Bass traps will be positioned in each front corner

Due to the door and the stairwell opening, only two 24' x 48" panels can be installed on the left wall. In all, eleven panels will be installed.

This stand has exceeded expectations. It accommodates my "component heavy" system with aplomb. I decided to err on the side of caution by making a few modifications. The perforated mesh metal grills replace the original glass inserts in the outboard doors and the fabric cover panel in the center door. Benefit: A significant improvement in ventilation and line of sight for the remote IR signal. I also reinforce the bottom shelf to support the weight of the amps.

No doubt, it's a tight fit, especially for the amps. It makes airflow a challenge. Ventilation is achieved by positioning fans behind the rack.

The system in it's current configuration:

Panasonic Viera P60S30 60" 1080P Plasma HDTV
Rotel RSP-1069 Pre-Pro w/Belkin PureAV 24502 3 in/1 out HDMI Switcher
Anthem MCA 20 Stereo Power Amp
Anthem MCA 5 Multi-Channel Amp
Verizon QIP-7216 HD/DVR STB
Sony BDP-S5000ES Reference Blu-Ray Player
Denon DVD-3930CI Universal Player (CD/SACD/DVD/DVD-A)
PS Audio Digital Link III DAC (not in photo)
Oneview HTPC Media Center w/Gigabyte GeForce GT 220 Video Card and HT Omega CLARO Sound Card
Apple TV 160GB Music Server
MS XBox 360 Pro w/250GB HDD
Panamax M5400-PM Voltage Regulator/Power Center
Panamax MAX5100 Power Center
Universal Remote URC MX-850 Aeros
Acer P205h 20" LCD Monitor

Speaker Array:
Klipsch Reference RF35 Towers
Klipsch Reference RC35 Center
Klipsch Reference RS35 Surrounds
Klipsch Reference RS25 Center Rear
Klipsch Reference RSW10 Pwr'd Subwoofer
Sennheiser HD535 Headphones

Command Central:

Verizon/Motorola QIP-7216I HD/DVR STB
Belkin/PureAV 24502 HDMI Switcher 3 in/1 out
Rotel RSP-1069 Pre-Pro w/4 HDMI inputs
OneView HTPC: 6GB Ram/1 TB HDD/80 GB SSD/NVidia GeForce GT220 w/1 GB Memory; HT Omega CLARO 7.1 24 Bit/192 kHz Sound Card

Panamax M5400-PM Voltage Regulator/Power Center
Sony BDP-S5000ES Reference Blu-ray Player
Anthem MCA 20 Stereo Amp

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TsDz6tjSiU

The S5000ES, despite the lack of 3D capability, is indeed a reference blu-ray device. Robust build quality, high quality analogue stages both stereo and multi-channel, impressive upscaling (Marvell Qdeo Video Chip) on standard DVD's, and still arguably the one of the best in blu-ray playback. Just the way this player operates exudes quality. It's very quiet, meaning no fan noise, and a whisper quiet tray mechanism. Not to mention, it's a good looking piece of hardware.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qUz_ulwxRM

The Anthem MCA 20 Stereo Power Amp is a very formidable amp.
225 watts per channel with a -122 dB signal to noise ratio provides an extremely low noise floor for an amp producing that much power.
I love the clean and simplistic but elegant look.

http://www.anthemav.com/products/anthem/amplifier/mca-series/mca-20

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fugSmYhthSw&feature=g-all-u

Panamax MAX5100 Power Center
Denon DVD3930CI Universal Player (CD/DVD/SACD/DVD-A)
Anthem MCA 5 Multi-Channel Amp (200W x 1; 190W x 2; 180W x 4; 170W x 5)

Above:
Apple TV (1st Gen/160GB)
PS Audio Digital Link III DAC

Why is it my favorite? In no particular order:

-Robust construction, built like the proverbial tank!
-Excellent attention to detail.
-State of the art video upscaling via the HQV Realta T2 for standard DVD's.
-5 independent DAC's for SACD and DVD-A playback.
-CD playback is reference level using dual TI/Burr Brown PCM-1796 DAC's

http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/transports/dvd-players/denon-dvd-3930ci

Standing only 5.25 inches tall, it's a very potent amplifier. It has been compared favorably to the 2x more expensive, Bryston 9B-ST. The MCA 5 stores 20,000 micro farads (μF) of capacitance, per channel (100,000 μF). Compare that to the Emotiva XPA 5 (60,000 μF/12,000 per channel), the current provided by the MCA 5 is pretty impressive!

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_6_4/anthem-mca-5-amplifier.html

Used for viewing music storage program and files or for light browsing. Allows me to access the HTPC without having to use the 60" plasma.

There's enough DVI-D cable to allow me to move the monitor and stand to the other two recliners. So I can sit in the sweet spot and listen to the music the way I like to and browse the internet.

Despite it's age and diminutive size, it still produces acceptable low end performance. Setting both the front stage and sub crossover at 60 Hz for movies renders very balanced bass throughout the room without the hot spots or boominess. Another benefit from the 60 Hz setting is dialogue from the center is fuller/more robust and the front stage depth is enhanced.

