That is completely suibjective, and you should state something like "to me".

In addition, the Studio v.3's are considered by many to be a step back from the v.2's, and it's not until the tweeter upgrade on the v.4's that the Studio's got a significant improvement (that tweeter is from the Signature v.1). The Signature v.2's upgraded the tweeter at the same time.

In any case, you have to listen to the speakers yourself, and decide what you hear and what it's worth to you.

I can say, without question, that the Signature v.2 line is worth double the Studio v.4 line, to me and my ears. And that's all that matters (to me). I have to buy them and calibrate them for my room, which I'll be doing in the next few weeks, and I'll post back.

Of course it's all subjective, yet very few think the V.4 studios are that much different than the V.3's....if anything I think you are the first (that I've read).

I have Studio 60's v.1's side by side with v.3's on a speaker switcher for about 3 months now. The v.3's are substantially better than the v.1's, a very nice and very noticeable upgrade when a/b'ing side by side.

I have yet to see anyone that's said the v.3's are a step back from the v.2's. The V.3's had a major tweeter upgrade from the v.2's.

As an example, a very thorough and glowing review of the 60 V.3's in Stereophile http://www.stereophile.com/loudspeakerreviews/1204paradigm/ by a reviewer who owned 60 V.2's personally and compared them to each other extensively in that review. Much of what he wrote is much of what I feel about my V.1 to V.3 comparison and very inline with what I've read by others who've compared the different versions.

I honestly haven't read about drastic differences between the V.3's and V.4's, most differences ranging for slight to hardly noticeable, but if you have any links with stronger opinions, please post 'em, 'cos I'd be interested in reading them.

Of course it's all subjective, yet very few think the V.4 studios are that much different than the V.3's....if anything I think you are the first (that I've read).

I must have mis-read your earlier post.
I thought you were saying there is a negligible difference between
Studio V4's and the Signature line.

My comments were strictly in comparing the "Studio" line to the
"Signature" line.

Pete

So how do you like it? I have an Onkyo 905. Will be gettiing the S6/C5/ADP1's in a few weeks.

Curious - why the ADP3's? They don't seem to be all that much better, but are like double the price of the ADP1's?

Price wasn't much of a factor for me, was just trying to get the best. I would have gotten the S8's except my room is a little small, only 20 x 16 dedicated HT.

Actually, I haven;t even fired these things up as I am moving into this new home in the next 2 weeks. :)


PS: i have seen ppl use S2's for surrounds, i will get those if i expand to 7.1, just gonna see how this setup works. Rooms is hardwired for 7.1 tho.

I disagree with you there!


FWIW...I spent 2 hours listening to the Studio 100's back to back
with the S2's on 2 channel music and to my ear the S2's were a big step up in SQ. The biggest difference was how smooth the mids and highs sound on vocals, brass & symbals.

I'm not saying the Studio 100's are bad.
I think they are a great bargain.
But the Signature line is truly a major step up...and to some...worth the extra $$$'s.

Pete

But you were comparing a bookshelf Sig with a full range tower 100.

2 very different Type of speakers and application.

Remember that the low end extension/bass (more or lack of) affects how we perceive the mids-to-highs.

In a recording studio, when mixing, we usually use what is called 'subtractive EQ', meaning that we 'cut' EQ rather than boost. To brighten something up, we will cut EQ lower down from the Freq we want to brighten. Not unlike a speaker with less low end sounding brighter than a speaker with more low end.

Anyway, did you compare the S2 to the Studio 20 V.4? That would have been a fair comparison.

Dan Hitchman:

First off, can I come live with you? No, seriously, I'm trying to build a home theater around the 100 v4's, cc690 and adp590's. I was all set to order and hit a roadblock with respect to having another pair of 100's as surrounds instead of getting the adp590's, so I decided to take this weekend to think it over.

Are you going to be using a subwoofer in your system? Your setup sounds like a killer!

Jimmy. Also sent you a PM

Anyway, did you compare the S2 to the Studio 20 V.4? That would have been a fair comparison.

Fleaman,

Did not get to hear the Studio 20's. Just the Studio 60's, Studio 100's,
& S2's. (I also listened to a pair of Klipsch floor standers...ouch!)

Perhaps during my next visit I will A/B the Studio 20's and S2's.

Pete

AbMagFab -

Yeah, the 50k includes the construction and seats. The basement was just finished about 6 months ago so I have carpet and I just need to add (2) walls, and some other minor construction. Also wire up some scones, etc... and build a riser. And do some acoustical treatments and sound isolation.

I am going with the Integra 9.8 and Crown pro amps for power. Not sure on subs. I thought I wanted the JL F113, but now I may considering something at a lower price point. We'll see.

So yeah... I will go and listen to the Monitors, Studios and Signatures.

Man why does this stuff have to be so $$$!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fleaman,

Did not get to hear the Studio 20's. Just the Studio 60's, Studio 100's,
& S2's. (I also listened to a pair of Klipsch floor standers...ouch!)

Perhaps during my next visit I will A/B the Studio 20's and S2's.

Pete

Yeah, there's no Sig equivalent to the Studio 60's and 100's.

The Studio 40's equivalent are the S4's.

Yeah, there's no Sig equivalent to the Studio 60's and 100's.

The Studio 40's equivalent are the S4's.

Yes there is - the Sig 6 and 8, the big sisters to the 60 and 100, exactly. Just like the Sig 4 is the big sister to the 40.

Yes there is - the Sig 6 and 8, the big sisters to the 60 and 100, exactly. Just like the Sig 4 is the big sister to the 40.

Nope. Different driver count.

The Sig 4 is sister to the 40, same driver count, same driver sizes, same basic cabinate/size.

Same with the S2 to the 20's.

Sig 6 and Sig 8 are a different deal with more drivers than the Studio 60/100's respectively. Way FAR from exact my friend!

Nope. Different driver count.

The Sig 4 is sister to the 40, same driver count, same driver sizes, same basic cabinate/size.

Same with the S2 to the 20's.

Sig 6 and Sig 8 are a different deal with more drivers than the Studio 60/100's respectively. Way FAR from exact my friend!

Well, from that perspective, none of them are sisters. The Signature line uses better everything.

But from a "where would you use the speaker" standpoint, tower/bookshelf, how much bass, HT v. Music, etc., the S6 = 60 and S8 = 100.

I guess it depends on what you're looking at - simply driver count, or actual use cases.

By that I mean - someone considering the 60 or 100 would consider the S6 or S8. Just like someone considering the 40 would consider the S4. They are swappable for the same uses (exact driver counts aside).

Well, from that perspective, none of them are sisters. The Signature line uses better everything.

But from a "where would you use the speaker" standpoint, tower/bookshelf, how much bass, HT v. Music, etc., the S6 = 60 and S8 = 100.

I guess it depends on what you're looking at - simply driver count, or actual use cases.

By that I mean - someone considering the 60 or 100 would consider the S6 or S8. Just like someone considering the 40 would consider the S4. They are swappable for the same uses (exact driver counts aside).

The S2 and S4's have the same amount equal sized drivers to the 20's and 40's.

The S6 and S8's have an extra driver each over the 60's and 100's. The S6 has a 4" mid-range and 2x 7", the 60's have 2x 7" with the top 7" as the mid range driver. I don't know how that makes them sisters? If they are sisters, what are the S2's and 20's? Clones?

Of course by application situation you would compare the S6 to the 60's, but it wouldn't be a fair comparison to the 60's. No doubt Paradigm up'd the ante on the S6 and S8's to further distinguish them from the Studios and in that case, it would make sense that there will be more of a difference between them. But I wouldn't at all call them sisters like the S4's/40's and S2/20's.

Didn't the previous generation Sigs have the same driver count and size to the Studio's? Those were the ones I was thinking of when I said there was a negligible difference between the Sig's and Studios. And this could well be the reason Paradigm distinguished the newer S6/S8's this time around.

The S2 and S4's have the same amount equal sized drivers to the 20's and 40's.

The S6 and S8's have an extra driver each over the 60's and 100's. The S6 has a 4" mid-range and 2x 7", the 60's have 2x 7" with the top 7" as the mid range driver. I don't know how that makes them sisters? If they are sisters, what are the S2's and 20's? Clones?

Of course by application situation you would compare the S6 to the 60's, but it wouldn't be a fair comparison to the 60's. No doubt Paradigm up'd the ante on the S6 and S8's to further distinguish them from the Studios and in that case, it would make sense that there will be more of a difference between them. But I wouldn't at all call them sisters like the S4's/40's and S2/20's.

Didn't the previous generation Sigs have the same driver count and size to the Studio's? Those were the ones I was thinking of when I said there was a negligible difference between the Sig's and Studios. And this could well be the reason Paradigm distinguished the newer S6/S8's this time around.

I'm pretty sure the S6's are new with the v.2's. Not sure if they changed the driver count in the S8's though.

And you're right, that the S6's are technically in between the 60 and 100, with the S8 on top. But still, I think all 4 are sort of in the same league in terms of application.

The main difference is probably if you need the 100's to get enough bass for 2-channel music, where the 60's probably would be inadequate, the S6's might be okay. (In fact, this is exactly the scenario that was going on when I was testing for my HT setup, with another guy who was looking for a 2-ch music setup.)

In any case, I don't disagree with what you're saying. But I still think of them as sisters. Perhaps sisters-in-law? Step-sisters?

In any case, I don't disagree with what you're saying. But I still think of them as sisters. Perhaps sisters-in-law? Step-sisters?

How about brother and sister :D

Or even better, cousins.

The S6 has a 7" midrange driver, not a 4" driver. That's obviously a typo on Paradigm's website,just look at the picture, the midrange is the same size as the bass drivers.

The S6 has a 7" midrange driver, not a 4" driver. That's obviously a typo on Paradigm's website,just look at the picture, the midrange is the same size as the bass drivers.

I thought that was strange....the only reason I didn't think it was a typo was the mm size was smaller and correct for 4" too.

Strange that Paradigm doesn't fix this pretty big typo....it's on the pdf too,

I ordered the Paradigm studio 100's and the cc690. While I am waiting for them I am thinking should I order the ADP590's for surround for a 7.1 system or go with ADP590 for the surround L&R and Studio 20's for the rear.

My other dilemma is the subwoofer, I have been reading about HSU VTF-3MK-3 or VTF-3 HO, I heard HSU in general works well with Onkyo and intergra's, I have an Onkyo 905 (gave up on the integra 8.8/9.8 due to the unending wait times). I also like the SVS PB13-Ultra/SB12-plus. PB-13 is a little stretch for me price wise. My room size is 10Wx8Hx22L. I would appreciate any advise (even other brands).

I am new to the hometheater.

And you're right, that the S6's are technically in between the 60 and 100, with the S8 on top. But still, I think all 4 are sort of in the same league in terms of application.

The main difference is probably if you need the 100's to get enough bass for 2-channel music, where the 60's probably would be inadequate, the S6's might be okay.

An interesting comparison would be the S6's vs. the 100's. The S6's are still way more $$ than the 100's, but with the extra driver in the S6 (over the 60), it's only one 7" driver shy of the 100's and could be an interesting choice if you want a step up from the 60's and don't want the overbearing(?) bass of the 100's and/or have a smaller room.

Has anyone compared the S6's to the 100's?

An interesting comparison would be the S6's vs. the 100's. The S6's are still way more $$ than the 100's, but with the extra driver in the S6 (over the 60), it's only one 7" driver shy of the 100's and could be an interesting choice if you want a step up from the 60's and don't want the overbearing(?) bass of the 100's and/or have a smaller room.

Has anyone compared the S6's to the 100's?


I did... see my post in this thread, and a more detailed one in another recent thread (started by me). And I chose the S6 over the 100. It's a no-brainer in a HT environment with a sub (money aside). Another guy was testing for music, and the S6's have just enough bass for a small/medium room to work in a 2-channel music setup.

They just are in a different league compared to the Studio line, including the 100's. IMO, your mileage may vary.

I ordered the Paradigm studio 100's and the cc690. While I am waiting for them I am thinking should I order the ADP590's for surround for a 7.1 system or go with ADP590 for the surround L&R and Studio 20's for the rear.

My other dilemma is the subwoofer, I have been reading about HSU VTF-3MK-3 or VTF-3 HO, I heard HSU in general works well with Onkyo and intergra's, I have an Onkyo 905 (gave up on the integra 8.8/9.8 due to the unending wait times). I also like the SVS PB13-Ultra/SB12-plus. PB-13 is a little stretch for me price wise. My room size is 10Wx8Hx22L. I would appreciate any advise (even other brands).

I am new to the hometheater.

looks like good choices i use the 20's in the rear and like it and it works as
long as its at least 5 ft behind you and i am partial to the pb13.

does anyone elses ultracube 12 or 10 make a poping noise when the unit fires up, and also when it shuts down.? mine makes a fairly audible deepish poping noise.

I ordered the Paradigm studio 100's and the cc690. While I am waiting for them I am thinking should I order the ADP590's for surround for a 7.1 system or go with ADP590 for the surround L&R and Studio 20's for the rear.

My other dilemma is the subwoofer, I have been reading about HSU VTF-3MK-3 or VTF-3 HO, I heard HSU in general works well with Onkyo and intergra's, I have an Onkyo 905 (gave up on the integra 8.8/9.8 due to the unending wait times). I also like the SVS PB13-Ultra/SB12-plus. PB-13 is a little stretch for me price wise. My room size is 10Wx8Hx22L. I would appreciate any advise (even other brands).

I am new to the hometheater.

Since the sub are self-powered, I don't think it really matters what brand amplifier drives them. I think that you would be happy with either sub. From comments are have read about the PB-13U, It is probably a better match for your speakers than the HSU. If you are going to spend that much on your speakers, you shouldn't skimp out on the sub. The PB13U will most likely match the qualities you like in the Studio's...

As for the ADP's as surround backs. you didn't mention the width of your room. Unless your room is very wide 15-20 feet, I would not go with the ADP's. Remember that these are dipoles. I personally prefer a little more focused sound for the surround backs.

BR

I did... see my post in this thread, and a more detailed one in another recent thread (started by me). And I chose the S6 over the 100. It's a no-brainer in a HT environment with a sub (money aside). Another guy was testing for music, and the S6's have just enough bass for a small/medium room to work in a 2-channel music setup.

They just are in a different league compared to the Studio line, including the 100's. IMO, your mileage may vary.

I posted another question in your other thread, but must have missed it, could you possibly revisit and lend your thoughts.. Your comparison to me was very helpful... thanks for that...
Thread link for others... http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=988406

front studio 60 v.1 center cc 450 rears adp 450 they are wired with mit bi 4 the rears are wired with monster cable 14-4 two wires twisted togather fof each terminal. i have a sunfire tg-3 a mm9000 witch is 150 watts bi-5. dvd is a marantz dvd/sacd 8400 i have two velodyne subs , im very happy with this set up. but am considering getting a svs pb or pc ultra 13 after reading the reviews who wouldent.

I have a Studio 100 setup, including a CC690 centre channel speaker. Because of the layout of my room, I do not have any good places to put my subwoofers except under the TV. Is it possible to place the centre channel speaker on top of the subwoofers, or will this cause problems?

I have a Studio 100 setup, including a CC690 centre channel speaker. Because of the layout of my room, I do not have any good places to put my subwoofers except under the TV. Is it possible to place the centre channel speaker on top of the subwoofers, or will this cause problems?

I would avoid a direct coupling of the two.

If you can put a small table over the sub with the center channel on top of the table, that would be fine, as long as they are not touching.

The sub of all speakers will vibrate the most, and you don't want those vibes transferring to the Center speaker and it's cones.

any opinions on the titian monitor v5?

I am currently running a 5.1 system. My set up is as follows.

