How to Get the Most Sound Out of Your Center Channel Speaker

[@zbigniewandruszkiewicz7703]

Really nice, informative video, thank you! I'm an old man, my hearing is not so sharp anymore, i used to struggle a lot with hearing dialogs. Tried everything you say, and more. Upgraded the center channel speaker, i have CANTON now, btw. To no avail. No matter how much i boosted the volume of center channel, the understandability was poor. However, i have found a simple solution, at zero cost! Read my lips: ZERO. It has to do with so called delays; in lay man terms it is a distance from listener to the speakers entered into receiver setup. First, i changed it to two extreme values, one way too big, then one way to small, just to see, or rather hear, what it does. After a bit of experimenting, i left the value of the distance to center speaker about half a meter bigger than it really is. OMG, what a difference it makes! Like day and night. Now i can even set the volume to whisper quiet and still i hear everything without any effort. I recommend everyone who is looking for a solution, to take a note of what settings are in a setup and experiment a little, it does not cost anything.

[@andrewcaithness9937]

Thank you for this information, I just purchased a Polk R400 which by all reviews is clear and powerful, this being said I’ve placed it in my cabinet which I cut most of the back out of and covered with speaker cloth, it still resonates as you indicated so now I might fill all around the speaker with sound deadening and see how that goes. Update 👍 So now I simply rolled up some towels and packed all space above and behind including covering the ports loosely and it worked a treat I also adjusted the centre speaker EQ and lifted the treble, I also increased centre volume 2db. Much improved

[@gregrichard9192]

Very important video for all home theater hobbyist. I myself was a victim of loud sounds coming from my left and right channel during a movie and regular tv shows. Sometimes had to adjust the volume when the sound comes on. Did some research and solved the issue. What's mentioned in your video is exactly what I've done. Thanks much. Keep up the good work

[@Kpaceguy]

I appreciate it! Thanks for watching

[@charlescalkins4732]

I followed his instructions. Set all the surround sound speakers to +2 DB. Set the enter channel to +8 DB. Woofer to +6 Made quite a difference. I like what I'm hearing now. Before reseting the speakers things were kind of a garble sound.

[@davemurray1472]

great tips on center channel. never thought about angling it up towards the ear. I'll try that.

[@joebecerra3793]

Great video. I think we all go through the challenges of setting up the center channel to sound it’s best . Im running the Sony SS-NA8ES center channel And for the sub I’m running the jl audio dominion 10. With Steinway Lyngdorf fr-1 fronts and mr-2 for surround. I love your set up. Cantons are amazing. Keep up the good videos. 👍🏽

[@stevencarroll5644]

Just catching your vids..direct, personable and informative, great gear even if its not klipsch lol..cheers from Nova Scotia, Canada.

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for watching

[@marcmenton8063]

excellent, I am not technical with stereo. recently upgraded all speakers in my system. Nothing seemed right. this tutorial and the one on correction and calibration made my system come alive. could not believe the difference. I am also no longer afraid to push the buttons and find out what my receiver can do. Thank you so much as this type of equipment is much different than when I was a kid. Now pushing 60 and you made it easy and simple. Fleetwood Mac never sounded better

[@Kpaceguy]

I appreciate the kind words. Thanks for watching

[@marcmenton8063]

my pleasure believe me

[@candoslayer]

thanks for the tips I love mt center since I upgraded made a world of difference. Went from a paradigm CC-450 to a Kef R6C which is paired with Kef R700's for the from the back are Mission LX MK2 which seem to be good eventually want to bring it all kef.

[@koolrunnings3135]

Thanks Kpace. You read my set-up curiosity as am about to set-up my first HT here in the tropics. My C-channel is the Polk S30, and I am currently breaking her back in until the other stuff arrives. I will follow these ideas by the book to get that good sound. Can you also direct me to who sells/a link to those subtle acoustic pads - they look living room friendly (coloured even better). My system will be a living room HT. Peace!!

[@dataliteuk]

Many thanks great video, with straightforward sensible tips. Have just upgraded my Q Acoustics 3500 floor standers to Q Acoustics 5040; the Q Acoustics 3090 centre channel now sounds relatively dull and muffled - so this is being replaced with one from the new series to tonally match.

[@vasanthabib1086]

You explained very well. It helps a lot to understand our av receiver. Thank you 👍

[@vks4392]

Thanks a lot for the info on the center channel right when I needed it. Appreciated Kevin. I am in the process of building my 2.1 setup with Wharfedale EVO 4.2 Speakers with EVO 4.C Center Channel. It has some excellent Reviews. I will post the video after I setup my 4k Projector. Thanks & Keep up the good work bro.

[@vincentseidle954]

I'm running with the 11 series wharfedale. Right now the 11.2 bookshelf speakers, getting the center channel here shortly. Just added the bic f12 sub. They around really good!

[@vks4392]

​@@vincentseidle954Wow you got the new Wharfedale Diamond 11.2's. I sure they sound great. Pls post some videos on youtube for us to hear. May I ask what AVR are you using ? I have Pioneer Adrew Jones with Sony AVR for my desktop and I love them. I am waiting for the ELAC Reference by Andrew Jones to be released hopefully this year. I heard great things about Subwoofers from RHYTMIK AUDIO with Direct Servo technology. Here are some links for you to check: www.rythmikaudio.com/ www.youtube.com/watch? v=iY8RerL4lBk kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWaxf517rKtredE kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIWQqIyJrt1_rLs www.youtube.com/watch? v=oOJ8q_MgUns kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqvFYWSjZ5xsi6M BEST OF LUCK !!!!

