Unless I missed, I don;t recall you mentioning you already HTIB. Wapdrv is right on as always, though we disagree when comes to the MYTHOS, which I beleive is as overpriced as the Siggies and doesn't even sound as good to my ears. Their subs are built-in and a severe air moving limitation ergo. power. This has be written about in recent reviews as well. So $5k with mythos doesn't quite do the trick in my book. I keep on coming back to the SVS & AV123 lines, where you are $7-9k getting performance for under $5k including monster subs.

I don't see how you could go wrong. Both have big sales going on right now!

Go over to their forums on this boards and ask the local gentry about them.
see what they have to say.... you'll be amazed.:cool:


No I did not mention it ;) thought it was irrelevant.

For models/design like Methos or Millenia I really do not expect much bass cause of the design. I am thinking of getting the Methos front and center and the Millenia rears. I just called the local Def Tech dealer here and the Methos has very similar price with Millenia.

No I did not mention it ;) thought it was irrelevant.


Lack of information sent me on a wild goose chase to help you out.

If you are willing to plunk down serious green for something other than the best bang for the buck, then the knowledge, efforts and assistance offered here among the membership cannot help, as your mindset has obviously reached a conclusion.

good luck in your efforts.:)

I'm looking to upgrade my Onkyo HTiB speakers shortly and was looking originally at Titans. However they are somewhat large for my application as far as bookshelves go. I'm now looking at the Mini Monitor since they're a bit smaller. Whatever I go with I'll be using 4 matching speakers for left/right and surrounds. I may even go with a 5th matching for a center as opposed to a designated center. Anyway I was hoping to hear from anyone who has either the Titans or Minis. What do you think of them and why? How highly would you recommend them? I appreciate any help I can get.

I'm looking to upgrade my Onkyo HTiB speakers shortly and was looking originally at Titans. However they are somewhat large for my application as far as bookshelves go. I'm now looking at the Mini Monitor since they're a bit smaller. Whatever I go with I'll be using 4 matching speakers for left/right and surrounds. I may even go with a 5th matching for a center as opposed to a designated center. Anyway I was hoping to hear from anyone who has either the Titans or Minis. What do you think of them and why? How highly would you recommend them? I appreciate any help I can get.

I've got Titan v5s and I love'em! They are my first step up from HTIB. Rich, full sound. I haven't heard the Minis, so I can't comment on them. IMO, you can't go wrong w/ the Titans, but like most people say, try and listen to both and let your own ears be the judge.

I've got Titan v5s and I love'em! They are my first step up from HTIB. Rich, full sound. I haven't heard the Minis, so I can't comment on them. IMO, you can't go wrong w/ the Titans, but like most people say, try and listen to both and let your own ears be the judge.

Thank you for the reply. It's very helpful.

I also got the Titan v5's a few weeks ago. I am very happy with them, they seem to have nice clear mid bass. I picked titans over the mini's as I needed the front porting because of the speaker location. I would stongly recommend the cc 290 center with the Titans. the panning between these 3 speakers sounds seamless. I am using Mirage omnican 6's as surrounds as I had to go in ceiling due to my room layout. All in all I am very happy with these speakers. My old speakers were JBL E series. The JBL's went lower (E50's) but the Titans are clearer.

I also got the Titan v5's a few weeks ago. I am very happy with them, they seem to have nice clear mid bass. I picked titans over the mini's as I needed the front porting because of the speaker location. I would stongly recommend the cc 290 center with the Titans. the panning between these 3 speakers sounds seamless. I am using Mirage omnican 6's as surrounds as I had to go in ceiling due to my room layout. All in all I am very happy with these speakers. My old speakers were JBL E series. The JBL's went lower (E50's) but the Titans are clearer.

Thank you for the reply. One day next week I plan on making the drive (about 50 miles) to demo a set of Titans with a CC-290 center and a pair of ADP-390 surrounds. I'm really looking forward to it. Now I just have to pick out my demo material.....

I also got the Titan v5's a few weeks ago. I am very happy with them, they seem to have nice clear mid bass. I picked titans over the mini's as I needed the front porting because of the speaker location. I would stongly recommend the cc 290 center with the Titans. the panning between these 3 speakers sounds seamless. I am using Mirage omnican 6's as surrounds as I had to go in ceiling due to my room layout. All in all I am very happy with these speakers. My old speakers were JBL E series. The JBL's went lower (E50's) but the Titans are clearer.

Why did you get the Titan V5s instead of the V6s? Was it because you got a good price on them? I have the Titan V6s on order now and should be in next week. All of my speakers are V6s

Yes I got the v5's for $399 cdn and the matching cc 290 v5 for $299 cdn, which is a very good price. Also the v6 Titan is front and rear poted, I needed a front ported speaker.

Lack of information sent me on a wild goose chase to help you out.

If you are willing to plunk down serious green for something other than the best bang for the buck, then the knowledge, efforts and assistance offered here among the membership cannot help, as your mindset has obviously reached a conclusion.

good luck in your efforts.:)

I am thinking of going to the Def Tech route. But if I go cheap maybe I would go for the Paradigm Phantom.

I was wondering if any of the Paradigm owners here have done any comparisons to see if you can tell a difference in sound quality with your speaker grills on vs. with them off. I know Paradigm says their speakers are meant to be used with them on, but do they really make any difference?

I was wondering if any of the Paradigm owners here have done any comparisons to see if you can tell a difference in sound quality with your speaker grills on vs. with them off. I know Paradigm says their speakers are meant to be used with them on, but do they really make any difference?

The grills are acoustically transparent. It makes no difference. However they do stop small children from flattening domes.

The grills are acoustically transparent. It makes no difference. However they do stop small children from flattening domes.

Thank you for the reply. The reason I asked in the first place is because of the following quote from Paradigm's website:

"Paradigm® and Paradigm® Reference speakers are designed with low-diffraction grills that minimize interference from enclosure edges. These grills also incorporate a Controlled Waveguide™ to ensure superior wide-dispersion uniformity. As such, they are meant to be played with grills on."

I didn't know if there was actually something to this, or if it's just some proprietary "nonsense" that doesn't actually do anything.

Thank you for the reply. The reason I asked in the first place is because of the following quote from Paradigm's website:

"Paradigm® and Paradigm® Reference speakers are designed with low-diffraction grills that minimize interference from enclosure edges. These grills also incorporate a Controlled Waveguide™ to ensure superior wide-dispersion uniformity. As such, they are meant to be played with grills on."

I didn't know if there was actually something to this, or if it's just some proprietary "nonsense" that doesn't actually do anything.

Funny... probably mostly proprietary nonsense. Like their whole explanation of using ADP's for rears for HT use.

Funny... probably mostly proprietary nonsense. Like their whole explanation of using ADP's for rears for HT use.

Without actually hearing for myself, that's pretty much what I was thinking. But I see that you apparently don't care for their ADP surrounds. Why not? I haven't heard them before, but was planning to go demo some Paradigms soon and am curious to hear the ADPs for myself.

I remember reading some reviews on a signature setup and the review said it was definitely noticeable, and sounded better with the grills on.

Funny... probably mostly proprietary nonsense. Like their whole explanation of using ADP's for rears for HT use. Could be right, but at least one Stereophiile reviewer drank the Kool-aid:

"...with all Paradigm designs, the black cloth-over-plastic-frame grille provides the necessary smooth baffle profile in the vicinity of the diaphragms to optimize the speaker's dispersion. The '100 is therefore intended to be listened to with its grille on; omitting it results in both a less-even off-axis response and some dips and peaks appearing in the treble response."

I remember reading some reviews on a signature setup and the review said it was definitely noticeable, and sounded better with the grills on.

Thanks. Without people saying they've compared it, I was starting to think there wasn't anything to it, but maybe there is. When I go demo, maybe I'll listen both ways and see if I can tell a difference for myself.

...you apparently don't care for their ADP surrounds. Why not?... AbMagFab can answer for himself, but I think – like me – he doesn't have any problem with ADP's as surrounds, but believes direct radiating speakers are better suited as rears.

AbMagFab can answer for himself, but I think – like me – he doesn't have any problem with ADP's as surrounds, but believes direct radiating speakers are better suited as rears.

Just so I'm clear, by surrounds do you mean the surround speakers in a 5.1 setup and by rears do you mean the surround backs in a 7.1 setup?

http://www.teac.com.au/images/dolby-digital2.gif

In this picture where do you think they're OK and not OK to be used?

Just so I'm clear, by surrounds do you mean the surround speakers in a 5.1 setup and by rears do you mean the surround backs in a 7.1 setup?
Yes.

In this picture where do you think they're OK and not OK to be used? I'd use the ADPs on the side and direct radiating speakers in the back.

Note that THX (http://www.thx.com/home/setup/speakers/71.html) makes the same recommendation.

Yes.

I'd use the ADPs on the side and direct radiating speakers in the back.

Note that THX (http://www.thx.com/home/setup/speakers/71.html) makes the same recommendation.

Sorry to be a pain, but I just wanted to make sure I understood you completely. Thanks for clearing it up for me and thanks also for the link. :D

Thanks. Without people saying they've compared it, I was starting to think there wasn't anything to it, but maybe there is. When I go demo, maybe I'll listen both ways and see if I can tell a difference for myself.

Just make sure it's a double blind A/B test or the result will not be valid.

It also must be a full moon the night before, room temp should be 72.5 degrees, and you have to have a pocket protector on with a slide rule in it while you listen. Then you will have a valid test. :D

But I see that you apparently don't care for their ADP surrounds. Why not? I haven't heard them before, but was planning to go demo some Paradigms soon and am curious to hear the ADPs for myself.

ADP's are fine for side surrounds, but direct radiating is better for rear surrounds, for HT use, IMO. For multi-channel music, all directs is preferred. ADP's mush the sound up too much, and you want directional sound from the rears, similar to the fronts - you want to hear where the sound is coming from.

I think at this point even most dealers would give you the same recommendation?

Thanks. Without people saying they've compared it, I was starting to think there wasn't anything to it, but maybe there is. When I go demo, maybe I'll listen both ways and see if I can tell a difference for myself.

I have an AV system with Studio 40s as the mains and an audio-only system with Studio 20s as the L/R. I have listened extensively with grilles on and off, and in my setup(s) can't tell the difference. Several caveats to mention: 1) I'm not listening for a difference, 2) my rooms are certainly not a speaker reviewer's critical listening room, and 3) I'm not as trained as a professional reviewer to listen quite so critically. I sometimes take the grilles off just because the speakers look so damn nice. :)

I'd use the ADPs on the side and direct radiating speakers in the back.

Unless your primary source material is multichannel audio, then as mentioned a little bit ago, direct radiating speakers are best all around.

Unless your primary source material is multichannel audio, then as mentioned a little bit ago, direct radiating speakers are best all around. Right. I was thinking only of movies.

Actually, I do use this kind of arrangement to listen to SACD's, but mine are all classical or jazz, and the surround sound is ambience, so not much is lost. I can switch my surrounds, but I don't ever bother. Still, as you said, the preferred method for music would be identical direct radiating speakers all around.

Thanks everyone for your input. As far as the grill being on or off, this is the first manufacturer I've ever come across who said it made a difference, so I just wondered how much difference if any. As I stated before, this won't affect my decision on making a purchase either way. But their speakers do look good with the grills off. :D

As far as the ADPs for surrounds, what I currently have are Onkyo HTiB speakers and am just starting to look at upgrading. So when I came across this type of speaker it was new to me, and I wanted input when the topic went that way.

As far as use goes, I'm looking at about 98% of the use being divided among video games and various types of TV viewing (regular and HDTV, DVDs and blu-rays). I think saying I would be using the other 2% for music is generous, and when I do it's usually just for background noise while I'm doing stuff around the house. I'm definitely not much of a "critical listener."

However back to the ADPs, Macfan424 do I understand correctly that you actually use them? I would love to hear more from you. What do you think about them? What do you like and dislike?

...However back to the ADPs, Macfan424 do I understand correctly that you actually use them? I would love to hear more from you. What do you think about them? What do you like and dislike? Sorry, I don't use ADP's. I'm not even a Paradigm owner. :o I just became interested in them when I helped my daughter buy new speakers and we chose Studio 100's.

I do use dipole speakers as my side surrounds, though. I've been in this hobby for longer than I usually care to admit (pre-stereo days of five watt amps and a single speaker as big as a refrigerator ;) ), so sometimes I try to contribute based on my experience, even if it doesn't come from the specific brand under discussion.

Sorry, I don't use ADP's. I'm not even a Paradigm owner....I do use dipole speakers as my side surrounds, though.

That's Ok with me. I was mainly looking for feedback from people using bipole/dipole speakers as surrounds. The only reason I mentioned ADPs in particular is because this is the Paradigm thread.

...However back to the ADPs, Macfan424 do I understand correctly that you actually use them? I would love to hear more from you. What do you think about them? What do you like and dislike?

That's Ok with me. I was mainly looking for feedback from people using bipole/dipole speakers as surrounds. The only reason I mentioned ADPs in particular is because this is the Paradigm thread. Okay: For me, adding dipoles as surrounds made a significant improvement. They added a substantial sense of space that was missing from my previous direct radiating speakers. The surround stage seems much smoother and, in my estimation, closer to the multiple speaker effect used in theaters.

I don't really have any dislikes (but I don't listen to multichannel music engineered for direct radiating speakers). I find the dipoles offer sufficient directional clues that I never feel I'm missing anything when a sound is supposed to be coming from a specific point. Mine can easily be switched to bipole mode, which would be less diffuse, but I never bother.

I do use direct radiating speakers in the rear (THX style setup). They may add to the overall directionality. It's been too long since I've been without them to remember with any certainty. Sounds that emanate from directly behind are completely unambiguous, though.

Thank you for the information. That's the kind of feedback I was hoping for.

i bought some used apd studio v.2s and want to wall mount them. what hardware did you guys with similar speakers use? a picture or link would be great!the original owner had them on stands...

thanks!!

Could be right, but at least one Stereophiile reviewer drank the Kool-aid:

"...with all Paradigm designs, the black cloth-over-plastic-frame grille provides the necessary smooth baffle profile in the vicinity of the diaphragms to optimize the speaker's dispersion. The '100 is therefore intended to be listened to with its grille on; omitting it results in both a less-even off-axis response and some dips and peaks appearing in the treble response."

These statements are not empty marketing BS; baffle diffraction is a known issue in speaker design and is easily seen by measurement. Whether or not this statement was based off of measurements in the Stereophile lab or parroted back from Paradigm's marketing literature, they are consistent with well understood effects of diffraction off the hard edges close to the tweeter. Take a close look at the grills, there is no support structure over the tweeter, and they fit together to provide a smooth baffle without any edges. It's a good design which is circumvented by removing the grills.

