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Newbie Question

I am just starting out in the hi-fi realm and would very much appreciate the advice of some more seasoned audiophiles. The system that I am contemplating would be as follows.

Denon AVR 2803
Denon DVD-1200 (question on this below)
Paradigm Mini Monitors for the fronts
Paradigm CC-370 for the center channel
Paradigm Titans for the surrounds (question on this below)
Paradigm PS-1000 for the Sub

Some questions I've been grappling with:
1) Given the current (and anticipated near-term) availability of SACD's, does it make sense to spend an extra $200 to step up to the Denon DVD-2200?

2) Because my couch is right up against the wall, I have been advised to go with a directional speaker like the Titan instead of Paradigm's recommended di-polars for the surround channels. Does this make sense?

3) Do I need a line conditioner for a system at this budget level? (I plan on purchasing an LCD or plasma TV in the near future.)

4) How does a neophyte such as myself make a sensible choice for cable selection? Can it be as simple as pick a good brand and apply the 10% rule?

Any thoughts on the above questions and on the system in general would be MUCH appreciated.

Thanks.
ajwise

Showing 1 response by abe_av

abe_av
78 posts
 
I am no 'seasoned' audiophile and fairly new to the audio world myself. Would love to share with some of my findings:

1) No experience with SACD since I have too big a CD collecion to move on :-( According to lots of people, SACD is audibly better.

2) my couch is right up against the wall too! Just put two surround speakers on the side on the same plane as my listening position. Works OK. I'd not veture into di-polar, sounds fishy to me.

3) No liner conditioner is need, unless you live in an area that has 'visibly' bad power, where lights often dim ....

4) I like Cardas cables because their engineering and specs are convincing. For your system try their mid priced cables.

Good luck,

Abe
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