[@mohabandijany9579]

How do you find the evo 4c so far

[@Yatukih_001]

I bought 4 150 and 250 w speakers and might acquire a central channel speaker for 20 to 250 w amps. All 4 become one central speaker unit once arranged so they fit together as if they were 4 units tied to become one. A few days ago, a few experiments were suggested to test them. The end - result was sound effects not dissimilar to those in your video. Despite they are 150 and 250 watts if the volume is increased just a little the noise can drive any sane person to become crazier than a mask mandate supporter. A table with wheels is used to put them right in front of the computer monitor so the sound distribution is centralized. This is great for listening to things like dark ambient music.I guess, if acquired next Friday my central speaker will be quite heavy. Thanks for your video!!

[@crow9553]

Great advice. Thank you.

[@kabirbarry8142]

Still using a Polk CS400 I bought when I used to work at Circuit City and it's been great, but I do wonder if something like the SVS Ultra center would be that much better. Both have 6 1/2" drivers, but that's about where the similarities end. Also would work ok with my fronts which are Polk RTi70 towers. Definitely agree with center and subs being the main focus. I had a crappy old Klipsch sealed sub that could barely handle any volume and just couldn't keep up with my mid-grade system...then I got 2 PB2000s and that absolutely changed everything. Just every single thing I watched/played/listened to was so much better.

[@troystevens9506]

Sorry for the late reply on this Kabir. Don't buy the Svs Ultra center unless you plan on buying the Svs Prime, Pinnacle, Ultra towers or their bookshelf line for your left and right fronts for timbre matching. I'm in a similar but reversed situation than you. I bought a Polk S35 center because of the great reviews and the fact that it made a few best center speaker list. A few months later, I purchased a pair of Prime Pinnacles vs a pair of Polk towers to match. Didn't know about timbre matching or any of the other fancy terms that the stereo heads use. Now that I've finished my 7.2.4 system, I can hear the difference. The Polk is a good center, but it just can't keep up with the rest of the Svs stuff. Dialog and vocals are very clear but you can just tell that something is off. It literally sounds ever so slightly "weaker or softer" than the rest of its teammates. The average person will probably never notice it, but once you spend hours upon hours of listening to your system, it starts to stand out. Buy a matching set of speakers for the front and go Frankenstein on your rear and side surrounds (those are mainly for special effects anyway, not dialog). Not really sure about this one but I would probably stick to the same brand as the fronts for Atmos speakers also. I'm sure that you are enjoying the hell out of those 2 PB 2000's. Just got my second SB 3000 last week and I've been doing nothing but watching every special effects laden movie on repeat. Think I've watched Ready Player One and Godzilla King of Monsters 20 times apiece now. Those 2000's will dig deeper than my subs on those movies. Take care and enjoy.

[@victorjohnson8374]

I was having this problem too. But what I did was. Recalibrated the levels on my receiver. But I also did all channel equalization on my speakers. As opposed to separate channel equalization. It made a world of difference.

[@andrewcaithness9937]

All channel equalisation? I think I can only adjust one at a time ?

[@victorjohnson8374]

@@andrewcaithness9937 I can do both. But I prefer individual equalization.

[@lesmatthews459]

See - we don't need that Q&A video! You answered a bunch of questions right here!!

[@Kpaceguy]

Haha I'll probably still do one just for the fun of it

[@lesmatthews459]

@@Kpaceguy I'll be there for it!!!

[@Kpaceguy]

@@lesmatthews459 I'll probably announce a little video today and give everyone a week to gather there best questions

[@lesmatthews459]

@@Kpaceguy Looking forward to it!

[@jimmatt8005]

Kind of strange because I found everything you were saying about the center channel to be true to my specific experience. When setting up my system I encountered the exact issue you speak of. Losing dialogue. I agree with you to spend the best one can afford on the center channel and then tweak the numbers to what is appealing to the listener. In my opinion that is good strong advice. I found your video very interesting considering I am by no means a pro at this. That said I want you to know your knowledge is really appreciated. You kept it at an understandable level without all the technical fluff. Thanks for the pointers.

[@Kpaceguy]

I greatly appreciate it. Thank you

[@az958]

Gonna try that. Thanks for the tips.

[@TOONMAN200]

I love your video explains everything clearly, even I can understand it. I first bought my system consulting a audio technician, I thought he was give me the runaround, when he sold me 2,000.00 dollar center channel, I've been playing with audio for 60 years so I know the quality of a good speaker. He was right center channel is the center of activity and sound and should be of good quality. Also going into the settings and setting everything up properly was another benefit. A lot of people probably never heard of the speaker company that is only sold, at high end stores. It is a Leon the model number is not necessary because they build the speaker custom to your specifications, that's why it's so expensive. When you get it you have brackets that connect to your wall TV TV mounts. This leaves the speaker directly under the screen, exactly what should be, if you're interested I'm sure Leon has a website.

[@Kpaceguy]

I appreciate the kind words

[@TerminatorJuice]

Get a SPL Meter and set your speakers to "reference"(watch a YT vid if you don't know what that means) and then bump your Center channel up 1 or 2 db if you still feel it needs to be louder. TRUST ME THIS WILL BE THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME THEATER SOUND BESIDES ROOM ACOUSTICS!!!

