Originally Posted by
racrawford65
I didn't have any issues with either the HTM or current S2 as surround (or heights). Your AVR (which one?) likely has room correction where it will either boost or lower the "volume" to the different speakers so they are level matched at 75 db. Plus, your surrounds might be closer than your mains which will also help offset different levels of loudness at a constant power input.
For reference, here are the trim gains and distances in feet that I use with my MRX720.
Towers with RAAL FL/FR 0/-1 9/10
Center (Luna Duo) 6 9
S2 (SL/SR) 1/4 6/8
HTM (FHL/FHR) -5/-5 11/12
HTM (RHL/RHR) -6/-6 7/8
Sub 0 14
Note, I do boost the center by a couple of db just because of my old ears :-)
The HTM trim is negative due to difference in amp gains. I'm using a VTV class D with XLR inputs for the heights, center & surrounds driven by MRX internal amps, FL/FR driven by a Rogue ST100.
Subs (2 for music - E15HP both up front, 3 for music - the 2 E15s and currently an old Outlaw LFM-1 Plus near field). The 14 foot distance isn't actual, but based on REW calibration so in phase with mains. For music, I use the line in on the E15 amps to set cross-over and phase (i.e. distance) to align with mains.
I only use the surrounds (and heights) for the occasional movie. I'm 99% music and purely 2 channel. So, I've not really noticed (nor have I listened for) any differences. The S2 are used for the surrounds just because I had them (was able to sell my S2 center when I moved to the Luna Duo, which was an improvement in dialog clarity). The HTMs I was using as surrounds went to the office for background music whilst working from home (primarily Pandora streaming) - mainly due to placement options and it is secondary listening area - so wouldn't do the S2's justice, imo