Best Center channel to match Vista

[tegan512]

I'm looking at expanding my ML experience beyond Straight stereo into Home Theater and am wondering what you fine folks in the community would suggest? I've got around a $2000 budget which should get me into anything upto the Stage on Audiogon but don't know if that is overkill. Would a cinema, or matinee do the job just as well or will I hear a major difference in sound? I'd also like to ask all of your opinions on which is the better center the Stage or the Theater if I go for the higher end centers.

Thanks for the help

tegan512 :music:

 

[tsmooth]

I would say Motif. I absolutely love it with my Vista's in front. I feel the dialog/sound during movies/mutlichannel music is outstanding and no need to upgrade this aspect of my system. They seem to be designed for each other and blend quite nicely.

 

[cstory]

I would say that for home theater, get the best center channel that fits your space and budget. Most of the sound from movies actually comes from the center, so money spent there is well worth it.

I went from a Cinema to a Stage with my Vista's and it was worth it. I've never heard the Matinee and it's probably a fine speaker, but if you can snag a Stage within your budget you won't be sorry.

Chuck

 

[Feltran]

Is there anyone here that thinks a center channel speaker just isn't necessary? I don't have one and I'm pretty happy... but then, I haven't heard what it would sound like with one either!

 

[Burke]

Is there anyone here that thinks a center channel speaker just isn't necessary? I don't have one and I'm pretty happy... but then, I haven't heard what it would sound like with one either!

I am assuming that your have set your pre/pro for 'Phantom Center'. I did this a long time ago (way before the MLs and a properly set up room) and thought it was fine.

I have wanted to do this again with the Summits and see how Phantom Center compares with the Stage. (my suspect is that the Summits would be much better than the Stage) I will try this over the weekend and get back with you.

 

[RichTeer]

Is there anyone here that thinks a center channel speaker just isn't necessary? I don't have one and I'm pretty happy... but then, I haven't heard what it would sound like with one either!

For HT? Yes, I'd say a center channel speaker is mandatory for HT applications. Much more important than a sub, for example.