[@bloodaxe0]

good point

[@larryhazelwood5491]

lllllllllllllllllllllllllll

[@davidstein9129]

Nice work. BRW, What type of accoustic panels are you using behind your center channel? They look like sound dispersion panels correct?

[@b.borrelli8688]

So very true and the center channel is typically disregarded or de-prioritized by so many. I always find it funny when some folks have massive expensive towers paired with a tiny cheap center. Thanks to your reviews and others feedback on forums just picked up a Canton Chrono-SL 556.2 center. Still breaking in, but sounding good so far. Another key to mention is always better to get a 2.5way or 3way center to minimize lobing/interference issues as standard 2way MtM center have those issues as you move off axis - Cheers man !

[@rico9391]

I purchased the SVS ultra center when I dad center channel issues with my former Pioneer Elite center speaker.

[@keepingupwiththejones2933]

So love that new intro 😍

[@Kpaceguy]

Pretty cool huh

[@mikerosales7265]

Best hints and tips help ever nice job thanks you great job

[@Kpaceguy]

Thank up for watching!

[@jameslamev]

Great information, made a good sound improvement.

[@homoerotic85]

Thanks for this video!

[@ryanrpm8424]

My ear level speakers are all the same floor standers, no center issues. I would recommend at least the from 3 being the same, preferably all 5. I also went the same line for my Atmos. All 9 speakers the same brand and line. Game changing.

[@Marc28031984]

Yes, it’s just satisfying when you watch a movie where the sound travels across all speakers and it doesn’t change in sound characteristic or frequency. It’s really a time consuming act to dial every speaker in with the EQ

[@ryanrpm8424]

All 5 floor speakers are identical. I agree that timber matching the same line but with different speaker models and sizes is good but not identica and not perfectl. However matching the same identical speakers on the floor being itentical sounds very clean across the MLP. I did a ton of testing with my specific set up and blind testing with a few people, everyone by far preferred the 5 speakers being the same.

[@ryanrpm8424]

@Mr Do absolutely. Unless you have done it, it's hard to understand how amazing it is. I don't have room for the extra 2 for sides to complete the 7.2.4. but all 5 are the same and the 4 Atmos speakers are the same line as the floors just the smaller version. Sounds great. I have a Rotel 5 channel (150 x 5 ) powering the 5. The receiver powering the Atmos for now. Will get an amp for them soon.

[@humanitysonlyhope]

I have the same Center Channel and towers as this guy and love them. Wish I could get the 816.2 wall mount speakers and a r - 800 Atmos speakers to match but they are out of stock.

[@andyfernandez93]

I saw you purchased the Phoenix Tesla screen for the accord. Do you honestly recommend it or does it have too many issues?

[@KASmonkeys]

Thanks! Spent the most amount of money on the my centre! 😀 Use quadratic diffusion behind and not dampening. Keep speaker as high as possible aimed at listeners.

[@bobjohnson6371]

Great info, well done. Thanks for posting it.

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for watching

[@bobjohnson6371]

@@Kpaceguy Took your advice on a quality center channel speaker. Didn't go top of the line, but bought a good mid priced speaker. What a difference, Great advice, thanks again.

[@edwinrijos6679]

great video man , it helped me alot

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for witching

[@Marc28031984]

Easy things, you’re right I’ve done the angle thing and did put a cloth under the speaker (helps reducing the first sound reflections) This already helped a lot. People were laughing at me in the past when I used tower speakers as my center 😅

[@CrashCarson14]

A tower speaker would work better. Centers are flat because of people’s furniture

[@chrisharford2610]

Thank you, learned a lot.

[@Kpaceguy]

No prob

[@photomusicman9413]

Fantastic video. Subscribed, thank you.

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for watching. Welcome to the crew

[@photomusicman9413]

@@Kpaceguy Thank you.

[@spacepope69]

the last 2 avrs that i owned have a setting to increase the dialog level, and it helps make a difference

[@leonar79]

Very helpful,thanks!

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for watching

[@garygray3834]

Great information thank you

[@SangramVID]

Great Job ..Bro Plz make video on only centre speaker EQ setting

[@markmitchelle9240]

Wow bro thank you so much for the video you just solve my problem I tried it and it fix my problem immediately I had been re-calibrating like crazy tweeking calibrations ready to buy a processor now I don’t have to be so desperate

[@Kpaceguy]

My pleasure

[@keyzone72]

Prior to watching this video, my center channel was horizontally level , sitting on top of my entertainment console. It was mostly facing my knees and midsection of my torso, when sitting in the main listening position. When I would "look" at the speaker, I easily saw the top surface of the speaker from my main listening position. As an experiment, I placed some household items underneath the front edge of my center channel. I angled it upward about 10 degrees, so now when I look at the center channel speaker, I see it straight on. I can no longer see the top surface of the speaker like I did before. Going back and watching a few movies, I was quite surprised at the difference this small adjustment made. Dialog sounds "crisper" and stands out much more than before. The higher frequencies coming out of the tweeter can be heard much more easily. Previously, I could always hear the dialog and for the most part, it sounded fine. But it also seemed to just "blend in" with the rest of the audio coming from the left and right channels. Now, the center channel audio stands out more. Not in an OMG "night and day" difference, but more of going from watching a movie with a solid and satisfying 1080P video image, to a much more noticeable improvement when watching the same movie, but now in 4K UHD. I now HIGHLY RECOMMEND angling up your center channel speaker if you can. I found that it really does make a noticeable difference.

