Jump to content

Bocaj

Regulars
  • Posts

    12
  • Joined

  • Last visited

Posts posted by Bocaj

  1. I have had an eye on the Klipsch Promedia 4.1 speakers for some time now, but have been uncertain which sound card is ideal for my purposes. I hope to use my system primarily for music, Dolby digital video, and rarely if ever games.

    The sound card and considered most seriously is the Philips Acoustic Edge, particularly because of its QMSS system for distributing an original stereo signal onto four speakers, rather than just mirroring the front speakers with the back speakers. The only thing that dissuades me from going with the AE is rumor that it provides weak base with the Promedia 4.1 and doesn't properly down mix in Dolby Digital signal onto a 4.1 system (I realize that they Klipsch' use a phantom center). I would like to know if this is the case or if Philips has since resolved this problem.

    Considering that the majority of the signal my system receives will be stereo, QMSS, or a comparable equivalent, is of high-priority for me. I have looked for other alternatives that feature QMSS, and the only one found so far is the Aztech PCI 386-DSP. Aside from its QMSS and other QSound technology its features are less than impressive (http://www.neoseeker.com/Hardware/Products/Aztech_368DSP/Aztech_368DSP_reviews.html; I still don't know what A3D, DS3D, and Q3D mean). I could be wrong, but I doubt it's that spectacular when the prices listed at $25.

    A few other sound cards share AE's sound engine: FM801, Mushroom Siren Audio I, Abit AU10, and Best Data Theatrix Dolby 5.1. I can't tell from the reviews (http://www.3dss.com/reviews.html#Soundcard) if they feature QMSS, but I imagine they're otherwise better cards.

    I am curious if the aforementioned cards would properly emulate 3D sound from a stereo source? If so, would they suit my needs for convincing stereo surround and my desire to take advantage of Dolby Digital (again with the phantom center) desktop DVD using hardware or software decoder. Or, alternatively, could I purchase an Aztech PCI 386-DSP as an audio engine for stereo sources and use an alternative, say, Sound Blaster Live 5.1 or comparable sound card for other applications? Could these sound cards both be installed on the motherboard simultaneously and easily switched depending on my application?

    Provided that I achieve proper surround emulation from a stereo source, can I still take advantage of a Dolby Digital either included in a bundle, purchase simultaneously, or later down the road? Would be using two sound cards the redundant?

    I would appreciate explicit advice as to how I can attain best attain my objectives for rich surround emulation when playing MP3s, CDs, or video with a stereo signal and the best possible reproduction of the Dolby Digital surround when playing DVDs or a negligable amount of games. Please include suggested hardware and software for attaining DVD and Dolby Digital surround with the advised Klipsch/sound card combination. I've been deliberating my selection for hardware to best complement my long-awaited Klipsch Promedia 4.1 system (my $15 distorted speakers in the meantime are wearing pretty thin for someone who appreciates fine audio). I don't mind spending as much as to$300 of hardware to complement the Klipsch system (but hopefully less). Respond concisely if you must, but I'd greatly appreciate comprehensive answers to help me ensure I ultimately have a relatively optimal system, without spending the ridiculous costs entailed in buying something slightly better like the Sirocco Crassfires. I just can't wait to get the Klipsch, but it's futile to get them until I have the ideal sound card to make the most of them. I'm sure I'm not the only potential Klipsch owner that wants to take full advantage of these remarkable speakers. Once I get this resolved, Klipsch THX bliss here I come. I'll share my experience with those on the bulletin board if given the proper prescription for the ideal Klipsch system for my budget ($400-$600). I'd greatly appreciate any and all responses to my questions posted on what I have found is an informative bulletin board. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

    Bocajacob Brisbine

  2. I've heard sentiments like Zathra's on many occasions desiring a center channel. I've also heard, and by now understand, the argument that a center channel is extraneous when front speakers aren't very distant apart when using a "phantom center". But do you suppose Klipch will eventually tire of explaining the merits of a powerful and quality 4.1 system (as some on this BB have), and appease that demand, extraneous or not? Opinions?

