Author Topic: Looking for bookshelf Speakers and T amp - budget $300 (Read 17077 times)

jbou · « **on:** July 01, 2012, 03:05:34 PM »

I want to put together a small bedroom system. I will use it a lot while sitting at my desk but also for when I’m just in my room (Its not bigger than 10’ by 10’). I have a Macbook Pro and a FiiO E10 to use as the DAC. I need speakers and amp and I’m hoping to keep it under $300. It doesn’t need to be a top quality system, I’m looking for a good price to performance ratio. Currently I use speakers that came with a computer in 1996… so pretty much anything will be an upgrade.

For speakers, I’m thinking a model with 4” or 5” woofers. It really depends on how big the cabinet is. Some 5” models are 12” deep and that’s probably too big. While searching around these were some options that looked good in my price range. I’d love to hear any thoughts or advice you guys have. Since they will be on a desk near the wall, having front ported bass would be better, correct?

Cambridge Audio S30
http://www.amazon.com/Cambridge-S30-N-Speakers-Black-Pair/dp/B004DAN3GQ/ref=pd_cp_e_0

Infinity Primus (4”)
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Primus-Two-way-Bookshelf-Satellite/dp/B0044D3R7M/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1341167286&sr=1-5&keywords=infinity+primus

Polk Audio TSi100
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-TSi100-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00192KF12/ref=sr_1_8?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1341167367&sr=1-8&keywords=polk+audio

Polk Audio Monitor 30
http://www.amazon.com/Polk-Audio-Monitor-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B0002ZSFTG/ref=sr_1_60?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1341167507&sr=1-60&keywords=polk+audio

JBL Control 1 Pro
http://www.amazon.com/JBL-CONTROL-PRO-Performance-Miniature/dp/B000U2G6VA/ref=pd_sim_e_3
Audioengine P4s look pretty nice, but are a bit out of my price range.

I was thinking of going with T amp. Any thoughts a good quality t amp? I’ve heard there were some quality issues with the Dayton 50w model. What about Topping or MUSE?

This one below looks like an option that would provide enough power.
http://www.amazon.com/Topping-TP20-MK2-TA2020-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B005F5U86G/ref=sr_1_9?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1341168099&sr=1-9&keywords=t+amp

I'm open to any thoughts as I'm no expert in this stuff.

Jimna · « **Reply #1 on:** July 01, 2012, 03:09:41 PM »

I would just look at active monitors, it would help you achieve your budget with the best possible results. Used KRK models run right in that range, and will blow any combo out of the water you can put together for that price.

Denes · « **Reply #2 on:** July 01, 2012, 03:20:28 PM »

I have done well with sony's stuff. Never a poor product in home audio, home video, cameras, MP3 on anything. I got stuff from them 25 years old and still kicking.

I have a big setup a Sony STR-DH100 stereo amplifier with SSF-5000 floor speakers. I have an A/B speaker switch and have ssb-3000 bookshelf speakers for the other half of the house.

I know someone with the smaller ssb-1000 speaker and he likes them alot. My Chiropractor has a ssb-1000 in each room of the office. The sound is good, but turned up loud being an office and all.

I'd get a 100w amp and just keep it low. When you want something bigger, you got an amp for it. You can always buy some bookshelves and put a touch bigger set on the wall.

gkatz · « **Reply #3 on:** July 01, 2012, 03:27:56 PM »

I own the Topping TP-30, which is basically the TP-20 with a USB DAC and Headphone out added. I've had it for about 2 years, has worked flawlessly powering my older 75 watt Bose bookshelfs. I also have hooked it up to a pair of 180 watt, 4 way Sony floor standing speakers and it gave those plenty of power as well. I'm surprised because it only is listed to output 15 watts or something. Like any audio device of this sort, it can benefit from a cleaning with deoxit every once in a while. My tp-30 had developed some static from dust collecting in the volume knob. nothing a couple quick spray of deoxit couldnt fix.

definitely happy with the 90 dollars a spent on it, free shipping from China! It only took a week and a half to arrive

jbou · « **Reply #4 on:** July 02, 2012, 12:53:37 AM »

Well a new pair of KRK Rokits (5" model) would be $300 new. Wouldn't I need a preamp though or some way to change the volume? and even though these are monitors they would be good for everyday listening? I definitely might consider these

For discussion purposes, anyone have thoughts on passive speakers? I'm still undecided on which route to go.

Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) · « **Reply #5 on:** July 02, 2012, 02:50:42 AM »

I've heard a lot of good things about the AudioEngine A5's. I have the A2's and they are great.

