How big should center spkr be to set to "large"?

Here's a shorter explaination, IMHO. If the speaker can't handle "full range"...45 or 50Hz to 20kHz for arguments sake, set the center channel to small on your receiver. It just makes life much easier that way.

Thats just my take on things though. It works for me.

Mtrot...I think what D Edwards is getting at is that what your focusing on is just a temporary solution to a situation that should really bring the best out of your setup. This is part of the reason why attention should be paid to speaker selection.

Setting the center to small may work fine for you for now, but once seen and heard how sub intergration really effects the overall performance..if you haven't already, there's a good chance you gonna want to change. If you fix things early instead of slapping a band-aid on it, you're gonna be much better off.

Since there are certain limitations holding you back, I can see how you've focused on just the settings and not the overall setup. If the band-aid approach works for now, although it wouldn't be my first choice of approaches, then do what works for you. But, keep in mind you will be selling you system short though.

"But they do shake the room pretty good if you turn it up. "

I had the same misconseption about a sub and/or front-sub combo system. I was close to spending the $2500 for a Def Tec setup. Glad I didn't. Room shake is just a added bonus to a strong sub. However, it really isn't the main point though. It bares more weight and has more effect on the entire system than you think.

Just checked the spec between the Paradigm and Silver, just out of curiosity. It looks as if the Silver is ahead by 2.5 paces.

Mtrot...unless something unforseen takes place, I would take the silver and part with the 570. A bit on the chunky side at 46lbs. 1lb over the 570. The Mits RPTV might not be to happy about that. But don't take my word, check the numbers for yourself. Numbers aren't everything(some say), but it sure is a good place to start.

http://www.legacy-audio.com/manuals/silversceenII.pdf

http://www.paradigm.com/Website/SiteReferenceProduct
/RModels/StudioSeries/StudioSpecs.html#1

Oh...and Ozz

Considering the specs only give the 570 60hz on and 30 degree off axis, you should get better results by switching the setting to small, this spareing your drivers the burdon of 20hz lower than intended. With a good sub, small setting, and a xover point at about 80hz instead of 40hz, chances are you may be more pleased with the outcome. Not sure who you spoke with at Paradigm, but it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot. Never know, you might like it.

Just to get a better gauge of other perspectives, how do many manufactors find the crossover point when selecting the large setting W/ a sub?

If you set the speaker to large, and have a sub or two integrated into the system, does the "brain" say send signals below ABC frequency to the sub? Or is this only the case for the "small" setting?

Reason I ask is because I've tried things both ways, "small" setting @ 80-50hz, and "large". Bass response in the sub, for the latter, deminished substantially which requires me to turn up my sub amp. Output from the speakers isn't as loud either. But I did seem to like things overall when they are set to large.

I do agree with Flrn that 80hz, in general, is a good "rule of thumb" starting point for the xover. I feel if the speakers can handle below 80hz, and the xover is adjustable, then set it lower. Maybe to 50hz or so.

Now...for technical support...the jury is still out. I would HOPE that the Manufactors TS would have a good grasp of knowledge for the product if nothing else. System performance MAY be another thing. But they SHOULD also be able to understand their product in terms of overall system performance. This would require knowledge of system setup. Therefore, if the manufactor says "go large", I think it would be worth at least giving it a shot for a week or two. If you don't like it, you can always set it back.

Greg -

IMO, start with 80hz, switch to 60 hz and see which one you like best. You may could use either and it may not make a difference.

" It is always best to set your speakers lower if they can handle it..."

I agree...only if it integrates with the rest of the system for overall optimal performance.

"80hz was invented by Lucas films...they made the law but that doesn't mean you need to follow them."

Some people do have an issue with THX, Lucus and so on. But, you have to admit, like it or not 80hz is a good starting point. Agreed?

"CD, do you know the reason for the THX 80Hz crossover standard?"

Drcruz - I've never considered why THX selected 80hz, seeing my system wasn't built around THX standards. I would suggest if its important, check out the website for THX or Tomlinson Holmans site to see if he explains his conclusion. IMO, considering I choose this as a STARTing point, vs. 250Hz or 45hz, it doesn't matter.

I'm glad to see the large setting works best for you system. Enjoy!

"Yes it is a good starting point but lets look at just why that is?"

I would assume it would have something to do with system integration...

"I feel it was simply for the benefit of speaker manufactures"

Conspiracy Theory?? : ) Just joking.

"I think that on one hand it is good to have a standard but they should be honest and claim that those numbers are more geared to the minimum acceptable performance and if you have speakers that can handle more.....by all means take advantage of the better performance."

I couldn't agree with you more. That why its a staring point. If the sub integrates better with the speaker performance at a lower cycle, then great. If you have satallites on all channels, then 80hz isn't where you wanna stop. But if it integrates at a higher cycle, then set the crossover higher. Its all about system integration, IMO.

Drcruz - Sorry I missed your other question.

"Is 80hz the point where sound is no longer omnidirectional?"

I can't say 100% its 80hz, but its in this region and lower, bass does become more omnidirectional.