  3. My brother and I are in the market for new computer speakers. After reading the high praise of numerous reviews and the testimonials, comments, and opinions of those on this BB, short of strong and convincing persuasive to do otherwise, I am going to get the updated Promedia 4.1 (hopefully in late Feb.). Alternatively, he is leaning heavily toward the Cambridge Soundworks DTT 2500. He finds appealing the 5.1 system so he can better achieve true Dolby surround, because it better utilizes the SV Live 5.1 card, and because of it's admirable reviews. He uses his computer audio primarily for home recording, mp3s, occasional movies, and especially games. I have nothing against the DTT 2500s, in fact, I'd be getting them were it not for the Pros. From those who have heard/used/owned/were-tempted-to-buy both speaker systems, I/he would appreciate it if you can provide any comments, in the most objective and substantive manner you can, that you think might be informative. Thanks

  4. Thanks Seb,

    Pardon me for being such a novice (I am, thus "newby" status),but I could use further clarification. The software/hardware provided with the Acoustic Edge does or doesn't provide DTS decoding? The powerDVD would, in your opinion, be sufficient to use as a soft-DVD player. Should I just forget about getting additional DTS decoding hardware (assuming the hardware/software with AE is insufficient), unless I experience less than smooth, well positioned audio/video. I wish some site provided info regarding the many issues involved with various speaker/sound card/DVD/surround decoding combinations. Then many of us "newbies" wouldn't waste so much space with previously asked questions. The best source I've found so far is 3dsoundsurge.com (any more recommended?). I just want to take full advantage these speakers once I get them (oh...what a glorious day that will be). I'd appreciate any further advice offered.

  5. After perusing the Best Buy site and policies section I've found nothing to indicate free upgrades. Moreover, I'm a bit skeptical that they would make such an offer, considering that they could make little profit by buying back an older model, which I have yet to hear anyone assert that there is something significantly faulty with. Most of the major fault that have been found with it have since been resolved by the Cp-1 module unit. Having just recently decided upon the 4.1 system, I am willing to wait (as hard as it is) for the upgraded version, just to error on the side of caution. Should you find for certain such an offer exists it would be quite tempting.

  6. Whether it's really worth the wait or not remains to be seen (or heard, rather). I'm a bit glad I've decided to forgo the v.2-400 and wait for the 4.1 to avoid the whole upgrade fiasco. Considering that there is nothing "wrong" with the v.2-400 or its sats, and that most of the qualms one might have (lack of headphone, MP3 device, and portable CD player jacks) have are resolved by the CP-1 pod, it is unlikely that Klipsch would feel compelled to upgrade perfectly good good speakers. Doing so would imply that the hundreds of people shelled out the $ for the v.2-400 had paid for faulty merchandise. That said, despite my desire to own Klipsch surround euphoria now, I'd rather await the upgrade and know whatever minor imperfections the v.2-400 had were resolved and the knowledge that I'll have a top notch system. I sure hope they're available soon. Until then I'm stuck with distorted $15 speakers, I won't know what I'm missing, but I'm sure it will be one hell of an upgrade.

  7. From the great bulk of reviews I've read the are unparalleled in quality, power, and value. I've thus decided I must have them. Word on the street is that the updated Promedia 4.1 are soon to be released (surely not soon enough). So I figure I should exercise patience and wait for the new and improved and highly sought commodity. I've also found that Philip's Acoustic Edge is the most compatible with the PM and has the best features. The QMSS sounds superior in emulating surround from a stereo source to that of SB Live. The card comes with a bundled with PowerDVD 3.0 and, from what I gather, can decode digital dolby and down-mix to a 4.1 system (I realize the Klipsch 4.1 uses a phantom center). I will be using my stereo/computer primarily for music. But if I've got such a kick arss system and little additional hardware is required, I'd like to get the full Dolby Digital surround system operational for DVD. I'm inquiring if there is anything additional I would need while I'm waiting for the new Pros (any inside info on a release date would be swell). Any feedback is appreciated.

  8. From the great bulk of reviews I've read the are unparalleled in quality, power, and value. I've thus decided I must have them. Word on the street is that the updated Promedia 4.1 are soon to be released (surely not soon enough). So I figure I should exercise patience and wait for the new and improved and highly sought commodity. I've also found that Philip's Acoustic Edge is the most compatible with the PM and has the best features. The QMSS sounds superior in emulating surround from a stereo source to that of SB Live. The card comes with a bundled with PowerDVD 3.0 and, from what I gather, can decode digital dolby and down-mix to a 4.1 system (I realize the Klipsch 4.1 uses a phantom center). I will be using my stereo/computer primarily for music. But if I've got such a kick arss system and little additional hardware is required, I'd like to get the full Dolby Digital surround system operational for DVD. I'm inquiring if there is anything additional I would need while I'm waiting for the new Pros (any inside info on a release date would be swell). Any feedback is appreciated.

×
×
  • Create New...