Someone is selling a pair in the YS:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156635.0

Fried Chicken Boy · « **Reply #6 on:** July 02, 2012, 02:30:00 PM »

Quote from: Jimna on July 01, 2012, 03:09:41 PM

I would just look at active monitors, it would help you achieve your budget with the best possible results.

This. You already have a FiiO E10 which is a good little DAC for the money and don't have to worry about relying on the computer's onboard DAC which is not particularly good.

Quote from: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on July 02, 2012, 02:50:42 AM

I've heard a lot of good things about the AudioEngine A5's. I have the A2's and they are great.

Someone is selling a pair in the YS:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=156635.0

And this. They pretty much fit the bill for what you're looking for. If I didn't already have a perfectly good set of small monitors, I'd probably be all over these.

fmaderjr · « **Reply #7 on:** July 02, 2012, 03:33:51 PM »

Quote from: gkatz on July 01, 2012, 03:27:56 PM

I own the Topping TP-30, which is basically the TP-20 with a USB DAC and Headphone out added. I've had it for about 2 years, has worked flawlessly powering my older 75 watt Bose bookshelfs. I also have hooked it up to a pair of 180 watt, 4 way Sony floor standing speakers and it gave those plenty of power as well. I'm surprised because it only is listed to output 15 watts or something. Like any audio device of this sort, it can benefit from a cleaning with deoxit every once in a while. My tp-30 had developed some static from dust collecting in the volume knob. nothing a couple quick spray of deoxit couldnt fix.

definitely happy with the 90 dollars a spent on it, free shipping from China! It only took a week and a half to arrive

I've had one for 18 months or so and love it. With my Polk bookshelf speakers it sure beats the hell out of the $50-$100 computer speakers I've used in the past. Sounds like a home stereo. If I need stronger bass then the Polks provide, I use my headphones (ATH-M50's or Sennheiser HD650's).

Mine also developed some static while adjusting the volume control after about 9 months, but I was to lazy to break out the deoxit since it really didn't bother me much. Just sprayed some in, turned the knob back and forth a few times and the noise is gone! Thanks gkatz!

Fried Chicken Boy · « **Reply #8 on:** July 02, 2012, 04:10:00 PM »

^^ I considered one of those Topping TP-30 units but couldn't rationalize it since I already have powered monitors and a solid DAC. Looks like a really nice piece of gear, though.

FWIW, the TP-30's DAC chip is capped to 16-bit and since the OP already has the FiiO (which I believe is capable of 24-bit), it seems a little redundant to get another DAC when that money could be spent towards solid powered monitors. Just my 0.02.

jbou · « **Reply #9 on:** July 02, 2012, 05:50:27 PM »

Thanks for all the responses. It seems powered monitors are what most people suggest. and yes, the FiiO is capable of 24 bit, but it is not an amp like the topping. It just provides a line out, there is no volume control.

Any thoughts on Audioengine A5s vs. KRK Rokit 5s? Also, anyone have experience in the difference between the Audioengine A5 vs. the Audioengine A5+? the A5+s come in at 400 new. I hadn't planned on spending more than 300 but if there is a big difference I might consider them. Could also get the Rokit 6s for that much too.

OOK · « **Reply #10 on:** July 03, 2012, 12:06:42 PM »

Quote from: JBou on July 02, 2012, 05:50:27 PM

Thanks for all the responses. It seems powered monitors are what most people suggest. and yes, the FiiO is capable of 24 bit, but it is not an amp like the topping. It just provides a line out, there is no volume control.

Any thoughts on Audioengine A5s vs. KRK Rokit 5s? Also, anyone have experience in the difference between the Audioengine A5 vs. the Audioengine A5+? the A5+s come in at 400 new. I hadn't planned on spending more than 300 but if there is a big difference I might consider them. Could also get the Rokit 6s for that much too.

