Paradigm Owners Thread [Text View] - Page 45

corpfan1

05-03-09, 02:00 PM

Set your SUB crossover on the DSP3400 to BYPASS and let your AVR control the crossover.

I would set all speakers to 80Hz and see if you like it.

Hey all,

Well I finally bought my dsp 3400 and harmony one Friday night, and am completly amazed. LOL the gf already hates it, but she'll learn to live with it ;). I haven't had much time to do any tweaking, and was hoping I could get a few suggestions from you guys...

1). The auto speaker setup on my yamaha a/v sets the mains to large and all others to small. Should these be set to small as well, and I'll add I'm bi-amping them.
2). It sets the crossover to 200 which I know is way to high. Is 80 the general recommendation?
3). For running the test the a/v manual says to set the sub at the highest crossover setting, and the gain to a little below half. Is there a better way to do this, and a recommendation for sub gain opposed to a/v gain?

For the guy considering the studio 60's...I listened to them in a 2 channel setup powered by seperate pre/pro's. This was in a dedicated sound room and they sounded beautiful.

nucl3arboNg

05-04-09, 12:42 PM

you guy's think this will work good for setting up my system using dve blu-ray?

http://www.thesource.ca/estore/Product.aspx?language=en-CA&catalog=Online&category=SoundMeters&product=1219799

shrabok

05-04-09, 05:48 PM

I've got one, and to be honest its pretty flaky. It has strong fluctuation and hard to get an accurate reading. I wish I knew earlier but hit up www.sonicboomaudio.com they have the radio shack analog meters that I personally believe are better quality and more practical for the application.
http://www.sonicboomaudio.com/cables-accessories-sound-calibration-c-6_18.html
Spend the extra few bucks and you'll probably be much happier.

Warpdrv

05-04-09, 05:53 PM

http://www.sonicboomaudio.com/cables-accessories-sound-calibration-c-6_18.html
Spend the extra few bucks and you'll probably be much happier.

+1...

What receiver are you using nucl3arboNg...?

Most receivers have built in test tones that allow you to adjust the level, the Radio Shack SPL meter is a tried and true piece of equipment, you don't necessarily need the DVD, I have the DVE, but I have not really needed it.

stritheor

05-04-09, 10:03 PM

Kai Winters

05-04-09, 11:40 PM

Hi stritheor,
Welcome...
The Monitor 7's are nice speakers and well worth the money but imo I would spend a bit extra and get at least the 9's. The 9's have a more "full range" sound compared to the 7's especially in the lower mid range area. The 7's are a bit better than the Monitor 3's...bookshelf speakers no longer available but replaced by the new version of the Titan...and if I were looking for a pair of good bookshelf speakers I would give them a go...they have a wonderful low end for bookshelfs. The 7's are superior in the mid range due to their drivers. The tweeters sound the same. The bass in the 3's is better and I would suspect the Titans as well because they use a larger driver.

The Studio models are fabulous, in my opinion. I auditioned a pair of new Studio 20's and was very surprised at the range they were able to carry. The bass driver went quite low and the upper/mid range was superb...again imo and I am by no means an expert. They are costly though...whew...a new pair of Studio 20's at a local shop go for $1200.
I wound up with a pair of Monitor 11's v.5 for a lot less and while matching the rest of my system sound wonderful...even got a thumbs up for the WAF.

Paradigm speakers are and have been regarded as one of the best "bang for the buck" speaker companies out there. They have a very good reputation and seem to stand by their product should there be a problem...at least from what I have read.
You can start small and basically inexpensive with the Atoms ($250ish a pair), etc. from the Monitor line and move up as needs and monies allow.