Studio 20's L/R
CC-590 [C]
ADP 590 for L/R Surround
PS-1200 sub
AVM50 and the MCA-50 amp.

Now I am interested in upgrading to 7.1 since allot of blurays have 7.1 and well I have the room for this and heard the Anthem is good at replicating 7.1 from 5.1 movies.

I use the system for about 85% movies and 15% SACD/DVD-A music.
Using the CC590 as the center changing the 20's for the rear duty and adding either the studio40 or the studio60 as the fronts.

Now here is a few of my issues/concerns.
1ST- my adp590 surrounds are sitting at the 6ft level [this is to the bottom of the speaker] my couch is about 6ft from the back wall.
Will the 20's work if I keep them on the stands as the rears or will they overpower the ADP590's being so low.
If So should I mount them up high same level ,pointing out or towards the listening area?

2ND - again since I am mostly movies, will the 60's be overkill , or might not be good enough in the mid/high range compared to the 40's again as the 40's might be a better fit with the cc590 and the ps1200 handling sub duty.
Also with the 60's I'm not sure if it will fit well with the CC590 center , I will/can not change the center to the cc690 so thats out of the question.

Any help would be welcomed.

the 40's plus stands might end up costing the same as the 60's they will occupy the
same floor space also the 60's having more cabinet for the bass speaker will allow
for lower bass.the 590 will work just fine,6ft from the couch will work for the 20's
and if the 590's are working for you currently that should not change.

Did we lose a day worth of posts?

yes

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/announcement.php?f=89&a=120

DN

Hey Everyone: I'm about to pull the trigger on a Paradigm Studio Reference home theater system and my use will be approx. 90% home theater. Please let me know what you think of the following configurations. Thanks!

1. 100 v4's, cc690, adp590 (surrounds), 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

2. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair adp590s (surrounds and rear surrounds)

3. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair 20 v4's (surrounds and rear surrounds)

4. 60 v4's (2 pairs - mains & surrounds); cc690, 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

i vote option #1

Okay, setup question number 4,373.

I'm trying to decide between the Studio 40s, and J-stands for less than $1200 or add $500 to that and go with the 60s at $1700.

I believe that looking strictly at numbers, I'm getting a much better deal on the 40s, but I'm not sure if I would be happier with the 60s. I listen to mostly HT, but also want music to sound good.

Currently have Klispch RF-3 towers (on bottom), and have purchased with option to return, the Paradigm 40s (on top). The 40's sound good, but are a little hard to get used to in terms of lower mid/low sounds. I also have an SVS PB Plus/2 (left), so LOW bass should be good either way.

I am on a budget and could use the $500 to add toward something else, or I get the 60's and save a little longer for whatever else I need.

Other than clean up my rat's nest, what would you do? Get the 60s, stay with 40s and resell at later date, etc...?
http://www.911billing.net/images/av.jpg

Where in the world are you people getting these prices from. $1200 for 40s and stands? I called two dealers last week and they wouldn't budge on any prices. 1k for 20s and 1.5k for 40s no stands for either.

I'd always go with 60's over 40's. If you're gonna listen to music, the 60's will be better, always.

As for the other poster, Option #1. I wouldn't put dipoles as rear speakers.

I'd always go with 60's over 40's. If you're gonna listen to music, the 60's will be better, always.

As for the other poster, Option #1. I wouldn't put dipoles as rear speakers.

i have done this for 3 years with good results and have stated in earlier
threads they need some distance from the listener i have mine at 6ft.
a lot of material has been discreet channels of late negating the need
for diffuse sound pattern.

Hey Everyone: I'm about to pull the trigger on a Paradigm Studio Reference home theater system and my use will be approx. 90% home theater. Please let me know what you think of the following configurations. Thanks!

1. 100 v4's, cc690, adp590 (surrounds), 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

2. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair adp590s (surrounds and rear surrounds)

3. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair 20 v4's (surrounds and rear surrounds)

4. 60 v4's (2 pairs - mains & surrounds); cc690, 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

I have configuration 2 and I really like it..

Where in the world are you people getting these prices from. $1200 for 40s and stands? I called two dealers last week and they wouldn't budge on any prices. 1k for 20s and 1.5k for 40s no stands for either.

Halvie,

Yes, that's my point exactly. It sounds like I got a really good deal on the 40s. So much so that I wondered if I should just keep them or keep for a while and then sell them at a later point. What would they be worth 6 months from now?

Is the price I was quoted on the 60s as good of a price? I really don't know other than what I read on here due to the lack of Paradigm dealers in my area.

Babel_fish:

Is your Paradigm setup used more for home theater or music?

Bash, the 60's are selling for 2k firm around me. So yeah 1.7 is still a pretty good deal imo.

Ginovino:

Sent you a PM

Hey Everyone: I'm about to pull the trigger on a Paradigm Studio Reference home theater system and my use will be approx. 90% home theater. Please let me know what you think of the following configurations. Thanks!

1. 100 v4's, cc690, adp590 (surrounds), 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

2. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair adp590s (surrounds and rear surrounds)

3. 100 v4's, cc690, two pair 20 v4's (surrounds and rear surrounds)

4. 60 v4's (2 pairs - mains & surrounds); cc690, 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

#1 if you can put at least 6 feet between the primary listening position and the rears. Otherwise they will be too directional, and you'll want #2.

Nice thing about the 590's is they are front-firing also, so you'll get some directional effect with them as well.

40's for me was priced at around 1400 w/J29 stands
60's was just over 1500

So this is why I'm confused which to go with, I am 85% HT and 15% is SACD/DVD-a music rest good ol TV.

For the price I know grab the 60's but for my HT will they be the same or better then the 40's... now that is the question.

hi everyone,

has anyone completed a comparison test between the paradigm s6 and psb synchrony 2? i may be able to audition the psb's this weekend and am wondering if they are worth considering, along with paradigm. what are your impressions of the overall sound difference between the two? i do know the paradigm sound, having heard the 100's (v3 & v4) and s8 (v1) and think they are excellent. i am interested in the s6 as well. i would appreciate everyones thoughts.

thanks,

m

40's for me was priced at around 1400 w/J29 stands
60's was just over 1500

So this is why I'm confused which to go with, I am 85% HT and 15% is SACD/DVD-a music rest good ol TV.

For the price I know grab the 60's but for my HT will they be the same or better then the 40's... now that is the question.

The 60's will be better. More full, a little more bass, better all around. What center will you be using?

hi everyone,

has anyone completed a comparison test between the paradigm s6 and psb synchrony 2? i may be able to audition the psb's this weekend and am wondering if they are worth considering, along with paradigm. what are your impressions of the overall sound difference between the two? i do know the paradigm sound, having heard the 100's (v3 & v4) and s8 (v1) and think they are excellent. i am interested in the s6 as well. i would appreciate everyones thoughts.

thanks,

m


You need to listen to the Signature V2's. They are much better across the board.

thanks abmag, have you heard the psb’s? they are suppose to be somewhat smoother on the top end. the 100’s seem a touch edgy to me (upper end) when stressed. i am looking forward to hearing the s6 since it has the updated tweeter. my interest would be either the s6 or synchrony 2. no doubt the build quality of the sigs are beautiful. i’ve read the same for the psb’s also.

You need to listen to the Signature V2's. They are much better across the board.

Hey AbMag... I asked a question is your other post, must have missed it...

''AbMagFab.... thanks for posting you subjective thoughts and details of your comparison here... I love my studio's but have always had in the back of my mind the Sigs, and wondered how they faired... I will be making some trips down to Chicago in the near future to listen to the Sigs as well as some Aerials.

How are the new Sig tweeters? Could you give a bit more detail on them... compared to the Studio's. And maybe more thoughts of Imaging and enveloping of sound compared..?

Thanks so much..

Warpdrv''

Hey AbMag... I asked a question is your other post, must have missed it...

''AbMagFab.... thanks for posting you subjective thoughts and details of your comparison here... I love my studio's but have always had in the back of my mind the Sigs, and wondered how they faired... I will be making some trips down to Chicago in the near future to listen to the Sigs as well as some Aerials.

How are the new Sig tweeters? Could you give a bit more detail on them... compared to the Studio's. And maybe more thoughts of Imaging and enveloping of sound compared..?

Thanks so much..

Warpdrv''

I did reply, but it was when they lost all the posts for the day... I'll go back and post in that thread to keep it together.

thanks abmag, have you heard the psb’s? they are suppose to be somewhat smoother on the top end. the 100’s seem a touch edgy to me (upper end) when stressed. i am looking forward to hearing the s6 since it has the updated tweeter. my interest would be either the s6 or synchrony 2. no doubt the build quality of the sigs are beautiful. i’ve read the same for the psb’s also.

Haven't heard the PSB's (the local dealers are a little sketchy). That's the weird thing about a lot of these higher-end speakers, it's really hard to find a good dealer (at least out here in MD).

The S6's were amazingly smooth across the board. Really lost me in the sound. The 100's were a little too processed for my taste, but only in comparison to the Sig's. I know the 100's sound great.

Okay, I think my AVR (Onkyo 905) supports bi-amping the fronts, but I give up 7.1. It's about 145W/channel.

When I get my S6/C5/ADP1 setup, should I do 5.1 and bi-amp the fronts, or 7.1? It's mostly for HT.

I gather the main benefit of bi-amping is to give the high- and low-end separate power, not as much about volume or anything? And since the S6's don't have muhc low-end, will the bi-amping really benefit me?

If it is a big benefit, is it worth sacrificing the rear-surrounds (or side-surrounds, I forget which I should give up in a 5.1 setup)? Or should I get another amp (slippery slope...).

Thanks,
Mark

The 60's will be better. More full, a little more bass, better all around. What center will you be using?

Ab, I'm using the CC590. I wanted the 690 but no way would it of fit.
Also got the PS1200 for my sub if that helps. \
Thanks for the reply

Ab, I'm using the CC590. I wanted the 690 but no way would it of fit.
Also got the PS1200 for my sub if that helps. \
Thanks for the reply

Yeah, when I was considering the Studio's, I really was leaning towards the 690 - it has the extra 2 mid-range drivers, right?

I think it's the same reason I feel compelled to go with the C5. It's big though, and it turns out it's rear-ported, so placement will be fun...

New Paradigm owner here. I just picked up a pair of Mini v.5's for my bedroom TV and I am looking for a center channel. However, because the room is rather small, the matching centers are really not ideal. I know just how important it is to match the front soundstage but I was really considering the Millenia 20 or possibly the Cinema 330 for a center as the sizes are ideal. Is this a good idea or should I pass on a center for now?

New Paradigm owner here. I just picked up a pair of Mini v.5's for my bedroom TV and I am looking for a center channel. However, because the room is rather small, the matching centers are really not ideal. I know just how important it is to match the front soundstage but I was really considering the Millenia 20 or possibly the Cinema 330 for a center as the sizes are ideal. Is this a good idea or should I pass on a center for now?

why not another mini for the center.

I have purchased 3 Millenia 20's in an LCR config with a Denon 3808ci amp. I now need to look at surrounds. I have searched for a similar situation, and need help with a dipole/direct decision.

1. The room is small 10x15.
2. The tv is off centered.
3. Not enough room for 7.1 so will be doing 5.1
4. One surround speaker will sit on a fireplace mantel (fireplace takes entire right wall)
5. The other (left surround) will wall mount but has an open doorway 2-3 feet on its left.
6 Primary viewing (listening) position is 1-2 feet off back wall.
7. 80-20 Movie to music.

Keeping that in mind, a couple of questions.

1. Dipole still recommended in 5.1 with an open doorway for possible leak?
2. Is it still recommened to get MilleniaADP to match fronts or would ADP190/390 match as well and save money since the room is not optimal to begin with?
3. Go direct since the room is terrible.

Thanks for the advice,
MarkS

Mark, I would highly suggest you consider doing 3.1, or 4.1 with a small sub. The only knowledge I lack in the audio world is speakers. I have an extensive knowledge on components, not so with speakers; yet.

However:

My room is 14x10, and a pair of bookshelf Mini's is plenty. I wouldn't mind adding a small 8" sub, but there's no need for 5.1 or 7.1 in a small room, IMO. Other's may disagree, but I feel the Mini's move plenty of air, music and sound to easily fill my 14x10 room.







-Nick

Mark, I would highly suggest you consider doing 3.1, or 4.1 with a small sub. The only knowledge I lack in the audio world is speakers. I have an extensive knowledge on components, not so with speakers; yet.

However:

My room is 14x10, and a pair of bookshelf Mini's is plenty. I wouldn't mind adding a small 8" sub, but there's no need for 5.1 or 7.1 in a small room, IMO. Other's may disagree, but I feel the Mini's move plenty of air, music and sound to easily fill my 14x10 room.

-Nick

Except if you use it at a HT, in which case you're missing a lot of the ambient sounds from the side/rear channels. And with a good AVR, you can get much more immersed in the sound even with non-5.1/6.1/7.1 source material.

If you do mostly music, a good pair of fronts with enough bass, or a pair of bookshelf fronts with a sub will be fine.

Mark, I would highly suggest you consider doing 3.1, or 4.1 with a small sub. The only knowledge I lack in the audio world is speakers. I have an extensive knowledge on components, not so with speakers; yet.



I am sorry, I have a sub already -- I forgot to list it. It does sound really good, but I am looking for the "surround" sounds for HT. This is mostly a system for TV/Movie watching.

MarkS

why not another mini for the center.

I would have liked to just go with a matching center like the CC-190 or 290 or even a mini but the TV is on top of an old dresser and there is absolutely no way to fit a normal sized center channel. Not even a stand for the center would work as it would block the drawers.

Can anyone reccomend a set of small surrounds to go with Studio 100v4's and a cc590? The wife wants something small that will fit in the corner of the walls up top. Her idea of small are the little bose cubes, which i quickly told her no. Then she saw the Mirage Omnisats v2's Sats at best buy and said that was as big as she would go. The Mirages got decent reviews, but i didn't know if they would sound good with the paradigm set up. Im going into this knowing its not going to sound as good as it should since I know it won't be matched. This is my first time having to deal with the dreaded WAF, we just got married....

Fargus.... give it a shot, you might find that although they are not matching brands, with the limited amount of material in surround sound, they probably would suit you just fine... If you don't like them, you could take them back....

I have a huge room where Studio 20's work just fine for me, but my bedroom is small, and I'm having a hard time with the super huge (SVS MBS-01's), bigger then Studio 20's mounted on the walls there... they looks rediculus...

I know a number of people that use different brands of speakers for their surrounds for asthetics, and though not completely ideal, they work just fine...

thanks, thats all the motivation i need. Im going after work to get them! : )

Can anyone reccomend a set of small surrounds to go with Studio 100v4's and a cc590? The wife wants something small that will fit in the corner of the walls up top. Her idea of small are the little bose cubes, which i quickly told her no. Then she saw the Mirage Omnisats v2's Sats at best buy and said that was as big as she would go. The Mirages got decent reviews, but i didn't know if they would sound good with the paradigm set up. Im going into this knowing its not going to sound as good as it should since I know it won't be matched. This is my first time having to deal with the dreaded WAF, we just got married....

You don't like the matched ADP's? They are pretty small.

Please somebody give me advice. I am upgrading my system, I have CC270 V3 5 year old channel and thinking to replace wuth CC590 or CC690. Is there really huge benefit to have 690 vs 590. The size of the 690 is really big and I'm not sure it will not be overkill.
I am planning to get Studio 100 and leave my Paradigm PDR-12 for now. I don'r have any issue with and hope it will work with Studio 100, ADP590 and CC590 or CC690.
Besides, I don't see much comments here what receiver do you use with your Paradigm. Do majority of people here prefer external Amp and receiver as pre? Or most of you use just receiver.
Thanks

You don't like the matched ADP's? They are pretty small.