These statements are not empty marketing BS; baffle diffraction is a known issue in speaker design and is easily seen by measurement. Whether or not this statement was based off of measurements in the Stereophile lab or parroted back from Paradigm's marketing literature, they are consistent with well understood effects of diffraction off the hard edges close to the tweeter. Take a close look at the grills, there is no support structure over the tweeter, and they fit together to provide a smooth baffle without any edges. It's a good design which is circumvented by removing the grills. I guess the way I wrote my comment, it sounded like I was being dismissive of the design. I didn't mean to. I understand the theory and appreciate Paradigm's attention to detail on this and many other matters.

Whether diffraction effects are perceptible in a typical untreated home environment has long been a matter of some debate, but it's always better to try to minimize any issue in the design stage, something that seems to be a Paradigm hallmark.

These statements are not empty marketing BS; baffle diffraction is a known issue in speaker design and is easily seen by measurement. Whether or not this statement was based off of measurements in the Stereophile lab or parroted back from Paradigm's marketing literature, they are consistent with well understood effects of diffraction off the hard edges close to the tweeter. Take a close look at the grills, there is no support structure over the tweeter, and they fit together to provide a smooth baffle without any edges. It's a good design which is circumvented by removing the grills.

Hey I appreciate your comments very much. I've seen these statements and it's very easy to dismiss this kind of thing as marketing hype, especially when I'm not very knowledgeable about about such issues.

I just thought I would attach this review that I mentioned since I found it again.

http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-loudspeakers/speaker-systems/paradigm-signature-s8-series-home-theater-system-2.html

Page 2
As Paradigm states, the Signatures are designed to be used with the grilles on and indeed they sounded noticeably worse and rawer naked.

I just thought I would attach this review that I mentioned since I found it again.

http://www.avrev.com/home-theater-loudspeakers/speaker-systems/paradigm-signature-s8-series-home-theater-system-2.html

Page 2 Quite a number of reviewers agree. Home Theater Review (http://www.hometheaterreview.com/floorstanding_speaker_reviews/paradigm_signature_s8v2.html) made the same point:

"The removable grille is essential to the speaker’s overall sound and should be left on for optimal performance..."

Quite a number of reviewers agree. Home Theater Review (http://www.hometheaterreview.com/floorstanding_speaker_reviews/paradigm_signature_s8v2.html) made the same point:

"The removable grille is essential to the speaker’s overall sound and should be left on for optimal performance..."

Or, like most reviewers, they're just reading what the manual says and rewording it.

Can't say I have noticed a huge noticeable difference with grills on or off...
And I have found many reviewers to say the same... as well as many that vote for them on... you decide for yourself...

Is there anyone here who bought your Paradigm speakers in North or Central Florida and got a good deal? Where did you go? Thanks to anyone who can give a recommendation.

If we really want to have some fun we could send paradigm an e-mail asking for some science behind why the grills make such a difference and possibly some results to solidify that response.

Since pricing is hard to come by on these and I have a dealer nearby, how much haggling can usually be done? Also which level of towers can I expect to audition for $4-500 for the pair?

Is there anyone here who bought your Paradigm speakers in North or Central Florida and got a good deal? Where did you go? Thanks to anyone who can give a recommendation.
My brother purchased his paradigms in Bradenton, just south of Tampa. The thing to do is go to paradigms website and enter your zip-code and that will show the nearest dealer.

Or shop on audiogon or ebay for a substantial discount off of retail...

If we really want to have some fun we could send paradigm an e-mail asking for some science behind why the grills make such a difference and possibly some results to solidify that response.


there is science behind it. i was recently on a site dedicated to diy built speakers. the author had measurements with woofers surface mounted and flush mounted. even to the untrained eye, the measurements were noticibly different. if less than 1/8th speaker flange makes that much of a difference, surely paradigm's baffles which are often more than 1/4" thick and shaped to fit around the individual speakers are designed with purpose. i'm sure they could save a few bucks and make simpler grills, but the sound would be affected.

My brother purchased his paradigms in Bradenton, just south of Tampa. The thing to do is go to paradigms website and enter your zip-code and that will show the nearest dealer.

Thanks. I've done that but wasn't terribly impressed with the people I talked to locally. I did find a dealer I think I'll do business with though.

if i am thinking about getting the monitor 9's for my front speakers, would the titan monitors be overkill for the the rears? would the atoms or minis be better suited?

No such thing as overkill...

Thats my opinion, and I'm stickin too it...

no such thing as overkill...

Thats my opinion, and i'm stickin too it...

+1

I use Titans as my fronts and rears, I plan to put them as surround rears if I consider upgrading to 7.1 from my 5.1 now. I think they are perfect for rears as they have good range and accuracy, and since I listen to a lot of surround music and DVD-A/SACD material I think it becomes more crucial have good surrounds for these types of applications.

Hi guy's

I was at my dealer today looking at the signature S6. The dealer told me that the price on the Paradigm sigs went up 10% today. I guess paradigm raised their prices 10% on all models effective today.

Hi guy's

I was at my dealer today looking at the signature S6. The dealer told me that the price on the Paradigm sigs went up 10% today. I guess paradigm raised their prices 10% on all models effective today.

Yeah I've been pricing lately also and 3 different dealers have told me prices just went up within the last few days. Unfortunately, I guess it's true.

Hi guy's

I was at my dealer today looking at the signature S6. The dealer told me that the price on the Paradigm sigs went up 10% today. I guess paradigm raised their prices 10% on all models effective today.

They did. That's why I bought my DSP-3400 a couple weeks ago instead of waiting it out. The shop told me that as of Oct 1, all Paradigm prices were going up by at least 10%, if not more.

Shop Audiogon and experience the beauty of 40-50% off Retail... :)

Shop Audiogon and experience the beauty of 40-50% off Retail... :)

Is Audiogon new or used stuff?

Is Audiogon new or used stuff?
There's some new stuff, dealer demos, but it's mostly ads for used stuff by private parties and some gear up for auction. If you join, you can access their Blue Book, which is useful if you buy and sell a lot. Their forums are also fairly good, although not as good as the AVS forums. Overall, a good source for used hi-fi gear such as Krell, McIntosh, B&W, Wilson, Focal etc. etc., and mid-fi, like Paradigm. A step up from eBay, where BA and Bose command fairly high prices.

Cheers,

Michael

There's some new stuff, dealer demos, but it's mostly ads for used stuff by private parties and some gear up for auction. If you join, you can access their Blue Book, which is useful if you buy and sell a lot. Their forums are also fairly good, although not as good as the AVS forums. Overall, a good source for used hi-fi gear such as Krell, McIntosh, B&W, Wilson, Focal etc. etc., and mid-fi, like Paradigm. A step up from eBay, where BA and Bose command fairly high prices.

Cheers,

Michael

Gotcha. Thanks. I'm not a frequent buyer, so I guess it wouldn't be worthwhile to join? Also since I'm looking at Paradigm, I would prefer to buy from an authorized dealer and have a warranty. I'm the person who is gonna end up needing it. Just how my luck is.

Gotcha. Thanks. I'm not a frequent buyer, so I guess it wouldn't be worthwhile to join? Also since I'm looking at Paradigm, I would prefer to buy from an authorized dealer and have a warranty. I'm the person who is gonna end up needing it. Just how my luck is.

If a driver goes out, they are very inexpensive to replace...
For example, a new Be tweeter for a Signature was around $300.00 and the rest of the drivers were just over $100.00.

The cabinet itself would likely never have a defect that would be covered under warranty. IMO Buying used for often times 50% off to me is worth its weight in gold...

Gear these days IMO is already overpriced to begin with even used, much less new with price increases coming yearly now...

IMO Buying used for often times 50% off to me is worth its weight in gold...

I was taking a look at Audigon for Paradigm stuff and prices are 30% ish off of MSRP ... but with a little negotiation it's fairly easy to get 25% off MSRP at a dealer. So, the extra 5% for *new* instead of used is worth it to me...

Perhaps there are some awesome deals to be had sometimes? I've only looked at it on and off for the past few days.

I was taking a look at Audigon for Paradigm stuff and prices are 30% ish off of MSRP ... but with a little negotiation it's fairly easy to get 25% off MSRP at a dealer. So, the extra 5% for *new* instead of used is worth it to me...

Perhaps there are some awesome deals to be had sometimes? I've only looked at it on and off for the past few days.

Earlier this year I got my S4, C3, ADP-3s in Cherry at an average of 50% off MSRP. I used a combination of Audiogon, Fleabay, and Craig's list to put my set together. All were mint condition except a minor ding on one S4 behind the grill that you don't see.

Earlier this year I got my S4, C3, ADP-3s in Cherry at an average of 50% off MSRP. I used a combination of Audiogon, Fleabay, and Craig's list to put my set together. All were mint condition except a minor ding on one S4 behind the grill that you don't see.


Good show my friend... what kind of amplification you running those babies with? I am powering my S4's with IcePower 1000ASP modules - 500wpc @ 8ohms - 1000wpc @ 4ohms..

Nothin like good clean power...

Seriously people, ya need to shop around, forget the warranty, you can put a system together for so much cheaper that is no different then ahhh DOUBLE THE PRICE ???

Patience is the key...

...forget the warranty...

I don't know....I can't help but think if you'd had my luck with electronics (which is really BAD) you wouldn't advocate such an idea.

Good show my friend... what kind of amplification you running those babies with? I am powering my S4's with IcePower 1000ASP modules - 500wpc @ 8ohms - 1000wpc @ 4ohms..

Nothin like good clean power...



I want ICEPower amps, but right now I'm still using my Denon 3808CI. Budget allowing I'll look at a D-Sonic amp in spring of 2009. Or if I find a good used deal on a D-Sonic I'll probably snap it up. But they are very hard to find!

Is there anyone here who bought your Paradigm speakers in North or Central Florida and got a good deal? Where did you go? Thanks to anyone who can give a recommendation.
Purchased Studio 100s, CC-690, and ADP surrounds from Absolute Sound in Winter Park, Florida. I believe they have what they call a private sale twice a year, where they mark everything off 10%-15%. That's when I made my purchase. The Sales Manager used to work for Paradigm and is very knowledeable. They have excellent customer service. I purchased my Anthem AVM-50 from them. After about a month it developed a humming noise in the power supply. I called them up and they told me to bring it in. When I brought it in, they didn't even want to listen to it. They gave me another brand new AVM-50 and said have a nice day!

Is there anyone here who bought your Paradigm speakers in North or Central Florida and got a good deal? Where did you go? Thanks to anyone who can give a recommendation.

Purchased Studio 100s, CC-690, and ADP surrounds from Absolute Sound in Winter Park, Florida. I believe they have what they call a private sale twice a year, where they mark everything off 10%-15%. That's when I made my purchase. The Sales Manager used to work for Paradigm and is very knowledeable. They have excellent customer service. I purchased my Anthem AVM-50 from them. After about a month it developed a humming noise in the power supply. I called them up and they told me to bring it in. When I brought it in, they didn't even want to listen to it. They gave me another brand new AVM-50 and said have a nice day!

Great to hear of excellent service!
I have had good luck with Sensuous Sound in Tampa. Check them out at http://www.sensuoussound.com/.

I used to live in Orlando, and can vouch for Absolute Sound. Those guys are great! Plus, after you start buying stuff there, prices aren't quite written in stone anymore. ;)

Purchased Studio 100s, CC-690, and ADP surrounds from Absolute Sound in Winter Park, Florida. I believe they have what they call a private sale twice a year, where they mark everything off 10%-15%. That's when I made my purchase. The Sales Manager used to work for Paradigm and is very knowledeable. They have excellent customer service. I purchased my Anthem AVM-50 from them. After about a month it developed a humming noise in the power supply. I called them up and they told me to bring it in. When I brought it in, they didn't even want to listen to it. They gave me another brand new AVM-50 and said have a nice day!


This is one of the dealers I found and started talking to over the phone. I'm pretty sure I'm even talking to the same guy. He's already offering me significantly better prices than anywhere else I've talked to. When I "make my move" I'll be making the trip down to see these guys.

Has anyone gotten the monitor v.6's in the new wenge finish? I have only seen that one PR pic and was wondering if anyone has some real pics? Thanks in advance!

I'm all for power, but do the Signature 4's really need 500 watts per speaker? I'm still in my quest for either a multichannel amp or monoblock amps and I've checked out class D amps like Bel Canto, Wyred 4 Sound, D Sonic, etc, but I'm also checking out Emotiva which I believe is Class H.

I'm looking for around 200-250 WPC since my 130 wpc Onkyo Receiver can really play my S8's pretty loud with good bass definition.

I'm just wanting an amp that will really give authority to the sound of these speakers, really make them sing and bring out the very best that these Signatures can offer and I'd like to do it within a reasonable price. The Anthem P5 sounds like a great fit for my S8's and C5 but I simply cannot see using 2 of the 325 wpc outputs to power those small ADP surrounds.

Any suggestions on this subject or enlightenment?

I'm all for power, but do the Signature 4's really need 500 watts per speaker? I'm still in my quest for either a multichannel amp or monoblock amps and I've checked out class D amps like Bel Canto, Wyred 4 Sound, D Sonic, etc, but I'm also checking out Emotiva which I believe is Class H.

I'm looking for around 200-250 WPC since my 130 wpc Onkyo Receiver can really play my S8's pretty loud with good bass definition.

I'm just wanting an amp that will really give authority to the sound of these speakers, really make them sing and bring out the very best that these Signatures can offer and I'd like to do it within a reasonable price. The Anthem P5 sounds like a great fit for my S8's and C5 but I simply cannot see using 2 of the 325 wpc outputs to power those small ADP surrounds.

Any suggestions on this subject or enlightenment?

Anthem P2.

Does anyone here have the Signature series in piano black? Is it hard to keep clean? Does it show swirl marks?

Also anyone here with the cherry color sigs wished they had the piano black?

I am asking because i am trying to decide between the cherry and the piano black on the S6. The dealer wants $500 extra for the piano finish, the cherry is no extra cost.

thanks,

Does anyone here have the Signature series in piano black? Is it hard to keep clean? Does it show swirl marks?

Also anyone here with the cherry color sigs wished they had the piano black?

I am asking because i am trying to decide between the cherry and the piano black on the S6. The dealer wants $500 extra for the piano finish, the cherry is no extra cost.

thanks,

I have the cherry, and love them. My walls and ceiling are a very dark red/brown, so it looks good with them.

I'm all for power, but do the Signature 4's really need 500 watts per speaker? I'm still in my quest for either a multichannel amp or monoblock amps and I've checked out class D amps like Bel Canto, Wyred 4 Sound, D Sonic, etc, but I'm also checking out Emotiva which I believe is Class H.

I'm looking for around 200-250 WPC since my 130 wpc Onkyo Receiver can really play my S8's pretty loud with good bass definition.

I'm just wanting an amp that will really give authority to the sound of these speakers, really make them sing and bring out the very best that these Signatures can offer and I'd like to do it within a reasonable price. The Anthem P5 sounds like a great fit for my S8's and C5 but I simply cannot see using 2 of the 325 wpc outputs to power those small ADP surrounds.