Most people are very happy with the Monitor line and many of us only dream of buying Studio model speakers...I certainly dream of it and hope to one day.
What speaker buying comes down to is "what sounds good to you"...that is it. If it sounds great and is in your budget you won't go wrong. Some speakers have different sound dynamics and those dynamics affect us differently. I suggest trying out speakers in a few different shops if able before making a decision. It is very helpful to have a budget in mind as well. It is very very easy to spend a great deal of money on speakers.
If you are actively looking tell us your budget, what you want...2.1 or 5.1 etc...what sort of receiver you have, etc. and we will be glad to offer our experiences and suggestions.
All you need is a decent receiver, as most of us have, to power Paradigms...and most speakers for that matter. You do not need separate amps, etc.
Def Tech is a well regarded speaker brand as well.

Good luck and keep us informed.

cjv998

05-05-09, 12:48 AM

I've got a couple of questions for you Paradigm owners out there.

How much greater is the difference between the Monitor line and the Studio line?

I listened to some Monitor 7's today with a cd and watched a little Star Trek and thought they sounded phenomenal. *See note at bottom.

The guy told me the Studio 60's would be even better, which I guess I should expect at twice the price. But he didn't have any to audition and said he never would either due to how much they cost and how seldom people are truly interested in that line.

I've read around the net a little and read some people saying the metal tweeter makes a big difference compared to a soft dome tweeter. Good difference, bad, depends?

Very few places around here actually carry speakers so I don't get a whole lot of choices when it comes to listening to speakers before I buy. It's pretty much him with Paradigm, another guy with Def Tech (if he ever gets the Mythos line in), and another guy who said he'll have one of his customers show me some Canton's if I'm interested.

Also, am I getting in over my head with the Paradigm? This is the first speaker brand I've been reading about with owners speaking about amps, pre-amps and bi-amping. The only thing I know about an amp is that it tastes good and gives you energy.

*Note- I am totally and utterly clueless to all things surround sound. This will be my first setup ever so even Bose sounded good to me when I listened to them in Best Buy. Anything sounds better than nothing.

Thanks for any advice you guys have!

I really think you're starting to get in over your head here. People get in the habit of spending way more money than they need to in order to enjoy something. Hey, if you listened to the Monitor series and were happy with them, go for it! If you're happy with $300 speakers, why spend $1300, right?

But, listen to other speakers in that price range first. (I'd look into B&W, Kef, PSB, higher-end Polk, Infinity, and JBL, to name a few more brands worth considering.) I can't emphasize this enough...listen to as much as you can. This will keep you from wanting to find "the new best thing" and wanting to replace your speakers in a year or so. If you go and listen to a lot now, you can be confident that you made the right choice in speakers, regardless of which brand you pick.

About tweeter dome material, it comes down to personal preference really. As a general rule of thumb, metal tweeters tend to produce a brighter, more "open" sound, while silk domes tend to sound more mellow and calm. Some people prefer the more clear, open sound of metal domes, while others like the smooth sound of silk domes. The best comparison I can think of, is silk domes are like smooth jazz, while metal domes are like rock. But even then, tweeters vary greatly from one manufacturer to the next. For example, NHT uses 2 metal dome tweeters in their speakers, so you'd think they'd sound really harsh, but guess what? They don't at all! I actually thought the high frequencies were way too subdued in them, believe it or not.

Honestly, I know loads of people who would be more than happy with Atom or Mini Monitors and a decent $300-400 subwoofer in a 5.1 setup. Heck, I'm almost one of those people...almost. :) I'm just thankful I haven't gotten sucked into tower speakers yet, although my Studio 20's were expensive enough, can't imagine shelling out the cash for Studio 100's or Paradigm's Signature speakers.

stritheor

05-05-09, 07:26 AM

Hi guys. Thanks for the responses and the welcomes.

I was very happy with the way the Monitors sounded, although I didn't give them a full listening too with the movie, just music so I'll have to go back and give them a complete test drive.

My speakers will get about 90% movies/tv and 10% music. Although after hearing how great they sounded I'll probably start listening to more music.

Other than Paradigm so far I've listened to DT BP 7000 series and a Klipsch tower series (don't remember which) at a Magnolia store and both sounded pretty harsh to me. I didn't have music so the guy played a scene from Transformers for both. But they also could have sounded harsh because the Best Buy gentleman had them turned up extremely loud.