[@Venomater2012]

What projector do you have? I'm thinking about getting one for a home theater setup. Great video by the way and I agree with you.

[@Kpaceguy]

Optoma uhd51alv

[@joekropp6155]

I have the same three speakers for left right and center all horizontal. There are several articles on why this provides superior sound even over much more expensive speakers when the center channel is not identical. Have you ever listened to speakers set up this way?

[@Kpaceguy]

No but I understand their benefits. I just don't have the room for that at the moment

[@alexgarza6195]

Great tip

[@astuteness]

Great Job , excellent info.

[@Kpaceguy]

Thanks for watching

[@astuteness]

Can you do reviews on ust projectors@@Kpaceguy

[@ganesang5537]

I deliberately swapped out my MTM center channel speaker for a bookshelf speaker that's brighter beyond 4khz and I've never had to fiddle with volume control. Perceptibly timbre matched, if not intrinsically. 🤔😎

[@gowthammahalingam7991]

Hi I'm using ACOUSTIC ENERGY AEGIS EVO CENTRE SPEAKER with marantz 5300. The problem is voice (mid) are come from left driver and I can't hear any voice from right driver of centre channel. Only low frequency bass come from right driver. Is there any way to check centre middrives and tweeter working fine ?

[@ICP1SBJ]

Thanks for this info. I just bought a new center channel because the Pork TL1 with two 2.5" drivers and a half-inch tweeter isn't cutting it. I bought the Polk S35 with six 4" drivers and a 1" tweeter. I have a Pork 12" powered sub. I will use these tricks to set it up when it comes in tomorrow on my Yamaha receiver. I will upgrade the front speakers in time but my biggest complaint is the center channel.

[@kellywilliamson2187]

Pork??

[@ICP1SBJ]

@@kellywilliamson2187 dumb smartphones autocorrect. Polk Audio haha

[@jennermcdougall133]

What changed my sound was pulling the curtain back in the frequency response on the audyssey app ( i recommend spending the 20 dollars it is worth it)for my Denon x4500 h ( audiholics recommended around 500khz) I also aimed the tweeter towards my listening position ( the speaker is on top of the tv) and those tips do work. You would be surprised what a difference it made. I did not have to raise the bd level either but all my ear level speakers are a match the Polk audio LCI -RTS 105 thx select 2 speakers. For being from 2006 they just have such amazing sound quality and I think I would have them resurfaced and repaired when they stop working correctly, they are that good and I would love to continue using them for an even longer period of time. I love the tips you provide and stay safe KPace!

[@koolrunnings3135]

@Jenner Mcdougal - yeah, saw that curtain restriction too. Is it really 50khx though? As if I recall 300 khz.

[@jennermcdougall133]

Sorry it was up to 500 klhz that is the correct setting thanks you for correcting me.

[@koolrunnings3135]

@@jennermcdougall133 Kool bro. We here to support each other. I am looking at buying the X4500 this BF. Good stuff??

[@jennermcdougall133]

I have been extremely happy with the Denon x4500 h but I will tell you that the sound processing seemed average out of the box with the built in xt32 Adyssey. I used the app on my Apple I-pad and ran the calibration with a tri-pod and it was not just more accurate but made the difference in sound. I also have an Outlaw 5- channel amp for my ear level speakers and the receiver only runs my atmos. For music and movies I really like the headroom an amp gives you and I think that also makes a difference. ( the Outlaw 5000 is reasonably priced and performs ) I hope you can hear the difference with these tips like I have and just adds to the enjoyment of your system.

[@koolrunnings3135]

@@jennermcdougall133 Niceeeee! Advice taken. Can I pick up with you on these next month when the rest of the equipment arrives (esp. receiver)?? Will get the app too. Looking for a used outlaw 5000 due to budget constraints (even if it's the old version w/o the XLR). Spent most on speakers. Stay Kool!!

[@Bobklijn]

Very informative video! For my center channel I use an old, relatively small B&W DM103. Fortunately, it's a small beast which seems to overperform its specs (sorry for my English at some point being a dutch citizen). It has naturally a great clarity and it's easily the best center speaker I've ever had, despite for not being designed as a regular center speaker with horizontally alligned drivers. And this is where it becomes interesting for me: Have you maybe something to say about this? I'm beginning to doubt now if it is whether or not better to choose a speaker with "normal" vertical driver design, also for instance to have a better allignment with the tweeters of the front channels? Some additional info about my setup: Denon AVR 4310 receiver Infinity Delta 70 front L+R (usage full range without having a subwoofer) B&W DM103 center speaker (crossovered at 80 hz) Sony "crappy-no-need-to-mention-even-model" type sattelites (soon te be upgraded to Infinity delta 30) as surround L+R (crossovered by Auddyssey to 250 hz, which says enough, lol) I don't plan on any subwoofer for practical reasons in my living room. For my current room situation this setup this works very well for me. After watching your video I will try to place my center speaker up front instead of lying on its left side, so the tweeter will go up. Maybe this will improve some minor lower range reinforcement on my center channel, for this will reduce the amount of fysical contact with my cabinet where it is placed upon.. I have my Samsung TV installed with the foot on top of my speaker, so the screen will then be lifted some 7 cm higher, so that will be a little disadvantage, but maybe that's not a big problem. A I said, thanks for the video, I will subscribe to your channel and hopefully watch some more of this interesting content.