Any suggestions on this subject or enlightenment?
The p5 would probably be the last amp you would need to buy and the fact
it will play any ohm without strain may be worth the price of admission.

Does anyone here have the Signature series in piano black? Is it hard to keep clean? Does it show swirl marks?

Also anyone here with the cherry color sigs wished they had the piano black?

I am asking because i am trying to decide between the cherry and the piano black on the S6. The dealer wants $500 extra for the piano finish, the cherry is no extra cost.

thanks,

I have Signature S6 in the gloss black finish. I think they look fabulous. They show dust, so I wipe them off every 2 weeks or so with a dry Hitecloth. I'm not sure what you plan on using that would leave swirl marks. I always wipe in the same direction just in case.

I have Signature S6 in the gloss black finish. I think they look fabulous. They show dust, so I wipe them off every 2 weeks or so with a dry Hitecloth. I'm not sure what you plan on using that would leave swirl marks. I always wipe in the same direction just in case.

Thanks for the reply. My dealer did not had the S6 in piano black so i couldn't really see them in person(dealer had the birds eye maple). Would you be able to have any pictures of your S6 you can post.

Also, i heard the Glossy piano finish on the speakers reflect lot of light from the movies. Do you find this to be true?

thank's

Thanks for the reply. My dealer did not had the S6 in piano black so i couldn't really see them in person(dealer had the birds eye maple). Would you be able to have any pictures of your S6 you can post.

Also, i heard the Glossy piano finish on the speakers reflect lot of light from the movies. Do you find this to be true?

thank's

My dealer in Toronto only had the birds eye maple and cherry speakers too. I ordered the gloss black without seeing them in person but the only speaker finish that would go with my setup was black so I didn't have much of a choice. I love the way they look, and sound! I much prefer the gloss black to the other finish options, but everyone has a personal preference about that. All my non-audiophile friends who have come over to see them have been very impressed that speakers can look this good.

I haven't had any issues with my speakers reflecting light from my tv, but I don't watch movies or play games in the dark either. I can't recall my speakers reflecting light in a way that I noticed while watching anything. I always have the grills on except for when taking photos of them. My setup is only 2 channel for now and I posted some pics in other threads here a few weeks ago. Here are the links:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14569024#post14569024

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14584523#post14584523

One thing to note about the S6... While I'm not a basshead, I do like a more full sound. While the S6 speakers are excellent on their own, they aren't that strong with lower frequencies. The sound really becomes magical with a good sub as well. I don't know if the S8 speakers would be better for lower frequencies, but the S8 is just too big for me. The S6 is a much better looking speaker and looks just right in my apartment. Paradigm really has a good design with the S6 I think.

I picked up a JL Fathom F112 soon after getting the S6 and I've been very happy ever since. I went with the JL due to the good reviews, the fact that it comes in gloss black (which matches the Paradigm gloss black perfectly), it's smaller than the Signature Servo, and I got a used F112 for about 50% off what my dealer was charging. S6 + F112 works really well for me.

Next up for me when I get a larger space is a C3 and a pair of S2 speakers, all in gloss black of course. :)

Hi all,

I've been reading through a bunch of this info and I've got a few questions. I hope one of you experts can help me out! :)

I'm looking to upgrade my 5.1 setup. I'm looking at two options right now:

1) Studio 20s x 2 for LR and Studio CC-590 and Ultracube 10
2) Millenia 200s x 2 for LR and Millenia 20 and Ultracube 10

From what I've read, the Millenia 200s are roughly equivalent to the Studio 20s when using a decent sub. I haven't had a chance to directly compare the Millenia 200s with the Studio 20s. I've compared the Studio 20s to the Cinema 330s and they were definitely better! I've also compared the Millenia 300s to the Cinema 110s and they were also noticeably better. I'm going to go try to get a local AV dealer to setup Studio 20s with Millenia 200s in the same room so that I can compare them directly. So, first question - is it true that Millenia 200s are roughly equivalent to Studio 20s when using a sub?

Clearly, the CC-590 is a better centre channel than the Millenia 20. My usage will be about 50% movies & 50% tv with just a little music. I've read that a good centre channel is very important for movies - will the Millenia 20 suffice? Is a Millenia 30 going to be noticeably better?

I'm willing to go the route of Studio 20 & CC590 if it will be noticeably better, but aesthetics may win out if it will be about the same.

For rears, I'm looking at something cheaper but functional for now - a pair of Cinema 90s or maybe Cinema ADPs.

Also, I've currently got a Yamaha HTR-5740. I'm hoping that I don't have to upgrade my amp. It says it's a 600W amp with a minumum of 85W per speaker (in a 6.1 setup I assume). Is this enough power for the Paradigms?

Thanks a lot for any help!

Thanks for the reply. My dealer did not had the S6 in piano black so i couldn't really see them in person(dealer had the birds eye maple). Would you be able to have any pictures of your S6 you can post.

Also, i heard the Glossy piano finish on the speakers reflect lot of light from the movies. Do you find this to be true?

thank's

They will not reflect alot of light because the grills pretty much cover the whole front, and the sides and backs are tapered inward towards the back, so I wouldn't see it being an issue from the reflection point of view...

As far as dust goes, it will accumulate on the tops, but not really on the sides at all. But that is no different with any speaker. My F112 gathers tons of dust on the top and I find myself cleaning it all the time... but it sure is a beautiful sub.

Hi all,

1) Studio 20s x 2 for LR and Studio CC-590 and Ultracube 10
2) Millenia 200s x 2 for LR and Millenia 20 and Ultracube 10




The Millenia, although they sport a fancy design, just plain sound like crap compared to the Studio Line.... After a while you will start to turn the volume up more and more, and the Millenia's just can't put out like the Studio's period, they will start to distort and break up rather quickly. They are not very good speakers.


IMO and many others on this site, the Millenia's are Paradigms equivalant to Bose. Spend your money right....

Also, depending on how much you will be paying for that Ultra Cube, you could probably do better in the sub department, there are lots of products that will exceed the performance of that sub for the money... I was just talking to a guy that got a SVS Ultra/2 for $700.00, now not everyone can accommodate a sub of that stature or size, but if you do your homework and shop around you could do better for the money... Used or new.

Hi guys, I'm in the process of building my HT 5.1 setup, and need some advice...

I will be using my Paradigm Monitor 5 v2 as front, and have the Velodyne DSP-12 as sub. Surrounds will be the ADP-190, and the receiver is the Denon AVR-988. Room side is approx. 15'x20'x8'.

At the moment I'm looking into the Monitor series center speakers to match my Monitor 5, and wondering which model will be the best match for my system...CC-190, CC-290 or CC-390?

Thanks in advance!

AbMagFab:

I totally agree with you on using the Anthem P2 instead of the P5, but my only issue with the P2 is that I would want the same amplifcation for the center speaker as well. The P2 would totally rule the S8's but I'd want the same quality for the C5.

It would be awesome if Anthem made a P3 where I could power the front 3 speakers with the same amplification. For home theater, I'd rather have the best amp quality for that center speaker.

I have been thinking of just getting a used P5 off Audiogon but lately, I've been looking at two other options. I've been checking out the Emotiva amps and they have enough different configurations at a very good price. However, I have absolutely no clue on how these amps sound, especially compared to the Anthem amps. The other avenue I've looked at is the Class D or ICE amps like Bel Canto, Wyred 4 Sound, D-sonic, etc, which seem to produce enormous amounts of power and are the size and weight of a good cookbook!

Anyone have thoughts on the Emotiva amps, especially being paired with the Signatures?

Well they certainly have enough power, but I haven't heard them with the Sigs, they do offer a trial period, you could grab a XPA-5 and see how it works out for you, if you don't like it, just send it back...

I'm all for power, but do the Signature 4's really need 500 watts per speaker? I'm still in my quest for either a multichannel amp or monoblock amps and I've checked out class D amps like Bel Canto, Wyred 4 Sound, D Sonic, etc, but I'm also checking out Emotiva which I believe is Class H.IMHO it's not about the total power output but about *control*. I also have signatures (S8/C5) across the front and the like JimmyDaves I'd really like to see Anthem put out a P3 so that I can power the fronts the same way with better quality stuff and then go with something lesser for the 4 surrounds (I'm 5.1 now but plan on going 7.1).

Emotiva is very interesting. The price point is stupidly low so it has me wondering however. You can buy 4 or 5 Emotiva 5-channel amps for the price of one P5!

Note however that Emotiva's better 2-channel amp is about the same price. They do use better/bigger stuff in their 2 and 3 channel amps than the 5-channel. (There's less sharing of power).

Kal

How about the XPA-3 http://www.emotiva.com/xpa3.html
I do have to say, aside from not much in 3rd party testing, they look to have put together a nice amp as far as components and build quality, which looks really nice as well....

Anyone know how much a replacement tweeter for a S4 V2 runs? By chance today I was running the pink noise channel level tests today with Avia and my right main speaker seems to show some distortion in the tweeter if I push the sound up to reference levels. During normal programming everything sounds fine, except for a very occasionally I thought something was slightly amiss with loud high frequency sounds. But I wasn't too concerned and didn't think much of it.

Not sure when/how it happened, but playing the same SPL level through the C3 center and my other S4 main doesn't produce the same results.

Anyone know how much a replacement tweeter for a S4 V2 runs?

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?p=423200#post423200

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showpost.php?p=423200&postcount=1

Ouch..$300! I'll do further testing..maybe take the speaker to my dealer and see if what they think. I don't think its my receiver, because I connected the speaker to the other main channel and got the same results although it happened at 2dB higher.

If you find it is the Tweeter that needs replacing...

you may want to contact a dealer that is selling on Audiogon, to see what kind of quote they give you... obviously a Be tweet is going to be on the high side with it being their latest rendition of the best of the best tweeter they offer...

Good luck on your testing, sorry that you are having issues with your S4's buddy... :(

Another man that is powering his S4's with 500 watts of IcePower.... Were ya pushin 'em a bit hard brotha...

Hi guys, I'm in the process of building my HT 5.1 setup, and need some advice...

I will be using my Paradigm Monitor 5 v2 as front, and have the Velodyne DSP-12 as sub. Surrounds will be the ADP-190, and the receiver is the Denon AVR-988. Room side is approx. 15'x20'x8'.

At the moment I'm looking into the Monitor series center speakers to match my Monitor 5, and wondering which model will be the best match for my system...CC-190, CC-290 or CC-390?

Thanks in advance!

I'm heading to my local dealer sometime this week, and would like to get some advice first...anyone with experience with my setup? :p

kal and Warpdrv:

I was reading a review on AVrev.com on the Signature 8's and the reviewer was using I believe a Proceed amp. He had also received a Bel Canto amp at the same time to review, so he substituted the Bel Canto in his review on the S8's and used that for a period of time on the S8's.

He felt that the speakers basically came to life and that there was a definite synergistic sound between the Bel Canto and the Signature S8's.

The Bel Canto's have a 300 model (stereo amp and monoblocks) but they only put out 150 WPC. The other model is the M1000 which is a monoblock that puts out 500 WPC.

I just read that Bel Canto is coming out with a 500 model which I believe is a 250 WPC amp which I think would be the best amp to mate with the Signature 8's.

I know that Bel Canto is a Class D amplifier and it has received rave reviews in several publications, but it also has stiff competition and other companies such as Wyred 4 Sound is just now started to receive recognition on their amps. Actually Wyred 4 Sound amps can be configured as multichannel amps with different power modules for each channel: for example 3x500 watts for the front 3 speakers and 4x150 for the other surround/effects speakers. There's also D-Sonic and other companies making economical Class D amps, so outside of getting the Anthem P5, there's other possibilities.

Of course, I'd love to have the P5, with it being balanced and having 325 watts per channel which seems quite right for the S8's and C5 but it's a very expensive amp and 2 of those channels would be powering my ADP590s which to me is just wasting all that power. I know you can never have enough power, but at some point, there's only so much power a speaker needs. The ADP surround speakers IMO just don't need 325 WPC.

I've thought about doing the Emotiva 3 channel amp and checking it out for a month. For the price, it's insanely inexpensive. I've heard that the XPA-2 is the best of all of the Emotiva amps, but heck you can buy 3 of those and get 6 channels of 250 watts.

Rotel is also coming out with a 250wx5 Class D.
This is what i'm looking at, but it should be quite nice.
just a thought, in case you weren't aware, Jim.

Also, depending on how much you will be paying for that Ultra Cube, you could probably do better in the sub department, there are lots of products that will exceed the performance of that sub for the money... I was just talking to a guy that got a SVS Ultra/2 for $700.00, now not everyone can accommodate a sub of that stature or size, but if you do your homework and shop around you could do better for the money... Used or new.

Thanks for the reply!

The main reason I'm planning to go with the Ultracube 10 is that I can get it for $700. It's also a small sub which helps as this is going into my living room not a dedicated home theatre.

The Millenia, although they sport a fancy design, just plain sound like crap compared to the Studio Line.... After a while you will start to turn the volume up more and more, and the Millenia's just can't put out like the Studio's period, they will start to distort and break up rather quickly. They are not very good speakers.

I haven't heard that the Millenia line distorts at higher volume before... have you experienced this personally?

A couple reviews I've read seem to imply that they hold their own even at loud volumes.

From this review:
http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/speakers/2236/paradigm-millenia-series-home-theater-speaker-system.html

"...this movie really showed what the Millenia 300s paired with the Seismic 12 could do. There was no sign of distress even in the most dynamic passages, and the system played at lease-breaking levels."

Magazine reviews should probably be taken with a grain of salt, i'm sure many here would agree... I don't believe half the stuff I read in magazines, they just don't have the credibility to me.

Judge for yourself, have the dealer put the 300's in the same room next to the studio's and see how different they sound and perform, my dealer did that for me, and it was clearly obvious.

Speakers rely on a good quality cabinet, and to achieve higher spl's and low distortion you need bigger more solid/inert cabinets to bring that forward. the Milennias are pretty much the monitor line dressed up in a "Swanky" suit, which is what your paying for. Dollar for dollar the Studio's will outperform by a large margin. If you want to take a hit in SQ for looks, get the Millenia's... Even the former dealer "ginovino" thinks they are pretty much junk if SQ is your goal.

I understand that alot of people are looking for WAF friends products, but if you truly want both SQ and WAF, you should look to the Signature line from Paradigm, they truly offer both.

Audiogon.com is your friend for better prices on Signatures, or even Studio's if WAF isn't as much of a factor... :) Good luck on your hunt.

