So, which center should I get???

[Laserjock]

I actually already have this installed

Have a pic and measurements of the room etc?
Might help somewhat.

 

[Danskir]

Thanks for all the insight and information. I’m going to start out with the r3’s and add a center later on… probably one of the very low profile ones. I appreciated the help.

 

[mj30250]

Again. Have a look at the spinorama database to which I posted the link above and repost again here:

A collection of loudspeakers measurements

www.spinorama.org

A very quick and dirty look shows:
The Ascend Center is pretty bad.
The Ascend bookshelf’s are not bad at all, but the KEF R3 are even a tad better and cheaper.

The Duo on the spinorama site isn't the V2, FYI, it's the original.

The V2 is certainly better by way of a new crossover and internal damping, but it's still a pretty tiny MTM designed to fit into confined spaces and against a wall. There are obviously better, larger options. But in its size class I haven't seen anything that would clearly offer an improvement.

 

[SMG]

I would look for a used Paradigm Millenia 20, which is less than 5 inches tall, less than 7 inches deep, and less than 27 inches wide. The body is black extruded metal, probably aluminum.

 

[Danskir]

Hi All. I received the R3’s… very happy with them. Not missing the center at all. Sounds amazing. So much better than my old klipsch rf52 ii setup even with the matching center. Thanks so much for the guidance. You were all very helpful.

 

[cavedriver]

KEF R3's? Maybe a KEF LS/50 as a center - they fit your dimensions and voicing should match up with the R3's ok, especially the LS/50 meta's, although they are slightly above your budget even if you can get a hold of just one. Might consider the used market.

 

[Digital Mastering System]

KEF is the way to go. Just get something like this: https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649907093-kef-r600c-center-channel-in-rosewood-mint/