I agree with AbMag here... they are not that big, but they are alot more expensive... try the Mirage, and if they don't work, then the ADP's would be the best scenario...

Please somebody give me advice. I am upgrading my system, I have CC270 V3 5 year old channel and thinking to replace wuth CC590 or CC690. Is there really huge benefit to have 690 vs 590. The size of the 690 is really big and I'm not sure it will not be overkill.
I am planning to get Studio 100 and leave my Paradigm PDR-12 for now. I don'r have any issue with and hope it will work with Studio 100, ADP590 and CC590 or CC690.
Besides, I don't see much comments here what receiver do you use with your Paradigm. Do majority of people here prefer external Amp and receiver as pre? Or most of you use just receiver.
Thanks

I personally can't tell you whether the 690 is that much better, as I didn't even think about it and just bought it... If you have the room, that is the way to go IMO.

As far as Power, your receiver will drive them, and they will sound pretty good, that is what I used until I got my amp.. Rotel 1095, It truley improved the SQ and added more headroom... the response to me was not overwhelming, but it deffinately opened up the speakers quite a bit. thats alot of drivers to be pushing with the overrated power section of the receiver. Emotiva is coming out with a XPA-5 200x5 amp for $799.00, which I have on pre-order to use with another system, looks like it will be a good unit.... http://www.emotiva.com/
http://emotiva.com/images/xpa5.jpg

I agree with AbMag here... they are not that big, but they are alot more expensive... try the Mirage, and if they don't work, then the ADP's would be the best scenario...



I personally can't tell you whether the 690 is that much better, as I didn't even think about it and just bought it... If you have the room, that is the way to go IMO.

As far as Power, your receiver will drive them, and they will sound pretty good, that is what I used until I got my amp.. Rotel 1095, It truley improved the SQ and added more headroom... the response to me was not overwhelming, but it deffinately opened up the speakers quite a bit. thats alot of drivers to be pushing with the overrated power section of the receiver. Emotiva is coming out with a XPA-5 200x5 amp for $799.00, which I have on pre-order to use with another system, looks like it will be a good unit.... http://www.emotiva.com/
http://emotiva.com/images/xpa5.jpg

Thanks Warpdrv for reply.
Do you really need 200w/ch ?
How about Rotel 1075, 120w/ch won't be enough?
Will I ever need more than 100W power?
I still fighting the need of the external Amp ( fighting with myself :) ) , just need some demo before I will become beliver :D
I hear about clipping issue from the sales persons and from the Amp forum members, but never had a problem with my old marantz SR8200, Magnepan MMG , PDR-12 , CC-270 V3 and Paradigm Mini's even on a very loud settings.
I just sold my MMG's , selling CC-270 and trying to make right decision.
Thanks again

If the Marantz drove your maggies, I would think it would be fine with the Studio's, but Manufacturers give a recommended input power rating, I like to get as close to the upper limit as I feasibly/financially can... to give them the best performance, heck alot of people even get amps higher then the rated input...

Run them with your setup and maybe look towards the future for an external amp... its deff. worth it...



The Studio's will take all the juice you can give them.... they sound even more amazing with lots of power. If I had the money, I would have gone bigger then I did....

Paradigm issued a press release on the Studio Reference Esprit On-Walls back in November:

http://www.avrev.com/news/1107/29.paradigm201.shtml

Does anyone know if these are in dealer's hands now or when they're expected to be released? Even better if you've heard them and have some impressions. I wouldn't mind reducing the footprint of my theater and these seem to fit the bill.

Now listed on thier website.
http://www.paradigm.com/en/reference/centers-studio-studioespritc-model-3-13-1-73.paradigm
http://www.paradigm.com/en/reference/fronts-studio-studioesprit-model-2-13-1-72.paradigm

You don't like the matched ADP's? They are pretty small.

i agree small and out of the way and matched.

Interesting, I haven't seen that info on that new product... thanks for the heads up... Although I'm not sure I could handle such a small cabinet for those same drivers as my huge studio's.. I'm sure they will fit in just fine for many people that have less discerning ears then mine... while also providing a very nice looking wall mountable product... especially in Piano Black... Cool stuff indeed... :)

i am just about to buy a CC-690 to go with my Studio 60s and my Onkyo 875.

a question about the CC-690 - does anyone have experience with sitting their (large) TV on top of it? this seems to be my only option (despite the fact that it will put my TV about 24 cm above its current ideal viewing height.

i have a 50" plasma, and the only way i can fit a 690 is if i put the speaker on top of my cabinet, and then put the TV on top of the speaker. either that or get a custom cabinet made up ($$$), since I cannot find a cabinet anywhere that will fit a 690 in a top shelf immediately below the TV.

mounting a centre on a stand is not really an option either, as it will take up too much real estate in front of my current cabinet, and neither is wall mounting my plasma, on account of the massive window behind my setup ><

tv = 40kg = 88 lbs.

is a 690 going to have problems in this scenario? my studio 60s are pretty damn sturdy, and my salesman indicated it should be fine, but paradigm never wrote back to me when i asked this question several months ago in my planning phase.

thanks for any assistance :)

How about like this...?
I have had it that way for almost a year, just haven't built my custom shelf for it...
It has been absolutely no problem, you could support the center underneath inbetween the legs... Mine is a 50'' Panny Plasma Pro... Although I would like to think that if your center channel is above ear level, you would be angling it down towards you...

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d109/Warpdrv/HT-Great%20Room/HTPics011.jpg

Hi everyone,

I have a very modest set of paradigm speakers (see below) used only for TV/Home theater. I recently had a woofer in my front right die on me and am considering repair or replacement. I do not want to spend a lot of money. I've seen some reasonable v.2s on craigslist but haven't really been able to find if its practical or cost effective to just replace the woofer.

Any suggestions/guidance? Thanks!

Left, right fronts and surrounds: Paradigm Cinema v.1
Center: Paradigm CC-170
Sub: Paradigm PDR-10

I was interested in buying a pair of Paradigm ADP-190s for my surrounds.

I called a local authorized dealer and they told me they didn't have any in stock but could order some. Then he went on to say the 2007 price was $199 each but that there was a new 2008 catalog coming out and its possible they were replaced or upgraded to a new version.

Does anyone know if there are new ones coming out soon? If so I'd rather wait a few months for a new version.

Krbuck, call a dealer and see what he wants for the driver... you can unscrew the driver and replace it, its not that hard, and will cost far less then a whole new set of speakers...

tranzparentl - all the speakers in all the lines were just upgraded, so nothing new will be coming out any time soon... Here are the choices available, unless you go used on audiogon, or craigslist...
ADP-190 ADP-390
http://www.paradigm.com/en/paradigm/surrounds-monitor-series-1-4-4.paradigm

40's 60's - 60's 40's? ------I decided to skip the debate and just ordered the 100's today. The should be here by the following weekend. I didn't get the % off that I did with the Studio 40's, but I suppose I got an okay price at $2,200. It got into my center channel budget, but I can wait a bit I suppose.

It was that picture of Warpdvr that sent me over the edge.... shame....shame...

I need to get the camera fired up and put the 40's on the 'bay I suppose.

40's 60's - 60's 40's? ------I decided to skip the debate and just ordered the 100's today. The should be here by the following weekend. I didn't get the % off that I did with the Studio 40's, but I suppose I got an okay price at $2,200. It got into my center channel budget, but I can wait a bit I suppose.

It was that picture of Warpdvr that sent me over the edge.... shame....shame...

I need to get the camera fired up and put the 40's on the 'bay I suppose.

none that i know regret their 100 purchase i know i haven't going on three years now ,one of the few purchases that i haven't wanted to upgrade.

none that i know regret their 100 purchase i know i haven't going on three years now ,one of the few purchases that i haven't wanted to upgrade.

What kind of amp are you using? I guess the next thing after a center will be an amp to do it justice.

What kind of amp are you using? I guess the next thing after a center will be an amp to do it justice.

integra 10.5 sadly its been discontinued but i have friend powering hers with
the 8.8, i highly recomend something with a true 125w rms and 4 and 3 ohm
capable since the 100's dip down to 3.5 ohm at around 100hz.

So is my Onkyo 905 going to be powerful enough for a Paradigm Signature setup? I'm planning on:

S6 - FL/FR
C5 - C
ADP1 - Side and Rear surrounds
SVS PB13-Ultra - Sub

My room is smallish, at about 12x15x8, so I don't need much sound to fill it, but I want to make sure I'm not going to way underpower the S6's.

Any thoughts on this?

Thanks!
-Mark

(I posted this as a separate thread, but got no advice there...)

i don't see why not the 8.8 and 905 are the same in a relative way plus the sigs are
a little easier to drive the dip to 3.5 ohm is narrower on the sigs.i'm able to fill my
17 x 17 connected to a den 11 x12 and kitchen 8 x 13 just fine.
i should mention i do crossover the low end at 70hz.

i don't see why not the 8.8 and 905 are the same in a relative way plus the sigs are
a little easier to drive the dip to 3.5 ohm is narrower on the sigs.i'm able to fill my
17 x 17 connected to a den 11 x12 and kitchen 8 x 13 just fine.
i should mention i do crossover the low end at 70hz.

Thanks! So at a minimum, there's nothing glaringly wrong from a power standpoint?

Also, what about sound quality? How different is something like the 905 (amp) from something like one of the Anthem 5.1 amps?

Thanks! So at a minimum, there's nothing glaringly wrong from a power standpoint?

Also, what about sound quality? How different is something like the 905 (amp) from something like one of the Anthem 5.1 amps?

to be honest i have not compared it to an anthem but to a adcom amp
saw no difference.

Clean amps should introduce nothing to the stream....
Just grab one of those Emotiva XPA-5 200x5 amps... the price is right $799.00... not sure you could go wrong here...
They look like they will spec out really nicely... http://www.emotiva.com/


I have to say that you have had some influance on me with your purchase of the S6's, I have been watching them for some time and waiting for some substantial reviews to come out, but you know reviewers... tell the company what they want to hear...

I think I might just have to spring for a set like what you did...
I love my 100's to death but I think I might just have to spring for the Sig's.

Clean amps should introduce nothing to the stream....
Just grab one of those Emotiva XPA-5 200x5 amps... the price is right $799.00... not sure you could go wrong here...
They look like they will spec out really nicely... http://www.emotiva.com/


I have to say that you have had some influance on me with your purchase of the S6's, I have been watching them for some time and waiting for some substantial reviews to come out, but you know reviewers... tell the company what they want to hear...

I think I might just have to spring for a set like what you did...
I love my 100's to death but I think I might just have to spring for the Sig's.

I haven't bought them yet! I've decided to, but I'm not plopping down the cash until next month (stock dividend check earmarked). Which sucks, because I keep poking around, and I just want to get them into my house...

Clean amps should introduce nothing to the stream....
Just grab one of those Emotiva XPA-5 200x5 amps... the price is right $799.00... not sure you could go wrong here...
They look like they will spec out really nicely... http://www.emotiva.com/


The MPS-2 looks nice as well, but I could get 2 of the XPA-5 for almost the same price? I can't tell what the difference is, and if I want 7.1 with bi-amped fronts, I'd need 9 amps anyway. Would I just split the pre-out for the fronts to two amp inputs?

Any thoughts on the difference between the new XPA-5 and the MPS-2 amps?

Just thought I would chime in as a long time Paradigm owner....

My set-up is as follows:

Front - Monitor 9se (original, not v.## - bought new in 1991)
Center - CC300 (new in 1995)
Sub - PDR10 (1999)
Side and Rear Surrounds - Mini Monitors (1999)

Everything is still running as purchased, except one woofer in one of the 9's was replaced in 1999, Paradigm sent me a replacement for $87.

I know the newer models sound fantastic, but until my originals bite the dust, they won't be replaced; that is, unless I can find a dealer who will accept them in a trade up (yes, I still have the original receipts). I am looking into some true surround speakers, but they would have to match the rest of my system.

While my speakers have remained the same, my A/V equipment has been upgraded, I use a Toshiba HD A35 for DVD/HD DVD, and an Onkyo 605 for audio.

i am just about to buy a CC-690 to go with my Studio 60s and my Onkyo 875.

a question about the CC-690 - does anyone have experience with sitting their (large) TV on top of it? this seems to be my only option (despite the fact that it will put my TV about 24 cm above its current ideal viewing height.

i have a 50" plasma, and the only way i can fit a 690 is if i put the speaker on top of my cabinet, and then put the TV on top of the speaker. either that or get a custom cabinet made up ($$$), since I cannot find a cabinet anywhere that will fit a 690 in a top shelf immediately below the TV.

mounting a centre on a stand is not really an option either, as it will take up too much real estate in front of my current cabinet, and neither is wall mounting my plasma, on account of the massive window behind my setup ><

tv = 40kg = 88 lbs.

is a 690 going to have problems in this scenario? my studio 60s are pretty damn sturdy, and my salesman indicated it should be fine, but paradigm never wrote back to me when i asked this question several months ago in my planning phase.

thanks for any assistance :)

Please take a look on my setup.
I hust sold my Magnepan MMG's and planning to get Studio 100 , ADP 590 and debating between CC590 and 690.
I recently modified my Bello's stand-I attached myself their PRO series stands behind. That let me to free top shelf, get TV futrher back and higher from kids and not worry anymore about weight of the TV on the top shelf.
So, now I am not sure what to do - I can put CC690 on the top shelf, but it will collect all dust in the room. In another hand I have CC270 V3 on the middle shelf and it's very clean as well, so CC590 might feet there.
So any way, may be you can modify your stand as I did and it will give you chance to put CC690 below TV and not above. Just an idea.
On the image you can see a Sony 52XBR4, CC270V3 on the middle shelf, MArantz SR8200 on the bottom shelf and HTPC.
Take a look:

Please take a look on my setup.
I hust sold my Magnepan MMG's and planning to get Studio 100 , ADP 590 and debating between CC590 and 690.
I recently modified my Bello's stand-I attached myself their PRO series stands behind. That let me to free top shelf, get TV futrher back and higher from kids and not worry anymore about weight of the TV on the top shelf.
So, now I am not sure what to do - I can put CC690 on the top shelf, but it will collect all dust in the room. In another hand I have CC270 V3 on the middle shelf and it's very clean as well, so CC590 might feet there.
So any way, may be you can modify your stand as I did and it will give you chance to put CC690 below TV and not above. Just an idea.
On the image you can see a Sony 52XBR4, CC270V3 on the middle shelf, MArantz SR8200 on the bottom shelf and HTPC.
Take a look:

EDIT: Just remeasured my middle shelf, it doesn't look CC590 will fit there, so it looks like I have to decide what I am going to put on the top shelf CC590 or 690. To replace my TV stand will be tooooo expencive at this moment.

i am just about to buy a CC-690 to go with my Studio 60s and my Onkyo 875.

a question about the CC-690 - does anyone have experience with sitting their (large) TV on top of it? this seems to be my only option (despite the fact that it will put my TV about 24 cm above its current ideal viewing height.

i have a 50" plasma, and the only way i can fit a 690 is if i put the speaker on top of my cabinet, and then put the TV on top of the speaker. either that or get a custom cabinet made up ($$$), since I cannot find a cabinet anywhere that will fit a 690 in a top shelf immediately below the TV.

mounting a centre on a stand is not really an option either, as it will take up too much real estate in front of my current cabinet, and neither is wall mounting my plasma, on account of the massive window behind my setup ><

tv = 40kg = 88 lbs.

is a 690 going to have problems in this scenario? my studio 60s are pretty damn sturdy, and my salesman indicated it should be fine, but paradigm never wrote back to me when i asked this question several months ago in my planning phase.

thanks for any assistance :)

I have a 77lb 46" SAMSUNG LCD sitting right on top of my cc-690 (which sits on the tv stand using the cc-690 outrigger feet and rubber foot screws) and have no problems at all! The TV has factory rubber feet on the stand to provide a measure of acoustic isolation. I'd say you'll be just fine!