Resting on a Auralex Subdude, as much as I like the RSW10, it has reached it's twilight years. There are too many choices out there that outperform the little fella. A replacement is on the horizon.

I've finally crossed over to the dark side!

The smaller media storage (right) cabinet will be removed and the larger one (left) will be moved to the center of the back wall. The mounted RS-25 speaker will be moved over to the door frame and a second RS-25 will be mounted on the other side of the media cabinet. According to preliminary calculations and measurements, the spacing should be just about perfect.

I've been running a 6.1 speaker array, mainly due to the narrow room dimensions and the lack of 7.1 audio soundtracks available. Now that 7.1 soundtracks are becoming more common, I might as well take advantage of the format even if the room doesn't necessarily need the additional speaker. It's just cool to have 7.1!

I will remove one of the media storage cabinets in the rear and flank two RS-25's on either side of the remaining cabinet. The desk will be either repositioned or removed all together. The two HT signs will be removed from the rear wall and most likely be mounted elsewhere in the room.

MORE TO COME! Thanks for stopping by and viewing.

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Comments (39)

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nyctheaterking  » May 24, 2013 08:34 PM

Very nice ht setup, those amps you have are very solid, nice choice of gear enjoy

ldgibson76  » May 05, 2013 05:46 PM

@ tommygunz: Thank you for the kind words.

ldgibson76  » May 05, 2013 05:45 PM

@ Gates70: Thank you for the kind observation.

tommygunz  » May 03, 2013 06:15 PM

your room looks great and relaxing. those klipsch speakers are awesome! A JOB WELL DONE!

gates70  » Apr 29, 2013 10:15 AM

I thought I commented on your setup before, but I guess I didn't. Sorry about that. Fantastic equipment and setup! Looks super comfortable as well. Well done my friend!

ldgibson76  » Apr 21, 2013 08:51 PM

@ HTG: Hello Big Bro. No worries my friend. You have extended kudos me on a number occasions. Your kind words and observations are very much appreciated. New bigger subs are in the future plans (much later in the year). But the only time I use the subs are for multi-channel listening. I prefer not to use subs when listening to 2 channel direct sources. The two RSW-10's have been doing an admirable job, but I tend to agree with you. Bigger and better performing subs would truly enhance my listening experience regardless of how or when I use them. Thanks for the suggestion.

hometheatergeek  » Apr 20, 2013 11:26 AM

Hello sir, Had some spare time and thought I would check out your cave again. Didn't realized I never dropped a comment. Sorry for that over sight. I must say I'm liking those outriggers on the RF-35s. I still would like to see you get a higher end subwoofer for your system. It's amazing how the higher end subs will make your RF-35s sound like a much higher priced sounding speaker. So get on it Bro.

ldgibson76  » Apr 19, 2013 07:47 PM

@ Pacman: Thanks for stopping by and extending the very kind observations. There have been some minor changes recently. The speaker package is now a 7.2 configuration. The rear wall has a new look. I removed one of the bookcases and now the rear speakers flank the lone bookcase. Once I stop procrastinating (along with finding the time to do it) and finally paint the room, I will install the acoustic panels.

ldgibson76  » Apr 19, 2013 05:36 PM

@ Wayne L Baker: Thank you for the kind words and observation. I truly believe that along with good equipment, a well organized equipment configuration lends to better performance and better system synergy. Thanks again.

Wayne L. Baker  » Apr 19, 2013 12:24 PM

Very neat and clean, a lot of time must of been spent setting up your set-up,,,,

ldgibson76  » Apr 19, 2013 12:11 PM

@ Vico: Thanks man. It's cool when you can make older devices still relevant in this ever-changing fast pace hobby. I say that because, my system is so 2008 technology, but I'm still making it work, for now.

pacman9270  » Apr 17, 2013 08:12 PM

Great selection of equipment! You have a great setup.

Vico  » Apr 14, 2013 08:19 PM

Crazy cool HT setup. (:

CRAZYKAT  » Apr 13, 2013 10:29 AM

Thank You so much for the visit to my Gallery and the kind words, ldgibson76. I had the Dual HDTV set-up for a long time so I have to get use to my new layout. Your system and equipment are Outstanding.

keefy6  » Feb 26, 2013 05:42 PM

Very Nice! I imagine it sounds great.

croseiv  » Jan 04, 2013 09:53 PM

Hi LDG-The newest arrangement is very well executed sir! Love the new photos and gear. Happy new year to you.

beyond 1000  » Dec 13, 2012 12:17 AM

Hey ld my friend I have to say...Is there a cozier home theatre on BR.com than your setup? I see you did some tweeking here and there. I am soon looking for the RC-64 for my system and it will come. I am looking to capitalize on one of the Oppo 95s which are being sold off due to the new unit out. What choices are you looking at to replace your subwoofer? Get something that will keep up with those silky Anthems (treasures).

kevon27  » Dec 09, 2012 09:18 AM

Brother, I would really like to see what your upgrades look like. I believe you will have to get extremely creative and/or drop some serious cash to top your current setup. I must also give you a virtual award for the BEST wire management cleanup. If I had to do what you did, I would have shot myself by now.