Hi guy's

Just put in a order today on the Paradigm Signature S6. It will be in Piano black upgrade.. The dealer gave me 18% off retail. It will be here in 7 - 10 days. The paradigm studio 100 V4's i sold ran from my Rotel RMB 1095. I hope the S6 will like the Rotel as much as the 100's did.

cheers,

Leef:

Do you know the estimated price for for Rotel's 250 x 5 wpc Class D amp? If the price is right, I would add it to my very short list of amps to mate with the Signature 8's and C5, the only concern I have which I've mentioned before is I'm hesitant to use 2 of those 250 watts to power my small surround/effects speakers which I think is extreme overkill.

I know I may not have a choice but to get a powerful 5 channel amp regardless because I do want a high quality amp powering my S8's and C5.

Thanks for the heads up on the Rotel!

Just curious, it seems that when people talk about Anthem amps, they always refer to the P2 or p5. What is the general consensus of Anthem's other amps like the MCA 20, 30 and 50? They seem to have enough wattage. I just haven't read much about them. Thanks!

Leef:

Do you know the estimated price for for Rotel's 250 x 5 wpc Class D amp? If the price is right, I would add it to my very short list of amps to mate with the Signature 8's and C5, the only concern I have which I've mentioned before is I'm hesitant to use 2 of those 250 watts to power my small surround/effects speakers which I think is extreme overkill.

I know I may not have a choice but to get a powerful 5 channel amp regardless because I do want a high quality amp powering my S8's and C5.

Thanks for the heads up on the Rotel!

Would using four of the five channels to bi-amp your mains be an option?

Just curious, it seems that when people talk about Anthem amps, they always refer to the P2 or p5. What is the general consensus of Anthem's other amps like the MCA 20, 30 and 50? They seem to have enough wattage. I just haven't read much about them. Thanks!

The AVM series are just as qualified as far as good quality amps go, they just don't use as high end components as the P series does. The P series is just another step up the chain.

You have been round and round this battle with less power in the rear then the fronts, but the cold hard facts are that most all amp designers sell 5 channel amps with all the channels being of the same power.

Seems to me there are 3 scenarios available --

1) Buy a 3 channel higher power amp for the front and a lesser 2 channel amp for the rear.

2) Buy an amp that is configurable for higher power for the fronts and lesser in the rear, in which as far as I know only 2 companies would be give you that option (D-Sonic- Wyred4Sound).

3) Buy a 5 channel amp and don't worry about lost or wasted amplification on the rears.

Personally I wouldn't worry about wasting amp power, the Sigs can take the power and are well deserving of getting it... Give them as much power as you can afford, they will take it. None of those choices are lacking.

Here is a calculater for SPL you can use with your estimates.
http://myhometheater.homestead.com/splcalculator.html

For those that are worried about wasting power in the rears, one very important thing to keep in mind:

Unless you buy a truly monoblock design multi-channel amp (where each channel has its own power supply which includes the transformer & storage caps), you're "sharing" power between channels anyway.

Most amps will share the transformer & storage capacitors meaning that you can't drive all of the channels simultaneously as high as you could if only one or two channels are driven hard.

The P5 is a fully 5xmono design:

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_11_4/images/anthem-statement-p5-amplifier-inside.jpg

Each of the channels has its own torroidal transformer and storage (hidden in the front of each card under the white connector - you can make out of a couple of the brown cylindrical electrolytic storage caps in each channel). The 5 channels are completely independant channels. As if you had 5 completely separate boxes.

The Anthem A5 on the other hand isn't a monoblock design.It shares two transformers between its five channels (the 2 torroids in the front left and right) and one set of storage caps (the black cylinders in the middle):

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_11_4/images/anthem-a5-inside.jpg

Most amps don't even go that far. They use one transformer and shared storage if you're lucky.

Really cheap amps go one step further and don't use discrete output devices per channel. Instead of discrete transistors and heat for each channel like the amps above, they use one large integrated circuit and one heatsink that is shared between all channels. Amps like this typically have specs that read 200W/channel or 50W/channel when all channels are driven.

Nobody needs 200W/channel continuous let alone even 20W. Amps are all about storage reserve. Even at extremely high listening levels most amps will only be delivering one, maybe two watts continuously (if even that much). Where you need power is for the spikes/transients when the power requirements will shoot up to 300-1000W for just a split second.

Kal

Actually, there's an Earthquake Cinenova Grande 3 channel amp on Audiogon and the dealer lives only 20 miles from me.

It's 3 x 300 wpc and it sounds like it would be perfect for my front 3 speakers which is all I would want a power amp for of this quality. I know the Earthquake has power, bass and dynamics but does it have soundstage, imaging, good vocals, nice midrange, etc?

From everything I've read on Earthquake, its not only a high power amp, but a high quality amp.

Can you guys give me your opinion on this possible purchase? Need to know fairly soon. thank you !!

warpdrv, kal:

Thank you both for the information. I have to run back to work.

Kal, which amp are those pictures of? Warpdrv: Your advice is well taken and finally understood.

Either one of you have opinions on the 3 channel Earthquake amp?

Thanks. Jimmy

Sorry Jim, was working like a dog ;)
umm $2800 i believe for the rotel.

http://www.cepro.com/slideshow/image/3344/

regards, L.

warpdrv, kal:

Thank you both for the information. I have to run back to work.

Kal, which amp are those pictures of? Warpdrv: Your advice is well taken and finally understood.

Either one of you have opinions on the 3 channel Earthquake amp?

Thanks. Jimmy

Dude.... Jump on that bleotch.... Only 30 miles... bash in his door and say "Give it to ME !!!!!"

Earthquake has been around for quite some time and they make very good amps... same amp as the ATI i believe... Worth the money...
Offer a little lower and say How about this price, and I'll pick it up from your house... that way neither of us has to deal with shipping... :)

Just got back from my local dealer. I am basically in the market for L/R floorstanders and a center channel. I listed to the Monitor 7 and Monitor 9 with the CC-190. From what I had been listening to (Def Tech, Polk, Klipsch) I was completely blown away. The imaging is what really sold me on the Paradigm.

I ended up working out a good deal on a set of Monitor 9 & CC-190 for about 25% off retail. I couldn't be happier :) I stepped up to the 9's because honestly the low end they produce is pretty impressive and I won't be adding a sub for awhile.

Anyways, I look forward to posting in here more often :) Time to run Audyssey and go pickup Iron Man on Blu-Ray :D

Just got back from my local dealer. I am basically in the market for L/R floorstanders and a center channel. I listed to the Monitor 7 and Monitor 9 with the CC-190. From what I had been listening to (Def Tech, Polk, Klipsch) I was completely blown away. The imaging is what really sold me on the Paradigm.

I ended up working out a good deal on a set of Monitor 9 & CC-190 for about 25% off retail. I couldn't be happier :) I stepped up to the 9's because honestly the low end they produce is pretty impressive and I won't be adding a sub for awhile.

Anyways, I look forward to posting in here more often :) Time to run Audyssey and go pickup Iron Man on Blu-Ray :D

Congratulations and save for the sub there is some mean low end in Iron Man.

Congratulations and save for the sub there is some mean low end in Iron Man.

Next on the list...just a little further down the road :D

I'm building my setup and was hoping for your guy's recommendations. I think im going to go with a farily high end reciever ( onkyo 876).

Due to the size of my apartment i'm thinking of just going with 2.0, or a 2.1 system, perhaps even 2 sides and a center? What would you guys recommend? What can I expect to pay? Whos a good dealer in orange county?! sorry for all the questions.

BTW I think im leaning toward the studio 60's, hows the bass on these?

Whos a good dealer in orange county?!

Would the be Orange County in Florida, New York, or California?

orange county, ca ( sorry!)

orange county, ca ( sorry!)

In that case I can't help you. Sorry! I could have referred you to a place in Florida. :D

Basically got rid of most everything except the PS3 and HTPC here is the current system

Marantz SR4002 - new this summer to be used as pre pro next spring
2 Paradigm Reference Studio 60-V1 - purchased this spring
1 Paradigm Reference Studio CC - purchased this spring
2 Paradigm Monitor ADP350 - purchased last week
2 Paradigm Monitor V5 Atoms - new (to me) today
Energy s-10 subwoofer purchased this spring
Mission 70as subwoofer - remnant used as a rear sub
Samsung 61" LED DLP purchased last summer
PS3
HTPC e6600 C2D in Silverstone LC-10 case
Spring 2009 Marantz MM8003 8 Channel Power Amplifier

80/20 Movies/Music

So currently went from 7.1 down to the 5.1 with the ADPs - I'm not as happy with the ADPs as I thought I would be. My question is, I have a line on a pair of Monitor 3 V2, would be ADPs be better served as side surround and the Monitor 3 as the rear surround or vice versa Monitor 3 as side surround ADP for rear surrounds - I think I already know the answer but hoping someone has already tried both configurations

There's not a lot of content in the back channels. As long as your AVR can individually set the rear x-over up around 100Hz, the Atoms should work fine.

Thanks for the help found and purchased a pair of v5 Atoms recalibrated the Marantz and all is well in the world - or my living room at least:)

Warpdrv:

Ok, I finally got the correct story on the Earthquake Cinenova 3 channel amp. The seller is from LA which is about 80 miles from me and he has family that lives in Palm Springs.

The amp is 300 wpc and that's very conservative and it's about 2 years old. The owner is looking get to get a higher end receiver for his needs and needs 7 channels for his new setup. The amp weighs at least 100lbs just by itself and it has the same 4.7 ka transformer that's also used in Earthquakes 5 and 7 channel amps. The owner tells me the "headroom" on this amp is pretty much unlimited.

The owner is willing to drive from LA and deliver the amp to me with its original crate, so shipping would be totally free. He is wanting $950 cash/money order which I think is quite fair considering brand new this thing runs $3k or $4k. Most people, including me, would just assume this is an extreme "muscle amp" that will power anything, give great dynamics, bass and slam, but in alll the reviews I have been reading online (until 2 am), every review mentions the midrange, vocals, detail and a great sense of refinement that I wouldn't have guessed for this beast of an amp.

I think this would be great for me because I basically want the best amplification on the front 3 channels, specifically the center speaker and of course, now that I understand the workings of 5 and 7 channel amps, I would be more open to getting a 5 or 7 channel amp, but again, know that I would never need 300 watts for a surround speaker smaller than a shoebox which in some movies never comes into play.

I don't know the seller but have spoken with him. Sounds genuine and apparently needs the money and is willing to go back home and pack it up and deliver it to me in person, so I can't ask for more than that and I'm hesitant in trying to get a lower price on this thing since I know the retail price and its suppose to be in great condition. It doesn't have a manual, but I can download that from their website.. I think it's awesome that even the 3 channel Earthquake amp has the same huge transformer in it that the 5 and 7 channel does.

As far as my setup, for now I could use the pre outs of my Onkyo 850 into the Earthquake for the left, center and right speakers and then use the Onkyo's internal amps to power the side and rear surrounds. In the future, I could get rid of the Onkyo receiver and go with a good preamp/processor and still be able to use the
Earthquake and then get some used 100 wpc x 5 channel amp. (Heck, even the Emotiva 5 x 200 wpc amp new is around $700)

Having the Earthquake will free up power in the receiver and once I put my subs into the system, eliminate the Signatures from having to output the very deep bass notes/effects.

Am I missing anything here? This sounds like a good deal. Of course, I'd rather buy new and know the exact history of a component. I guess I'm lucky that this seller travels back and forth between Palm Springs and LA due to family and I won't have to worry about UPS/Fed Ex, etc. cursing the weight of this item.

I don't know what else to ask the seller. This happened so quickly, I feel that I maybe haven't checked out other possibilities I was looking at the same time, but I'd rather have this $950 3-channel Earthquake over the $6000 5-channel Anthem P5 which has around the same power output.

The one thing I don't know is how this amp will sound with the Signatures and will the Earthquake bring out the best in these Signature S8's and C5. I'm sure I could sell it easily if it's not a good fit, so I probably shouldn't be sweating so much right now. This deal will probably happen tomorrow afternoon if I give the go ahead tomorrow morning.

Would love to hear what you guy think. I still want to know what amp that is that Kal has pictured on his post LOL! I think it looks awesome.

UPDATE: I just found out that the 3-channel I'm looking at does not have balance inputs which kind of bums me. All I've been reading about is the 5 channel and 7 channel and they both have balanced inputs. The seller told me that the 3 channel doesn't and never had them. I really wanted a balanced setup because I was looking at preamp/processors that have balanced outputs. Even the Emotiva XPA-5 and their other amps all have balanced inputs. Im a little bummed, but I'm not going to let it be a deal-breaker but could change my mind

Kal:

I finally realized how your photos related to your post. sorry for being so easily confused and slow. Thank you for explaining the differences between these two types of amps and also showing the internals of the amps to explain your point. Well done.

I would do the deal.... the earthquake amps are very clean and powerful amps...
We used a 5 channel at my GTG with a bunch of different speakers. The amp was clean and didn't add anything or color the sound in any manor IMO. Which BTW is how an amp is supposed to be. I don't think the lack of balanced would be a deal breaker for me, and furthermore, down the line if you decide to switch over to a fully balanced system, you could likely sell this amp for the same amount down the line.

When I was looking for amps, I tried to get an Earthquake amp, as there was a dealer close by me a few years ago, but I could no longer get ahold of him...

Good luck

Question for Monitor owners...

I have a pair of Monitor 9's that I am still playing around with trying to find the best position. Do you find you get better imaging by facing them straight or toeing them in?

How are the Monitor 9 system speakers anyways? Worth the $$ or no?

How are the Monitor 9 system speakers anyways? Worth the $$ or no?

I picked up a pair of v5's for an awesome price and I am very impressed with them. I don't currently have a sub, but after running Audyssey they have some good deep bass. Not booming bass, but certainly a good sound. Overall I'm happy with them.

Another question I hope you guys can help me with. I'm still looking at Titan Monitors for fronts and the CC-290 center. For anyone with a similar setup, what do you think of the sound match between your fronts and center speakers? Is there any difference in tonal quality when there's a pan or scene where something moves across the screen from one side to the other? Can you tell the difference in the sound of the speakers? Thanks. I still plan to go demo the speakers, but my nearest 2 dealers are each 1 1/2 hours away and in different directions. So far I haven't had a day to kill on this project.

How are the Monitor 9 system speakers anyways? Worth the $$ or no?

During my initial auditions I heard the Minis, Titans, Monitor 7's and Monitor 9's. I thought that the Monitor 9's were well worth the money, and if you were debating between the 7's and 9's, I would say go for the 9's. My personal experience was that the 7's were a little anemic for a multi-driver speaker, and didn't offer much extra umph over the Titans. The 9's changed that- those larger woofers made a significant difference during my demo.

Another question I hope you guys can help me with. I'm still looking at Titan Monitors for fronts and the CC-290 center. For anyone with a similar setup, what do you think of the sound match between your fronts and center speakers? Is there any difference in tonal quality when there's a pan or scene where something moves across the screen from one side to the other? Can you tell the difference in the sound of the speakers? Thanks. I still plan to go demo the speakers, but my nearest 2 dealers are each 1 1/2 hours away and in different directions. So far I haven't had a day to kill on this project.

