Sherwood and Welling 5.1 (or Alternatives?) <$1500

Waldo · 23rd August 2004, 2:04 PM

Hey all.
I'm in need for a new set of speakers to hook up to the PC.
I've considered the Logitech Z-680's but have heard mixed reports. I'm thinking I'm better off spending more (even if it is three times more) and getting something that will A) last the test of time, B) produce better sound quality and C) is upgradable for the future.

The system will be used about 65% for trance/dance music and 35% movies.

Recently I've had this bought to my attention:
'Sherwood & Welling Surround System'
- Sherwood RD-6105 5.1 Channel (100 Watts X 5 into 6 Ohms).
- Matching DVD Player.
- Welling 8283 main speakers (120 Watt floor standers with 2 X 8" woofers, 4" midrange and 1" dome tweeter).
- Matching Centre and Bookshelf Surrounds
- 10" 100 Watt Subwoofer.
Also includes all cables for wiring it up, plus estimated freight cost to me for about $1400ish in total.

I've looked at theloudspeakerkit prices and they do seem good for what you get, but would probably end up more expensive than the above.

Now I know this won't be as good as a Marantz/Krix $3000 setup (my personal favourite combo I've auditioned) and it will probably sound a bit average when compared to other loudspeaker setups, BUT is there an A/V Receiver, DVD Player (not really required, but a good bonus) and full 5.1 speaker setup which is worth looking at for comparable money (under $1500)?

I would LOVE to audition these, but simply can't. There's only Harvey norman that have similar brands (but not the same AFAIK).

To this end, has anyone heard the Sherwood receivers or Welling speakers? What 'kind' of sound could I expect?

Any opinions/help appreciated!!!

xplod140 · 24th August 2004, 11:41 AM

I used to sell that exact same setup a year or so ago when I worked in retail. It's not too bad for the money you are paying.
The speakers are a bit muddy (hell what isn't at that price) and the amp won't go to volume levels that actually hury your ears. The amp produces very little distortion when wound right up too. The DVD player is equal to say your $149 LG/SAMSUNG cheapo but it plays so hey, no big loss. You may want to go for a better sub. No matter what amp I rigged Welling sub's up to (12" and 10" variants) the drivers just bottom out so quickly you may as well just use the floorstanders insted. The subs are really weak sounding as well, no real depth to them at all.

Well that's all I can think of right now.

Waldo · 24th August 2004, 1:26 PM

Thanks for the reply Xplod. It's excellent to hear from someone who has used the setup!

I've thought of one third option, which would take a few extra months to setup and cost a good bit more in the end but be more rewarding ultimately...
I could get a Marantz amp and a set of Krix bookshelfs in a month or two, then a month or two after that a set of floor standers, then a centre, then a sub if needed.
I know this would ultimately make a better system, the main reason I'm considering the Welling/Sherwood setup is the price and the fact I could have a full 5.1 setup within a month, not three-six. Currently I have a 5.1 setup made up of three different computer speakers (oh dear...) and the sub has just died. I'm officially bassless and everything sounds crap.

At the moment I'm toying with the Marantz/Krix bit by bit idea, as I would eventually end up with a system I love, rather than one I'd be generally satisfied with.

Thanks again for the post mate. Appreciated.
Cheers.

mavric41 · 24th August 2004, 11:00 PM

Go for your Marantz/Krix idea. Whats a couple of months when compared to years of listening pleasure. I waited and don't regret it.

samos · 24th August 2004, 11:56 PM

I'm in the same boat as Waldo. Considering getting the Z680's then I thought "maybe I'll get some bookshelf speakers like everyones raving on about"

I've only got $500 to play with atm, I'd have them connected to my PC for music/movies, but if I wanted to, I'd also like to connect them up to my TV.

Regarding amps/subs etc etc, I assume they're all upgradable in the future, though I'm not sure what I need to get started. Currently set up with 2.1 altec lansing PC speakers which were $100 and served me well. I just want something with a bit more kick when doing some cardio (skipping etc) at home

xplod140 · 25th August 2004, 12:42 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by samos
I'm in the same boat as Waldo. Considering getting the Z680's then I thought "maybe I'll get some bookshelf speakers like everyones raving on about"

I've only got $500 to play with atm, I'd have them connected to my PC for music/movies, but if I wanted to, I'd also like to connect them up to my TV.

Regarding amps/subs etc etc, I assume they're all upgradable in the future, though I'm not sure what I need to get started. Currently set up with 2.1 altec lansing PC speakers which were $100 and served me well. I just want something with a bit more kick when doing some cardio (skipping etc) at home

Eeeek! I will never buy another set of computer speakers as long as I live. There is no comparison when you listen to a decent Micro system or Amp/Bookshelf system.

I know there is a price diff but it's really worth the extra money when you hear them in your home.

Waldo · 25th August 2004, 7:47 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mavric41
Go for your Marantz/Krix idea. Whats a couple of months when compared to years of listening pleasure. I waited and don't regret it.

Sweeeeeeet.

