little steam. Out comes the Coltrane, Ayler, Dolphy, Hendrix, Winter, Tower Of Power and up goes the volume. The desk toys start dancing because everything in the room is vibrating. Even then, these unassuming monsters deliver like tomorrow might never come. I've held minority opinions in the past and I'll hold another here, as far as I'm concerned these speakers are fantastic and actually under-priced.

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Enjoy rich, full sound from music or movies with this compact pair of sleek Bose speakers. Whether placed on a desk or bookshelf or mounted on a wall for use as surround speakers, these speakers are designed to deliver balanced, spacious sound with minimal or moderate amplifier power (10 to 100 watts per channel). Automatic protection circuitry keeps the speaker drivers from being overdriven, heightening the speakers' reliability without interfering with your listening.

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Sony SS-B1000 5 1/8-Inch Bookshelf Speakers (Pair) Review

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(More customer reviews)Hello friends,
Before you begin to read my review, please understand that I only wrote it because there are so very few reviews currently available about these speakers. Knowing that, here is what I can tell you about them:
First of all, I purchased these speakers for one, and only one, reason. I presently own a very nice Panasonic 27" color (stereo) television. The sound from the internal TV speakers never thrilled me, so I looked into purchasing some better speakers. The first thing I discovered (to my dismay) was that my TV did not have "external speaker" jacks. Okay, so I dropped a few extra bucks ($99.00 to be exact), and I purchased a very nice, 100 watt Sherwood, stereo receiver. Bear in mind now that I am only talking about a "stereo." I am not talking about a surround sound system, a Dolby digital system (5-1, 6-1 or the like), or any other high-tech system. Just plain old, every day, run of the mill stereo!
Now, I really thought that I was home free because I already owned a great pair of Bose bookshelf speakers. Wrong again! The Bose speakers are only "four" ohms, and my new Sherwood receiver called for "eight" ohm speakers. I know that seems to be a minor problem, but the receiver DID run very hot, and numerous reviews regarding the receiver clearly stated that it WOULD overheat using anything less than eight ohm speakers.
After realizing that the reported problem was true, I visited several electronic stores; I listened to numerous bookshelf type speaker systems, and I finally decided on the Sony. Let me tell you my friends, these little babies are absolutely superb! The bass quality absolutely blew-away my $300.00 Bose speakers (regardless of impedance). The sound is crisp, clear, and the typical problems of "no", or "very little" bass, are gone. Don't get me wrong . . . you are NOT going to get 15" bass speaker sound out these, but you WON'T be disappointed. They are truly, in my humble opinion, the very BEST bang for the buck!
My wife, who doesn't give a s**t about audio quality, actually commented on how really nice the TV sounds now, compared to my fancy-dancy Bose speakers. These little speakers deliver sharp, crisp, clear sound, and they seem to easily handle all the power that my Sherwood receiver throws at them. If you want some really nice speakers, with all of the bass that you can realistically expect from a small pair of bookshelf speakers, buy these! In a nutshell . . . they sound GREAT!

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Enjoy your favorite music in any room of the house with quality sound from the SS-B1000 performance bookshelf speakers. With 120 watts of power and an advanced woofer and tweeter design, they deliver high-resolution audio so you hear the music just as it was recorded.

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