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2.1 to 5.2 (Vandersteen 2C)

I have a pair of 2C which I have had since the mid 80s.Other than the WAF they are great.
We just got an LG OLED and the spoken parts are pretty dire for sound, so looking at going 5.2…
Is staying in the Vandersteen lineup a good idea?Or should I be considering other options?
128x128holmz

Showing 3 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
15,662 posts
 
for those as I who refuse to put their TV right smack in the middle between our ‘front speakers’, a center channel speaker is a must. '

Clearly I wasn't speaking to off-center watching.  With some Netflix series you'll have a serious problem anyway, since you will have no center at all (unless you are lucky enough to have a processor which will force 5.1 to Dolby ProLogic). :)  You'd be much better off with a 3 channel sound bar.

Best,

Erik
erik_squires
15,662 posts
 
PS - I'm talking specifically about Netflix streaming missing center channel.

If your LG is like mine there is no analog output.  I suggest you use something like this which is a DAC + EQ for it's output:

https://www.minidsp.com/products/dirac-series/ddrc-24

You can use the auto-EQ features and tweak them for better dialogue. :)
erik_squires
15,662 posts
 
If you like Vandersteen there's zero reason to switch. While a center channel will enhance the experience be aware a lot of alleged 5.1 content is actually missing center, so if your L and R aren't sounding great for dialogue a center won't necessarily enhance it.

What you need to consider is a good processor instead OR adding some EQ between your LG and your 2 channel rig.

My point is the center alone won't help the dialogue but a processor will, and a processor with a good center will be great.  Stick with Vandersteen.
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