Can a flat screen tv power two external bookshelf speakers?

I am thinking along the lines of LG, Samsung or Sony Bravia. The speakers are Energy Encore series 1 rated at 10-100 watt capacity. The more detail to your question the better it will help me make a decision. Thanks so much.

The audio amplifier that drive a set's internal speakers are intended to do just that, plus maybe a headphone jack. There are almost never connections available for external speakers, which can require drive levels well beyond the capability of the set's amplifier.

The right way to do that sort of thing is through an external amplifier connected via the set's auxiliary audio output jacks. That also gives you the option of turning down the set's speakers while using the external audio system.

Need advice for center and surround speakers?

I'm going to be purchasing the Yamaha RX-V661 soon (I believe it is rated at 100 watts per channel) which will be running 2 Infinity Primus 150 bookshelf speakers with a Sony sub set-up in my living room (approx. 15x25). I am looking for a decent center speaker, as well as a set of surround speakers to run off my new system that will complement the Yamaha's sound. I'm looking to set up a 5.1 system for right now, possibly upgrading to a 7.1 later. I have been looking into Energy/Athena speakers for the surrounding two rears, as well as an Athena center speaker. My budget is pretty low, probably under $300 for the center channel and two surround speakers because I am dropping close to $400 for the receiver. Has anyone had any exposure to the Energy/Athena line and what do you think of them? I believe they are manufactured by the Paradigm company. Thanks for the advice.

Great questions! First, let me say this - don't budget yourself by thinking you need to get everything all at once. Go ahead and get the receiver and enjoy your front speakers (I like Infinity a lot!) But be careful that you don't spend $300 because that's all you have now just to have center and surround speakers. In a few months from now, your budget might grow and you can get something you might rather have. The key is to get what you really want and my favorite part of home theater is you can add things one at a time and get a great system! (I've been working at mine for about 10 years and love it, I have some nice stuff. But I didn't go spend $20, 000 all at once, either.)

Now some people will tell you to stick with Infinity's for your surrounds and center as they will "match" tonally with your fronts. But you might not be able to tell the difference as sound pans across your room. I have heard Energy speakers and they are excellent for sure. You won't be disappointed with them. The final judge should always be your ears. Everyone has a favorite brand and will recommend this and that, but go to a store and just listen. Many stores will let you take them home, hook them up and try them out. Your home is the best place to audition, naturally.

Back to building the system one at a time, get your center next, then your surrounds, then upgrade that sub. I'd say in a few months, you'll have a great system that you'll be proud of and really enjoy. Have fun with it!

My desktop speakers setup

Klipsch RB-81 II Bookshelf Speaker (Pack of 2) $848 Ideal for audiophiles who don't have room for a floorstander, this speaker fills larger rooms with lifelike music and movie performances. This speaker utilizes a highly efficient design that produces more output using less energy.

Klipsch RB-61 II Bookshelf Speaker (Pack of 2) $549 A great balance of performance and size, the RB-61 II fills medium-sized rooms with outstanding sound reproduction. Equally impressive with music and movies, this speaker utilizes a highly efficient design that produces more output using less energy.

Klipsch RS-42 II Surround Speaker (Pack of 2) $578 The RS-42 II provides a balanced of performance and delivers rich and detailed surround sound. This speakers utilizes a highly efficient design that produces more output using less energy.

Klipsch RS-62 II Surround Speaker (Pack of 2) $1198 This speaker delivers smooth coverage and enveloping ambient sound by utilizing a highly efficient design that produces more output using less energy. Finished beautifully with matte black vinyl, the RS-62 II is sure to complement any decor.

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Tags: bookshelf speakers, energy bookshelf speakers