Cambridge Audio SX Series SX 70 Centre Speaker Matte Black
Category: Center Channel Speakers
Check Current PriceThe Polk Signature S35 fits larger home theaters; the Cambridge Audio SX-70 suits medium rooms. The SX-70 costs about $189 and emphasizes clear dialogue and compact design. Both are Center-Channel Speakers used to anchor movie dialogue and soundstage.
Cambridge Audio SX-70 vs Polk Signature S35: sound staging guide
For imaging and dialogue focus, Center-Channel Speakers can differ: one offers wider spread, the other tighter center image. The Cambridge Audio SX Series SX70 Centre Speaker (Matte Black) emphasizes articulation and directness in the vocal range. SX-70 centre speaker achieves articulate mids and a clear, natural treble that helps intelligibility. Polk’s center leans to broader imaging and more low-frequency heft, improving action scenes sense of space.
Key Cambridge Audio SX-70 specifications for setup
- Drivers: 2 x 100mm woofers, 1 x 25mm silk dome tweeter
- Sensitivity: 85 dB; Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Frequency response: 65 Hz – 20 kHz; Recommended amplifier power: 10 – 100 Watts
- Dimensions: 5.4 x 14.2 x 9.7 inches; Weight: 8.8 lbs; Price: $189
How do driver size, crossover design, and cabinet affect imaging?
Cambridge Audio SX-70 produces focused midband imaging that improves vocal clarity. The SX-70’s dual 100mm woofers reduce cone breakup and the silk dome tweeter smooths sibilance. A well-braced MDF cabinet lowers resonances, preserving imaging accuracy and preventing midrange coloration. Proper crossover slopes ensure driver integration, which affects precise source localization and timbral balance.
Choosing speaker size, placement, and room acoustics for home theaters
Select speaker size by room and seating; larger cabinets suit big rooms, compact units fit small spaces. The Cambridge Audio SX Series SX70 Centre Speaker (Matte Black) handles dialogue well in a 12×16 room but gains fullness with a subwoofer. Position the center under or above the screen, toe-in slightly toward listeners, and match vertical height for lip-sync. Use 16 AWG speaker wire (thicker gauge for better signal) and ensure impedance matching (ensures amp and speakers work together) with your AVR.
What speaker placement and toe-in give best stereo imaging in 12×16?
SX-70 centre speaker produces aligned vocal imaging when centered and toed-in five to ten degrees. Place left and right speakers two and a half meters apart and cross axes at seated ear height. Add symmetrical absorption behind the listener and broadband diffusion on sidewalls to tighten reflections and improve imaging. Room treatments reduce comb filtering and refine center localization at listening positions.
Cambridge Audio SX-70 vs Polk Signature S35: value and connectivity
Value depends on system goals: one option offers budget clarity, while the other brings broader dynamics. The Cambridge Audio SX Series SX70 Centre Speaker (Matte Black) costs $189 and favors dialogue clarity. Polk centers often include larger woofers and higher sensitivity that translate to louder playback with less amplifier power. Connectivity remains simple for both; they are passive and require an AVR or amplifier with correct impedance matching.
How do warranty, build quality, and firmware updates influence resale?
Matte black centre-channel speaker suffers resale penalties without a documented warranty or proven build history. This Cambridge Audio centre-channel speaker’s MDF cabinet and conservative electronics mean fewer field failures, helping used value stability. Polk’s heavier build and larger drivers often retain appeal, but missing firmware or parts lowers resale. Keep original box, receipts, and firmware logs to maximize trade-in or private-sale prices.
Follow-up questions buyers often ask next
Should I add a subwoofer with the SX-70 or Polk S35? Yes, a subwoofer improves movie impact and low-frequency realism significantly. Add a 10-12 inch sub for home theaters, and tune crossover around 80 Hz to integrate with the center channel.
What amplifier power works best for the SX-70? The SX-70 requires a 10-100 watt per channel amplifier recommendation for reliable performance. Match the amp’s 8 Ohm load and avoid underpowering, which causes distortion and risks speaker damage.
How do I maintain resale value for center speakers? Keep original packaging, receipts, and any firmware or service records to support resale claims. Store speakers in a dry, climate-stable space and avoid outdoor exposure to prevent moisture damage and reduced market value.