-p

The MPS-2 looks nice as well, but I could get 2 of the XPA-5 for almost the same price? I can't tell what the difference is, and if I want 7.1 with bi-amped fronts, I'd need 9 amps anyway. Would I just split the pre-out for the fronts to two amp inputs?

Any thoughts on the difference between the new XPA-5 and the MPS-2 amps?

The MPS-2 amp is a Class H type amp, which is a touch more effiecient then the XPA-5, which is a Class A/B type amp... My Rotel RMB-1095 is a Class A/B, and runs a touch hotter then a Class H, but there have been many saying that the Emotiva A/B's run very cool, maybe a little warmer then the H.

My Amp will be in the basement, so I don't care about heat but like I said, these amps are not a problem with heat, from what I have read.

Emotiva lounge http://emotivalounge.proboards54.com/ can help you gather up some more info... My Pre-order is already in on the XPA-5. I think it will be a fantastic amp with the history of their amps in mind...

Although, it would be nice to have more power for the Sigs, I think they would do pretty well with the XPA-5. :)

The MPS-2 amp is a Class H type amp, which is a touch more effiecient then the XPA-5, which is a Class A/B type amp... My Rotel RMB-1095 is a Class A/B, and runs a touch hotter then a Class H, but there have been many saying that the Emotiva A/B's run very cool, maybe a little warmer then the H.

My Amp will be in the basement, so I don't care about heat but like I said, these amps are not a problem with heat, from what I have read.

Emotiva lounge http://emotivalounge.proboards54.com/ can help you gather up some more info... My Pre-order is already in on the XPA-5. I think it will be a fantastic amp with the history of their amps in mind...

Although, it would be nice to have more power for the Sigs, I think they would do pretty well with the XPA-5. :)

Am I reading right, that the MPS-2 has teroidal transformers for each amp? Versus just one for the XPS-5? Is that amazing, or just, whatever? I price isn't an issue, it is worth getting the MPS-2, or are the differences just not that noticable?

(I'll head to the other forum when I'm ready to get pounced on, I'm just looking for a little more info first.)

If there's really not much difference, I'm about ready to pre-order an XPS-5 as well. It's almost an impulse purchase at that price, and my new speakers certainly could use the extra power.

Am I reading right, that the MPS-2 has teroidal transformers for each amp? Versus just one for the XPS-5? Is that amazing, or just, whatever? I price isn't an issue, it is worth getting the MPS-2, or are the differences just not that noticable?

(I'll head to the other forum when I'm ready to get pounced on, I'm just looking for a little more info first.)

If there's really not much difference, I'm about ready to pre-order an XPS-5 as well. It's almost an impulse purchase at that price, and my new speakers certainly could use the extra power.

The ability to have a PS for each amp is and can be a good thing, but I am not the one here to give you a full in depth analyzation of that... I am not fluent in Amp speak. In my opinion, the only benefit of the MPS-2 would be having that extra 2 channels which would give you the opportunity to Bi-Amp the front 2, as you are only going 5 channel, but is that worth the extra $1K, to me I don't think so... YMMV`

i am just about to buy a CC-690 to go with my Studio 60s and my Onkyo 875.

a question about the CC-690 - does anyone have experience with sitting their (large) TV on top of it? this seems to be my only option (despite the fact that it will put my TV about 24 cm above its current ideal viewing height.

i have a 50" plasma, and the only way i can fit a 690 is if i put the speaker on top of my cabinet, and then put the TV on top of the speaker. either that or get a custom cabinet made up ($$$), since I cannot find a cabinet anywhere that will fit a 690 in a top shelf immediately below the TV.

mounting a centre on a stand is not really an option either, as it will take up too much real estate in front of my current cabinet, and neither is wall mounting my plasma, on account of the massive window behind my setup ><

tv = 40kg = 88 lbs.

is a 690 going to have problems in this scenario? my studio 60s are pretty damn sturdy, and my salesman indicated it should be fine, but paradigm never wrote back to me when i asked this question several months ago in my planning phase.

thanks for any assistance :)

I've got a Mitsubishi 65" DLP (65734) 78" on top of mine, no problems at all. I was actually inspired by Warp's setup, thought it looked pretty cool. Wanted the CC690, and that was my only option, and it has been fine.

I've got a Mitsubishi 65" DLP (65734) 78" on top of mine, no problems at all. I was actually inspired by Warp's setup, thought it looked pretty cool. Wanted the CC690, and that was my only option, and it has been fine.

Thanks nelson, I think I have totally pushed the envelope here with my 100 pound plasma on top... with no issues... Not that I don't want to finish building my stand, but hey... its still workin...

40's 60's - 60's 40's? ------I decided to skip the debate and just ordered the 100's today. The should be here by the following weekend. I didn't get the % off that I did with the Studio 40's, but I suppose I got an okay price at $2,200. It got into my center channel budget, but I can wait a bit I suppose.

It was that picture of Warpdvr that sent me over the edge.... shame....shame...

I need to get the camera fired up and put the 40's on the 'bay I suppose.

Hey Bash, Warp has inspired more than a few us with his setup. Congrats on your 100's. Enjoy them.

Hey guys, I'm new here and have a quick question. I went to Hi Fi House earlier tonight an fell in love with the Paradigm speakers; in particular the atoms. The dealer is giving me a price which I'd like to see if I can beat online but I can't seem to find any online retailers. Can anyone point me to a reputable online source for paradigm speakers?

Hey guys, I'm new here and have a quick question. I went to Hi Fi House earlier tonight an fell in love with the Paradigm speakers; in particular the atoms. The dealer is giving me a price which I'd like to see if I can beat online but I can't seem to find any online retailers. Can anyone point me to a reputable online source for paradigm speakers?

No such thing. Anything on-line is not authorized by Paradigm. A little earlier in this thread is a link to the semi-current list-prices, so you can see if you're getting a deal.

Paradigm doesn't allow any online retail. They are only sold in authorized dealerships.

Hey Bash, Warp has inspired more than a few us with his setup. Congrats on your 100's. Enjoy them.

Thanks... I was second guessing myself on whether I should have just stuck with the 40s or went with the 60s, but reading the comments of the other owners of 100s tells me I made right decision.

It was a little more than I wanted to pay, but you no the old saying,

"Quality is remembered long after the cost is forgotten"

I hope that's the case with the studio 100s.

Thanks for the info; looks like they've quoted me about 15-25 under retail for each speaker. I guess that isn't bad but I was hoping for deep internet discount ;)

Next question.. anyone go from Definitive Tech PC800s or PC1000s to Paradigm Mini or Atoms or vice versa? I absolutely love the sound of both brands and can't really decide which is the better purchase.

Thanks for the info; looks like they've quoted me about 15-25 under retail for each speaker. I guess that isn't bad but I was hoping for deep internet discount ;)

Next question.. anyone go from Definitive Tech PC800s or PC1000s to Paradigm Mini or Atoms or vice versa? I absolutely love the sound of both brands and can't really decide which is the better purchase.

I have not listened to the DefTech's but everything I have listened to in the same price range as the Monitor series does not come close. This includes many reputable name brands... I don't see how the DefTech's would be any different... All I can say is that I personally do not know anyone who has bought Monitor series and gone to something else in that price range. If anything, they eventually upgrade to the Studio or Signature series...

Hey Bigrock, oztech and fargus...thanks for your advise. I just received my Studio 100s and CC690 yesterday, and I was excited and hooked them rightaway. They sound great out of the box, but I would allow couple of more days for the break-in.

I have also recieved my panny ae2000 pj yesterday. Good projector, however the black levels are not as good as I expected, my HT is in the basement, it will be a dedicated HT room once I finish one wall. It has no windows. Color accuracy is better and brighter.

I have decided on the ADP 590s for the 7.1 surround after I spoke with my dealer. He states for move watching it will be better with ADPs and for critical music it will of some advantage using studio 20/40 at the back. Either way one will not go wrong with the ADPs as they are dedicated surround channel speakers.

My sub: I am thinking should I go with single sub or dual? There was an unanimous vote for the PB13U. BUt what do you suggest for dual sub arrangement. Hey did any of have any experience with the Outlaw LFM1-EX.

Lastly, which power management device would you recommend, I have not researched much in this area, I know Monster and panamax are good, but which model to go with. I went to a local bigbox HT store they suggested MOnster which was $1200 which way more than I expect to pay. Currently I am running on a cheap surge protector I bought at Sams. Please advise and let me know what you guys are using?

Hey Bigrock, oztech and fargus...thanks for your advise. I just received my Studio 100s and CC690 yesterday, and I was excited and hooked them rightaway. They sound great out of the box, but I would allow couple of more days for the break-in.

I have also recieved my panny ae2000 pj yesterday. Good projector, however the black levels are not as good as I expected, my HT is in the basement, it will be a dedicated HT room once I finish one wall. It has no windows. Color accuracy is better and brighter.

I have decided on the ADP 590s for the 7.1 surround after I spoke with my dealer. He states for move watching it will be better with ADPs and for critical music it will of some advantage using studio 20/40 at the back. Either way one will not go wrong with the ADPs as they are dedicated surround channel speakers.

My sub: I am thinking should I go with single sub or dual? There was an unanimous vote for the PB13U. BUt what do you suggest for dual sub arrangement. Hey did any of have any experience with the Outlaw LFM1-EX.

Lastly, which power management device would you recommend, I have not researched much in this area, I know Monster and panamax are good, but which model to go with. I went to a local bigbox HT store they suggested MOnster which was $1200 which way more than I expect to pay. Currently I am running on a cheap surge protector I bought at Sams. Please advise and let me know what you guys are using?

congratulations ,i would try one pb13 first as far as pm i would take a look at apc since you said projector since ups for the bulbs sake.on subs only
familiar with rel,velodyne,svs,definitive,klipsch and jbl so far the svs pb13
has my highest regards.

http://www.tripplite.com/products/product.cfm?productID=104

Unless you are in an industrial area with constant serious noise on your power lines, I would suggest a Surge Suppressor.... If you have a ohm meter/power level meter, you can measure what voltage you have around your house... should be between 115 - 120 volts, if its low you should contact the electric company....

And If you are in really nasty storm areas, you should jsut pull all the plugs on your equipment to avoid any problems... surge won't protect against 700,000 volts ever.

warpdrv is right never seen anything survive a direct hit but it will take care of a static
charge and give you the ability of plugging all your eq in one spot.i mentioned the apc
because thats what we use on installations with projectors if the power goes off before
the bulb cools down you can expect a short life and some of those bulbs are 500.00+.

APC, Tripplite, whatever, they are all basically the same, oz has your back here...

I have an extremely large room, and I started with a Single Plus/2, and then bought a Plus for my bedroom, but upon trying it with the Plus/2 it was a vast improvement in balanced bass, but the room is so large... I recently added a second Plus/2 to me great room - let me tell you "OH MY GOD"
In my bedroom, I don't feel it necessary for dual subs, much less would I want that either... :) But the Single Plus works great. I love it, and it just pounds. YMMV Like oz said, start with 1 see how it does, then if your wallet s screaming spend more !!!!! Grab another... Keep in mind that a unit like the Velodyne SMS-1 really helps balance out bass in a room, I got one and it made a huge difference.

Don't forget to keep an eye on my SE WI GTG (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=982465) thread which happens today... should be fun to the head to head results...

Warp Out !!

docgirl what size room is all this going in.

Just wondering if you guys could look at my current placement of my Studio 60 v.3, and tell me if I should make any adjustments. I have run the Audyssey program in my preamp, and have the speakers out from the wall at the same distance, but still feel like it could be better. Should I have more toe-in, less, further from the wall or closer. Currently they are 19 inches from the wall with a slight toe-in. I also posted this in the setup thread, as well

i find that a slight toe-in helps with mine i set 7ft from the 100's and they are 6ft apart
due to every room alters sound somewhat your best bet is to play with distance at a
couple of inches at a time.for example i got rid of a nasty 40hz spike by moving my
sub 5 inches down towards center wall.

Thanks guys!

My room (corner nook of my basement) size is 10'Wx22'Lx8'H, I know it's not a huge room, but I wanna make sure I have a good system which is future proof, So I need not think of upgrading anytime soon. This set up is exclusively for movies and music/karaoke. I do most of TV watching in the family room which actuall

I think I will go ahead and research APC and tripp lite. Is there any particular model/s you guys would suggest.

for surge only its a matter of asthetics but i will add panamax in their spec says
lightning protection yes where others tell you to unplug slight inconvenience if you
are not home.apc s15 if battery backup is needed and i only recomend that when
projector bulbs are involved or htpc. but any tripp lite, panamax,furman surge
protection will work fine ,i personally have witnessed no improvement in sq or pq
its just a little piece of mind and feel balanced power somewhat a waste of money
unless you are running tube gear.

Could anyone tell me where I can find Installation instructions for ADP390's?
I have the manual but when I bought the ADP590's it came with a spec sheet that you put on the wall and you know where to put the holes and what not. I can't get access right now to the 590 ones and the 390 version is missing.
I tried the good ol' google but turned up nothing.
Any idea's?

Okay, I feel a little safer in here than in the forum overall.

Can I assume that 12AWG speaker wire means 12AWG for each wire, even when it's 2 or 4 in a single sheath?

For example:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/subdepartment.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10239

Are the 12AWG 1-pair and 12AWG 2-pair exactly the same for each individual wire? That is, each individual wire is 12AWG? So running a 2-pair is the same as running 2 1-pair is the same as runnin 4 individual 12AWG wires?

Just because the picture makes it look half the size.

I'm planning to rerun all my speaker wire with the 2-pair 12AWG, but I want to make sure it's actually 12AWG each.

(And feel free to start yelling at me about how I should be paying 100 per foot for speaker wire, and it's dumb to cheap out on wire when I'm spending over $10K on speakers. While I think that's about as important as using Monster cable, and that it's all about AWG and oxygen-free pure copper, I'm open minded, and am interested in what people in this thread have to say.)

Okay, I feel a little safer in here than in the forum overall.

Can I assume that 12AWG speaker wire means 12AWG for each wire, even when it's 2 or 4 in a single sheath?


Correct, the gauge relates to each of the wires, whether there are 2 or 4.

I bought Studio 60 v4s a few months ago and they collect dust quite quickly. What do you guys use to clean the speakers? The manual says: To clean, use a damp soft cloth. What kind of cloth do you guys use? Is there anything else you do to care for them? Clean the grills, etc?

Thanks.

I bought Studio 60 v4s a few months ago and they collect dust quite quickly. What do you guys use to clean the speakers? The manual says: What kind of cloth do you guys use? Is there anything else you do to care for them? Clean the grills, etc?

Thanks.

i just use a soft cotton cloth.light vacum on grills.

What connectors are you mostly using for these? I've always use banana plugs, but I'm open to suggestions? (As well an places to buy good ones for less than $5 per plug - most of my on-line places are $3-5 per plug, which is annoying, when I need 28-40 of them - 4 for each speaker/wall plate combo, possible bi-amping of fronts.)

Thanks!
-Mark

2 part glsaudio bananas 25.00 for ten pack .safe-connect

2 part glsaudio bananas 25.00 for ten pack .safe-connect

Perfect, thanks! Got a 28-pack for $55 on ebay. I'll buy another 12-pack if I decide to bi-amp the fronts.

