KEF Cresta 1 as surround? [Archive] - Forums @ The Digital Fix

gz5ztg

12-02-2002, 08:06

I am considering getting a pair of KEF Cresta 1's from Richer Sounds for 60 quid to use as surrounds.

I currently have an SR4200 and a pair of Wharfedale 8.2s as front speakers.

Would the KEFs be a reasonable choice? I have listened and they sound okay to me.

MikeK

12-02-2002, 13:09

They'd probably be fine, but the Diamond 8.1s can be bought for around £80 or so.

gz5ztg

12-02-2002, 15:03

Is it better to get more wharfedale diamonds then? or are they just better than the KEFs?

MikeK

12-02-2002, 15:24

Originally posted by gz5ztg
Is it better to get more wharfedale diamonds then? or are they just better than the KEFs?

They are probably similar in capability, although with it's bigger driver (and slightly bigger cabinet), I would expect the D8.1 to dig a little deeper in the bass dept (if that's important). Very similar in size too, but the D8.1 is about an inch wider (practically the same height and depth)

If you aren't bothered about an aesthetic match with your front speakers, aren't going to be doing DVD-A or SACD (where tonally matching the speakers is more important), and can mount the Kefs at least a few inches from the wall (to let the rear port breathe a bit - standard wall brackets usually give enough clearance), then for home cinema use, I doubt you'd really notice much of a difference to be honest, especially if you are using a subwoofer to do the bass duties for the rear speakers.

I was just pointing out that for another £20, you could have a set which tonally and aesthetically matched your fronts, just in case multichannel music takes your fancy at some point.
If these things don't bother you, then I'm sure the Cresta1s will be fine.

gz5ztg

12-02-2002, 17:02

Thanks for the advice!