I'll be in Hawthorn late October for a week of training and I'm pretty sure there's a JB HiFi a short taxi ride from where I'm staying. I'm also fairly sure they're open till about 6-7PM?
Do JB sell Marantz and/or Krix? I hear JB are among the cheapest places to buy things and we don't have one in Tassie.

Thanks for posting guys.

samos · 25th August 2004, 9:36 AM

Yeah I might head down to JB but I have NFI what to look out for. What should I start off with for $500? I'm a total newb when it comes to audio.

*PS. Sorry for posting in your thread Waldo, I just figured making a new one would be pointless as I'm basically on the same track as you

Waldo · 25th August 2004, 9:52 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by samos
*PS. Sorry for posting in your thread Waldo, I just figured making a new one would be pointless as I'm basically on the same track as you

Mate! No worries!
Free bumps all round and we are in the same boat.

xplod140 · 25th August 2004, 10:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by samos
Yeah I might head down to JB but I have NFI what to look out for. What should I start off with for $500? I'm a total newb when it comes to audio.

*PS. Sorry for posting in your thread Waldo, I just figured making a new one would be pointless as I'm basically on the same track as you

Start with the DVD player for a bit less than that ($200-300). Something with progressive scan and Or save your $500 for a better amp and speakers. You might get an amp for that price but it would be very base model Like a JVC/SONY/PANASONIC type unit with 10% THD

For that kind of money you might also pick up a set of bookshelf speakers that you can use as rears later on.

samos · 25th August 2004, 10:27 AM

I've got a DVD player (both in my PC and a proper DVD player connected to the TV)

These setups cost a shitload don't they? Maybe the 680's are for me then, lol.

DJ Fusion · 25th August 2004, 6:27 PM

Waldo, I'm not sure if I'll get in trouble for this, but I'm selling a 5.1 speaker package which you might be interested in.

Check it here:

http://forums.overclockers.com.au/sh...hreadid=291042

Or if you dont have access to that forum yet let me know, its basically a Mission floorstanders, bipolar rears and M&K 12" sub combo which is slowly destroying the structure of my home and needs to be downgraded.

Cheers,

DJ.

Waldo · 25th August 2004, 9:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DJ Fusion
Waldo, I'm not sure if I'll get in trouble for this, but I'm selling a 5.1 speaker package which you might be interested in.

Check it here:

http://forums.overclockers.com.au/sh...hreadid=291042

Or if you dont have access to that forum yet let me know, its basically a Mission floorstanders, bipolar rears and M&K 12" sub combo which is slowly destroying the structure of my home and needs to be downgraded.

Cheers,

DJ.

Mate, I certainly hope you don't get into trouble. It's still on topic as it shows that you can get better second hand equipment for that price point.

Looks like a very nice system and if you lived anywhere in Tasmania I'd give it some real consideration (and an audition!).

I'm not 100% sure if I've tested the Mission speakers and if I did I don't remember what the sound was like (it's been a while since auditioning).
I also hadn't considered Bipoles either. What's the advantage of them? They could suit my room better than bookshelfs looking at the pics in that thread...
I'll do some research over the coming days and PM/Post back here, or possibly in your other thread.

Cheers.

View Poll Results: Good enough deal or could do better?
Yes, Go for it	2	28.57%
No, Could do better.	5	71.43%
Voters: 7. You may not vote on this poll

23rd August 2004, 2:04 PM	#1
Waldo Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Tasmania Posts: 378	Sherwood and Welling 5.1 (or Alternatives?) <$1500 Hey all. I'm in need for a new set of speakers to hook up to the PC. I've considered the Logitech Z-680's but have heard mixed reports. I'm thinking I'm better off spending more (even if it is three times more) and getting something that will A) last the test of time, B) produce better sound quality and C) is upgradable for the future. The system will be used about 65% for trance/dance music and 35% movies. Recently I've had this bought to my attention: 'Sherwood & Welling Surround System' - Sherwood RD-6105 5.1 Channel (100 Watts X 5 into 6 Ohms). - Matching DVD Player. - Welling 8283 main speakers (120 Watt floor standers with 2 X 8" woofers, 4" midrange and 1" dome tweeter). - Matching Centre and Bookshelf Surrounds - 10" 100 Watt Subwoofer. Also includes all cables for wiring it up, plus estimated freight cost to me for about $1400ish in total. I've looked at theloudspeakerkit prices and they do seem good for what you get, but would probably end up more expensive than the above. Now I know this won't be as good as a Marantz/Krix $3000 setup (my personal favourite combo I've auditioned) and it will probably sound a bit average when compared to other loudspeaker setups, BUT is there an A/V Receiver, DVD Player (not really required, but a good bonus) and full 5.1 speaker setup which is worth looking at for comparable money (under $1500)? I would LOVE to audition these, but simply can't. There's only Harvey norman that have similar brands (but not the same AFAIK). To this end, has anyone heard the Sherwood receivers or Welling speakers? What 'kind' of sound could I expect? Any opinions/help appreciated!!! __________________ Components: Intel Q9550 \| Asus Maximus II Formula \| Corsair Dominator 1066Mhz 4GB DDR2 \| Asus HD4870X2 \| Zalman 1KW PSU \| Lian Li PC-A77 (internal respray in satin black) Cooling: Laing D5 Vario \| Apogee GT (CPU) \| EK 4870X2 Block (acetal) \| Feser 360mm & Feser 120mm radiators (both internal) \| Feser ONE Coolant