Hey Bigrock, oztech and fargus...thanks for your advise. I just received my Studio 100s and CC690 yesterday, and I was excited and hooked them rightaway. They sound great out of the box, but I would allow couple of more days for the break-in.

I have also recieved my panny ae2000 pj yesterday. Good projector, however the black levels are not as good as I expected, my HT is in the basement, it will be a dedicated HT room once I finish one wall. It has no windows. Color accuracy is better and brighter.

I have decided on the ADP 590s for the 7.1 surround after I spoke with my dealer. He states for move watching it will be better with ADPs and for critical music it will of some advantage using studio 20/40 at the back. Either way one will not go wrong with the ADPs as they are dedicated surround channel speakers.

My sub: I am thinking should I go with single sub or dual? There was an unanimous vote for the PB13U. BUt what do you suggest for dual sub arrangement. Hey did any of have any experience with the Outlaw LFM1-EX.

Lastly, which power management device would you recommend, I have not researched much in this area, I know Monster and panamax are good, but which model to go with. I went to a local bigbox HT store they suggested MOnster which was $1200 which way more than I expect to pay. Currently I am running on a cheap surge protector I bought at Sams. Please advise and let me know what you guys are using?


Congratulations! Glad to hear that you got them. Now the fun begins!

What connectors are you mostly using for these? I've always use banana plugs, but I'm open to suggestions? (As well an places to buy good ones for less than $5 per plug - most of my on-line places are $3-5 per plug, which is annoying, when I need 28-40 of them - 4 for each speaker/wall plate combo, possible bi-amping of fronts.)

Thanks!
-Mark

Monoprice.com. They are pretty good and very cheap (inexpensive). they have the screw type and also the solder type. That's what I use.

BR

Is this not availble?

going 7.1 and need help.
Could anyone tell me where I can find Installation instructions for ADP390's?
I have the manual but when I bought the ADP590's it came with a spec sheet that you put on the wall SO you know where to put the screw holes and what not.
I can't get access right now to my 590's and the 390 version is missing.
I tried the good ol' google but turned up nothing.
Any idea's?

Is this not availble?

The 390's are supposed to come with brackets and a template. If you're capable of installing them on your own, I would think you're more than capable of getting a piece of paper and making a new template?

Has anyone heard the Esprit yet? I am currently using Studio 100 v3 but am setting up an AT screen and would prefer not to loose 4 feet of room depth. Wondering what in the line they most resemble.



Now listed on thier website.
http://www.paradigm.com/en/reference/centers-studio-studioespritc-model-3-13-1-73.paradigm
http://www.paradigm.com/en/reference/fronts-studio-studioesprit-model-2-13-1-72.paradigm

Ouch, this thread is deffinitly not like the ANTHEM Pre/Pro thread.
Well, Thanks anyways. Enjoy your new speakers when you get them.


The 390's are supposed to come with brackets and a template. If you're capable of installing them on your own, I would think you're more than capable of getting a piece of paper and making a new template?

Has anyone heard the Esprit yet? I am currently using Studio 100 v3 but am setting up an AT screen and would prefer not to loose 4 feet of room depth. Wondering what in the line they most resemble.

I only had a few minutes with them but first impression, they sound like the Studio 40's. I was considering them as rear surrounds, they do look cool in the piano black hanging on the wall.
The cost is up there, I think around 1900. but I could be Wrong on that. They had I tough time finding them in the computer to give a retail price.

I'm going back in 2 weeks to demo the Sig line after hearing AbMagFab's review. I'll have more time then to play around.
The guy I deal with there is on Vacation, :(

Hey Bigrock, oztech and fargus...thanks for your advise. I just received my Studio 100s and CC690 yesterday, and I was excited and hooked them rightaway. They sound great out of the box, but I would allow couple of more days for the break-in.

I have also recieved my panny ae2000 pj yesterday. Good projector, however the black levels are not as good as I expected, my HT is in the basement, it will be a dedicated HT room once I finish one wall. It has no windows. Color accuracy is better and brighter.

I have decided on the ADP 590s for the 7.1 surround after I spoke with my dealer. He states for move watching it will be better with ADPs and for critical music it will of some advantage using studio 20/40 at the back. Either way one will not go wrong with the ADPs as they are dedicated surround channel speakers.

My sub: I am thinking should I go with single sub or dual? There was an unanimous vote for the PB13U. BUt what do you suggest for dual sub arrangement. Hey did any of have any experience with the Outlaw LFM1-EX.

Lastly, which power management device would you recommend, I have not researched much in this area, I know Monster and panamax are good, but which model to go with. I went to a local bigbox HT store they suggested MOnster which was $1200 which way more than I expect to pay. Currently I am running on a cheap surge protector I bought at Sams. Please advise and let me know what you guys are using?

i don't mean to but into your conversation but when i bought my studio 100's i swear about 6 months later they started sounding great. my imagination?. i am using the belkin pf 60 for surge. it can be had for real cheap by looking around and i have no complaints with it. for monster money i think ps audio is a lot nicer.

OK.. so I'm pretty set on the following, does anyone have this setup and if so what do you think? Do you have any change recommendations or does this sound like a good setup.

Monitor 9 Fronts
Atom Monitor Rears
CC-290 Center
DSP-3100 Sub

Powered by Onkyo TX-SR705.

OK.. so I'm pretty set on the following, does anyone have this setup and if so what do you think? Do you have any change recommendations or does this sound like a good setup.

Monitor 9 Fronts
Atom Monitor Rears
CC-290 Center
DSP-3100 Sub

Powered by Onkyo TX-SR705.

The Fronts, Centre and Surrounds are well balanced. Good choice. I can't comment on the sub.

The Onkyo will work great IMHO.

BR

Could anyone tell me where I can find Installation instructions for ADP390's?
I have the manual but when I bought the ADP590's it came with a spec sheet that you put on the wall and you know where to put the holes and what not. I can't get access right now to the 590 ones and the 390 version is missing.
I tried the good ol' google but turned up nothing.
Any idea's?

i can't help you there never had any of the adp's too much into multi-ch music
but a dealer should be able to help you ,mine has come to my rescue more
than once.

Thats what I did OZ, my dealer hooked me up with one. I'm good to go now.
I'm into the multi ch music also but more movies get played. So this was my choice. Not sure if it was bad or good, It's not as much in your face sound anymore but when I watch a movie it's pretty killer. now when I hook up the studio 20's for rear , I'll post how it sounds. I'm doing a test to see whats better, Dipole all around or dipole and direct.

i can't help you there never had any of the adp's too much into multi-ch music
but a dealer should be able to help you ,mine has come to my rescue more
than once.

Thats what I did OZ, my dealer hooked me up with one. I'm good to go now.
I'm into the multi ch music also but more movies get played. So this was my choice. Not sure if it was bad or good, It's not as much in your face sound anymore but when I watch a movie it's pretty killer. now when I hook up the studio 20's for rear , I'll post how it sounds. I'm doing a test to see whats better, Dipole all around or dipole and direct.
if you have 5 or 6 ft between the 20's and you it will surprise ya.

You have just about the same setup that I am planning to go to. My wife purchased me three Cinema 330's for Front Left and Right and Center Channel Speakers as well as a set of ADP-190's for Surrounds. I just purchased a CC 290 for center channel and I am fixing to upgrade to the Monitor 9's and replace the front Cinema 330's. I haven't needed a Sub yet since I had an older one that still works good. The Atoms for the Rear is the same ones I want to use in my system. I was going to move two of the Cinema 330's to be rear speakers but I changed my mind and I believe I am going to the Atoms for Rears.


OK.. so I'm pretty set on the following, does anyone have this setup and if so what do you think? Do you have any change recommendations or does this sound like a good setup.

Monitor 9 Fronts
Atom Monitor Rears
CC-290 Center
DSP-3100 Sub

Powered by Onkyo TX-SR705.

Could anyone post photos of СС-590 v.4 and CC-690 from behind?

I recently upgraded my HTS with a Marantz sr8001 AVR, Paradigm Studio 100 v4 and CC590. After running Audessey I changed the speaker settings from all large to small and set the LFE crossover to 60hz. Now I'm wondering if I should set the LFE crossover to THX standard of 80 hz instead?

On a side note I am also looking at speaker wire and wiring options on the Paradigms. Any thoughts from Paradigm owners would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

D

I have a Paradigm 370 for a center channel and some off brand front speakers that I want to replace with some good Paradigms. Could someone recommend some good fronts that would go well with my center?

Thanks

I have a Paradigm 370 for a center channel and some off brand front speakers that I want to replace with some good Paradigms. Could someone recommend some good fronts that would go well with my center?

Thanks

For this centre channel, you should go with Monitor 9's or 11's.

BR

I recently upgraded my HTS with a Marantz sr8001 AVR, Paradigm Studio 100 v4 and CC590. After running Audessey I changed the speaker settings from all large to small and set the LFE crossover to 60hz. Now I'm wondering if I should set the LFE crossover to THX standard of 80 hz instead?

On a side note I am also looking at speaker wire and wiring options on the Paradigms. Any thoughts from Paradigm owners would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

D

every room has a different effect i cross mine over at 70hz you will just have
to play with it ,just keep in mind that is not a brick wall it is rolled off at that
point.as for wire i like belden i use 10awg but 12 would be plenty on long runs the longer the run the smaller number awg i have the longest at 47ft.

Someone told me to check out Premier Mounts for mounting some ADP190's to the wall but when I went on the Premier Mount website, I didnt see anything for Paradigm speakers. Where else should I look? Would any kind of speaker mount work for those speakers?

I just used the supplied mounts. Haven't moved in over a year.

Guys, please advise: I am looking to buy Studio 100 V4 this week and possibly CC690.I am debating about ADP590. I still use my Paradigm Mini Monitor's V3 as surround and I wonder to know if they will work fine with 100's and CC690.
I thought to get them to the bedroom upstair, but reading this thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=817879&page=5
got me confused about ADP590.
Another question is what does it mean "to mach" speakers, like on Paradigm website they recomment Studio 100 with CC690 and ADP 590. DOes it mean my old CC270 cental channel (besides less power) will sound good enough?
Thanks

Guys, please advise: I am looking to buy Studio 100 V4 this week and possibly CC690.I am debating about ADP590. I still use my Paradigm Mini Monitor's V3 as surround and I wonder to know if they will work fine with 100's and CC690.
I thought to get them to the bedroom upstair, but reading this thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=817879&page=5
got me confused about ADP590.
Another question is what does it mean "to mach" speakers, like on Paradigm website they recomment Studio 100 with CC690 and ADP 590. DOes it mean my old CC270 cental channel (besides less power) will sound good enough?
Thanks

matched would be preferable since they changed the tweeter domes and
the midrange cones.bet you could not tell which are in or out of phase since the
adp 's are not dipole.

Hey guys, I'm new here and have a quick question. I went to Hi Fi House earlier tonight an fell in love with the Paradigm speakers; in particular the atoms. The dealer is giving me a price which I'd like to see if I can beat online but I can't seem to find any online retailers. Can anyone point me to a reputable online source for paradigm speakers?

Any experiance with E-Bay. There is a seller selling "new" Paradigms/ Im looking for adp 390's and sa25 in wall .
their price is much better than the dealer??

Hi all -

I am upgrading my mains from Studio 20 to 100 (all v4). Current center is CC-590 (v4). If my system use is only 20% HT, and music for the foreseeable future is 2-ch (primarily classical) (i.e., little to no SACD or DVD-A source material), is there enough of a timbre mismatch to justify an upgrade to a CC-690 just for my HT needs? Looking for feedback before I do some listening tests, as dealer is a long drive away ...

Thanks in advance for advice -

- ianbtv

P.S. My speakers are absolutely mint, black ash ... also will sell J-29 stands. Will be put on Audiogon shortly ...

Hi all -

I am upgrading my mains from Studio 20 to 100 (all v4). Current center is CC-590 (v4). If my system use is only 20% HT, and music for the foreseeable future is 2-ch (primarily classical) (i.e., little to no SACD or DVD-A source material), is there enough of a timbre mismatch to justify an upgrade to a CC-690 just for my HT needs? Looking for feedback before I do some listening tests, as dealer is a long drive away ...

Thanks in advance for advice -

- ianbtv

P.S. My speakers are absolutely mint, black ash ... also will sell J-29 stands. Will be put on Audiogon shortly ...

The CC-590 v4 is already a match for the Studio 100's v4 (you said you had all Studio v4's, right?). So you're fine either way. The 690 is just a larger center with more mid, mostly for HT use.

Thanks for the lightning-fast reply, AbMagFab. Yes, my 20's and CC-590 are v4.

- ianbtv

I recently upgraded my HTS with a Marantz sr8001 AVR, Paradigm Studio 100 v4 and CC590. After running Audessey I changed the speaker settings from all large to small and set the LFE crossover to 60hz. Now I'm wondering if I should set the LFE crossover to THX standard of 80 hz instead?

On a side note I am also looking at speaker wire and wiring options on the Paradigms. Any thoughts from Paradigm owners would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

D

I seriously think that you should set your 100's to Large and xover to 80hz. Normally if you select Small, the crossover would be set at 100Hz. In essence your 100's will not get much of a workout. These speakers deserve to work as much as possible...

BR

Could anyone post photos of СС-590 v.4 and CC-690 from behind?

Can somebody help me?
I need to see ports location on the back.

Cool...I didnt know speaker mounts were included with the ADP's!

I seriously think that you should set your 100's to Large and xover to 80hz. Normally if you select Small, the crossover would be set at 100Hz. In essence your 100's will not get much of a workout. These speakers deserve to work as much as possible...

BR

And if you have some sort of double-bass setting (where you can crossover the fronts lower, but still send more to the sub), I'd do that with the 100's. They are full-frequency, so even with HT you might want to send lower feequencies to them?

I think?

I seriously think that you should set your 100's to Large and xover to 80hz. Normally if you select Small, the crossover would be set at 100Hz. In essence your 100's will not get much of a workout. These speakers deserve to work as much as possible...

BR

I think you will find most on this thread have their 100's set to small and the cross over in the 40-60hz range. Unless your sub is a major cheapo this is where I would set it.

I have a speaker placement question. I intend on running Atoms in the rear but my couch sits flush against the wall. Currently I have my tiny little sattelites mounted to the wall on the corners of the couch but the atoms are much larger. Since my ears technically would be behind the speakers if I mount them to the wall is there a better solution like angled mounts for the walls?

I have a speaker placement question. I intend on running Atoms in the rear but my couch sits flush against the wall. Currently I have my tiny little sattelites mounted to the wall on the corners of the couch but the atoms are much larger. Since my ears technically would be behind the speakers if I mount them to the wall is there a better solution like angled mounts for the walls?

Are the Atoms bi/dipoles? If so, you should be fine. If not, you should either side-wall mount them, or figure out how to angle them towards the seated listeners.

There are some posts earlier here about wall-mounted adjustable mounts, specifically for the S1 or 20's, so that might work for yours.

I think you will find most on this thread have their 100's set to small and the cross over in the 40-60hz range. Unless your sub is a major cheapo this is where I would set it.

This is what I have found as well.

D

matched would be preferable since they changed the tweeter domes and
the midrange cones.bet you could not tell which are in or out of phase since the
adp 's are not dipole.