I have that setup and it sound pretty good imo. I still think that the 290 overpowers the titans a lil and I turn my cc down about -2 or -3 from the front to kinda match them a lil. I really think the 290 is for the 9s and 11s.

I have that setup and it sound pretty good imo. I still think that the 290 overpowers the titans a lil and I turn my cc down about -2 or -3 from the front to kinda match them a lil. I really think the 290 is for the 9s and 11s.

Paradigm recommends the 290 to be used with the Titans. Do you ever wish you had gone with the CC-190 instead or feel that it would have matched better? With the 290 turned down, do you feel it's a good match then?

I actually have the CC-190 with my 9's and I think it's a good match. Judging by how my 190 sounds, I could definitely see the 290 overpowering 7's or the Titans.

I have that setup and it sound pretty good imo. I still think that the 290 overpowers the titans a lil and I turn my cc down about -2 or -3 from the front to kinda match them a lil. I really think the 290 is for the 9s and 11s.

I actually have the CC-190 with my 9's and I think it's a good match. Judging by how my 190 sounds, I could definitely see the 290 overpowering 7's or the Titans.

I didn't think to ask before but what version Titans and 9's do you guys have? I understand that the newest Titans are a bit larger than previous versions. I don't know if the same is true for the 9's or not.

Paradigm recommends the 290 to be used with the Titans. Do you ever wish you had gone with the CC-190 instead or feel that it would have matched better? With the 290 turned down, do you feel it's a good match then?

I still think it match good, but it just seems like things comes out a lil louder through the cc. Good speaker and the 190 may have been just as good for the Titans. They are all v5.

I still think it match good, but it just seems like things comes out a lil louder through the cc. Good speaker and the 190 may have been just as good for the Titans. They are all v5.

Thanks for the reply. I didn't think about the version til after you guys posted. I didn't start looking at upgrading my speakers til very recently and Paradigm had already put out v6. From what I've heard the Titan grew some from v5 to v6. Maybe the newer version Titan and 290 are even a little better match than they were before?

I didn't think to ask before but what version Titans and 9's do you guys have? I understand that the newest Titans are a bit larger than previous versions. I don't know if the same is true for the 9's or not.

Mine are v5 as well.

Mine are v5 as well.

Do you know if they changed much from v5 to v6?

Do you know if they changed much from v5 to v6?

I think the titans got a new port in the rear? They all received updated crossovers and now the grills self-center.

Fireman , you still sittin on the fence. You know I luv my 290 v5 with my Titan v5's. I level matched everything with an spl meter (the center is a bit lower than the mains). The panning is spot on. I wanted the 290 over the 190 as I have a large room. The center is the most important speaker, don't be counting your pennies there!!

THX1720 is right on the changes. I have not heard the v5 and the v6 side by side so I don't know how those changes affected the sound.

Just bite the bullet and spend the rest of your time enjoying them!!
I don't regret my purchase one bit. It did help that I got a damn good price on clearance v5's of course.

Hello :)

Can anyone suggest me what other speaker (5.1) to get with the Studio 60 v4. (Which center, rear, sub would be the best match at a reasonable price).

Thanks

Hello :)

Can anyone suggest me what other speaker (5.1) to get with the Studio 60 v4. (Which center, rear, sub would be the best match at a reasonable price).

Thanks

www.paradigm.com


we can't do it all for you.

Well my 2 x Studio 100's and 1 x studio 40 finally showed up today. Wouldn't you know it with the luck I've been having with lost amplifier by fedex, misplaced subwoofer by UPS, when I went to level check my speakers the right 100 has a very nasty sound coming from it with the test noise from my Onkyo.

When I'm playing music it doesn't stand out at all that I can notice, but the sound it makes when calibrating to 75 db's is nasty.

Other than that for just firing them up I think they sound pretty good. I listened to Dire Straits Brother In Arms SACD using the 40 as center channel and both my subs behind me stacked (PW2200 + SVS PB12-NSD) And it sounded pretty awesome. :D

Anybody else had a similar sound come from their speaker on test tones but sound normal when playing?:(

www.paradigm.com


we can't do it all for you.



Well I already did, but wanted to get suggestion.

What about:
Studio 60
Studio CC-590 or 390?
Studio ADP-590
Not sure about the sub, there is too many.

Well I already did, but wanted to get suggestion.

What about:
Studio 60
Studio CC-590 or 390?
Studio ADP-590
Not sure about the sub, there is too many.

the cc 390 is a monitor series center, the 590 is the matching studio series center.

go with svs hsu etc for the sub. better "BANG" for the buck.

Hey all,

After some thoughts on my speaker/Sub setup to go with my newly purchased Yamaha RX-V 1900.

Between the price range of $2500 - 3200 AUD.

Paradigm Monitor 7 Mains (Fronts)
Paradigm CC290 (Centre)
2 Pairs Paradigm Atom Monitors (as surrounds)
Yamaha YST-RSW300 Subwoofer

Hey all,

After some thoughts on my speaker/Sub setup to go with my newly purchased Yamaha RX-V 1900.

Between the price range of $2500 - 3200 AUD.

Paradigm Monitor 7 Mains (Fronts)
Paradigm CC290 (Centre)
2 Pairs Paradigm Atom Monitors (as surrounds)
Yamaha YST-RSW300 Subwoofer

I would recommend the monitor 9's over the 7's. They are alot fuller sounding

Anyone happen to know what size spikes the paradigm studio 100 v.2's takes?

Fireman , you still sittin on the fence. You know I luv my 290 v5 with my Titan v5's. I level matched everything with an spl meter (the center is a bit lower than the mains). The panning is spot on. I wanted the 290 over the 190 as I have a large room. The center is the most important speaker, don't be counting your pennies there!!

THX1720 is right on the changes. I have not heard the v5 and the v6 side by side so I don't know how those changes affected the sound.

Just bite the bullet and spend the rest of your time enjoying them!!
I don't regret my purchase one bit. It did help that I got a damn good price on clearance v5's of course.

I'm not really "sittin on the fence" so to say. I have a privately owned item for sale that will finance my speaker upgrade. I have a prospective buyer looking at it on Monday so wish me luck.

Also I double-checked and my closest 2 dealers are each 1 1/2 hours away from me and in different directions, so I'm trying to gather all the facts and opinions I can before making the trek. I only want to do it once, so I want to know if there are any concerns to address and what questions to ask before I get there, and feedback like you gave is exactly what I'm looking for and it's very helpful. Thanks!

Well I already did, but wanted to get suggestion.

What about:
Studio 60
Studio CC-590 or 390?
Studio ADP-590
Not sure about the sub, there is too many.

If you really want to stick with a Paradigm sub, some people over in the sub forum spoke very highly of the DSP-3400.

Just a brief curiosity check:

What advantages do the titans offer over the Atoms as rear surrounds?

Well my 2 x Studio 100's and 1 x studio 40 finally showed up today. Wouldn't you know it with the luck I've been having with lost amplifier by fedex, misplaced subwoofer by UPS, when I went to level check my speakers the right 100 has a very nasty sound coming from it with the test noise from my Onkyo.

When I'm playing music it doesn't stand out at all that I can notice, but the sound it makes when calibrating to 75 db's is nasty.


I had that exact thing on one of my ADP-590's, during test tones it would make that absolutely wretched sound.... otherwise you wouldn't notice it. I had mine exchanged, pretty sure it was a bad tweeter.... get it replaced.

Just a brief curiosity check:

What advantages do the titans offer over the Atoms as rear surrounds?

What are your fronts and center they would be used with?

Well I already did, but wanted to get suggestion.

What about:
Studio 60
Studio CC-590?
Studio ADP-590
Not sure about the sub, there is too many.

My current receiver is a new HK 354 (75w rms), would it be enough to power theses?

Also I have seen somewhere that the studio 60 sound better when away from a wall, but how many feet away should they be? It is a pretty impractical for HT use.. (so I might be considering the Millenia 200/300). I am going to see them this afternoon..

6 months ago I went to a local audio shop and listened to a Paradigm setup and was instantly hooked. The configuration I was listening to consisted of Monitor 9s V5, a CC390 center and ADP190s. The price was a little out of my budget so I didn't purchase.

Now I have an opportunity to buy some Titan Monitor v5's and a CC190 at a very good price. The local dealer recommended purchasing 4 ADP190s as well. The end cost will be much less than the original setup I listened to.

My question is will the Titan's with the CC190 and ADP190s sound as good as or close to what I originally listened to at the audio shop (Monitor 9s, CC390, ADP190s)?

I have a decent Earthquake sub and the receiver I have, Yamaha RXV2700 is the same as the receiver used when I demo'ed the speakers at the audio shop.

Any comments and\or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Dan

Well I already did, but wanted to get suggestion.

What about:
Studio 60
Studio CC-590 or 390?
Studio ADP-590
Not sure about the sub, there is too many.

Velodyne SPL-1200R depending on the size of your room.

So I went a 2 places in Ottawa this afternoon and it sucked.. First place didin`t had any Studio60, and no Paradigm for demo.. Second place actually had the 60 and the CC590, but the system seem unbalance, and the demo movie (was actually blu-ray) sucked, he actually told me that people who where buying thoses speaker usually didin`t care about movies they wanted to lisent to some music, to add to this the sale person didin`t look like he care at all, but was willing to cut 20% of retail.. I guess I`ll have to look elsewhere..

hello all,

what kind / brand of banana plugs to fit studio 100s v2? here's the wire
http://www.monstercable.com/productdisplay.asp?pin=20

I thought banana plugs were universal. Am I mistaken?

I would pick something from here.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/search.asp?keyword=banana+plug&x=0&y=0

6 months ago I went to a local audio shop and listened to a Paradigm setup and was instantly hooked. The configuration I was listening to consisted of Monitor 9s V5, a CC390 center and ADP190s. The price was a little out of my budget so I didn't purchase.

Now I have an opportunity to buy some Titan Monitor v5's and a CC190 at a very good price. The local dealer recommended purchasing 4 ADP190s as well. The end cost will be much less than the original setup I listened to.

My question is will the Titan's with the CC190 and ADP190s sound as good as or close to what I originally listened to at the audio shop (Monitor 9s, CC390, ADP190s)?

I have a decent Earthquake sub and the receiver I have, Yamaha RXV2700 is the same as the receiver used when I demo'ed the speakers at the audio shop.

Any comments and\or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Dan

I have Titan v5's with the cc 290 and would highly recommend the 290 for the center. If I were you I would go with 1 set of the adp's for side surrounds and either Atoms or Mini Monitors for rear surrounds. IMO this would give you a very nice and balanced sounding system.

a very happy paradigm owner here.:)............here's my current set up. i'm still remodelling though :(


1 - studio 100v3's up front
2 - cc590 centre channel
3 - studio 20v4's for rears
4 - ps1200 for sub
5 - 2 outlaw audio 200w monoblocks
6 - 1 rotel rmb 1075 amp
7 - outlaw audio 990 pre/pro
8 - xbox360 and ps3 for dvd's.
9 - rotel cd player


http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSC_0006-1.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSC_1146.jpg

I had that exact thing on one of my ADP-590's, during test tones it would make that absolutely wretched sound.... otherwise you wouldn't notice it. I had mine exchanged, pretty sure it was a bad tweeter.... get it replaced.


Yeah, I talked to the guy today and he was supposed to fax in the order today. With Thanksgiving this weekend it probably won't be sent out till Tuesday.

The 100's aren't as big as I thought they would be & the 40 is bigger & heavier than i thought it would be. Stuck them in my home theater to break them in & check them out while I wait for the garage to be built & now I'm going to have a hard time putting them in the garage & going back to my normal setup in the basement:rolleyes:

Thanks

Porschetech:

How do the Rotel amps sound with your Paradigm speakers? Are you happy with the sound quality?

A question regarding the Sig W5 Center Speaker.

Has anyone purchased the W5 and "not" attached it to a wall? The owners manual suggests the speaker can be placed on top of a tv or shelf using a shelf support. The manuel is avail. on the Paradigm web site, pg. 11 for the center speaker. Has anyone tried this?

Thanks,

Mike

Nice stuff you got running there porsche, just a suggestion, you would do well to pull that couch away from the back wall, you'll get much better channel separation and the surrounds will sound much better as well. Also if you spread your mains apart more and pull them out, the speakers will not be so bloomy... Think of it as they get claustrophobic being so close to everything else, you will notice far greater Imaging.

Nice stuff you got running there porsche, just a suggestion, you would do well to pull that couch away from the back wall, you'll get much better channel separation and the surrounds will sound much better as well. Also if you spread your mains apart more and pull them out, the speakers will not be so bloomy... Think of it as they get claustrophobic being so close to everything else, you will notice far greater Imaging.

I agree with Warpdrv. Porschetech you have awesome stuff but you're not maximizing their potential. To throw in my own suggestion, I would lower your TV to eye level.

I currently have Monitor 9's and a CC190 for center. I need a recommendation for In-ceiling speakers as my surrounds. Due to the layout of my room, they have to be in ceiling.

I was thinking something with an aimable tweeter, but Paradigm does not offer that. The local Paradigm dealer told me that quality speakers do not need an aimable tweeter. Any thoughts on that?

I agree with Warpdrv. Porschetech you have awesome stuff but you're not maximizing their potential. To throw in my own suggestion, I would lower your TV to eye level.

Judging by his seating distance, that minor bit higher his screen is will be offset by a small downward angle... with no ill effects whatsoever...

If he were seated much closer it would be more of an issue... Plus, I highly doubt you will get that plasma off the wall after he went through all the trouble to put it there, theres alot of work involved in wall mounting a flat panel... I think its beautiful, clean and you did a very nice job...

My plasma is wall mounted in my bedroom about 1 ft above eye level, and love it, not one single girl that I have had in my bed watching movies ever complained :p;):D:D

LOLZ.....thanks for the kind comments and feedback.

as for the screen height it really isn't that bad. the sofa seating position is quite high up (note the 36" bello stands in the rear) and the tv does have an angled tilt downwards.

i'm kind of limited for space as the room is @ 16' x 16' and so i'm stuck with what i have. i can't really shift anything around and maybe i should have thought more about the installation and placement of components when i had the room stripped down to the studding. the wall where the tv is mounted was never there before and i've also added a toilet/shower behind there.

jimmy i'm actually using the monoblocks for my fronts, so i can't really comment on how well or how much better the rotel could perform as its only being used for just 3 channels. i guess you could say i went way overboard on my equipment.

a couple more remodelling pics. i've been working on this since jan of this yr :( here's an idea of the work and effort i put into this room

hopefully you can tell from my user name that i don't do this kind of work for a living. so a pat on the back for me for my first major home project :D

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSC_0698.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSC_0676.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSC_0700.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h103/porschetech/DSCN0028.jpg

not one single girl that I have had in my bed watching movies ever complained :p;):D:D

Hey that's what really counts in the end! :)

I currently have Monitor 9's and a CC190 for center. I need a recommendation for In-ceiling speakers as my surrounds. Due to the layout of my room, they have to be in ceiling.

