Yamaha DVD-S2500 DVD Audio/Video and SA-CD Player
Comment for reviewer  E Ham about speakers
Regarding your speakers, you have lots of options, especially with such a big, powerful, high quality subwoofer: you don't need speakers that go below 70Hz (an example being used NHT Super Zero's), though I'd still recommend ones with a bass extension of at approximately 50 Hz (like NHT Super Ones used, or whatever they make now that is the replacement).  I have both of these NHT speakers and use them with a sub for my TV.  They are Super inexpensive on the used market (perhaps 150 and 250 a pair).<br /><br />I haven't heard your exact Cambridge models, but have heard older ones which were OK (note lack of enthusiasm for MY tastes, though I recommended some to a friend and he likes them).  However, there are many high-value speakers of excellent quality that Cambridge will not compete with in any way.  The size of your room and available space are important to consider (which means I can't give you an exact shopping list).  A few things to note: \\"bookshelf\\" speakers should almost never go on bookshelves; they should go on sturdy stands that place the tweeters at ear level.  This means that they actually take up the same space as floorstanding speakers (of similar design, anyway).  Exceptions are some UK models (e.g. some from Mission) designed for small rooms or other speakers that specify placement near walls.  However, I break this rule with my TV! My separate music-only system has stands that place the speakers away from walls and at the right height; I just don't have space for this approach in our small den where the TV is.<br /><br />[...]<br /><br />Excellent to outstanding speakers from a few years ago are available at moderate prices (by any definition of moderate), depending on how old a pair you will accept.  Since most of these speakers are designed to last a lifetime, 5-years old is as good as new for anything, with the exception of some subwoofers (just because technology does seem to be improving there in significant ways, mostly in matching to your room with digital-domain EQ, but there is nothing wrong with older subs).<br /><br />I have Totem Model 1's (the biwired model) which are discontinued.  I wouldn't trade them for anything.  Priced new at about $2000/pair 5 years ago, I found them on audiogon as dealer demos for half price.  These do not require a sub, even though they are \\"only\\" bookshelf sized speakers (they reach 30 Hz).  I do HAVE a sub, but I just spent a month without it when the amp was being repaired and rarely missed it.<br /><br />One strategy is to go out to HiFi specialty shops (not big chains) and listen.  If you like what you hear, you may be able to buy a demo or older model from the dealer.  Another approach is to look for old \\"recommended components\\" from back issues Stereophile mag or The Absolute Sound.  Then look for these on the used market. IMO, Vandersteen Model 1 or Model 2 are great if you can fit them in your room (the 2ce is the last version of Model 2 I know of, but earlier models are also great).<br /><br />Bottom line: you can make a major upgrade by spending as little as $250 (excluding stands) or can find truly superlative stuff for $500-$1200.  The key here is sticking with manufacturers that prize accuracy (which means almost none you will find in a big electronics chain store: though Polk and Infinity do make some good speakers, you probably won't see these in a chain store).  Accuracy is what the audiophile press will report on.<br /><br />Good luck!n EQ, but there is nothing wrong with older subs).    I have Totem Model 1's (the biwired model) which are discontinued.  I wouldn't trade them for anything.  Priced new at about $2000/pair 5 years ago, I found them on audiogon as dealer demos for half price.  These do not require a sub, even though they are \\"only\\" bookshelf sized speakers (they reach 30 Hz).  I do HAVE a sub, but I just spent a month without it when the amp was being repaired and rarely missed it.    One strategy is to go out to HiFi specialty shops (not big chains) and listen.  If you like what you hear, you may be able to buy a demo or older model from the dealer.  Another approach is to look for old \\"recommended components\\" from back issues Stereophile mag or The Absolute Sound.  Then look for these on the used market. IMO, Vandersteen Model 1 or Model 2 are great if you can fit them in your room (the 2ce is the last version of Model 2 I know of, but earlier models are also great).    Bottom line: you can make a major upgrade by spending as little as $250 (excluding stands) or can find truly superlative stuff for $500-$1200.  The key here is sticking with manufacturers that prize accuracy (which means almost none you will find in a big electronics chain store: though Polk and Infinity do make some good speakers, you probably won't see these in a chain store).  Accuracy is what the audiophile press will report on.    Good luck!