Thanks oztech

I have the following set up: Studio 40 v.3 (fronts), CC470 v.3 (center), Studio 20 v.3 (surrounds/rears) and a older PS1000 sub (which I will be soon upgrading). I am looking to get a receiver which would best match these speakers. I also need HDMI 1.3 switching, 7.1 surround, DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD decoding. Which receiver with these capabilities best matches up with the Studio v.3's? Any input is appreciated.
Steve

I have the following set up: Studio 40 v.3 (fronts), CC470 v.3 (center), Studio 20 v.3 (surrounds/rears) and a older PS1000 sub (which I will be soon upgrading). I am looking to get a receiver which would best match these speakers. I also need HDMI 1.3 switching, 7.1 surround, DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD decoding. Which receiver with these capabilities best matches up with the Studio v.3's? Any input is appreciated.
Steve

http://www.usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3526.asp

Hi all,

I currently have the following setup (all V.3): Studio 20's up front, CC-470 in the centre and ADP-170's on the surrounds. I would really like to get a pair of ADP-470's but can't seem to find them ANYWHERE (tried eBay, Craigslist, Kijiji, audiogone, videogone and canuckaudiomart).

So my question is this...are the 470's going to make a noticeable difference in my setup? And if so, where the H3LL to I find them (keeping in mind I would like to stay in the same version)? These are used for home theatre mostly (I do watch quite a bit of 5.1 concert footage).

Thanks in advance!

Hi all,

I currently have the following setup (all V.3): Studio 20's up front, CC-470 in the centre and ADP-170's on the surrounds. I would really like to get a pair of ADP-470's but can't seem to find them ANYWHERE (tried eBay, Craigslist, Kijiji, audiogone, videogone and canuckaudiomart).

So my question is this...are the 470's going to make a noticeable difference in my setup? And if so, where the H3LL to I find them (keeping in mind I would like to stay in the same version)? These are used for home theatre mostly (I do watch quite a bit of 5.1 concert footage).

Thanks in advance!

Why would you not go with the ADP 590s for the surrounds?

That's what I have -- Studio 20s and a cc 470 up front -- ADP 590s as side surrounds (Atoms as rear surrounds).

See my signature for photos.

I seriously think that you should set your 100's to Large and xover to 80hz. Normally if you select Small, the crossover would be set at 100Hz. In essence your 100's will not get much of a workout. These speakers deserve to work as much as possible...

BR

Ultimately, you should let your room decide where you cross over you mains to your sub by doing freq response tests and charting out your room with test tones and a SPL meter...

I tried to do that x-over at 60hz in my room and found a large suck out at 60hz, but when I put it up to 80hz it was totally smooth response. No dips in the FR.


Does the marantz have separate crossover settings for each speaker...? I wish my receiver had that... That would allow more flexibility.

I just added adp-590's to my current studio v3 setup and am very happy with how they blend together and sound. The tech support guy at paradigm actually said that the milliania surrounds have the same drivers as the studio v3's and would be a better match than the 590's. I still went with the studios.

I just added adp-590's to my current studio v3 setup and am very happy with how they blend together and sound. The tech support guy at paradigm actually said that the milliania surrounds have the same drivers as the studio v3's and would be a better match than the 590's. I still went with the studios.

Thanks for the info! Sounds like the 590's are a very good option. I just cannot understand the absolute scarcity of the 470's.

Cheers

Thanks for the info! Sounds like the 590's are a very good option. I just cannot understand the absolute scarcity of the 470's.

Cheers

I'll try asking again. Why would you want the 470s over the 590s anyway?

I think you will find most on this thread have their 100's set to small and the cross over in the 40-60hz range. Unless your sub is a major cheapo this is where I would set it.

Excuse my ignorance on this but can you explain why setting to them to small makes sense? My thinking maybe off track and I really need to understand.

Thanks.

Excuse my ignorance on this but can you explain why setting to them to small makes sense? My thinking maybe off track and I really need to understand.

Thanks.

because on most not all when set to small the crossover can be set ,when
set to large its full range with the lfe going to the sub,as most here have
experimented and found small with a crossover setting 60hz to 80hz or
somewhere in between seems to work best. i know my towers will not
play the last octave with any authority so why strain the amp making it try.

My local dealer went out of business. He sold his last CC690 (on the floor for about 6 weeks) for $600. I missed it by 1 day. Bummer. He said he just cannot compete with CC and BB.

because on most not all when set to small the crossover can be set ,when
set to large its full range with the lfe going to the sub,as most here have
experimented and found small with a crossover setting 60hz to 80hz or
somewhere in between seems to work best. i know my towers will not
play the last octave with any authority so why strain the amp making it try.

Oz,

I appreciate your answer but i am still not convinced. I set my xover to 80 Hz so that everything above 80Hz goes to my mains. Everything below goes to my sub of course. Simple maybe but it works quite well. My Sub is very good at doing it's job 'til that level. My mains (your mains) are excellent at handling >80Hz.

If setting to 50-60Hz causes you grief, why do it? IMO this setting does not make sense and seems to defeat the purpose.

Setting to Small = Speakers cannot perform low frequencies
Xover to 50Hz = speakers are large and can perform very low frequencies
This seems contradictory to me...:confused:

I am obviously missing something here (or am I)??

It's not because everybody does it that it's the right thing to do.


BR

My local dealer went out of business. He sold his last CC690 (on the floor for about 6 weeks) for $600. I missed it by 1 day. Bummer. He said he just cannot compete with CC and BB.

That is a bummer. CC and BB kind of suck.

Oz,

I appreciate your answer but i am still not convinced. I set my xover to 80 Hz so that everything above 80Hz goes to my mains. Everything below goes to my sub of course. Simple maybe but it works quite well. My Sub is very good at doing it's job 'til that level. My mains (your mains) are excellent at handling >80Hz.

If setting to 50-60Hz causes you grief, why do it? IMO this setting does not make sense and seems to defeat the purpose.

Setting to Small = Speakers cannot perform low frequencies
Xover to 50Hz = speakers are large and can perform very low frequencies
This seems contradictory to me...:confused:

I am obviously missing something here (or am I)??

It's not because everybody does it that it's the right thing to do.


BR

These are just my deep thoughts and perhaps they don't answer your question. However, if you’re set to “small”, sending lows to your sub, your FL/FR speakers are now focused on playing a smaller selected range of frequencies (above xover setting) and theoretically it should reproduce cleaner sound. Similar, to the debate of 2-way vs. 3-way speakers.

I also highly agree with Warpdrv and you should perform many “freq response tests and charting out your room with test tones and a SPL meter”

Following is a forum link talking about “small” vs. “large” that may be helpful. http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/speakers-subwoofers/97554-small-vs-large-speakers-when-using-sub.html

Don’t point and laugh, but for 2-ch stereo only, I’ve been experimenting with my FL and FR set to “large” but adjusted frequencies below 83hz (?) down -4db in my manual EQ. I get a good deep base from my sub with a slight extra kick from my FL/FR. Best of both worlds? It’s been working for me so far….but, I can’t stop tweaking things:)

These are just my deep thoughts and perhaps they don't answer your question. However, if you’re set to “small”, sending lows to your sub, your FL/FR speakers are now focused on playing a smaller selected range of frequencies (above xover setting) and theoretically it should reproduce cleaner sound. Similar, to the debate of 2-way vs. 3-way speakers.

I also highly agree with Warpdrv and you should perform many “freq response tests and charting out your room with test tones and a SPL meter”

Following is a forum link talking about “small” vs. “large” that may be helpful. http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/speakers-subwoofers/97554-small-vs-large-speakers-when-using-sub.html

Don’t point and laugh, but for 2-ch stereo only, I’ve been experimenting with my FL and FR set to “large” but adjusted frequencies below 83hz (?) down -4db in my manual EQ. I get a good deep base from my sub with a slight extra kick from my FL/FR. Best of both worlds? It’s been working for me so far….but, I can’t stop tweaking things:)

Well, I just got my 100's yesterday and 590's. CC690 will arrive in about 2 weeks. Yesterday, after installation I listened them 2 hours during movie plus about 1 hour music. While movie was much better them my previous setup, music didn't impress me for 3+K difference compared to my previous system ( Magnepan MMG's, Monitor Mini V2 surround + CC270 center). Hovewer today, it's a different story. They really sounds better, may be I was tired yesterday ( and a little sick as well) , but anyway even my wife that wasn't happy about this upgrade heard a difference.

Now, I am playing with Small/Large setting and so far "Small" sounds better. I use my okd PDR-12 sub and tried to set to 50,60,70 and 100's large and I think I like low frequencies when it's small and Sub at 80. What's foing on? I use my 6 year old Marantz SR8200 , no HDMI but sonically still it's great receiver.
Thanks

Congrats a1sy, I hope you have many years of enjoyment with your new Digm's...

Crossing over your system at 80hz is normal, I tried to use the 60hz cross for a while, but after measuring my room for FR with a sound meter, I found a dip in my FR around where I was crossing over at... You should really let your room decide with test tones and charting the results.

I use a Velodyne SMS-1 which shows the response right on screen and you can make adjustments on the fly and watch the changes after each adjustment, its an expensive toy, but works very well. Its a priceless tool for me and my Dual SVS Plus/2's...

Do you have a Sound meter... from radio shack..? if not get one...

Test don't guess...

Congrats a1sy, I hope you have many years of enjoyment with your new Digm's...

Crossing over your system at 80hz is normal, I tried to use the 60hz cross for a while, but after measuring my room for FR with a sound meter, I found a dip in my FR around where I was crossing over at... You should really let your room decide with test tones and charting the results.

I use a Velodyne SMS-1 which shows the response right on screen and you can make adjustments on the fly and watch the changes after each adjustment, its an expensive toy, but works very well. Its a priceless tool for me and my Dual SVS Plus/2's...

Do you have a Sound meter... from radio shack..? if not get one...

Test don't guess...

Thanks Warpdrv
No I don't have a sound meter, but I am not sure how it will help with Sub and crossover. I might try to get one from radio shack anyway.
Another question, if I leave 100's as large and put my sub around 60Hz, is it right thing to do to adjust power to Max on the Sub ( or close to Max) ? I tried 60 Hz but heard more bass around Max settings on the Sub.
Anyway, I like a look of 100's , it's a little large for my room, but let's see what my wife will say when 690 will arrive :D
Thanks

Edit 3:23Pm: Just played more and found when fronts set to Large and Sub to Yes, I don't have sound from Sub in Stereo mode. Is it normal? Is there way to get Sub work in Stero mode?
Thanks

No, don't get the idea you are losing something from your 100's by setting them to small, your taking the burden of producing the low stuff that the speakers can't really handle. That is what the seperate powered subwoofer will handle, and it should blend seemlessly like you won't even notice that there are 2 seperate units at work here..

Yes you need an SPL meter to level match all your speakers at exactly the same volume... Its the proper way to setup your HT system. There is no other way around it. You can let your reciever if it has a mic set it up, but I have yet to find a receiver that will do it all perfectly. I go back after letting the reciever do its thing, and make all the changes after, setting all speakers to small x-over at 80 hz. check distances with tape measure.

Then you can start playing a test tone cd and plot on a chart to see what the decible reading is at each freq. from 120hz all the way down to 20hz and you will then have a chart to tell you your in room freq. response. Checking that chart at all your different x-over settings and choose which one is the smoothest.

I tried 60hz xover and it didn't look good, then set it at 80 hz and the response was really nice... you have some reading and work to do, to get everything perfect...

No, don't get the idea you are losing something from your 100's by setting them to small, your taking the burden of producing the low stuff that the speakers can't really handle. That is what the seperate powered subwoofer will handle, and it should blend seemlessly like you won't even notice that there are 2 seperate units at work here..

Yes you need an SPL meter to level match all your speakers at exactly the same volume... Its the proper way to setup your HT system. There is no other way around it. You can let your reciever if it has a mic set it up, but I have yet to find a receiver that will do it all perfectly. I go back after letting the reciever do its thing, and make all the changes after, setting all speakers to small x-over at 80 hz. check distances with tape measure.

Then you can start playing a test tone cd and plot on a chart to see what the decible reading is at each freq. from 120hz all the way down to 20hz and you will then have a chart to tell you your in room freq. response. Checking that chart at all your different x-over settings and choose which one is the smoothest.

I tried 60hz xover and it didn't look good, then set it at 80 hz and the response was really nice... you have some reading and work to do, to get everything perfect...

Thanks man, going to continue experiments. A lot of fun and headache ;)

Thanks man, going to continue experiments. A lot of fun and headache ;)

Once you get everything set, you shouldn't have to make changes, it makes all the difference in the world and provides you with the Best HT environment. Its Worth it...

Warpdrv
I ask few posts before about stereo mode.
Should Sub work when I choose a stereo mode and speakers as Large? Is it just my configuration or it's normal that it doesn't work?. I would like to see how it sound with Large/Stereo/Sub combination but can't figure out yet how to do it..
Thanks

I am not familiar with your Marantz... I would head over to the receiver/amp section and ask maybe in the Marantz thread... I would consider that something that would be in your receiver settings...

Congrats a1sy, I hope you have many years of enjoyment with your new Digm's...

Crossing over your system at 80hz is normal, I tried to use the 60hz cross for a while, but after measuring my room for FR with a sound meter, I found a dip in my FR around where I was crossing over at... You should really let your room decide with test tones and charting the results.

I use a Velodyne SMS-1 which shows the response right on screen and you can make adjustments on the fly and watch the changes after each adjustment, its an expensive toy, but works very well. Its a priceless tool for me and my Dual SVS Plus/2's...

Do you have a Sound meter... from radio shack..? if not get one...

Test don't guess...

Does the SMS-1 work on the full frequency range (if I put it between my pre-pro and amp), or is it just for the subwoofer range (e.g. 10-100 or so)?

Does the SMS-1 work on the full frequency range (if I put it between my pre-pro and amp), or is it just for the subwoofer range (e.g. 10-100 or so)?

The SMS-1 is a dedicated Subwoofer EQ.

Its really a great unit... what are you running or going to be running for a sub AbMagFab. When do you get your Speakers buddy..?

Looks like I will be joining you in the Signature realm.... although they will be .v1 S4's and a C3. The S4's are brand new, unopened box. In the rare Rosenut... :)

The SMS-1 is a dedicated Subwoofer EQ.

Its really a great unit... what are you running or going to be running for a sub AbMagFab. When do you get your Speakers buddy..?

Looks like I will be joining you in the Signature realm.... although they will be .v1 S4's and a C3. The S4's are brand new, unopened box. In the rare Rosenut... :)

Congrats on the Sigs! You'll love them!

I already ordered the PB13-Ultra. I wanted to make sure I had it in time for the speakers, and since they won't be shipping until early March, I thought there might be a risk if I waited.

Dumb question - is there such a device that is like the SMS-1 (with that level of granularity), that will sit between a pre-pro and amp (bridging in the analog outs), and allow me to equalize all the channels? I like the SMS-1, I just wish it did more than the sub frequencies.

Im sure there is something like that, but unaware of it.. your starting to add alot of links in the chain at that point... IMO that would start to degrade signal, but I'm sure its been done... I don't usually get that complicated.

The SMS-1 is a dedicated Subwoofer EQ.

Its really a great unit... what are you running or going to be running for a sub AbMagFab. When do you get your Speakers buddy..?

Looks like I will be joining you in the Signature realm.... although they will be .v1 S4's and a C3. The S4's are brand new, unopened box. In the rare Rosenut... :)

You will have to post a couple of pics when you have them set up. What will you do with your 60's, or do you have the 100's?

DN

Im sure there is something like that, but unaware of it.. your starting to add alot of links in the chain at that point... IMO that would start to degrade signal, but I'm sure its been done... I don't usually get that complicated.

How else do you fully equalize the signal? The 905 has the Audessey EQ in it, but that's only 8 frequencies.

You will have to post a couple of pics when you have them set up. What will you do with your 60's, or do you have the 100's?

DN

Shhhh this is for my bedroom setup... I will post pics though. As I haven't been wow'd by the SVS MTS-01 setup and its going back, I pulled the trigger on the Sigs, knowing that I love my Studio setup, I can't imagine that I would not be thrilled to death with the Sigs even though its only .v1, but I got a smokin deal on them, so I couldn't pass it up...