[@Kpaceguy]

You don't necessarily need a dedicated center channel with horizontal orientation. Most people actually suggest using 3 of the same speakers for the left center and right channel but that's not always possible. Having it aligned with the fronts tweeters is more ideal because like you said it raises all the tweeters to the Same height and improves clarity and detail.

[@Bobklijn]

@@Kpaceguy That's right. In this particular case I was facing the dilemma of whether or not upgrading my B&W center to an Infinity Center model of the same brand as my fronts. That particular center speaker is of course a regular type horizontally alligned driver type. Well, now I would rather stick with my B&W, because of 2 reasons: 1. Its natural admirebaly good performance regarding its size and specs 2. With a horizontally alligned type I will thus nog get the advantage of tweeter allignment. p.s. I just did repositon my center, now listening. Tonight I will be re-running Audyssey to adjust for this. edit: None of any regular center speaker type I used in the past did live up to my current one. So experience also colours my observations obviously

[@Kpaceguy]

@@Bobklijn I'd definitely run the same brand of speakers if you can. Sound quality wise you can definitely hear a difference

[@Bobklijn]

@@Kpaceguy ok, thanks. This helps me out. I think I will try to get hold of a Infinity Delta type on the second hand market to try out.

[@eddie9201]

Best way to increase the center speaker sound is to hook it up to a separate subwoofer. One with input output connectors on it. Did mine and it's so satisfying. Give it a try and you'll be amazed at the result.

[@MrYamaha413]

i just simply added 1 more center channel speaker with some space between them with great results

[@chrisohrling149]

Thank you for the information and I'm having trouble with my home theater system as I don't have a auddessy mic at all and I really need one for my receiver as the receiver didn't come with the auddessy mic and I really honestly need to buy a auddessy mic for my home theater system and I bought my receiver second hand and I think I'm just going to buy a new receiver brand new and not second hand buys anymore

[@djx-factor992]

Very informative video. Thank you. What are your thoughts on running dual center channels?

[@Kpaceguy]

There's no need. Unless you have a big room with several seats across the width of the room, it's unnecessary. One center will be enough if you chose the right setup

[@djx-factor992]

@@Kpaceguy Alright. Thank you.

[@andramachespapa6143]

Wouldn't you have a much better dispersion and pairing BY raising that center up a foot to match the height of your towers and ear?

[@rico9391]

I just bump up the channel level.

[@bullpup33]

I am running 4.1 and removed the center from avr. Works for me,ut ymmv.

[@Chase1297]

I calibrate my set up so that all the speakers are the same volume but inevitably I end up cranking up the center and ussualy cooling off my surrounds a bit to make them disappear more opposed to standing out and breaking the immersion

[@andysummersthxcinemaandmyc7748]

You see the movie backdraft, where the kurt russell character says. "you doing it wrong" well your doing it wrong. The LCR must be matched the same there is no if, but, debate or vote about it. The same. And besides it's a lot more besides just using some cheap autoEQ as I been to some of the best substandard cinemas and thee exceptionally best THX cinemas and worked projection at UCI and Warner Bros. Doing EQ for ths speakers so they have the same characteristic sound in the 2-way bass the HF horn cos I am talking HF horn though to 2 or 3-way surround channels that must have characteristic tone doesn't take 15 mins with an autoEQ, it can take days to EQ tune it all and the sub bass as well. I doubt you notice any dialog panning? Getting the speakers correct so you hear the half-pans correct and smoothly though LCR and often into the surround channel, takes a lot more than just, adjusting the levels on an AVR even if speakers are all the same it still takes days to EQ tune it all cos the speakers are in physical different space when spread apart from one another. You need to EQ tune Manually EQ there is no, if, but debat or vote about it, Manual EQ tuning is a slow process. autoEQ is for those that are in a hurry and that is when it doesn't sound good. You need cinema PA speakers, JBL professional holds 85% of the cinema market, way it looks now cinema is now, Done In. So ebay look for some used JBL professional LCR matched then get the surrounds often cheap then the subs and lots of microphones boom-stands cables - download REW or TrueRTA level 5, and take several days to EQ tune it all Manually. Please don't talk autoEQ with me I don't even use it on my Denon AVC-X8500H it's waste of time cos you can't pause it and check the tuning over while using it you, have to wait 15 mins for it to finish and the results will be not all that good.

[@totalplonker824]

Considering my centre channel is in a cabinet (g acoustics 3090) the dialogue is exactly like you say a little muffled! That's why my new upgraded choice is gonna be the DALI OPTICON VOKAL with the front facing ports, perfect for my cabinet!

[@aljr111955]

Make sure the center speaker is moved up as close to the front of the cabinet as you can. Next angle the the speaker if you can upward toward your ears. You may have already tried this. I did it and it made a significant difference.

[@totalplonker824]

@@aljr111955 thank you for your advice but i use these methods plus removing the grills helped even a little bit more! Unfortunately due to size constraints (click on the red dragon to view) Iam limited in my choice of centre channel! I've been suffering from a ground loop for the whole of this pandemic! 🤪 Fucking thing, took me 6 months to diagnose the little bastard! But anyway now i know who the culprit is, I'm hoping it's only a matter of time before I nip it in the butt! So I'm able to get back on track with my HDA full Atmos upgrade! GOOD LOOKING OUT !

[@aljr111955]

@@totalplonker824 You're welcome.

