MichaelG
05-05-2008, 06:24 PM
I received my Sierra 1 center today to match my L/R Sierra's. It replaces a 340SE that I have had for nearly 2 years. I have 340SE's for back surrounds and an HSU VTF 3.2 sub. I had a few ask me to share my thoughts after my upgrade.
I made the decision to upgrade my 340 based on the feedback from others on this forum. I was afraid I would spend $500 with little difference; however, as others have mentioned the upgrade was significant.
I removed the 340, installed the new Sierra (over my TV), recalibrated with my SPL meter, and headed for my music collection. As far as calibrating goes, the Sierra center requried 5.5 more decibels to match than the 340. It is amazing how much smaller the Sierra is than the 340. I actually had to get up and measure it to be sure it was the same size as my L/R's!
After nearly 5 hours of continuous listening my thoughts are that the 340 was great, but the Sierra center is even better. It makes the front soundstage seamless and, in my opinion, is a much better match with the other Sierra's. I am very happy with the result! I agree with other posters that the Sierra provides more clarity, clearer voices, and more bass/punch even with the crossover set at 80hz. Something else I noticed is that the sound from the seats to the left and right of center sound nearly as good as the sweet spot. I didn't realize how much the center impacts the overall experience but it does!
Overall, I am very happy with my decision to upgrade and I appreciate the input from everyone. Now, back to my music!
Michael
I made the decision to upgrade my 340 based on the feedback from others on this forum. I was afraid I would spend $500 with little difference; however, as others have mentioned the upgrade was significant.
I removed the 340, installed the new Sierra (over my TV), recalibrated with my SPL meter, and headed for my music collection. As far as calibrating goes, the Sierra center requried 5.5 more decibels to match than the 340. It is amazing how much smaller the Sierra is than the 340. I actually had to get up and measure it to be sure it was the same size as my L/R's!
After nearly 5 hours of continuous listening my thoughts are that the 340 was great, but the Sierra center is even better. It makes the front soundstage seamless and, in my opinion, is a much better match with the other Sierra's. I am very happy with the result! I agree with other posters that the Sierra provides more clarity, clearer voices, and more bass/punch even with the crossover set at 80hz. Something else I noticed is that the sound from the seats to the left and right of center sound nearly as good as the sweet spot. I didn't realize how much the center impacts the overall experience but it does!
Overall, I am very happy with my decision to upgrade and I appreciate the input from everyone. Now, back to my music!
Michael