Although it will only be 3 channel, I will have to figure out what I'm going to do for side surrounds on the cheap. Room is too small for big bookshelves on the walls.

I will be looking for suggestions for a switchable bipole/dipole side surround that sits nicely snug on the wall like an ADP. Just not so expensive.

I would really like a switchable bipole/dipole unit though so I can choose.
Any thoughts...?

How else do you fully equalize the signal? The 905 has the Audessey EQ in it, but that's only 8 frequencies.

I'm not sure what your getting at here... You already bought some of the best speakers one can get... Very Clean, Very Accurate. Most people go out of their way to buy speakers that will reproduce sound accurately so they don't have to monkey with any equalization.

Many out there are of the mind frame that contamination of any signal is unpure... just a thought..

You seem to have some great equipment, thats the best part, play it clean and you will be very very impressed....

I personally don't like to have to mess with EQ on my output response....

Subs are one thing, full range sound is another... don't mess with the signal, its supposed to be clean.

I'm not sure what your getting at here... You already bought some of the best speakers one can get... Very Clean, Very Accurate. Most people go out of their way to buy speakers that will reproduce sound accurately so they don't have to monkey with any equalization.

Many out there are of the mind frame that contamination of any signal is unpure... just a thought..

You seem to have some great equipment, thats the best part, play it clean and you will be very very impressed....

I personally don't like to have to mess with EQ on my output response....

Subs are one thing, full range sound is another... don't mess with the signal, its supposed to be clean.

Huh, okay... I just figured if you have to mess with the sub frequencies, the rest of the frequency range could be just as effected by the room.

I guess I should next invest in room/wall treatments... I asked a few questions on that before, but they got blown away during the AVS-blackout a couple weeks ago...

Huh, okay... I just figured if you have to mess with the sub frequencies, the rest of the frequency range could be just as effected by the room.

I guess I should next invest in room/wall treatments... I asked a few questions on that before, but they got blown away during the AVS-blackout a couple weeks ago...

Now we're talking... room treatments are a great step, far better then inline EQ IMO.... Bass Freq's are far more easily degraded and lost then higher freq's. Sub Eq's can really tighten up bass response...

The SMS is a great tool, but SVS will be releasing an new Sub EQ that will anylize a group of seating positions instead of just 1 like the SMS, and It utilizes audyssey as its engine should be quite an impressive unit.

Take your time, get your system setup and see how it performs, and then anylize what your next steps should be... It will be great, and you can make small improvements, one at a time... thats the fun part, just tightening up your system 1 little bit at a time...

I have the following set up: Studio 40 v.3 (fronts), CC470 v.3 (center), Studio 20 v.3 (surrounds/rears) and a older PS1000 sub (which I will be soon upgrading). I am looking to get a receiver which would best match these speakers. I also need HDMI 1.3 switching, 7.1 surround, DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD decoding. Which receiver with these capabilities best matches up with the Studio v.3's? Any input is appreciated.
Steve

Check out the Marantz sr7002 or sr8002. I just replaced my Denon 3805 with a Marantz sr8001 and the difference is quite noticable. The Marantz has a superiour overall sound with greater clarity and detail.

D

My system is in need of a speaker upgrade. I currently have a Paradigm set (CC-170, Titan fronts, Micro surrounds, PS-1000 sub). I'm interested in the Studio series. I've listened to the 40's with a CC-590 at a dealer and liked the combo. My receiver is a Yammy RX-V2400. Is that a good match for the Studio series? I've also listened to the B&O 600 series and liked those. I will replace the sub, too, and I am considering an SVS or Velodyne model. Any advice/recommendations would be much appreciated.

Oops,
Almost forgot: room is rectangular 25x12 with the system kitty corner at the end of a long wall. System is used 60% HT and 40% music.

My system is in need of a speaker upgrade. I currently have a Paradigm set (CC-170, Titan fronts, Micro surrounds, PS-1000 sub). I'm interested in the Studio series. I've listened to the 40's with a CC-590 at a dealer and liked the combo. My receiver is a Yammy RX-V2400. Is that a good match for the Studio series? I've also listened to the B&O 600 series and liked those. I will replace the sub, too, and I am considering an SVS or Velodyne model. Any advice/recommendations would be much appreciated.

Oops,
Almost forgot: room is rectangular 25x12 with the system kitty corner at the end of a long wall. System is used 60% HT and 40% music.

While WarpDrv will weigh in on this in more depth, it would seen to me the 100's with the CC390-590 and Titans for rear with ADP-390 surrounds. As for the Sub go the SVS, AV123 or HSU route. The Sub your using is almost ancient. I also Suggest using the AQ Sub3 DBS powered IC cable for the subwoofer.

Your receiver should hold up for some time, but I suggest using HDMI inputs from your HD sources.:rolleyes:

ginovino,
I've read many of your well-informed posts in this thread. Thanks for chiming in on my issue. I haven't heard the 100's yet, but I will be sure to do so on my next visit. I have a Monoprice HDMI switcher handling the HD sources as my display only has 1 HDMI input.

Well, I think I'm scared off of the Emotiva amps to power the Sigs. The lack of consistent power as the ohm rating goes down seems like a problem - the Sigs can drop close to 1-2ohms at certain frequencies, and it looks like the Emotiva will be providing inconsistent power.

Plus, if I want 5-channel, I'm looking at the MPS-2, which is ~$1600 (the XPA-5 is too new to consider). At that price, I can look at Sunfire, and Anthem, and Rotel, and others.

Is the Anthem P5 worth it? Anyone have a good deal, or know where I can get a good deal on one?

What the heck should I be considering? I'd rather not venture into the broader waters of the Amp forum until I understand more...

the 100's dip to 3 ohm on the bottom end and the p5 is one mean amp that is capable of
1ohm load have not seen that since mcintosh. all anthem and paradigm are authorized
dealer only,my experience with those dealers are the more you buy the better the
discount.if you play loud levels in a large room its worth it.

Hey AbMagFab.... The Earthquake Cinenova is a freakin beast at 300wpc at 8ohms, and I used to have a line on it for around $2K. Not sure If I can find that info again, but it was a guy close by me....

I would have to try to dig up that info......

I am running my Studio system off a Rotel RMB 1095, which has a proven track record for sure... Otherwise yes the Anthem P5 has what it takes, but it costs a pretty penny...

I would venture into the amp section and just linger around and read, there are always threads that have the criteria your looking for.

Also, check out the ATI amps, they are made from Earthquake as well... from what I understand...

i have some ~12 y/o titans(i believe thats what model they are, the sticker has since fallen off the back) and was wondering if they were made to have their cover removed. my 3ses have a little tab to pull on to remove the cover but the titans have nothing like that. i have tried prying a little but they dont seem to budge, and i dont want to damage the speaker. can anyone remember back that far? :)

Main = Studio 20 v.2
center = Studio CC590 V.4
SL/SR = Cinema 110
SB@1 = Cinema 110 (former center channel)
Sub = PDR 10
Receiver = Denon 985/2805
TV = Mitsubishi 55 Gold HD
Cable = Dish Network HD
DVD = Old P.O.C. Sony
Game = Xbox 360


Running 6.1 setup, I hope to get some Studio ADP's soon, but I love the current setup.

the CC590 add's the most to the system, and I get suprised by the little PDR 10 sub. my friend has a similiar setup but with a SVS, and he was suprised by the amount of bass I have. (not as low of course, but still sounds great)

Hey everyone:

I love reading this thread because I learn alot from you guys.

Are the power requirements more for the Signatures than the Studio? It seems to me that a healthy/powerful receiver could handle the Studios but maybe not the Signatures.

I've pestered several of you guys already and I appreciate your patience. I've held out making a purchase even though I've been so close, I still have positive leanings for the Studios as well as the Signatures, but also have kept my mind open with respect to the Def Tech Mythos ST's.

With my use of these speakers being around 85% home theater, I'm sure the Studios would be more than capable of handling my needs. I haven't auditioned the Signatures yet, but they seem like they could be more "musical" and I assume that they would be the equal of the Studio's home theater abilities. This is a question I guess of the Signatures being twice the price but is their higher sound quality needed in home theater? I don't think I'd be able to use the Onkyo 805 I purchased with the Studios in my mind (I was going to bridge the mains).

Probably the final point being able to afford these puppies (Signatures). I have to admit I love the look of the S8's and I've been able to get "moderate" discounting from my closest dealer. Besides the Paradigms, the Def Tech Mythos ST's have still been in the picture and I've heard them so many times now and my dealer is giving me a "very good" discount which makes this a tough choice. These two speaker brands, looks, sound, etc. are so totally different. I've left the Sub choice out of these equations for now. (Ginovino, where can I find one of those powered Sub cables?)

If Paradigm Signatures - S8's, C5, ADP1's or ADP4's (surrounds), S2's (rear surrounds)

If Paradigm Studios - 100 v4's, cc690, ADP590's (surrounds), 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

If Def Tech Mythos - Mythos ST (Mains and surrounds), Mythos Ten (center)

I wanted speakers all in black but with the Signatures, it costs additional, but not with the Studios or Mythos ST's

Just curious, I can't seem to determine the difference between the ADP1's or ADP3's. Can you guys help me out on that one?

Thank you for letting me vent. I'm hoping that something clicks (soon!) so that I can get this ball rolling on a speaker purchase.

Hey everyone:

I love reading this thread because I learn alot from you guys.

Are the power requirements more for the Signatures than the Studio? It seems to me that a healthy/powerful receiver could handle the Studios but maybe not the Signatures.

I've pestered several of you guys already and I appreciate your patience. I've held out making a purchase even though I've been so close, I still have positive leanings for the Studios as well as the Signatures, but also have kept my mind open with respect to the Def Tech Mythos ST's.

With my use of these speakers being around 85% home theater, I'm sure the Studios would be more than capable of handling my needs. I haven't auditioned the Signatures yet, but they seem like they could be more "musical" and I assume that they would be the equal of the Studio's home theater abilities. This is a question I guess of the Signatures being twice the price but is their higher sound quality needed in home theater? I don't think I'd be able to use the Onkyo 805 I purchased with the Studios in my mind (I was going to bridge the mains).

Probably the final point being able to afford these puppies (Signatures). I have to admit I love the look of the S8's and I've been able to get "moderate" discounting from my closest dealer. Besides the Paradigms, the Def Tech Mythos ST's have still been in the picture and I've heard them so many times now and my dealer is giving me a "very good" discount which makes this a tough choice. These two speaker brands, looks, sound, etc. are so totally different. I've left the Sub choice out of these equations for now. (Ginovino, where can I find one of those powered Sub cables?)

If Paradigm Signatures - S8's, C5, ADP1's or ADP4's (surrounds), S2's (rear surrounds)

If Paradigm Studios - 100 v4's, cc690, ADP590's (surrounds), 20 v4's (rear surrounds)

If Def Tech Mythos - Mythos ST (Mains and surrounds), Mythos Ten (center)

I wanted speakers all in black but with the Signatures, it costs additional, but not with the Studios or Mythos ST's

Just curious, I can't seem to determine the difference between the ADP1's or ADP3's. Can you guys help me out on that one?

Thank you for letting me vent. I'm hoping that something clicks (soon!) so that I can get this ball rolling on a speaker purchase.

For the Studio/Signature comparison, I was in a very similar boat. To answer some of your questions, and make some suggestions:

- The Studios and Sigs are both a little power hungry. You might want to try the 805 first, then decide if you want something else (I'm already down that slippery slope, and will likely get the Anthem P5 to power the fronts and center).

- A suggestion - for the Sigs, use the S1's for the rears; They should be big enough. Why the S2's?

- For ths Sigs, and HT, did you consider the S6's for the fronts? The S8's are rear- and front-ported, so the positioning is more important, and for HT use you'll get most of your low-end from the sub anyway. Listen to both - you'll be surprised how wide sounding the S6's are, and you can save a few bucks and some space.

- The ADP1's and 3's are very similar. The main difference is the 3's have larger drivers and a larger cabinet, and so will put out a little more/better sound. But for surrounds, it likely won't make much/any difference, and to me it's certainly not worth the price.

I can't speak to the DefTechs, except to say that, at least on this board, a lot of people seem to dismiss them in the same way they dismiss Bose. I haven't heard the DefTech's, but I'm not sure they're in the same league as the Sigs? However you are the only judge, and you need to buy what your ears like the most.

Trying to design the front speakers for a dedicated home theater. I liked the Monitor 9's and the CC-390 if I use a non-transparent screen, although it's a tight fit - with the center channel above the screen. If I switch to acoustically transparent, it would be hard to get enough distance from the screen with the CC-390. Any big disadvantage to using a Monitor 9 as the center speaker as well? Then I would have 3 Monitor 9's up front behind and AT screen. Do you think this would work OK? It doesn't seem like many people are using 3 identical front speakers...

Can anybody recommend a TV stand with wide shelfs and about 10" hight on the second shelf for CC690. I really would like yo hide it on the second shelf. When I will put it on the top shelf it's really will be like monster. i don't have a problem with that, but my wife probably won't be happy. I should get CC690 in about 10 days (it's on order).
Thanks

Im thinking about getting a pair of titan monitors along with either the marantz 7002 or 8002. Im also going to get matching paradigm rears, sub, center. any advice?
thanks chris

Trying to design the front speakers for a dedicated home theater. I liked the Monitor 9's and the CC-390 if I use a non-transparent screen, although it's a tight fit - with the center channel above the screen. If I switch to acoustically transparent, it would be hard to get enough distance from the screen with the CC-390. Any big disadvantage to using a Monitor 9 as the center speaker as well? Then I would have 3 Monitor 9's up front behind and AT screen. Do you think this would work OK? It doesn't seem like many people are using 3 identical front speakers...

There are many people that would suggest to use 3 identical speakers up front.

Because of size restraints, I've decided on "flat panel" speakers and I was wondering if there are some sort of table top stands for the Cinema 330's. The stands I've seen essentially make them regular floorstanders so those are out of the question. They would go on a dresser flanking the TV. Thanks to anyone that can help.

You could also go with a set of On Walls, the Studio Esprit look pretty descent...
http://www.paradigm.com/en/reference/fronts-studioseries-series-studioesprit-model-2-13-1-72.paradigm

Can anybody recommend a TV stand with wide shelfs and about 10" hight on the second shelf for CC690. I really would like yo hide it on the second shelf. When I will put it on the top shelf it's really will be like monster. i don't have a problem with that, but my wife probably won't be happy. I should get CC690 in about 10 days (it's on order).
Thanks

I got the Whalen Furniture - TV Stand at BB, the CC690 fits nicely on the middle shelf and the price was right.
Another option that would work is BDI's Axis 8024, but the cost is 3x the Whalen.
If you look back in this thread someone modified his stand by lowering the shelf which is another option.
You could also set your CC690 on the top shelf and put your TV on top of it, but that depends on your stand and TV.
Warpdrv posted some pics of his setup with the TV on top of the CC690 and it looks good.

i'll second the bdi build quality is great but get ready for sticker shock.

Saturday night, 11:00 pm, Concert dvd, Volume at "0". Had one
Outlaw audio m-200 mono block (200 wpc) shut down.

Never had that happen on my old Infinities.

Maybe the amp just got hot, we had been jammin' since
about 7:30... :)

I have a connection question.. I am trying to hook up my DSP-3100 to my Onkyo TX-SR705 and I a bit confused. The sub itself has speaker level inputs and RCA level connections while the receiver only has one preout for the subwoofer. I'm not sure how I am supposed to hook this up considering their is one RCA line on the receiver and 2 RCA lines on the sub amp. Please let me know what I'm supposed to do if there is a special wire I'm supposed to use.

edit

I have a connection question.. I am trying to hook up my DSP-3100 to my Onkyo TX-SR705 and I a bit confused. The sub itself has speaker level inputs and RCA level connections while the receiver only has one preout for the subwoofer. I'm not sure how I am supposed to hook this up considering their is one RCA line on the receiver and 2 RCA lines on the sub amp. Please let me know what I'm supposed to do if there is a special wire I'm supposed to use.