[@MrFOODFELIX]

What is the best Center canal speaker for tv

[@turbofox1980]

Great advice kpaceguy! I have a question, My center channel is rated at 96db at 1 meter. I sit at about 3 meters from the speaker. Using an spl app, I sat at my usual spot and set the volume on my amp to a comfortable level (40) . Then with the spl app, I used the manual settings on the amp to get the speaker to 96db. I had to bump it up +5. I did it with the L&R as well. Does that sound extreme? It’s klipsch rf series lcr.

[@Kpaceguy]

That's just a measurement of its power efficiency. So its probably 96db at 1 meter at 1 watt.

[@danielwander605]

A big issue with dialogue is reflections. A lot of times people cant hear the dialogue clearly due to cancellations within their room. Then they boost the volume or trim level, but that just makes it louder with less clarity. Proper acoustic panels placed in the right locations can go a long way to help with dialogue clarity.

[@raulzeke7550]

Sorry to be so off topic but does anybody know of a method to log back into an instagram account? I was stupid lost the login password. I love any tricks you can give me

[@graysonbeckett2305]

@Raul Zeke instablaster :)

[@markosadam1697]

Hello all. I would appreciate some helo here. I have fl and fr klipsch r51m . I want to bu the cs and i really desire tha rp500c. I know the rp is superior than the reference series. Will this difference unstable my system with bad outcome or you think its fine?

[@jacobsteele7138]

When trying to get good dialogue then make sure the sound from each speaker is hitting your ears at the same time and deal with first reflections. Diffuse or eliminate them. Just my opinion.

[@gregmartinez5836]

Add a little sub to your center speaker, make it so you can turn sub on and off as you feel fit. To give a little more body, chest.

[@rindershow212]

How would this be done?

[@anjjusista75]

Hi, This was very informative. I have polk csi center channel. I cannot understand the dailouge and always hop from one cinema DSP to another one. Please advice.

[@Kpaceguy]

All my advice is in this video

[@Natejeezy]

I just pieced together my first real home theater system and I'm curious to know what those pads behind your setup are for? Do you feel they're beneficial? If so I'll buy some for my setup. Thanks.

[@Kpaceguy]

Acoustic panels. Highly beneficial. Cuts down on reverb (echo) in the room. Tightens the sound

[@Natejeezy]

@@Kpaceguy Thanks for the quick reply! Which ones do you have?

[@Kpaceguy]

@@Natejeezy go to Amazon and type acoustic panels. Lots of them on there that do the same thing. Different designs and colors to fit your room

[@chrismonterubio9475]

You can clear up the muddiness by getting rid of the acoustic panels from behind your speakers, and actually place them on the walls where the sound reflects to.

[@Kpaceguy]

I personally don't have any muddiness

[@evenaicantfigurethisout]

If I was on a super budget, will a 1.1 system work? Just center and sub. What will that sound like vs a 3.1?

[@Kpaceguy]

You should just get a sound bar at that point

[@ccheg.v.6407]

I got a klipsch RC-64 iii with my Yamaha rx-a1080 I’m thinking of getting an osd nero xa5180 class H to help my center channel is there a setting in the osd amp to adjust volume or other settings to the speaker or speakers?? 🤷

[@Kpaceguy]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJm0oq2ihMx4p9U

[@stevenmcgautha7986]

I have sony core CS5 for L/R rear L/R and atmos speakers but I have the sony core CS8 center channel and it seems to be lacking in the dialog area, what do you recommend I should do to help that? Change center channel?, and if so to what to blend well with rest of system. Or should I get one CS5?, or two CS5 and run them as one? Etc.? Help pls. P.S. I really like the sound of the sony CS5 speakers, thanks!

[@Kpaceguy]

Boosting the volume on the center or turning all the other speakers Down a little can help

[@MichaelLHill-fd3kw]

So I was wondering if you think that the center channel speaker will have a better performance at 200hz instead of the normal 80hz because I have read many professional installers don't recommend that the center should be lower than 200hz ?

[@Kpaceguy]

I highly disagree. A professional installer is not a professional calibrator

[@vitalie787]

I have front b&w 603 and rear b&w 606 ( got them on a good deal) can I add a different brand Center channel speaker? ( thinking Monitor Audio Bronze Center) really don't have money for a matching Bowers and wilkins htm6 Center channel speaker!

[@bullpup33]

Ill sell you cdm nt for dirt cheap.

[@frankeezee]

Kpaceguy. I have a dilema and would like your opinion. I have a descent center channel, Klipsch RP-504C. I am trying to decide what to upgrade next. I have a SVS 2000 Pro sub and trying to decide if to get a second 2000pro or upgrade my L/F from Klipsch R28F TO Klipsch RP8000F. Your thoughts?

[@Kpaceguy]

Go for the rp8000f. Then the center. Then go dual subs the very moment you can

[@GeorgePonchuk]

have a good center speaker inside a cabinet. when bass is loud i get vibration. i think it is the bass port of my polk center speaker. any suggestion to make it better, do i sound insulate the center speaker? what can i do about the bass port. I can't put the center speaker out by it self since the the tv sits on the cabinet

[@Kpaceguy]

Put the center on Isolation pads/ feet

[@13bcoffee]

I struggled with the center dialog on several of my systems. Here are a few more tricks that are worth trying ... After running your calibration program move the center speaker forward a little perhaps to 12 inches. That will make it more dominant. Or try pointing your front mains straight ahead. If you have a center speaker do not angle them inward towards the listener. Another more radical but often effective thing to do is to get rid of the center speaker! Run a 2.1 system which is two fronts and a sub. In this case you will angle your main speakers inward somewhat which with good speakers will create a phantom center speaker. On really tall big screens the center speaker often gets placed close to the floor at something like 18 inches. It's now aimed at the listeners knees. The key to all of these suggestions is to experiment and find out what works best. In my living room HT I use a center on an 80 inch screen. In my basement I use a 2.1 setup with a 120 inch screen which is huge in this small room Both systems sound impressive ....