I can't speak tp the Audioengine A5's, but I own a pair of KRK Rocket 6's. They are fantastic. They blow my old boston acoutic sub sat computer speakers out of the water. They sound every bit as good or better then my Paradigm SE3mk2's bookshelfs(which I still love as the best non powered speaker). They are very clean sounding, a tad on the bright side but not much to my ears. The bass notes are crazy from a speaker this size.... they have both RCA and XLR hook ups, you can tame the Tweeter if needed and man do these speakers crank out the volume. I am more of a clarity guy verses loud guy...but have no fear they will rock the house.... The Rocket 5's are a tad smaller but I am sure they will give you every bit of enjoyment my 6's do.... better yet just get the 6's....

jbou · « **Reply #11 on:** July 03, 2012, 04:34:19 PM »

Quote from: OOK on July 03, 2012, 12:06:42 PM

I can't speak tp the Audioengine A5's, but I own a pair of KRK Rocket 6's. They are fantastic. They blow my old boston acoutic sub sat computer speakers out of the water. They sound every bit as good or better then my Paradigm SE3mk2's bookshelfs(which I still love as the best non powered speaker). They are very clean sounding, a tad on the bright side but not much to my ears. The bass notes are crazy from a speaker this size.... they have both RCA and XLR hook ups, you can tame the Tweeter if needed and man do these speakers crank out the volume. I am more of a clarity guy verses loud guy...but have no fear they will rock the house.... The Rocket 5's are a tad smaller but I am sure they will give you every bit of enjoyment my 6's do.... better yet just get the 6's....

Thanks for the input. I just looked up the dimensions of the Rokit 6s and they are 13" tall, 9" wide and 11" deep. Thats probably a little big for my needs...

My bedroom is probably 12" x 12 so the 5s might be better size wise for my desk. the are 11" tall, 7" wide and 9" deep.

How do you have your 6s setup and how big is the room?

OOK · « **Reply #12 on:** July 03, 2012, 08:08:18 PM »

Quote from: JBou on July 03, 2012, 04:34:19 PM

Quote from: OOK on July 03, 2012, 12:06:42 PM
I can't speak tp the Audioengine A5's, but I own a pair of KRK Rocket 6's. They are fantastic. They blow my old boston acoutic sub sat computer speakers out of the water. They sound every bit as good or better then my Paradigm SE3mk2's bookshelfs(which I still love as the best non powered speaker). They are very clean sounding, a tad on the bright side but not much to my ears. The bass notes are crazy from a speaker this size.... they have both RCA and XLR hook ups, you can tame the Tweeter if needed and man do these speakers crank out the volume. I am more of a clarity guy verses loud guy...but have no fear they will rock the house.... The Rocket 5's are a tad smaller but I am sure they will give you every bit of enjoyment my 6's do.... better yet just get the 6's....

Thanks for the input. I just looked up the dimensions of the Rokit 6s and they are 13" tall, 9" wide and 11" deep. Thats probably a little big for my needs... My bedroom is probably 12" x 12 so the 5s might be better size wise for my desk. the are 11" tall, 7" wide and 9" deep.

How do you have your 6s setup and how big is the room?

My room is a 13 x 13 dining room, they sit nicely on my computer desk. The desk is 30"x48". Peace OOk

spyder9 · « **Reply #13 on:** July 03, 2012, 09:34:16 PM »

Klipsch ksb 1.1

http://www.klipsch.com/ksb-1-1-bookshelf-speaker

Handles 75 watts continuos. 65Hz - 20kHz. Small footprint. Owned mine for years. I currently use them as surrounds, but I've used them in all kinds of setups because of their versatility. You can find them in pairs on ebay for under $100 shipped.

bryonsos · « **Reply #14 on:** July 04, 2012, 05:30:40 PM »

I wasn't familiar with Audioengine before this thread, so I did some research. I just bought a D1 DAC/headphone amp. Thanks guys!

Nick's Picks · « **Reply #15 on:** July 05, 2012, 09:42:56 AM »

Not to overlook:
- PAWN SHOP scores (lots of PSB, KLH, Klipsch to be had cheap).

That said, I love the PSB Alphas I picked up a few years ago. 4 speakers w/consecutive serial numbers. $80. Local pawn shop. They freakin' rock.

sparkey · « **Reply #16 on:** July 05, 2012, 02:41:12 PM »

Used pair of B&W 602's fit your budget. Highly recommended.

http://www.ebay.com/sch/sis.html?_nkw=Bowers+and+Wilkins+B+W+DM+602+bookshelf+speakers

jlykos · « **Reply #17 on:** July 06, 2012, 02:45:56 AM »

If you can go up to $400, you may want to check out the Audioengine N22 ($200 new, less refurbished on ebay) and the NHT SuperZero ($200 for a pair). This combination will likely sound better than a lot of other options at the $300 or even $400 price range.

jbou · « **Reply #18 on:** July 06, 2012, 10:24:49 AM »

Quote from: jlykos on July 06, 2012, 02:45:56 AM

If you can go up to $400, you may want to check out the Audioengine N22 ($200 new, less refurbished on ebay) and the NHT SuperZero ($200 for a pair). This combination will likely sound better than a lot of other options at the $300 or even $400 price range.

