3.1 or keep soundbar?

[nitrousninja]

I have a Sony CT550W soundbar mainly for the HD decoding and HDMI inputs. It does alright with most movies but not all. Would going to a 3.1 system get me enough improvement to make it worth it?

I have a pair of Polk TSi400s from another system I used to use. I was looking at the Denon 1713 and a Definitive Technology CS1000 center channel speaker due to its clearance. I dont have any practical way to mount surrounds so they are out.

Has anyone tried it? The AudesseyXT should downmix the surrounds through the fronts right?

[Vdubchaos]

We are talking Soundbar vs proper speaker system?

Of course it will be MUCH MUCH better.

These soundbars are hardly an upgrade from TV speakers....

[boomhower]

Go with the proper speakers but match the center to your fronts. Get either the CS10 or CS20 depending on your budget. The 1713 is a great choice for receiver. If you can live with a refurb accessories4less usually has them.

[slpaulson]

Also, if you are against getting a refurb receiver, you can get the 1713 for lower than MSRP if you call up www.jr.com to place an order. I don't know what their price is at the moment, but I bought mine brand new from jr for significantly less than the MSRP.

[nitrousninja]

went with the 1713(BB pricematched to Amazon at $49) and CS10(Frys priced matched Amazon to $119) and the setup was a breeze.

I watched Drive and it was immediately better. I cant wait to watch some other movies to listen to the difference.