FAQ
TL;DR: 80 cm between speakers is not enough; "soundbar with DSP will ensure the appropriate Stereo effect." For tight spaces and budgets, favor a DSP soundbar or small active monitors for movies and casual music. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17337571]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps small-room buyers choose between a Yamaha-class soundbar and active stereo, set expectations, and install cleanly.
Quick Facts
- 80 cm speaker spacing won’t deliver stable stereo imaging; widen placement or consider a DSP soundbar. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17337571]
- At ~2.5 m listening distance, expect limited bass; add a sub or lean on DSP. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17326469]
- Active stereo with optical input offers “more natural sound”; examples: Magnat 220 (~PLN 1.6k), Klipsch R‑14PM/R‑15PM (~PLN 1.7–2.0k). [Elektroda, Koolo, post #17326824]
- Yamaha YAS‑207 supports DTS Virtual:X and HDMI ARC; enable CEC/ARC for control. [YAS-207 Owner's Manual]
- Real-world result: “first class” sound and “great bass” from YAS‑207 in a small room. [Elektroda, joker9039, post #17406376]
What’s better for a 3.5×4 m room: a soundbar or stereo speakers?
For movies and casual music in small rooms, a soundbar is enough. For music-first listening, use a stereo amp with good speakers. “A soundbar would be enough for such a small salon.” Audition if you can, then decide. [Elektroda, Grzegorz740, post #17325652]
Is the Yamaha YAS‑207 a good choice under PLN 2,000?
A buyer in this thread ordered the YAS‑207 and reported excellent results. They wrote it’s “first class,” with “good sound and great bass.” That feedback aligns with small-room needs and the target budget. [Elektroda, joker9039, post #17406376]
How far apart should I place stereo speakers on an 80 cm cabinet?
Avoid placing stereo speakers only 80 cm apart. Imaging collapses at that spacing. Move them wider, even toward room corners, or use stands. “80cm distance between them is not enough.” If you can’t widen, consider a soundbar. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17337571]
I sit about 2.5 m from the TV. Will I get good bass?
Expect modest bass at 2.5 m in a small room. Seating and boundary gain limit low frequencies. “2.5m is not enough for good bass.” Use a soundbar with a sub and DSP to compensate. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17326469]
Are active stereo speakers with optical input a good alternative to a soundbar?
Yes. A soundbar handles DD/DTS effects well, while active stereo gives “more natural sound.” Shortlist models with optical inputs: Magnat MultiMonitor 220, Klipsch R‑14PM, or Klipsch R‑15PM. They integrate easily with TV audio. [Elektroda, Koolo, post #17326824]
Do active speakers need a separate amplifier?
No. Active speakers include built‑in amplifiers, and models with optical inputs connect straight to your TV. This avoids buying a separate amp or receiver for stereo use. [Elektroda, Koolo, post #17326824]
Can I run two amplifiers for both movies and music?
Yes, one approach is two amps. “Buy TWO amplifiers. Plus solid front‑stereo speakers and a 5.1 set.” The AV receiver then controls the stereo amp for cinema duties. Plan wiring carefully. [Elektroda, kortyleski, post #17328530]
Will my 80 cm spacing still work if I use a soundbar?
Yes, a soundbar’s DSP can create a convincing stereo field despite narrow width. As one member noted, “soundbar with DSP will ensure the appropriate Stereo effect.” This suits tight furniture layouts. [Elektroda, viayner, post #17337571]
How do I set up a Yamaha YAS‑207 for best results?
- Connect the bar’s HDMI OUT (ARC) to the TV’s HDMI ARC, then enable CEC/ARC.
- In TV audio settings, select Bitstream/Auto and allow pass‑through when available.
- On the bar, enable DTS Virtual:X and adjust sub level to taste. [YAS-207 Owner's Manual]
My TV won’t pass DTS to the soundbar. What should I do?
Many TVs don’t pass DTS over ARC or optical. Use HDMI from the source to the soundbar, upgrade to eARC, or set TV output to PCM stereo. You’ll lose surround with PCM but regain reliable audio. [HDMI ARC and eARC: Everything You Need to Know]
Which active stereo models under PLN 2,000 should I shortlist?
Consider Magnat MultiMonitor 220 (~PLN 1.6k), Klipsch R‑14PM (~PLN 1.7k), and Klipsch R‑15PM (~PLN 2k). These powered speakers include optical inputs for simple TV hookup and strong music performance. [Elektroda, Koolo, post #17326824]
Will a soundbar fill a small living room for movie nights?
Yes. In small rooms, a competent soundbar provides satisfying impact and clarity. As one member put it, “a soundbar would be enough for such a small salon.” Placement and sub level still matter. [Elektroda, Grzegorz740, post #17325652]
What stereo placement geometry should I use if I have room?
Form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. Aim for about a 60° angle between the speakers at your seat. This geometry improves imaging and tonal balance versus cramped spacing. [Dolby Speaker Setup Guide]
