Conventional wisdom says that the most important speaker in a home theater setup is the center channel. The remaining speakers play a supporting role. The center channel handles the dialog, plays the loudest and sets the sonic tone of the system. The VR-12 fulfills these critical responsibilities with panache. These qualities don't come cheaply but the VR-12, while a tad pricey, is worth every penny.

The first task is to find it a proper home. This may present a challenge due to the size of this beauty. The center channel speaker must be placed in close proximity to the video screen so that the dialog emanates from the screen. Nothing is more disconcerting than have the voice of the actors coming from stage left or the ceiling. Because of the excellent dispersion characteristics of this speaker system, there is some flexibility here allowing a speaker placement above or below the screen. Due to the design of my home theater setup, my VR-12 lives nearly 18 inches above the screen and 6 feet off the floor with no spatial anomalies.

Due to the flat, colorless sound of this unit, I have been able to match it up with some vintage Infinity speakers to great effect and most recently with my new Boston Acoustics VR-M60's (in front) and PV-800 (sub-woofer). Yes, I am a Boston Acoustics fan.

The cabinet is black ash veneer with a beautiful lacquer finish that should compliment most home theater setups.

I couldn't be more pleased with my VR-12 as the centerpiece and workhorse of my home theater system and if the size and price fit your circumstances, you will be thrilled with this choice.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): $400.00