Hate to ask......

I needed a new 2 channel system last fall, but thought lets see how I could combine it with a HT set-up. I ended up with an Antheum AVM2 preamp driving Paradigm referance active 40s for mains, center, bipolar surrounds and Servo 15 sub. Everything is connected with XLR balanced lines. I could not be happier with it for both HT and 2 channel sound. The AVM2 even lets you create different enviroments if you like: theater, club, church, hall, statium, etc. or none.

Another thumbs-up for HT. I have both a two channel (~40k retail) and HT system (~20k retail) sharing a dedicated room. The HT system can be broken down and neatly stowed in about 15 minutes, leaving my main two channel speakers with space to breath. I'm using a front projection system, so no problem with a large direct view or RPTV between the speakers. This year I separated my 2 in 1 system based on a Meridian 561 pre/pro. Some of the rationale behind this was to keep the HT system balanced (same cables, speakers, amplification, etc.), and to allow focused upgrades to the two channel system. I derive a lot of pleasure from both systems, but find that the HT system attracts greater participation from both family, and friends. Music reproduction w/my HT system is nothing to scoff at, and I can easily see why many folks choose to stop here.

I have the blessing and curse of two decent size living rooms, one each for theater and two channel. So, having put together the two channel first, I listen continuously to recorded music. I simply never enjoy the level of the sound in the theater(9 seats). I have improved the sound in the HT, but it is secondary to the video, but I simply don't watch more than a few hours of tv/movies weekly. Don't have the time and won't divert my attention from the extroidinary fascination I have for classical music.

Of course, when I'm watching in the theater, I forget all about my BS and love what I'm watching. Someone put it like, "when you see the t..'s you don't think about the music". I think he got it right!

Bill E.

Like others here, I have two separate systems since I have two separate living areas. The HT has a modified Pioneer DVD, Lexicon, Sunfire and Paradigm Reference (v2) speakers. The main system is for stereo only and is a real joy since I upgraded to the Sierra Denali amps. When I watch movies, the sound is important and fun. When I listen to the stereo, the sound is critical and hits a much deeper emotional center. There is no visual distraction.

Perhaps the reason some people hate HT is because so many folks spend a lot of money and then "settle" for a less fulfilling (IMHO) audio experience. But they think they have it all. I dunno. On the other hand, few of these HT fans would probably have sprung for a decent stereo only system. I'm glad I didn't start with HT. I might not have gone further.

Cheers. Guenther (silent first e)

OK Hifiho, I gotta see these pictures of the NHT 2.5s rear wall-mounted. Sounds kooky and kool.