2.1 AV Gear

Posted by: JAB on 07 December 2007

I am considering a 2.1 AV set up. For a number of reasons I prefer not to go 5.1 or 7.1 and have started looking around at what's out there.
I note that this seems to be a growing niche and am considering the following to join a 42" plasma:
1. Arcam solo movie 2.1 - just released;
2. Final sounds have an AV receiver processor which is tailored to their electrostatic speakers; or
3. Denon s302.
Anyone have any experience of any of the above or thoughts/advice/wisdom generally?
Cheers
Josh
Posted on: 07 December 2007 by Guido Fawkes
I'm usually not a fan of Meridian products, but I have to give credit where it is due and the F80 is a pretty neat solution. No HDMI is its only big let down.
Posted on: 10 December 2007 by Adrian F.
Every AV gear built for 5.1 or more channels can be used in a 2.1 setup. All you need is to do the setup of the processor right: switch off the center and surround speakers, switch on only front and sub. There you go Winker

I started with 2.0, then 4.0, and 5.0 at the moment. You can add what you're missing later.

happy listening
Adrian
Posted on: 18 December 2007 by von zipper
Hi Josh,

I've been playing with the Arcam 2.1 Movie over the last couple of days and it's proved to be extremely good. Arcam have always made some high quality DVD machines and the Solo 5.1, whilst compromised in certain areas is a great all in one solution. The 2.1 actually betters it's multi channel brother in terms of CD playback(whether this is important to you or not) and is as equally good in terms of video capabilities.
I'm also familiar with the Denon machine and as an all in package it's also pretty impressive what with it's USb and networking capabilities, although I think the Arcam is more versatile in the fact you can choose what speakers and sub you wish to add. Both have optional docking stations for I-pods.
I would probably side with the Arcam because of the speaker options - The Denon is good and is a nice neat lttle system especially if you've embraced the Wi-fi side of things but I like the solidity (both build and sound -wise) of the Arcam
hope this is of help...
Posted on: 19 December 2007 by JAB
Thanks guys!