Generally, hook up the single RCA connection to the left-channel input on the sub. It shouldn't matter though. If it will make you feel better, you can get a RCA Y-cable.

Saturday night, 11:00 pm, Concert dvd, Volume at "0". Had one
Outlaw audio m-200 mono block (200 wpc) shut down.

Never had that happen on my old Infinities.

Maybe the amp just got hot, we had been jammin' since
about 7:30... :)

not sure what 0 is but i have a feeling it was very loud,i use a radio shack
db meter to make myself aware of the levels at 50 i already have some
hearing loss anything above 17khz just not there.

Can anybody recommend a TV stand with wide shelfs and about 10" hight on the second shelf for CC690. I really would like yo hide it on the second shelf. When I will put it on the top shelf it's really will be like monster. i don't have a problem with that, but my wife probably won't be happy. I should get CC690 in about 10 days (it's on order).
Thanks
If the TV (or whatever's on the top shelf) isn't too heavy, you could use a combination of the Sanus EFAV-II base and expansion shelf(s) with the optional EFP12 12" pillars. Just remove the center pillar.
http://www.sanus.com/us/en/products/productCategory/line/avFoundations/pcat/euro/
I did something similar, but with different equipment.

Im thinking about getting a pair of titan monitors along with either the marantz 7002 or 8002. Im also going to get matching paradigm rears, sub, center. any advice?
thanks chris

Chris,

If you are looking at Titans, you might want to go with the following:
CC290 for centre, ADP-190 for surrounds and Mini's for surround backs.

The 7002 or 8002 will do a great job with these.

Hope it helps.

BR

For the Studio/Signature comparison, I was in a very similar boat. To answer some of your questions, and make some suggestions:

- The Studios and Sigs are both a little power hungry. You might want to try the 805 first, then decide if you want something else (I'm already down that slippery slope, and will likely get the Anthem P5 to power the fronts and center).

- A suggestion - for the Sigs, use the S1's for the rears; They should be big enough. Why the S2's?

- For ths Sigs, and HT, did you consider the S6's for the fronts? The S8's are rear- and front-ported, so the positioning is more important, and for HT use you'll get most of your low-end from the sub anyway. Listen to both - you'll be surprised how wide sounding the S6's are, and you can save a few bucks and some space.

- The ADP1's and 3's are very similar. The main difference is the 3's have larger drivers and a larger cabinet, and so will put out a little more/better sound. But for surrounds, it likely won't make much/any difference, and to me it's certainly not worth the price.

I can't speak to the DefTechs, except to say that, at least on this board, a lot of people seem to dismiss them in the same way they dismiss Bose. I haven't heard the DefTech's, but I'm not sure they're in the same league as the Sigs? However you are the only judge, and you need to buy what your ears like the most.

I've had S8 fronts now for almost a year -being run off an Adcom 555 - I wouldn't suggest any power less than this if you're going to spend the money on the S8. Just my $0.02

I've had S8 fronts now for almost a year -being run off an Adcom 555 - I wouldn't suggest any power less than this if you're going to spend the money on the S8. Just my $0.02

That's 200WPC, 2-channel, right?

Yeah, well, I think I've almost talked myself into the Anthem P5. It's 325x5, stable down to 1-ohm (actually it says it's stable down to a short-circuit, which is pretty amazing).

Expensive, but perhaps worth the peace of mind and the slightly higher quality sound. I'm overpaying for speakers, might as well overpay for an amp.

That's 200WPC, 2-channel, right?

Yeah, well, I think I've almost talked myself into the Anthem P5. It's 325x5, stable down to 1-ohm (actually it says it's stable down to a short-circuit, which is pretty amazing).

Expensive, but perhaps worth the peace of mind and the slightly higher quality sound. I'm overpaying for speakers, might as well overpay for an amp.
not to many amps can go head to toe with the p5.

i have some ~12 y/o titans(i believe thats what model they are, the sticker has since fallen off the back) and was wondering if they were made to have their cover removed. my 3ses have a little tab to pull on to remove the cover but the titans have nothing like that. i have tried prying a little but they dont seem to budge, and i dont want to damage the speaker. can anyone remember back that far? :)

The grills on Titans are not removable.

Chris,

If you are looking at Titans, you might want to go with the following:
CC290 for centre, ADP-190 for surrounds and Mini's for surround backs.

The 7002 or 8002 will do a great job with these.

Hope it helps.

BR

Thanks for the advice. right now Im either going with the titans or the mini monitors for fronts. Either the adp 190 or 390's for rears. no sides. the cc 290 or 390 for the center.
my only issue is the center. wifey poo wont let me mount the new lcd on the wall even though we plenty of space. So that leaves me with putting the center in front of the tv on the same stand. I dont know how much clearance I need so that I dont block the view of the tv with the center.

Also, I was advised here that I should skip the paradigm sub because I could get more for the $ with a hsu research sub. Does anyone else agree.
I would,nt know. I have never had a sub before. Im in my forties so i dont need earthquake base any more. my kids supply that. thanks chris

quick question. I have heard the mini monitors and liked them. Is there much difference when you jump to the titans? my dealer discouraged me from that because he thought for the money I should jump to the towers. I dont have room for towers but I could do the titans. are they worth the price increase which I beleive is no more then $200. chris

Thanks for the advice. right now Im either going with the titans or the mini monitors for fronts. Either the adp 190 or 390's for rears. no sides. the cc 290 or 390 for the center.
my only issue is the center. wifey poo wont let me mount the new lcd on the wall even though we plenty of space. So that leaves me with putting the center in front of the tv on the same stand. I dont know how much clearance I need so that I dont block the view of the tv with the center.

Also, I was advised here that I should skip the paradigm sub because I could get more for the $ with a hsu research sub. Does anyone else agree.
I would,nt know. I have never had a sub before. Im in my forties so i dont need earthquake base any more. my kids supply that. thanks chris

To calculate clearance, go to the Paradigm site here:
http://paradigm.com/en/pdf/product_sheets/paradigm/product_sheet_cc290.pdf

Make sure you don't go for the CC190. It's just too small...

I actually didn't go for the 'Digm sub, I have an elemental Design A5-350. That said, a new model just came out in the PS series. There is a PS14. It's not on their web site. It sounds amazing and looks much better than the eD I have.

The issue with the other bransk like HSU, Epik, eD is the sheer size. If your wife didn't want to do the wall mounting, I doubt she'll go for a big sub.

BR

quick question. I have heard the mini monitors and liked them. Is there much difference when you jump to the titans? my dealer discouraged me from that because he thought for the money I should jump to the towers. I dont have room for towers but I could do the titans. are they worth the price increase which I beleive is no more then $200. chris

In reference to above, I would personally go for the ADP-190's and use that money to buy the Titans. That's a personal choice though.

BR

thanks for the replies. they helped. I might just mount the tv on the wall and surprise her. It would clear up all the space problems and would look nice to. maybe i will buy her a new vacume or something.

To calculate clearance, go to the Paradigm site here:
http://paradigm.com/en/pdf/product_sheets/paradigm/product_sheet_cc290.pdf

Make sure you don't go for the CC190. It's just too small...

I actually didn't go for the 'Digm sub, I have an elemental Design A5-350. That said, a new model just came out in the PS series. There is a PS14. It's not on their web site. It sounds amazing and looks much better than the eD I have.

The issue with the other bransk like HSU, Epik, eD is the sheer size. If your wife didn't want to do the wall mounting, I doubt she'll go for a big sub.

BR

Whats wrong with the CC190? That is what I just picked up and it is working out good for me.

Im told you can dicker price on paradigms. any truth to that ?

Im told you can dicker price on paradigms. any truth to that ?


Yes.

I got 12% off my Mini's. I would image there's a little more room to work with the higher up the scale you go in Paradigm speakers. I would say it's more like buying a second car.

Im told you can dicker price on paradigms. any truth to that ?

my dealer the more you buy the sweeter the deal.

Whats wrong with the CC190? That is what I just picked up and it is working out good for me.

Nothing wrong with it. I find it too small to match up with the Titans...

I was pretty glad to find this new review of the Monitor series.

I find that Steve is one of the better reviewers out there. Here is his review:

http://www.hometheatermag.com/floorloudspeakers/108parav5/


As you will see in their measurements, the M11's hit their stride at about 80Hz. Strangely enough (not really ;)), this coincides very well with the recommended cross-over that we hear all the time. I know quite a few that use a different cross-over but this is what I have used and these measurements proves it to me on paper that it was the right choice.

I agree with Steve with the sub they used. That's why I went with an eD A5-350. The rest of my setup is identical to this review.

BR

Im told you can dicker price on paradigms. any truth to that ?

Get to know your dealer and try to always go to the same person. You will get nice discounts.

Quick question guys:


How often does Paradigm usually come out with "new" or the "next" version of a speaker?





-Nick :)

i think it was four years on the studios.

i think it was four years on the studios.


Thanks. How about the Monitor series?

I'm sure its the same, they just revised all the lines this last year... so your stuck with the condom look for a while... hehehhehe

http://www.paradigm.com/images/paradigm/speaker_type_2/series_4/model_18/monitor9_2_off.jpg

I'm sure its the same, they just revised all the lines this last year... so your stuck with the condom look for a while... hehehhehe

http://www.paradigm.com/images/paradigm/speaker_type_2/series_4/model_18/monitor9_2_off.jpg

funny they introduced new subs at ces but never materialized on their website
so trying to figure when they will change anything has become somewhat of
a game.

[QUOTE=Warpdrv;13161621]I'm sure its the same, they just revised all the lines this last year... so your stuck with the condom look for a while... hehehhehe



I personally like the look...

Thanks all of you for the great help I am getting here.
I would like to ask another question.
In the attached image you can see my current setup: Studio 100's, ADP-590 and currently CC-270 ( that on sale right now - waiting for CC-690). ADP-590 currently on the stands from my old Mini Monitors and look a little weird.
Uer Manual says to put ADP 590 about 6-9 feet high. If I put them on wall they will look straight to 100's. In another hand Manual recommend to turn them to the listener. What would you do here (one of the concerns is kids around) for the best sound from ADP's?:confused:
Thanks

funny they introduced new subs at ces but never materialized on their website
so trying to figure when they will change anything has become somewhat of
a game.

Oz,

My dealer has the new subs. They look nice and sound great!

Thanks. How about the Monitor series?

They were revised lat year. We're probably good for another year or two. They actually changed a lot...

BR

They were revised lat year. We're probably good for another year or two. They actually changed a lot...

BR


Good to know. Another question.


How well does this brand hold it's resale value? I'm thinking of upgrading from my "Mini's", to Mon. 9's sometime this year.

For instance if I were to purchase the Mon. 9's for $1,000 (however I have decent dealer ties), should I be able to get about $600 or so for them in another year [ie. Sept08/Sept09]?

Thanks all of you for the great help I am getting here.
I would like to ask another question.
In the attached image you can see my current setup: Studio 100's, ADP-590 and currently CC-270 ( that on sale right now - waiting for CC-690). ADP-590 currently on the stands from my old Mini Monitors and look a little weird.
Uer Manual says to put ADP 590 about 6-9 feet high. If I put them on wall they will look straight to 100's. In another hand Manual recommend to turn them to the listener. What would you do here (one of the concerns is kids around) for the best sound from ADP's?:confused:
Thanks

can you mount those on the wall where they are but 3ft higher.

can you mount those on the wall where they are but 3ft higher.

I think I can, but I got confused by direction. If I mount them on their own bracket - they will look toward 100's. Manual show them like I have to mount them on wall with tilt for my room, take a look here (image from manual):

Thanks

Hey guys.. I just picked up my setup last week and I'm thinking of trading up. Currently I'm running Atom Monitors in the front, CC-190 Center, and DSP-3100 sub. The rear speakers are from my old system and I'm not too worried about just yet. Let me start by saying I LOVE MY ATOM MONITORS. Seriously the sound that comes from those two small speakers is amazing. Music sounds incredible but dialog during movies is getting drowned out by all of the sound effects and bass (1/4 gain). I'm thinking of upgrading to the CC-290 or the CC-390 but I want to know if anyone who has heard both thinks its worth the difference in price.

I can get the CC-290 for an extra 100 bucks, and the CC-390 for an extra 200 bucks.
Thoughts?

Thanks all of you for the great help I am getting here.
I would like to ask another question.
In the attached image you can see my current setup: Studio 100's, ADP-590 and currently CC-270 ( that on sale right now - waiting for CC-690). ADP-590 currently on the stands from my old Mini Monitors and look a little weird.
Uer Manual says to put ADP 590 about 6-9 feet high. If I put them on wall they will look straight to 100's. In another hand Manual recommend to turn them to the listener. What would you do here (one of the concerns is kids around) for the best sound from ADP's?:confused:
Thanks


I really dont have a answer but i was wondering how the rears sounded at that height.

I saw those stands yesterday and the dealer showed me that they have holes in the plate so that you can put set screws thru them to hold the speaker in place.

Hey guys.. I just picked up my setup last week and I'm thinking of trading up. Currently I'm running Atom Monitors in the front, CC-190 Center, and DSP-3100 sub. The rear speakers are from my old system and I'm not too worried about just yet. Let me start by saying I LOVE MY ATOM MONITORS. Seriously the sound that comes from those two small speakers is amazing. Music sounds incredible but dialog during movies is getting drowned out by all of the sound effects and bass (1/4 gain). I'm thinking of upgrading to the CC-290 or the CC-390 but I want to know if anyone who has heard both thinks its worth the difference in price.

I can get the CC-290 for an extra 100 bucks, and the CC-390 for an extra 200 bucks.
Thoughts?

Well, like I said earlier, the 190 is a bit small. The 390 is definitely overkill for your setup. You would only get the 390 if you have m9's or M11's. I have heard them all. I'm sure you'll be happy with the 290.

Hope it helps!

BR

I'm just a big fan of dialog.. I intend on eventually moving the atoms to be surrounds and picking up either monitor 7s or monitor 9s for the front. Do you think the 290 is still enough?

I'm just a big fan of dialog.. I intend on eventually moving the atoms to be surrounds and picking up either monitor 7s or monitor 9s for the front. Do you think the 290 is still enough?

if you've got the cash , go for the 390. It's a beast! I love mine

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1140/1427454147_31138913a9_b.jpg
thats a 27inch tv btw

Hey guys.. I just picked up my setup last week and I'm thinking of trading up. Currently I'm running Atom Monitors in the front, CC-190 Center, and DSP-3100 sub. The rear speakers are from my old system and I'm not too worried about just yet. Let me start by saying I LOVE MY ATOM MONITORS. Seriously the sound that comes from those two small speakers is amazing. Music sounds incredible but dialog during movies is getting drowned out by all of the sound effects and bass (1/4 gain). I'm thinking of upgrading to the CC-290 or the CC-390 but I want to know if anyone who has heard both thinks its worth the difference in price.

I can get the CC-290 for an extra 100 bucks, and the CC-390 for an extra 200 bucks.
Thoughts?

Congrats! I can't offer any advice on the CC issue, since I am running an older mismatched center, but I have to agree with you on the Atoms. I am still impressed by them every time I turn mine on. They sound great for their price and size. My next upgrade should be to a Paradigm center, as the one I have now obviously doesn't blend as well as I'd like, but it's still fun to listen.