I was thinking something with an aimable tweeter, but Paradigm does not offer that. The local Paradigm dealer told me that quality speakers do not need an aimable tweeter. Any thoughts on that?

I am using Mirage omnican 6's for my surrounds with Titan v5's and a cc 290. The mirage work very well with the Digms. The omnipolar effect of the omnicans works well as a surround speaker . I am only running a 5.1 set up right now.

Hey that's what really counts in the end! :)

"in the end"? :confused:

Ok so I did my homework,

I have 2 choices,

V4 system (3600$):
Studio 60 v4 - 1500$
CC590 v4 - 750$
ADP590 v4 - 925$
Ultracube12 - 925$

or a more "budget" used (1500$) kit:
Studio 60 v2
Studio CC v2
ADP-370 V2
PS-1000

Are the v4 worth the 2100$ extra (or actually 2600$ when considering tax)...

How do these 2 kits compare?

I am new to this and need help making this set up better. I am using these for the Family room and don't care to upgrade as I am building a better HT in the basement.

I have the following bought in 1995:
Fronts - MK2 3se
Centre - OC-100
Rears - ATOMS

I want to add a pair of ceiling speakers and a sub as well as a channel switcher. I will be adding two ceiling speakers in the kitchen and dinning room as well so I need to be able to switch from or play music in these rooms while the Family room TV is playing.

I am looking for help in choosing the ceiling speakers, the sub and the channel switcher.

Thanks in advance.
:cool:

I have a question and looking for any feedback if possible.

I have a pair of Paradigm 5seMk3 that were given to me and I am looking for the best center channel to match it?

Would it be best to get the CC-190 or CC-290? Or would it be better to get something like the CC-300 or CC-370?

Hello,

I just bought a pair of open box Studio 20 v.4 from my dealer who was having a clearance sale. He was selling all Studio 20s for $460, so i jumped on the deal.

After I got them home and was admiring their drivers, I noticed that the egdes of the driver cones (where the cones are connected to the suspension) have a wave like pattern.

Both my speaker cones have the pattern. The pattern seems to be most prominent along the lower edge of the cones, and smoothes out toward the upper edge.

Is this normal? Do your Studio's have similar wave like patten? I'm worried that maybe the driver cones are stressed along the edge.

It does not seem the affect the sound. They sound fantastic after the Atoms I owned. I'm worried that if the pattern is not normal, and if it is due to stress, it may worsen over a period of time and may affect the sound.

Am I being paranoid? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

some pics of the drivers:

121976

121975

Hello,

I just bought a pair of open box Studio 20 v.4 from my dealer who was having a clearance sale. He was selling all Studio 20s for $460, so i jumped on the deal.

After I got them home and was admiring their drivers, I noticed that the egdes of the driver cones (where the cones are connected to the suspension) have a wave like pattern.

Both my speaker cones have the pattern. The pattern seems to be most prominent along the lower edge of the cones, and smoothes out toward the upper edge.

Is this normal? Do your Studio's have similar wave like patten? I'm worried that maybe the driver cones are stressed along the edge.

It does not seem the affect the sound. They sound fantastic after the Atoms I owned. I'm worried that if the pattern is not normal, and if it is due to stress, it may worsen over a period of time and may affect the sound.

Am I being paranoid? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

some pics of the drivers:

121976

121975
doesn't look normal to me. i have the exact same speakers

Those drivers are damaged.... I would take them back and exchange them for a different pair if he has any other ones... Or tell him to warranty them. I'm very surprised you didn't notice this before they left the store upon inspection of an open box item.

Hello,

I just bought a pair of open box Studio 20 v.4 from my dealer who was having a clearance sale. He was selling all Studio 20s for $460, so i jumped on the deal.

After I got them home and was admiring their drivers, I noticed that the egdes of the driver cones (where the cones are connected to the suspension) have a wave like pattern.

Both my speaker cones have the pattern. The pattern seems to be most prominent along the lower edge of the cones, and smoothes out toward the upper edge.

Is this normal? Do your Studio's have similar wave like patten? I'm worried that maybe the driver cones are stressed along the edge.

It does not seem the affect the sound. They sound fantastic after the Atoms I owned. I'm worried that if the pattern is not normal, and if it is due to stress, it may worsen over a period of time and may affect the sound.

Am I being paranoid? Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

some pics of the drivers:

121976

121975

That ain't right.

Thanks ppl,
I'll take them back to the dealer today.

Great to hear of excellent service!
I have had good luck with Sensuous Sound in Tampa. Check them out at http://www.sensuoussound.com/.

I tried for WEEKS to buy some Paradigms from Sensuous Sounds, but they just wouldn't work with me. They never had the Monitor series up for auditions, they never called me back, and were generally useless. I guess if you're not spending more than $5k you're under their radar... KILLER music shop there in the back though, haha.

I ended up driving down to Audio Workshop in Bradenton. It's a tiny little shop, but Mario is a great guy to deal with. I auditioned the Monitor 9's, placed the order, and picked them up within a week. He even overnighted me a wall bracket the factory forgot to include. And he was way more respectful and friendly than anyone at SS.

I've just done an audio upgrade from a Denon AVR-1802 with Energy Take 5.2 speakers and Velodyne VLF 810 to:

Denon AVR-2809ci
Paradigm Monitor 9 v.6
Paradigm cc-290 v.6
Paradigm adp-190 v.6

This was a major upgrade in sound quality and loudness. The only thing I need now is a new subwoofer. I was thinking about either a Paradigm sub or a SVS PB12-Plus version 4, which one can pre-order now for $999+$99 shipping = $1098. If I'm looking to spend around a grand on a new sub, should I go with SVS or get a Paradigm model? Whicih Paradigm model?

I've just done an audio upgrade from a Denon AVR-1802 with Energy Take 5.2 speakers and Velodyne VLF 810 to:

Denon AVR-2809ci
Paradigm Monitor 9 v.6
Paradigm cc-290 v.6
Paradigm adp-190 v.6

This was a major upgrade in sound quality and loudness. The only thing I need now is a new subwoofer. I was thinking about either a Paradigm sub or a SVS PB12-Plus version 4, which one can pre-order now for $999+$99 shipping = $1098. If I'm looking to spend around a grand on a new sub, should I go with SVS or get a Paradigm model? Whicih Paradigm model?

SVS will give you more boom for the dollar.

+1 svs

My link has pics of the SB12-Plus coming out of the box.

I'm not at all happy with my PB-12 Plus. I have a small room, just 10 x 12, and I feel that its not at all sufficient and seems to bottom out at even moderate volume. As soon as something better is in the budget, I'm selling mine.

I ordered an MFW-15 to go with my Monitor 9's and CC-190...should do just fine filling the room :)

On a side note, I need to start looking at in-ceiling surrounds. Does anyone know if the Speakercraft AIM8 Three's will match tonally when playing music? I'm sure they will be fine for movies, but curious about how they will match when playing music.

I'm not at all happy with my PB-12 Plus. I have a small room, just 10 x 12, and I feel that its not at all sufficient and seems to bottom out at even moderate volume. As soon as something better is in the budget, I'm selling mine.

My bedroom with your same setup, S4's C3's ADP-590's D-Sonic... 1700^3. I had my PB12-Plus in there, and it was plenty loud, but not as accurate as I would have preferred... I went out on a limb and bought a F112.... Let me tell you, that is entirely a whole different experience. Its a monster in here, just had Transformers going with this scene.... Literally shakes everything and other rooms as well.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/pg6922/Home%20Theater/Transformersscreenshot.jpg

Another great option in that small room that would be phenomenal would be a HSU ULS-15, room gain would be quite impressive. If you haven't experienced a really good quality sealed sub, you might want to give it a try. Maybe try a Paradigm Servo-15, but I think they HSU would trump it in SQ but not necessarily in output, servo has bigger amp.

If you are capable, you could go DIY... there are tons of options there that will pretty much stomp any commercial sub $ for $. Less then $1K would get you some serious woofage. A Maelstrom-X 18" driver sealed in a 24x24x24" box and Behringer EP2500 amp, will pound like no other, all less then $1K.

I've just done an audio upgrade from a Denon AVR-1802 with Energy Take 5.2 speakers and Velodyne VLF 810 to:

Denon AVR-2809ci
Paradigm Monitor 9 v.6
Paradigm cc-290 v.6
Paradigm adp-190 v.6

This was a major upgrade in sound quality and loudness. The only thing I need now is a new subwoofer. I was thinking about either a Paradigm sub or a SVS PB12-Plus version 4, which one can pre-order now for $999+$99 shipping = $1098. If I'm looking to spend around a grand on a new sub, should I go with SVS or get a Paradigm model? Whicih Paradigm model?

Check out the "Official Craigsub rankings thread" (After selecting link, look in the middle of the page a further description)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9164136

I finally pulled the trigger some v6 Monitors. I went with a pair of Monitor 11s and a CC-390. Probably a little overkill for what I needed, but I won't have any regrets. My dealer was probably tired of seeing me ask to listen to them over the past couple of years.:D I'll receive them sometime next week. I can't wait.

I can spend up from $3000 to $6500 (prefer the lower end of course)
So far in my research I found:
Dali Helicon 800 $6500 (pair)
Klipsch Reference Series RF-83 $2498 each
Anthony Gallo Acoustics Nucleus Reference 3.1 $2,995 (pair)
Legacy Audio Classic HD $3990 to $4400 (pair)
Earthquake Platine Noiree 7.1 $2697 (pair)
Martin Logan Vintage $4995 (pair)

I do not know much about speakers - all I know is I want a really nice sound. I want a powerful speaker system. I have 18ft ceilings. Large home. I walk around alot so the sound needs to be spread out. I like base - I assume I need a subwoofer. My receiver is the Elite Pioneer SC-07. I will play music (mostly jazz, christian, R&B) and use it for my theatre room that has a TV Pioneer Elite 141. I am deferring to you experts out there. Can someone please help me? Do you know which of these speakers are the better quality ones for my situation. Are the speakers listed above good speakers? are there any gotchas? Any speakers you recommend? Do you know anything about the customer service or reputation of the manufacturer? Best places to buy speakers? I've looked on the internet and I keep coming up with old information (back in 2006, etc). Do recommend any additional accessories for my system - i.e. subwoofers. I have a 7 to 1 system.

I can spend up from $3000 to $6500 (prefer the lower end of course)
So far in my research I found:
Dali Helicon 800 $6500 (pair)
Klipsch Reference Series RF-83 $2498 each
Anthony Gallo Acoustics Nucleus Reference 3.1 $2,995 (pair)
Legacy Audio Classic HD $3990 to $4400 (pair)
Earthquake Platine Noiree 7.1 $2697 (pair)
Martin Logan Vintage $4995 (pair)

I do not know much about speakers - all I know is I want a really nice sound. I want a powerful speaker system. I have 18ft ceilings. Large home. I walk around alot so the sound needs to be spread out. I like base - I assume I need a subwoofer. My receiver is the Elite Pioneer SC-07. I will play music (mostly jazz, christian, R&B) and use it for my theatre room that has a TV Pioneer Elite 141. I am deferring to you experts out there. Can someone please help me? Do you know which of these speakers are the better quality ones for my situation. Are the speakers listed above good speakers? are there any gotchas? Any speakers you recommend? Do you know anything about the customer service or reputation of the manufacturer? Best places to buy speakers? I've looked on the internet and I keep coming up with old information (back in 2006, etc). Do recommend any additional accessories for my system - i.e. subwoofers. I have a 7 to 1 system.

Have you listened to the Paradigm studio 100v4's or the SIG'S they are
definitely worth an audition.

I can spend up from $3000 to $6500 (prefer the lower end of course)
So far in my research I found:
Dali Helicon 800 $6500 (pair)
Klipsch Reference Series RF-83 $2498 each
Anthony Gallo Acoustics Nucleus Reference 3.1 $2,995 (pair)
Legacy Audio Classic HD $3990 to $4400 (pair)
Earthquake Platine Noiree 7.1 $2697 (pair)
Martin Logan Vintage $4995 (pair)

I do not know much about speakers - all I know is I want a really nice sound. I want a powerful speaker system. I have 18ft ceilings. Large home. I walk around alot so the sound needs to be spread out. I like base - I assume I need a subwoofer. My receiver is the Elite Pioneer SC-07. I will play music (mostly jazz, christian, R&B) and use it for my theatre room that has a TV Pioneer Elite 141. I am deferring to you experts out there. Can someone please help me? Do you know which of these speakers are the better quality ones for my situation. Are the speakers listed above good speakers? are there any gotchas? Any speakers you recommend? Do you know anything about the customer service or reputation of the manufacturer? Best places to buy speakers? I've looked on the internet and I keep coming up with old information (back in 2006, etc). Do recommend any additional accessories for my system - i.e. subwoofers. I have a 7 to 1 system.

You do realize you are posting in the Paradigm owners thread and did not list any Paradigm speakers

You do realize you are posting in the Paradigm owners thread and did not list any Paradigm speakersUmmm! The rare AVS forum valid point!

ummm! The rare avs forum valid point!

=+1

You do realize you are posting in the Paradigm owners thread and did not list any Paradigm speakers

Maybe he's looking to be converted? :)

When it's that obvious, I felt I had to say something :D:p:D

Hi everyone!

I recently got a Denon AVR-889 (2309ci) and I am looking to upgrade my speakers also.

My father has a setup of Mini-monitors, CC-370, PDR-10, Atoms, Micros and I love how it sounds.
Because I have been spoiled with such a nice sound, but can't afford brand new Paradigms, I am looking into getting a used system.

I can get a set of the following for $700-$800.
Monitor 5 v4 - Fronts
CC-370 v4 - Center
Mini-Monitor v4 - Surrounds
PDR-10 - Sub

Does this seem reasonable for a used system in good shape? I have done a lot of research and it seems pretty good but the information out there on the Monitor 5 v4 is extremely limited. Only mentioned a handful of times here with no real reviews, and no reviews I can find on the web after many searches. Almost any talk is on other versions.

Can anyone provide any insight or opinions regarding these, mainly the Monitor 5 v4s? Also how well do you think the Denon AVR-889 will do with these? I am using monoprice 12AWG cable with banana clips, I know some believe you start taking advantage of better cables with these speakers... any issues with these?

Thanks!

Guys, I'm in the process of slowly upgrading my speakers setup, bought a CC-190v6 to pair up with my old Monitor5v2, however I felt the 190 are too small for my room(15'x20'), so I just went and exchanged it for the CC-390v6.

My question is, I will be upgrading the fronts and surrounds in the coming month(s), and as I have a decent sub already(Vel DPS-12), what do you guys think of pairing up the 390 with a set of Titan v6 or Monitor 7...will these match the 390 nicely since I have the sub for the bass? I want to keep my budget at this time, and would prefer to avoid the Monitor 9 or 11 if possible...