24th August 2004, 11:41 AM	#2
xplod140 Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Melbournia Posts: 3,365	I used to sell that exact same setup a year or so ago when I worked in retail. It's not too bad for the money you are paying. The speakers are a bit muddy (hell what isn't at that price) and the amp won't go to volume levels that actually hury your ears. The amp produces very little distortion when wound right up too. The DVD player is equal to say your $149 LG/SAMSUNG cheapo but it plays so hey, no big loss. You may want to go for a better sub. No matter what amp I rigged Welling sub's up to (12" and 10" variants) the drivers just bottom out so quickly you may as well just use the floorstanders insted. The subs are really weak sounding as well, no real depth to them at all. Well that's all I can think of right now. __________________ I've upped my standards, now Up Yours.

24th August 2004, 1:26 PM	#3
Waldo Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Tasmania Posts: 378	Thanks for the reply Xplod. It's excellent to hear from someone who has used the setup! I've thought of one third option, which would take a few extra months to setup and cost a good bit more in the end but be more rewarding ultimately... I could get a Marantz amp and a set of Krix bookshelfs in a month or two, then a month or two after that a set of floor standers, then a centre, then a sub if needed. I know this would ultimately make a better system, the main reason I'm considering the Welling/Sherwood setup is the price and the fact I could have a full 5.1 setup within a month, not three-six. Currently I have a 5.1 setup made up of three different computer speakers (oh dear...) and the sub has just died. I'm officially bassless and everything sounds crap. At the moment I'm toying with the Marantz/Krix bit by bit idea, as I would eventually end up with a system I love, rather than one I'd be generally satisfied with. Thanks again for the post mate. Appreciated. Cheers. __________________ Components: Intel Q9550 \| Asus Maximus II Formula \| Corsair Dominator 1066Mhz 4GB DDR2 \| Asus HD4870X2 \| Zalman 1KW PSU \| Lian Li PC-A77 (internal respray in satin black) Cooling: Laing D5 Vario \| Apogee GT (CPU) \| EK 4870X2 Block (acetal) \| Feser 360mm & Feser 120mm radiators (both internal) \| Feser ONE Coolant

24th August 2004, 11:00 PM	#4
mavric41 Member Join Date: May 2002 Location: Ipswich, Qld Posts: 1,430	Go for your Marantz/Krix idea. Whats a couple of months when compared to years of listening pleasure. I waited and don't regret it. __________________ Successful trades with T-Bones, byson, xcop, jforman, tntman,danielvh, Darkness, Blinky, snoopie, combyte tech, E2EKI3L, Ma Baker, Asuka, aliG123, Dedge, decryption, Marz, fxr91, Rex, slayer, he46570, decryption, Deftone2k, betacase, vinnY, CAMS, microant, Arachnadactly,^catalyst, Fatmantan, Esper, NRGU, toolate,whisky

24th August 2004, 11:56 PM	#5
samos Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Melbourne Posts: 7,650	I'm in the same boat as Waldo. Considering getting the Z680's then I thought "maybe I'll get some bookshelf speakers like everyones raving on about" I've only got $500 to play with atm, I'd have them connected to my PC for music/movies, but if I wanted to, I'd also like to connect them up to my TV. Regarding amps/subs etc etc, I assume they're all upgradable in the future, though I'm not sure what I need to get started. Currently set up with 2.1 altec lansing PC speakers which were $100 and served me well. I just want something with a bit more kick when doing some cardio (skipping etc) at home __________________ http://www.irontanks.com.au/

25th August 2004, 9:36 AM	#8
samos Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Melbourne Posts: 7,650	Yeah I might head down to JB but I have NFI what to look out for. What should I start off with for $500? I'm a total newb when it comes to audio. *PS. Sorry for posting in your thread Waldo, I just figured making a new one would be pointless as I'm basically on the same track as you __________________ http://www.irontanks.com.au/

25th August 2004, 10:27 AM	#11
samos Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Melbourne Posts: 7,650	I've got a DVD player (both in my PC and a proper DVD player connected to the TV) These setups cost a shitload don't they? Maybe the 680's are for me then, lol. __________________ http://www.irontanks.com.au/

25th August 2004, 6:27 PM	#12
DJ Fusion Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Sydney Posts: 4,868	Waldo, I'm not sure if I'll get in trouble for this, but I'm selling a 5.1 speaker package which you might be interested in. Check it here: http://forums.overclockers.com.au/sh...hreadid=291042 Or if you dont have access to that forum yet let me know, its basically a Mission floorstanders, bipolar rears and M&K 12" sub combo which is slowly destroying the structure of my home and needs to be downgraded. Cheers, DJ.