[@Kpaceguy]

What you're doing is called "phantom center" or many many many other names that means when you sit in the center of the left and right speaker you get a stereo image that sounds like the voices are coming from the "center"

[@JamesLevineAndSons]

If your center speaker was behind a screen, would you notch eq for any frequencies that might be dampened by the screen?

[@Kpaceguy]

No none at all I've tested it already

[@velocci6666]

Excellent video

[@Kpaceguy]

I appreciate it

[@ValNanovsky]

While with stereo music mixing is pretty consistent from one album to another, every movie is mixed differently. That means that it should be approached from that perspective. In professional sound mixing volume boosting is a rookie mistake - because in that realm, it's always about subtraction, not about addition. That being said, it is much more important to make your speakers sound their BEST, and even more importantly, consistent between each other. That's how you can get closer to what the tone engineer was hearing in the mixing room and how the movie was supposed to be heard. How does that work? 1. Make sure the woofers of ALL your front speakers are of equal or similar size (i.e. the center speaker's woofers match those of the main speakers). Make sure you get speakers are from the same manufacturer and the same product line. 2. Set all your speakers to "small". This way there is much better separation of frequencies and the low freqs go where they belong - to the sub - without muddying up the rest of the sound. 3. Make sure you experiment with crossovers. While 80Hz is the THX standard, in my humble opinion, every speaker sounds best at its own crossover frequency. Crossover acts as a kind of EQ, so it takes quite a bit of experimenting, trial and error before dialing in your best sound. 4. Some might frown at this (it takes away from the dynamics), but if nothing else helps so far, the solution to muddy speech might be dynamic compression - it definitely works in my case. And your neighbors will love you for not knocking down the entire building with your mighty sub. Many movies are mixed with speech levels which are simply way too low under the effects level. By applying some compression to even out the lows and the highs in volume, speech gets boosted and much more audible. Try it. You'll be surprised.

[@topdog9007]

Great video and I hear you brah, but let me ask you . How important is the center channel?

[@Kpaceguy]

Most important in the system

[@danedes9297]

Wharfedale Jade C1 center speaker. Close to the wall, but back ports damped.

[@joelane4670]

I have a fairly new one prime center channel.. question. do you think 80 Hz is too low? because it is a powerful speaker with fairly good size woofers.I moved it up to 100 Hz just to take some of the booming is out of it. What do you think?

[@Kpaceguy]

It's capable of handing as low as 60hz but choose what sounds best. 100hz seems high

[@monroethegreat7539]

My Definitive technology system just came in yesterday, I have 2 BP9060 towers and the Cs9060 center speaker, I love the Bp9060s but not so happy with the Cs9060 center channel, I heard the Focal Chora center speaker and love it do you think I can get away with using the Focal Chora center speaker with the BP9060 towers?

[@Kpaceguy]

Nope. You'll like it. But it'll always sound different than everything else

[@monroethegreat7539]

@@Kpaceguy Thanks but now am thinking of keeping the cs9060, After watching this video the adjustments worked, Now I can hear everything crystal clear

[@Kpaceguy]

@@monroethegreat7539 that would be ideal

[@monroethegreat7539]

I just ordered the Definitely technology Cs9080 Center Speaker, That Center Speaker is know for its 8" built in subwoofer, But I already have 2 Svs Subwoofers, Should I run the CS 9080 Center Speaker Small or Large to take advantage of the Subwoofer?

[@Kpaceguy]

Small and cross it over lower than normal

[@monroethegreat7539]

@@Kpaceguy Got it thanks

[@kensky2508]

I can hear my center speaker very well, but it sounds a bit like coming from an old radio. Any advise.

[@Kpaceguy]

Most of the advice I'd give is in this video. If you can, try EQ-ing the center channel frequencies in your avr

[@charlesmarchiano9531]

Is it possible to connect a sound bar as a center channel speaker?

[@Kpaceguy]

There's always "a way"

[@randomweirdyoutubechannel8955]

luckily this isnt a problem as i just use multi channel stereo for music

[@pabloseefoo4809]

Most people are against 5.1 sound for music, I like it better than stereo

[@jazzman9469]

Hello, thank you for the video. Question, I just setup a 5.1 system in my bedroom (11x11') which includes; Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Ch AVR, Bose Acoustimass 5.1 and Samsung 55" 4k TV. After running Audyssey 3 different times, I still have the back surrounds appearing louder than the front. This is what Audyssey setup found. Center 80hz small 9.2 ft -6.5 db L & R 80hz small 9.0 ft -6.5 db Surr 80hz small 7 ft -5.0 db Sub 24 ft (how? when the room is only 11 ft) -10.0 db I am not too familiar with sound correction so any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

[@Kpaceguy]

Your surrounds sound louder because they are. You can either lower then to match the center and l&r or you can raise the center and L&R. Your sub says 24ft to make up for any delays the mic has detected. Leave it there

[@jazzman9469]

@@Kpaceguy Thank you, but how to I lower the surrounds? Do I increase the minus (-) number? Example: If they are at -5.0 db, do I make them -7 db perhaps?