Thanks in advance!

Hi fellow Paradigm owners - I'm looking to seat my CC590 on a speaker stand (about 17" high) - I really don't want to purchase the J18c that Paradigm offers as its a bit expensive. Any decent alternatives for this particular center channel? Thanks in advance.

Hi fellow Paradigm owners - I'm looking to seat my CC590 on a speaker stand (about 17" high) - I really don't want to purchase the J18c that Paradigm offers as its a bit expensive. Any decent alternatives for this particular center channel? Thanks in advance.

I found some pretty nice stands here. (http://www.racksandstands.com/nobot/50-lbs.-or-more-l5-c7-A3921~10370-A342~5.html)

Hi fellow Paradigm owners - I'm looking to seat my CC590 on a speaker stand (about 17" high) - I really don't want to purchase the J18c that Paradigm offers as its a bit expensive. Any decent alternatives for this particular center channel? Thanks in advance.
Those j series are overpriced but they are sturdy and eyecandy at the same
time.

Hi fellow Paradigm owners - I'm looking to seat my CC590 on a speaker stand (about 17" high) - I really don't want to purchase the J18c that Paradigm offers as its a bit expensive. Any decent alternatives for this particular center channel? Thanks in advance.

Rack and Stands.com

Stands and mounts.com

Plenty of alternatives to the Paradigm Stands, but as usual oxtech is right on with his info....

I have the J-Stands for my Signature S4's and they are extremely heavy duty, nice looking, and worth what I paid off Audiogon.

Here is the J-18 at Audiogon... http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?accsrack&1227762850&/Paradigm-J-18C-STand-v.2-J18-S
You can trust the seller... he is a forum member... and I have bought from him before...

Yesterday I finally got the first chance to listen to the Sig. v2's - both the S6's and S8's.... with the Be tweeter and new cobalt-infused pure-aluminum cone midrange driver. I was impressed to say the least... Just Wow... Extremely beautiful cabinets.

I have to say that as close as they were sonically my preference leaned to the S8's for 2 channel audio. But both speakers are extremely capable and sound very similar, either would be a fantastic choice, and if you didn't have an enormous room like my great room, the S6 would be a fine choice IMO...

Yesterday I finally got the first chance to listen to the Sig. v2's - both the S6's and S8's.... with the Be tweeter and new cobalt-infused pure-aluminum cone midrange driver. I was impressed to say the least... Just Wow... Extremely beautiful cabinets.

I have to say that as close as they were sonically my preference leaned to the S8's for 2 channel audio. But both speakers are extremely capable and sound very similar, either would be a fantastic choice, and if you didn't have an enormous room like my great room, the S6 would be a fine choice IMO...

How did they compare to your v.1 Sig's in your bedroom?

I'm BAAAACK!

What's that? I was never here to begin with?

Um... yeah...

Ok. You got me there...

Actually, I had owned a Studio 20/CC/ADP setup when I lived in Orlando about 8 years ago, but had to part with them when I moved. :mad: I've been running an M&K setup with 750s up front 550s for surrounds and a Paradigm Servo 15(v1) to handle the bottom end. I just replaced the 750s with a pair of Studio 40s and a CC-690. :D
Oh- I still have the Servo on LFE, but the 40s have a Sunfire True Sub tied into them, crossed over around 60-70hz.
The M&Ks were good on movies, but just kinda fell flat on the music. I'm still running the 550s for the surrounds(sides) but plan on replacing them with a pair of Studio 20s before the end of the year. I thought about the ADP-590s there, but I prefer the direct radiators over dipole/bipoles. Plus it'll just look damn sexy...
BTW, the front end is being handled by a NAD 175/975 combo, fed by a PS3 among other things...

So, see? I am back.... From a certain point of view.

Hi fellow Paradigm owners - I'm looking to seat my CC590 on a speaker stand (about 17" high) - I really don't want to purchase the J18c that Paradigm offers as its a bit expensive. Any decent alternatives for this particular center channel? Thanks in advance.

I have the J18 and J19 for my center and studio 20s. I say they're worth every penny as they are sturdy, and matches the cabinets extremely well.

Yesterday I finally got the first chance to listen to the Sig. v2's - both the S6's and S8's.... with the Be tweeter and new cobalt-infused pure-aluminum cone midrange driver. I was impressed to say the least... Just Wow... Extremely beautiful cabinets.

I have to say that as close as they were sonically my preference leaned to the S8's for 2 channel audio. But both speakers are extremely capable and sound very similar, either would be a fantastic choice, and if you didn't have an enormous room like my great room, the S6 would be a fine choice IMO...

Told ya...

How did they compare to your v.1 Sig's in your bedroom?

I think they are much improved and deserving of the improvements they had made to them... more refined, but the S4 is a different design being a 2 1/2 way speaker and both the S6 and S8 are 3 way with dedicated midrange drivers. Very impressive, the tweeters are smoother and mids have more presence to me... not to say the S4 .v1 is a slouch of a speaker, but your climbing a ladder in cost here.

You can find my more thorough review HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14915109#post14915109)


Told ya...

I never doubted your words in the least.... They have long been on my list to hear.... :)

Should something happen to my 100's the s8's will be their replacement.

You can find my more thorough review HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14915109#post14915109)


I enjoyed your review. I too am a Paradigm Fanboy, but on a Monitor series budget.

I'm very happy I went with the S8's after much deliberation. I couldn't justify the cost, but I can verify the sound. They're worth it to me, especially for audio. They sound awesome just by themselves. Of course, in hometheater, most every recommends a sub regardless of the speaker and I use subs in home theater, but not with 2 channel audio.

Can anyone recommend surrounds to pair with Studio 20s as fronts? I don't want to use the ADPs (placement), would prefer something on a stand.

Can anyone recommend a good match? Would a lower line match well? Or is Studio 20s all around my only option?

While I'm at it, what MultiChannel Amps are you guys using? I am looking at Emotiva, Outlaw, and Rotel, anyone have experience with these? I am using an Onkyo 705 right now (100w) but looking for something to really power my system. I’ll keep the Onkyo as a Pre.

Can anyone recommend surrounds to pair with Studio 20s as fronts? I don't want to use the ADPs (placement), would prefer something on a stand.

Can anyone recommend a good match? Would a lower line match well? Or is Studio 20s all around my only option?


I have five Studios (40s, 590 & ADP) and use Mini Monitors for my rear surrounds; I thought Studio 20s were overkill for rear surrounds. The Mini Monitors are cheaper, but almost as large as the Studio 20s. If you want something smaller, since your AVR has flexable bass management, you could consider Atom Monitors as surrounds, with a higher cross-over. I find that for the surround channels (rear in my case) the Monitor line is fine, especially with Audessy MultiEQ running.

While I'm at it, what MultiChannel Amps are you guys using? I am looking at Emotiva, Outlaw, and Rotel, anyone have experience with these? I am using an Onkyo 705 right now (100w) but looking for something to really power my system. I’ll keep the Onkyo as a Pre.

Ditto; I also have a 705 and have considered additional power amps for it. If so, I would likely get a decent used three-channel off Audiogon to power the front stage, and use my 705 for the remaining four surrounds. I have an Outlaw sub and love it; their amps are very highly regarded, but I don't have any personal experience.

While I'm at it, what MultiChannel Amps are you guys using? I am looking at Emotiva, Outlaw, and Rotel, anyone have experience with these? I am using an Onkyo 705 right now (100w) but looking for something to really power my system. I’ll keep the Onkyo as a Pre.

I've just added a NAD M25 to my 100 v4's, its opened the 100's up especially in the bass (run full range in 2 channel). Also improved the dynamics in HT, watched the opening fight scene of "Casino Royale" on blu ray and jumped a couple of times, the M 25 seems effortless in driving the studio's. (rated down to 2 ohms as well). :)

what MultiChannel Amps are you guys using?
Running a NAD 975 over here... I really like the way the NADs sound with the Paradigms.

Would you guys who like the NAD amplification also recommend this amp for the Paradigm Signature speakers as well as the Studio Series?

I haven't seen anything recently with respect to NAD. I had been looking at other multi-channel amps but NAD was not on my list.

My dealer mentioned something about waiting for an NAD Master Series 4500 which I guess is a preamp/processor that's supposed to be in the same class if not better than the Integra 9.9.

Can you guys suggest an NAD multichannel amp that would make the Signature S8's and C5 really sing and bring out the best in their sound potential? That will give me some time to do a little researching on what NAD has to offer. Thanks!

Would you guys who like the NAD amplification also recommend this amp for the Paradigm Signature speakers as well as the Studio Series?

Can you guys suggest an NAD multichannel amp that would make the Signature S8's and C5 really sing and bring out the best in their sound potential? That will give me some time to do a little researching on what NAD has to offer. Thanks!

The master series M25 is currently the best multichannel power amp NAD make. I personally would have no concerns running the sigs off the m25, at its price point its certainly worth considering.:)

http://nadelectronics.com/products/home-theatre-amplifiers/M25-7-Channel-Amplifier/

Power Amplifier
Continuous power out into 8 ohms 7 x >160 W (22.0 dBW)
Rated distortion (THD 20Hz-20kHz) 0.03%
Clipping power (0.1% THD) >180W
IHF dynamic headroom at 4 ohms 3.9dBW
IHF dynamic power 8 ohms >220 W (23.4 dBW)
4 ohms >385 W (25.9 dBW)
2 ohms >485 W (26.9 dBW)

Either the M25 or the 975 will sound great, but yeah, the M25 will really make the Sigs shine.
What kind of price point are you looking for, or is that much of a concern? :D

Either the M25 or the 975 will sound great, but yeah, the M25 will really make the Sigs shine.
What kind of price point are you looking for, or is that much of a concern? :D

Only if you intend to drive 2-3 channels from it. If he intends to drive all 5 or 7 channels, it probably won't have enough power.

It looks like a single transformer for all channels, right?

Would you guys who like the NAD amplification also recommend this amp for the Paradigm Signature speakers as well as the Studio Series?

I haven't seen anything recently with respect to NAD. I had been looking at other multi-channel amps but NAD was not on my list.

My dealer mentioned something about waiting for an NAD Master Series 4500 which I guess is a preamp/processor that's supposed to be in the same class if not better than the Integra 9.9.

Can you guys suggest an NAD multichannel amp that would make the Signature S8's and C5 really sing and bring out the best in their sound potential? That will give me some time to do a little researching on what NAD has to offer. Thanks!

Have you looked at ICEpower amps from the likes of D-Sonic and Wyred4sound? Physically smaller, lighter, more efficient, and tons of power!

Have you looked at ICEpower amps from the likes of D-Sonic and Wyred4sound? Physically smaller, lighter, more efficient, and tons of power!


He's been down that road, he just can't make up his mind... :rolleyes:


Jimmy, pull the trigger on something already.... your drivin us nuts... ;):D

Sorry Warpdrv:

I don't mean to drive everyone crazy, even though I seem to be very good at it. I just didn't realize there were so many options, prices, designs and also whatever the dealer seems to be be pushing that particular week (Hence, my post about NAD electronics). Lots of options and most of them seem like a good fit. I'm close to making a decision and you have to admit I've done my research. You guys have all been very helpful and I've learned alot towards making my decision. Thanks for being patient!!!

Heheh I know you have to do your homework, and I applaud you for doing so... Just messin WIT CHA Buddy... :)

I have A/B'd my Sigs with my Pioneer receiver that I use as a Pre-amp for now, my Rotel 1095, and my Ice-Power D-Sonic, and blindfolded, I couldn't tell the difference between the 3... there was more bass punch with the IcePower, other then that, they all sounded extremely similar.

Pick out a good quality amp and get it off Audiogon... You live in Cali, so you have a much larger range of used stuff avail in your vicinity.... Thats what I would do personally. You don't need to waste a ton of money on Amps...

Only if you intend to drive 2-3 channels from it. If he intends to drive all 5 or 7 channels, it probably won't have enough power.

It looks like a single transformer for all channels, right?

Yes it does only have 1 transformer but it measures up very well imo.:)

http://www.hometheatermag.com/preampprocessors/107nad/index2.html

All channels driven continuously into 8-ohm loads:
0.1% distortion at 194.3 watts
1% distortion at 230.7 watts

Yes it does only have 1 transformer but it measures up very well imo.:)

http://www.hometheatermag.com/preampprocessors/107nad/index2.html

I'm sure it's a nice receiver, but the Studios and Sigs have very low resistance curves, which require a lot of continuous, clean power. Single transformer lower-power amps can sometimes have problems driving them.

160W monoblocks would probably be fine.

Yeah, i am running a Rotel RMB 1075 to run my Signature S6's and i am upgrading it. I feel like the S6's want more power to make them happy. A good receiver would be fine but if you really want to make them sing get a good amp.

Anthem signature P5 is a good choice.:D

I would love to get the Anthem P5 for my Signature 8's. The build quality and power are impressive but the price is pretty high and I can't justify using two of those outputs (325 wpc) into my little surround speakers.

The amps that are getting my attention and are on my short list are Emotiva, I've done alot of checking out the Emotiva; Bel Canto (the newer M500s); Wyred 4 Sound and I'm currently checking out Outlaw's new amp and Preamp.

The Emotiva seems to offer many options and quite alot of performance for its price; I've never had experience with Class D amps like Bel Canto and Wyred for Sound but they have gotten good reviews and seem to fit Paradigm quite nicely. I've heard of Outlaw for years and thought I would check out their products. Their newest preamp sounds promising and they also have several multi-channel amps as well at decent pricing. My dealer is pushing NAD Master Series (preamp and amp) but I don't know if NAD has made it to my short list yet. I need to know what would make their product line outclass what I'm already looking at.

So, I'm close and I've got my eye on Audiogon/Ebay and I'm reading Forums and threads and posts and reviews online and in print and when possible, auditioning. At this point, it's down to the preamp and amp and the rest of my system is ready. Also, the economy has a way of making someone hesitant at times and re-evaluating how much they "really" want to spend on quality audio/video.

Again, you guys have been great and I've appreciated all the iniput and look forward to more. Thanks!

I finally checked out the Forum at Emotiva's website for the first time and I learned alot more this evening. It made me realize that I could go ahead and get my amp for my home theater system since I could use the pre-outs of my Onkyo 7-channel receiver until I got a separate processor.

Emotiva amps offer so much, great bang for the buck and they have gotten great reviews as well. They have a 30-day return policy so there is a "safety net" for me if I feel I've made the wrong decision. If I go with the Emotiva amps, I'd probably get the 2-channel XPA-2 for the S8's and the 5-channel XPA-5 for the C5 and surround speakers. Common sense-wise, this should be the logical way to go.

