This is my main HT rig. It has evolved over the years as finances have allowed. I am pleased overall with the performance. Finally upgraded to the InFocus front projection system, along with a Stewart Firescreen.
System edited: I have simplified the system a bit. Sold the Krell DVD and am in process of selling the Crystalio. Now much simpler to operate, less fussy. Added an Apple tv video unit, which I dearly love for the functionality and variety of programming availability.
System edited: Upgraded Samsung with Panasonic Blu ray player. Replaced Netgear with HP dedicated HTPC. Makes it much easier and faster to download from the internet. Especially after I went from DSL to cable modem. Directv HR 10-250 hard disk failed, so off to the landfill it went.
System edited: Recently added a Tvo Series 3 and a Netgear EVA 8000. This allows me to download video, photos, and music off the internet. Hooked into my Wi Fi network at home. Still working to get all the bugs out.
System edited: Upgraded Krell pre/pro. It made a noticeable difference in the sound. There is an immediacy to the sound that was not there before. I had hoped to take advantage of the hdmi video switching capabilities of the new Krell. However, there are issues and the picture just plain looks better through the Crystalio. A lot better. I had originally bought a RPGS substation to help balance the electrical load. However, the unit I received turned out to have been defective. And the seller was a real slime ball about it. So I ended up getting a Ps Audio Premier instead. It works beautifully. And I have not had any electrical issues since.
I find the Thiel Power Points do just fine as rear surrounds. For movies. And for concert videos. Of which I have more than 200.
I've only listened to a few SACD's on it. So I don't really feel qualified to answer.
The smallish footprint/size is nice. What I like even more is the "cinema" effect. It really does sound like you are in a theater. In fact, my system totally blows away the local cinema.
Hi,,,how do you find the Thiel power points as rear surrounds? also do you think they are adequate for multichannel audio such as SACD? I am cosndering them myself: I like the smallish footprint/size and after all thet are Thiels
System edited: Upgraded the projector to the new JVC HD1. Added a Crystalio II VP 3800. There has been quite a buzz lately over at www.AVSFORUM.com regarding both pieces. Now I see why. The JVC HD 1 is one smoking hot projector. The colors are so incredibly vibrant. The picture so clear.
System edited: Found a great deal on a pair of Thiel CS 7's. Had them refurbished and upgraded to Thiel CS.7's. Replaced Thiel CS 3.6's as front left and right. Well then, I just HAD to have more power, so I found a Krell FPB 600. Added in both HD and blu ray high definition dvd players, and Kimber speaker cables for good measure. New pictures soon.
System edited: Upgraded the Thiel Smartsub SW-1 to Thiel Smartsub SS-2. As good as the SW-1 is, the SS-2 is a bit better. The rosewood finish beautiful.
System edited: Finally got around to adding pictures. Hope you get a kick out of the '56 Chevy model. It was the first car I ever drove. Next upgrades are all about high def. High def dvd and next generation High Def Tivo/Directv, whenever they get around to adding local hd channels in my area.
System edited: Replacing the Velodyne sub with the Thiel SW-1 really seemed to "lock" the sound into place. Integrates much better with rest of the Thiel speakers.
System edited: I've made a number of upgrades this year. Power amps, dvd player, HD Directv/Tivo, and most recently, InFocus 7200, dlp projector. None were really planned, but I'm pleased with how everything turned out, especially the projector. Only near term planned upgrade is to replace aging Velodyne subwoofer with one of the Thiel SS units. Haven't decided which one yet. Probably SS2 or SS3. Would appreciate hearing from anyone who has compared these two subs or who has pricing information.
As excellent as the little powerpoints are(especially as rear speakers), they are not strong enough dynamically to properly handle what the center channel mix is getting!!!! You need to use the MCS1 as your center if you can! This is using two mid/bass drivers in a ported enclosure, which will handle dynamics and dialog intelligibility MUCH MORE EFFICIENTLY than what the power points can dish out! If you doubt, just call Thiel and ask them(Probably get Sheri)! While the power points are very clean, clear, musical, and detailed, they won't carry the action you need upfront for the most demanding Center action. I say this from much experience with Thiels, and other lines. Also, if you where interested, you might ask Thiel what they thought was a better match for Left/right speakers for your application. I bet they'll recommend the 2.3's over the 3.6's for match with your MCS1(should you go that route) Actually, the 2.3 is a better match for your center channel choices(MCS1/scs3). But, maybe you like your 3.6's for music or whatever(I actually prefer 2.3's). Good luck