AV system to start with - recommendation under RM4000 (USD1200)

Someone ask me to add a few recommendations for a system that is under RM4000 +/- 10% (USD1200) for beginners.

When you are starting out, people have a tendency to spend too much on an AV receiver and not enough on speakers.

Av amp are harder to sell in the used market ... Just like the Citroen cars in Asia, so keep it low if you are thinking of upgrading in the future.

Speakers like the Wharfedale Diamonds 9.1 sounds very good for the price,is well built, can be used for both AV and Hifi and most of all has good re-sale value. Most Wharfedale 9.1 owners I know would actually never sell these speakers.

I always recommend something that is a value in the used market when the need comes for upgrades in a couple of years. With the cash from the sale of your used items, you'll upgrade to better equipments.

Maybe spend the balance on a 3.1 system to start. The rear surrounds are not going to give you that much in return compared to their added expense and I would much rather see that money spent on better speakers for the front, and the subwoofer which is also very important.

For a good system under RM4K, go for the Wharfedale Diamonds 9.1 fronts/center a decent entry level amp, A wharfedale subwoofer (please forget about those Rm500 Rogers subs) and if you have the cash the Mordaunt Short Carnival 1. In addition within that budget go for the biwire Supra Rondo speaker cables & supra or Ixos digital cable.

Or if you want to go under RM3000. Go for the Mordaunt Short Carnival package. Good value.

More help on:
http://hometheater.about.com/od/hometheaterbasics/Home_Theater_Starting_Point_DIYInstallationProduct_Reviews.htm