NzYme  » Dec 08, 2012 01:58 PM

Looks fantastic! Makes me want to redo my cables to look a little more presentable!

ldgibson76  » Nov 25, 2012 02:12 PM

@ baylorx: Thanks for stopping by, viewing the gallery and leaving the kind observation..

ldgibson76  » Nov 25, 2012 02:11 PM

@ Ddgtr: Thanks you for the kind words. It has been a while since we last chatted. My system has undergone some major changes with more to come. The second monitor was an idea I borrowed from you... Thanks

baylorx  » Nov 21, 2012 04:07 PM

Very clean and powerful ht setup, well done!

ddgtr  » Nov 04, 2012 05:48 AM

LD, it's been a while!! Let me just say, as good as your configuration looked before, this one KICKS ASS!! You've got some serious firepower there, my friend! It's good to see someone else with a separate monitor... Once I get a little more time I'll come back to the bluray forums and hang out more. It's been crazy for me lately, trying to decide between 2 jobs and so forth. Hope you and the family are doing great, Regards, Danny

TECH_TEST  » Nov 01, 2012 11:54 AM

Nice equipment. great looking room.

mostlyharmless  » Oct 31, 2012 01:17 PM

I love your Klipches! Had I done a bit more research, I probably would have started off my foray into HT with Klipches too. :-) Good stuff!

Miketr75  » Oct 18, 2012 04:27 PM

Wow great new pics of the already great HT. Love the look of those speakers and gear. Truly awesome...

Irrob  » Oct 13, 2012 10:51 AM

Man I love home theaters that still retain the home feel. Looking forward to seeing the changes you make down the road. You know I had similar issues working in 7.1 with my limited space. I think it worked out after all. Hey unlock your rating so I can giver you a ten, then you can lock it again.

ldgibson76  » Oct 12, 2012 10:41 AM

@ kevon27. Hello Kevon. I have contemplated the front projection config a time or two. As appealing as the front projection solution is, I'm just not a fan of the maintenance and intricacies that come along with the concept. Bulb replacement costs, installation costs (new cables, retrofitting, the need for a dual HDMI output equipped pre-pro, screen integration. Bottom line, way too much work. I'd rather go with a larger flat panel. In a few years, a 80"+ flat panels will be reasonably affordable for mere mortals such as myself. Sharp's 90" will be half the money in 3 years or less. By then, the difference in cash outlay between front projection and all it entails vs. a 90"+ flat panel will be negligible. IMO of course.

Magicmonger  » Oct 10, 2012 06:57 AM

Awesome setup. Great gear and LOVE the speakers. I'm a diehard Klipsch fan myself AND I have the same area rug in my living room. 10/10

kevon27  » Oct 09, 2012 02:39 PM

Ah, I now see what needs to be added in this theater... A projector.. Looking at pic 1 and 2, it looks like you have pretty good room where the window is for a projector screen up to 120".

ldgibson76  » Oct 07, 2012 11:34 AM

@ ejusted: Wassup "E"?! Thanks for stopping by and leaving the kind words and observations. This gallery will be deleted in the coming weeks because there are changes in the works. The room will be painted and the panels finally installed. About the curtain, I am contemplating removing it but I'm not sure. It depends on how the paint job comes out. I'm going with a dark taupe color and the panels are black, more like charcoal. Your suggestions are under advisement.

ejusted  » Oct 07, 2012 10:14 AM

Love that new couch!!! It looks real comfy. What are your plans with the room now?? I still think you should get black out shades for the back window (lose the curtain) and paint the back wall in a darker color. That would really make it look great with your current av stand and components.

ldgibson76  » Oct 06, 2012 11:42 AM

@ Mangosta and ghostdrknss: Thank you for stopping by and leaving the kind words.

mangosta  » Oct 06, 2012 07:59 AM

Beautiful gallery, your setup looks increasingly sharper.

ghostdrknss74  » Oct 05, 2012 03:41 PM

a really good set up. truly great.

ldgibson76  » Sep 23, 2012 02:41 PM

Hello Tech. I apologize for my lack of clarity in describing the upcoming speaker array. I should have said that I will be removing one of the media storage cabinets making room for the additional rear speaker. So to answer your question, the current rear speaker will remain, but it will be repositioned to the left and a second RS-25 will be added. The rear channels will flank the 'soon to be' single media storage cabinet. In addition to that, acoustic panels (24" x 48") will be installed under each rear speakers.

Tech-UK  » Sep 23, 2012 01:48 PM

Nice, yeah just noticed you have a 6.1 setup. Are you going to leave that 6th channel there to support 6.1 channel tracks?

ldgibson76  » Sep 23, 2012 01:30 PM

Thanks Tech. These photos were taken in the beginning of September 2012. Next up: Room treatments will be finally be installed along with outriggers for the front towers. In the rear of the room, the smaller bookshelf will be removed to allow space for an additional rear channel so I can finally have a 7.1 speaker array.

Tech-UK  » Sep 23, 2012 01:05 PM

Great new pics Lawrence! Look forward to seeing more!

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