[@Kpaceguy]

@@jazzman9469 correct

[@jazzman9469]

@@Kpaceguy Got it. Now it sounds much better. I appreciate your support.

[@Kpaceguy]

@@jazzman9469 no prob

[@RC-qc2nz]

As a German myself I recognize your canton center channel and I appreciate it. Is canton in your country known?

[@Kpaceguy]

Our country is highly unaware of canton! You can't find hardly any content on them here in America. All websites are German websites translated to English but we really don't have anyone who sells them or speaks about them

[@RC-qc2nz]

@@Kpaceguy I have friends in the audio community here in Germany. We are also audio enthusiasts and build good speakers and headphones and audio stuff. Nice to see someone from America which uses canton. Greetings from Germany and cheers 😉🍻

[@Kpaceguy]

@@RC-qc2nz its a pleasure to meet you! Thanks for watching

[@Marc28031984]

Canton is awesome They’re from a city I live next to Timeless style and good quality

[@rolandrohde]

Indeed. I am running a Canton 7.2.4 system (though my subs are not Canton) and it is great. My Mains are the Canton B100 with the matching Center. I must admit that the Center doesn't quite perform on the same level as the Floorstanders though... especially without the Audyssey correction. It's not the Volume or intelligibility that's an issue, but somehow the Tone of the Speaker itself. Maybe because it's a 3Way design lying in it's side. I don't have a huge issue with it, but if there is one Speaker I will be fiddling with in the future it will likely be the Center.

[@acealbertouano]

Hi bro. Can I get a different model center channel? Like I have this Wharfedale 11.3 fronts, the center channel for that same series isn't available, worst was phsed out. What will be my alternative? Should I get a B&W or Klipsch? or is it necessary to get from the same brand?

[@Kpaceguy]

It's better to try and have them the same brand and model

[@vincentseidle954]

Wharfedale has the 11 series center channel on Amazon for 199

[@zatara5299]

kpaceguy where did you buy those acoustic panels?

[@Kpaceguy]

smile.amazon.com/dp/B01BPS89BM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_tzPVFb9MP793W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

[@zatara5299]

Thanks

[@StarcraftGT500]

What stand are you using for your center?

[@Kpaceguy]

No idea. Off Amazon

[@walrusgumbootable]

What’s up man Beautiful equipment

[@Kpaceguy]

What's up. I appreciate it

[@theedgeofbreakup5192]

I’ve been told you should buy 3 matching speakers for a 3.1 system. Is that correct?

[@Kpaceguy]

Correct

[@theedgeofbreakup5192]

When I said matching, I mean all 3 speakers are the same and no speaker’s labeled use is center channel. Thx. I enjoy your channel.

[@Kpaceguy]

@@theedgeofbreakup5192 yes called lcr speakers

[@giotrrs]

Should I turn on the dynamic EQ in audyssey settings? The surround sounds getting loud if i turn it on.

[@Kpaceguy]

You can turn it on if you like. If you find it makes the surround too loud you can adjust it in the settings under "level"

[@giotrrs]

how bout you sir did you turn it on?

[@Kpaceguy]

I have mine off.

[@kuriakos36]

Hey man what is your center speakers and can i take for example this different speaker with my q acoustics 3050i speakers or i have to take the shame series centre chanell ?? Please help me man 🙏

[@Kpaceguy]

Canton vento 866.2. Don't mismatch your front three speakers

[@kuriakos36]

@@Kpaceguy so what centre speaker i have to take 3090ci or concept center speaker wich one is better quality?🤔

[@Kpaceguy]

@@kuriakos36 buy the one that's in the same model family as your front speakers

[@kuriakos36]

@@Kpaceguy hmm.. i got this 🙂

[@justinbyrne5736]

With blurays the dialogue is low but using a 4k Firestick and watching from Netflix & Prime Video, l find the dialogue is pretty loud and clear enough

[@Chase1297]

Yeah that's the shitty thing about blu-ray. Fantastic bit rate and audio quality but the dynamic range just feels way to crazy compared to compressed sources like Netflix

[@djradman6794]

Very nice!! What movie is playing?

[@djradman6794]

What movie is playing on this demo?

[@lgmnowkondo938]

and you can make it even better by orienting your center speaker vertically...yes...it's better. And, don't spend MORE on a center..instead, strive for identical speakers in the front LCR. That's when it can become magical. And if you have a smaller tv with speakers to the left and right of the screen, try it with NO center channel...it will likely be better.

[@stevenrodriguez9655]

Can you help me to determine whether to set my klipsch reference premier stuff to small or large? I’ve got 280f towers, a 540c center, surrounds and heights,

[@Kpaceguy]

Small and set the crossover that best fits for you

[@stevenrodriguez9655]

@@Kpaceguy I just discovered your channel. Instant sub man and thanks for replying on an older video. I have an SVS PB1000 pro subwoofer if that helps as far as choosing a crossover. Do you recommend putting acoustic panels behind my center and channels like you’ve got there?

[@stevenrodriguez9655]

Center and towers ***

[@Kpaceguy]

@Steven Rodriguez I recommend panels in more places than just behind the center. Multiple placement of panels will have an affect but just one behind the center won't do much of anything for you. You want to treat walls that are more into the room