I'm hoping to join the outlaw clan in the not to distant future and have been browsing the 1050 user manual. I read that using a meter is helpful in speaker set up. Do most/some of you use a meter? Is it critical? Can it be done effectively by ear? I'm new to HT and would like to hear your experiences. Thanks

You can do it by ear but a good HT setup DVD like video essentials will help tremendously.

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Stott

Just bought an analog spl at Radio Shack. Big difference. Found that my mains were off by 1 db and it confirmed that my rear surrounds were too low. Also was able to bring the center up in volum to match main speakers. Cost $38

Yep. Spend the 30 or so bucks and get the analog radio shack spl meter. Will make a definite improvement in dialing in your system. Also, I'd recommend a good utility to go with it, like V.E. that stott mentioned. I used it and was amazed at the difference both in my sound and picture quality.

What's VE?

Video Essentials -- a DVD that you can use to configure your TV and your speaker settings. Similar to the AVIA DVD.

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Gonk