Thanks. I hadn't heard about those. I'll look into em. I'm probably going to make the purchase in early August so I still got time to check some different options out.

EDIT: If I went with passive speakers, would you say the Audioengine N22 would be a better route than a Topping T-amp?

Fried Chicken Boy · « **Reply #19 on:** July 06, 2012, 10:41:56 AM »

Between the Audioengine N22 and Topping TP-30 it isn't truly an apples-to-apples comparison. The TP-30 is a combination DAC/amplifier whereas the N22 is strictly an amp. Since you already have a decent DAC (the FiiO E10 which is also 24-bit as opposed to the Topping's 16-bit) the N22 might be more appealing. In addition to a higher price, the N22 also has a little more juice, 22 watts per channels compared to the Topping's 15 watts.

jbou · « **Reply #20 on:** July 06, 2012, 01:21:15 PM »

Quote from: Fried Chicken Boy on July 06, 2012, 10:41:56 AM

Between the Audioengine N22 and Topping TP-30 it isn't truly an apples-to-apples comparison. The TP-30 is a combination DAC/amplifier whereas the N22 is strictly an amp. Since you already have a decent DAC (the FiiO E10 which is also 24-bit as opposed to the Topping's 16-bit) the N22 might be more appealing. In addition to a higher price, the N22 also has a little more juice, 22 watts per channels compared to the Topping's 15 watts.

I get what you're saying, but I wasn't really talking about the TP-30. I was thinking of the TP21 and the TP20 which can be had for under $85
http://www.amazon.com/Topping-TP21-Digital-Amplifier-Headphone/dp/B005CRLZGE/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1341594436&sr=8-5&keywords=topping
http://www.amazon.com/Topping-TP20-MK2-TA2020-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B005F5U86G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341594436&sr=8-1&keywords=topping
or this one with more power for about $135
http://www.amazon.com/Topping-TK2050-TC2000-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B005VR1VQE/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1341594460&sr=8-8&keywords=topping+tripath

This was my thought when I asked the question: I don't really know much about the N22 but I know Audioengine makes good stuff. Based on what I've heard about t amps, I wonder if a T-amp for half the price or a little more than half could give me similar performance.

Again, still not sure which route to go. Considering some powered KRK monitors, but still want to consider passive speakers with an amp. thanks again for all the input.

Jimna · « **Reply #21 on:** July 06, 2012, 01:32:37 PM »

unless you buy an amp specifically made to go with a set of speakers its going to be a craps-shoot whether they sound good together. This is why active monitors are such a wise choice, the amp was designed to match the speaker perfectly by the engineer who designed it all. Mix and match electronics will always be a lottery unless you have lots of access and preview time, active monitors are an educated decision.

Fried Chicken Boy · « **Reply #22 on:** July 06, 2012, 01:37:50 PM »

A-ha, ok, thanks for the clarification. Both Audioengine and Topping have good reputations for overall quality. I've personally never owned a T-amp but everything I've read about them in reviews and forums points out that they perform far beyond their price range. The detractors will tell you that they are not true "audiophile" quality but neither is the Audioengine and you're also not setting up a 5- or 6-figure playback system in an acoustically treated room. All things in perspective.

While I tend to agree with Jimna's views on powered monitors and amp matching, if you decide to go the passive speaker route it's my opinion that you couldn't go wrong with any of the Topping or Audioengine choices.

Jamos · « **Reply #23 on:** July 06, 2012, 05:54:21 PM »

I was the one selling the Audioengine's in the YS. I really enjoyed them, and wouldn't hesitate to try out any of their current products. For the price, they sure offer a lot of performance.

We recently got a Bluesky Exo2 2.1 system which is really nice. It's mostly attached to a DAW, and it's perfect for that.
http://abluesky.com/products/exo2-new/

Funny to see mention of the NHT SuperZero! Love that speaker. Until I inherited an old Klipsch system, I used 3 SuperZeros as my L/C/R home theater setup.

Also, the PSB speakers mentioned are generally really great. I had a pair many moons ago that were one of the best bookshelf pairs I have heard.

All good options!

jbou · « **Reply #24 on:** August 12, 2012, 02:41:40 PM »

Update: I picked up a pair of KRK Rokit 5s last week. I looked at the 6s but they were too big for my desk space. I havn't used them too much yet but I like what I'm hearing so far. Thanks for the all the input!

Nick's Picks · « **Reply #25 on:** August 12, 2012, 07:25:58 PM »

you gatta love ts.com