Build home theater from Logitech z-680?

I'm currently looking into upgrading my present speaker set and would like some input. Right now I own the Logitech z-680. Unfortunately, due to the Logitech control pod (I have the old firmware and I can't upgrade it or get it repaired), my speakers have a very loud, annoying hiss whenever they're on. The good news, I'll soon have around $500 to upgrade my system.

I was contemplating three options:

1. Start over again and get the Polk rm6750 + Onkyo 606/Denon 1610/Pioneer VSX 819

I'm hoping the Polk will be an upgrade over the z-680. At the very least, it won't have the hiss of the z-680.


2. Buy one of the above receivers and replace my Logitech speakers one by one.

I would have to start with the sub because it is not compatible with normal receivers.

Possible choice:
$277 Pioneer VSX 819
$4 Monoprice HDMI
$20 Monoprice 14 AWG, 100 ft.
$4 Monoprice RG6 Subwoofer cable
~$200 for sub and center speaker?

3. Get the Vann's Energy Take Classic 5.1 + Denon 1609 for $500.

My only issue with this option is that I'll have to use the headphone out on my laptop to send sound to the receiver. Granted, that is what I am currently doing to connect my laptop to my z-680s.

Thanks for the help.

 

I would definitely recommend the Polks over the Logitech system's satellites. The Polks are going to be higher quality, they'll handle more power before they start distorting, and they'll have a fuller range.

I'd also recommend you put a little more money into your subwoofer budget and your center channel. With 5.1, close to 90% of movie sounds come out of your center channel (dialog, stuff that happens center-screen), while the surrounds handle ambient and stuff behind/to the left and right of you.

I'd say about $200 alone for the center, and another $300 for a powered subwoofer around the 170-200w range - 8" to 10".