There is some slight hesitation though on the XPA-5. After reading some of the posts over at Emotiva and here at AVS, some have indicated that the XPA-5 is not quite up to the quality of sound of the XPA-2. Since I'd be using the XPA-5 for the C5, I would want my best sounding amplification for that speaker and have the front 3 speakers sound totally seamless. If there's a sound/tonal quality difference could there be a better solution?

I thought about the XPA-2 for the S8's and another XPA-2 for the C5 and I would be assured of identical amplification, but then having one channel unused. Another option could be the XPA-2 again for the S8's and getting the new XPA-1 (which is a fully diffential monoblock) for the C5. Then I really would have the best amp on the C5. That would leave the side and rear surrounds needing amplification and they rarely come into play except for the typical "effects". I could use a lower priced but decent amp to power those.

It is a little hard for me to justify 200 wpc each into those 4 small speakers. I realize if I get the XPA-5 for the C5 and 4 surrounds, that the C5 would have unlimited use of the available power from that amp since the surrounds draw so little. So I guess it's the C5 causing the slight hesitation. So much of a movie comes from the center speaker that for me, of course I'd want the best possible amp for it. Geez, just by me re-reading my post, I know I'm so over-analyzing this. Home theater and amps shouldn't be this complicated but apparently I can make it that way <LOL>.

I appreciate your thoughts and being helpful (and patient) Thanks!

I finally checked out the Forum at Emotiva's website for the first time and I learned alot more this evening. It made me realize that I could go ahead and get my amp for my home theater system since I could use the pre-outs of my Onkyo 7-channel receiver until I got a separate processor.

Emotiva amps offer so much, great bang for the buck and they have gotten great reviews as well. They have a 30-day return policy so there is a "safety net" for me if I feel I've made the wrong decision. If I go with the Emotiva amps, I'd probably get the 2-channel XPA-2 for the S8's and the 5-channel XPA-5 for the C5 and surround speakers. Common sense-wise, this should be the logical way to go.

There is some slight hesitation though on the XPA-5. After reading some of the posts over at Emotiva and here at AVS, some have indicated that the XPA-5 is not quite up to the quality of sound of the XPA-2. Since I'd be using the XPA-5 for the C5, I would want my best sounding amplification for that speaker and have the front 3 speakers sound totally seamless. If there's a sound/tonal quality difference could there be a better solution?

I thought about the XPA-2 for the S8's and another XPA-2 for the C5 and I would be assured of identical amplification, but then having one channel unused. Another option could be the XPA-2 again for the S8's and getting the new XPA-1 (which is a fully diffential monoblock) for the C5. Then I really would have the best amp on the C5. That would leave the side and rear surrounds needing amplification and they rarely come into play except for the typical "effects". I could use a lower priced but decent amp to power those.

It is a little hard for me to justify 200 wpc each into those 4 small speakers. I realize if I get the XPA-5 for the C5 and 4 surrounds, that the C5 would have unlimited use of the available power from that amp since the surrounds draw so little. So I guess it's the C5 causing the slight hesitation. So much of a movie comes from the center speaker that for me, of course I'd want the best possible amp for it. Geez, just by me re-reading my post, I know I'm so over-analyzing this. Home theater and amps shouldn't be this complicated but apparently I can make it that way <LOL>.

I appreciate your thoughts and being helpful (and patient) Thanks!

Jimmy,
FWIW I have used multiple amps and processors or receivers as processors. It has been my experience that there is much more sound difference between processors than amps providing you are comparing amps of similar quality.
Since you are using a receiver you should notice an improvement in sound quality by adding a seperate amp Most any amp will sound better than the amp in a receiver. That may be contradictory to my above statement about amps sounding different. Remember I said comparable amps.
I would buy a good 200 wpc (mid priced) and then concentrate on a procesor.
Just my opinion.
Best of luck.

I think this type of speakers is nice and goood price

I finally checked out the Forum at Emotiva's website for the first time and I learned alot more this evening. It made me realize that I could go ahead and get my amp for my home theater system since I could use the pre-outs of my Onkyo 7-channel receiver until I got a separate processor.

I thought about the XPA-2 for the S8's and another XPA-2 for the C5 and I would be assured of identical amplification, but then having one channel unused. Another option could be the XPA-2 again for the S8's and getting the new XPA-1 (which is a fully diffential monoblock) for the C5. Then I really would have the best amp on the C5. That would leave the side and rear surrounds needing amplification and they rarely come into play except for the typical "effects". I could use a lower priced but decent amp to power those.

It is a little hard for me to justify 200 wpc each into those 4 small speakers. I realize if I get the XPA-5 for the C5 and 4 surrounds, that the C5 would have unlimited use of the available power from that amp since the surrounds draw so little. So I guess it's the C5 causing the slight hesitation. So much of a movie comes from the center speaker that for me, of course I'd want the best possible amp for it. Geez, just by me re-reading my post, I know I'm so over-analyzing this. Home theater and amps shouldn't be this complicated but apparently I can make it that way <LOL>.

I appreciate your thoughts and being helpful (and patient) Thanks!

Jimmy, you can also choose to use the pre outs on your avr to required power amp channels; say front left/right and center; then keep using the surround amp channels of your avr to power your surrounds.You can mix and match if you like.:)

Hi all,

I am considering the Paradigm Signature S6’s to be used as fronts for my HT setup. Because of space constrictions it appears I can only use the Signature C1 center instead of the Signature C3. Is the C1 center large enough and will it work well with the S6’s? The system will be used 100% for Movies.

Which series of In-ceiling speakers (used for rear surrounds) will match my Monitor 9's the best?

Hi all,

I am considering the Paradigm Signature S6’s to be used as fronts for my HT setup. Because of space constrictions it appears I can only use the Signature C1 center instead of the Signature C3. Is the C1 center large enough and will it work well with the S6’s? The system will be used 100% for Movies.

I would say no. With the S6's, you'll want a minimum of the C3. Remeber the majority of sound comes from the center in a HT setup. However if the C1 is all you can fit, then it's your only option, right?

i am currently upgrading my basement theater - my denon 3910 has been replaced by a panny bd30 , my kenwood soveriegn (130x5) has been replaced by denon 3808 (7x130) - i have a 7.1 set up - 5 snell inwalls and a pr of speakercraft ( also inwalls) for my middles/surround rears -
i want to add the sunfire 7401 (7x400) to the denon 3808 , and i am considering a pr of paradigm signature 8's for just R and L fronts - leaving the other speakers alone -
i am trying to figure out of that is a good move - will they go togther ? can i just change the fronts only and still have great sound ?

i am currently upgrading my basement theater - my denon 3910 has been replaced by a panny bd30 , my kenwood soveriegn (130x5) has been replaced by denon 3808 (7x130) - i have a 7.1 set up - 5 snell inwalls and a pr of speakercraft ( also inwalls) for my middles/surround rears -
i want to add the sunfire 7401 (7x400) to the denon 3808 , and i am considering a pr of paradigm signature 8's for just R and L fronts - leaving the other speakers alone -
i am trying to figure out of that is a good move - will they go togther ? can i just change the fronts only and still have great sound ?

For HT use, you really need to upgrade at least thw three fronts to be similar. So a C3 or C5 with the S8's.

Hi all,

I am considering the Paradigm Signature S6’s to be used as fronts for my HT setup. Because of space constrictions it appears I can only use the Signature C1 center instead of the Signature C3. Is the C1 center large enough and will it work well with the S6’s? The system will be used 100% for Movies.

I use the c1 with s-4s. My room is small so the c1 does a fine job. I had to get it because of size but the sound does match well with the s-4.

I use the c1 with s-4s. My room is small so the c1 does a fine job. I had to get it because of size but the sound does match well with the s-4.

C1 makes sense with the S4's. He asked about the S6 though.

Hello, quick ?. I'm using my old fronts (monitor 3s) for my rear surrounds. would I notice any difference if I went to the dipole adp 390s? Trying to decide if it's worth the money. Thanks

What are adp-390's going for?

I would say no. With the S6's, you'll want a minimum of the C3. Remeber the majority of sound comes from the center in a HT setup. However if the C1 is all you can fit, then it's your only option, right?

Kinda figured that would be the case. I totally agree that you need the right center to make your HT system work well. My theather cabinet has a 26" wide opening for a center. Paradigm's website list the C3 as 26 1/2" wide but I am wondering if thier measurment includes the feet? I e-mailed Paradigm and am waiting to hear back from them. I contacted a dealer in my area whom I will see on Thursday and they tell me the C3 measures around 25 1/2" from corner to corner. I hoping the dealer is correct (trying not to get too excited :D as I really want the C3) and will know for sure on Thursday.

Kinda figured that would be the case. I totally agree that you need the right center to make your HT system work well. My theather cabinet has a 26" wide opening for a center. Paradigm's website list the C3 as 26 1/2" wide but I am wondering if thier measurment includes the feet? I e-mailed Paradigm and am waiting to hear back from them. I contacted a dealer in my area whom I will see on Thursday and they tell me the C3 measures around 25 1/2" from corner to corner. I hoping the dealer is correct (trying not to get too excited :D as I really want the C3) and will know for sure on Thursday.

Your priorities are screwed up! Furniture must make way for HT gear...

Your priorities are screwed up! Furniture must make way for HT gear...

Exactly! After I got my CC-590 earlier this year, I had to replace my Bell'o stand. There's very little AV furniture out there that accomodates large CC speakers. We finally found a rosewood credenza that met my technical requirements as well as the WAF, but $$$:eek:

Your priorities are screwed up! Furniture must make way for HT gear...

Yeah I know...thought I was all set with my Boston VR-12 center and Boston VR3 fronts but the upgrade bug keeps biting. I recently upgraded my HT system with the Pioneer Elite 151 Plasma, Pioneer Elite BDP-05 blu-ray and Pioneer Elite SC-05 AVR. That's when I purchased the Munari M1 credenza from diamond case. At that point I thought I was all done!

Kinda figured that would be the case. I totally agree that you need the right center to make your HT system work well. My theather cabinet has a 26" wide opening for a center. Paradigm's website list the C3 as 26 1/2" wide but I am wondering if thier measurment includes the feet? I e-mailed Paradigm and am waiting to hear back from them. I contacted a dealer in my area whom I will see on Thursday and they tell me the C3 measures around 25 1/2" from corner to corner. I hoping the dealer is correct (trying not to get too excited :D as I really want the C3) and will know for sure on Thursday.

Sorry, it is nearly 26 1/2" with the front grill attached. Plus speakers need room to breathe so even if you could jam it in there, it would be less than optimal placement.

Get a new cabinet, or find a much smaller speaker.

Which series of In-ceiling speakers (used for rear surrounds) will match my Monitor 9's the best?

The CS series is the correct match for the monitors.

I am actually using Mirage omnican 6's as my surrounds with Titan v5's up front. IMO this combo sounds very good together and I like the more dispersed sound of the omnicans for surround.

I'm thinking the CS-60R-30 might be the best for my setup...does anyone know what these go for? MSRP at least?

I was thinking around $350

I just switched to banana plugs on my Monitor series fronts and center. The plugs don't seem to plug in all the way on the speakers like they do on my receiver. Is this normal? Sound is fine....

Well I have pretty much decided on Paradigm, had an audition today and I love the sound. I just cant decide if I should go with

Fronts- Mini monitors
rear- atoms
center- c290
sub- SVS

or if I should go with the Titans for the fronts? Any opinions? I love the Studio 20 but out of my price range for now. Maybe later though.

Or some other combination of the Mini Monitors, Atoms, and Titans.

Thanks!!


Still ltrying to read all 8800 post on this thread

does anyone know what model these are?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Paradigm-Floor-Standing-Speakers-Pair-Great-No-Res_W0QQitemZ140277780436QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item14027778043 6&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A7%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318

does anyone know what model these are?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Paradigm-Floor-Standing-Speakers-Pair-Great-No-Res_W0QQitemZ140277780436QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item14027778043 6&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2%7C65%3A7%7C39%3A1%7C240%3A1318

Those are an early generation of "Monitor Series" speakers, model 9 I believe. Don't know the year, but I'm thinking late 90's / early 2000.

http://www.mortechcomputers.com/paradigm_speakers.jpg

Is there any chance of a new Studio line in the near future?

is there any chance of a new studio line in the near future?

looks like v.5 studios are on their way and its much more than just cosmetics that are being upgraded. The cabinets look tapered and it could possibly be real wood veneers although it's hard to tell from the pictures. The smaller tower (60?) has an an added bass driver and there are now two 2-way standmounts.

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4463/studiov5td1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/4463/studiov5td1.f2fb76b773.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=137&i=studiov5td1.jpg)

:d

So I am stuck going with in-ceiling as my surrounds, but I am having a dilemma as to which one to pick. The couch is against the back wall and against another wall on the one side.

My local Paradigm dealer is trying to steer me away from the CS-60R-30, 30 degree angled CS series speakers...

http://paradigm.com/images/paradigm/speaker_type_6/series_7/model_30/cs60r30_7_off.jpg

And to just go with downward pointing drivers and the regular CS-60R.

Any recommendations to go with one or the other?

I am trying to figure out the best settings for my new (used) setup!

My setup:

Fronts: Paradigm Monitor 5 v4
Center: Paradigm CC-370 v4
Rears: Paradgm Mini-Monitor v4
Subwoofer: Paradigm PDR-10 v3
Receiver: Denon AVR-889 (2309ci)

I ran the Audyssey EQ auto setup and it did a few things I don't fully understand with the crossovers.

It set all speakers to small except the Monitor 5s, which are set to large.
It set the crossovers at the following:
Monitor 5: 40Hz (Paradigm says as low as 34Hz)
CC-370: 80Hz (Paradigm says as low as 40Hz)
Mini-Monitor: 40Hz (Paradigm says as low as 57Hz)

It also set the subwoofer to: 100Hz.

Now what I don't understand is why the fronts are set to large, but still have a crossover of 40Hz? Does this mean they still send anything below 40Hz to the subwoofer? If so, what is the point of setting a speaker to small or large? Do movies send sound lower than 40hz to the Front L/R speakers?

Why does the subwoofer have a crossover? The receiver won't send anything above 100hz, correct?
So unless I have a speaker crossover above 100Hz, this setting doesn't matter?

Thanks for the help!

Change your monitor and mini monitors to small and set the crossover at 60-80hz. Bump your subs crossover up to 120hz.

Check out the Audyssey thread here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=795421

And here's the Audyssey setup guide: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14456895#post14456895

Follow the setup guide and it will make a world of difference.

I am currently using the Atom v5's as a true bookshelf speakers due to space constraints in a small room.

While I am happy with their movie performance, I was looking for a step up in music performance.

Someone mentioned there was a Studio 10 in the works? Does anyone have any info?

Thanks

Thanks for the reply!

I'm just curious to know: If the Monitor 5s can go down to let's day 50Hz with no dips, what is the advantage of sending the sound below 80Hz to the subwoofer instead?

Thanks!