If you're happy with $300 speakers, why spend $1300, right?

Exactly! That's what I've been trying to get across to the couple of people around here there are to talk too but nobody seems to understand that. They honestly seemed surprised I want to listen to the speakers instead of just buying them based on their recommendation instead.

But I also want to future proof my speakers (as much as humanly possible) by getting the best I can afford now, which will hopefully tame my wallet for 5-10 years. I want to see if I can hear the difference between $2500 speakers and $5000 speakers. And see if in my opinion its worth it or not. Like you said, why spend more when you're happy with less?

If you are actively looking tell us your budget, what you want...2.1 or 5.1 etc...what sort of receiver you have, etc. and we will be glad to offer our experiences and suggestions.
I guess you could say I'm actively researching. I still don't know what to buy yet so I don't know what to spend. I'll save as much as I need too within reason. I'd prefer to get them sometime this year and not just before doomsday 2012.:D

I'm looking for a 5.1 and I don't have anything but the display so far. 22 X 14 X 8 living room with carpeted floors.

Budget
Speakers - 5K max. but would prefer 3K.
Receiver - 1.5k max.

djgcue

05-05-09, 10:25 AM

When I started my speaker search, I first auditioned the monitor series. For me, it sounded muddy and not much better than my 20 year old speakers.

Next, I auditioned the studio line and was sold right away. The harmonic range was much improved over the monitors.

I wanted speakers that I know I wouldn't get an itch to upgrade for at least 10 years. I'm very happy with the Studio line.

IMO, you're happy with $300 speakers until you hear the $3000 speakers.

Kai Winters

05-05-09, 10:38 AM

The $1000 or so average price offers many very good receivers that will do justice and then some to "good to great" speakers...such as Monitor line and Studio line for example.

Were I starting again with the total funds of my speaker family (one pair Atoms, pair of Titans, pair of Monitor 3's, pair of Monitor 11's, CC170 center, CC290 center and PDR-12 sub...Titans, cc170 stored on a shelf) available to me I would buy the Studio 20's for fronts, 10's for surround and matching center/sub probably not spending much more than I have already spent for my entire family. But when I started it was with a limited budget and paycheck, family, etc. so I had to do the best I could with what I had available. I am very happy with my gear but if I had the total monies in hand and a fresh slate and knowledge I would have done it differently.
I do prefer the sound of the Studio line...I was blown away when listening to them...but I do not have the wherewithal to start over again nor the desire to sell my current gear for little dollars to at least recoup a bit of what I have spent...nor ,most importantly, to add to my "speaker museum" lol.

donaldsonjune

05-05-09, 10:40 AM

shawnmandel

05-05-09, 12:58 PM

SPEAKERS:
F: Studio 100 v.5's
C: Studio CC-690 v.5
Sur: Studio ADP590 v.5's
Sub: Servo-15

GEAR;
Pre/pro: Integra DHC-9.9
Amps: 2 X Anthem MCA-50 (1 X running fronts; 1X running surrounds)
Blu-Ray player: Panasonic DMP-BD55
Conditioner (gear): Panamax M5400
Conditioner (sub): Panamax MAX2SUB
Conditioner (pj): Tripp Lite ULTRABLOK428

DISPLAY:
PJ: Epson Pro Cinema 7500UB
Screen: 106" GrandView

KCWolfPck

05-05-09, 01:39 PM

Lambert,

I finally got tracking info on my rosenut 100 v.5's.....they will be delivered to me tomorrow. How about you? Any updates?

KCWolfPck

05-05-09, 01:40 PM

ChrisDixon

05-05-09, 02:27 PM

hello all,

i'm a studio 100s v2 owner. my birthday is may 17 and it's time to treat myself to something. anyone every upgraded from the v2 to the v4 or v5?
is there a difference $$ in the sound. a rotel rsp-1068 proccessor & rmb-1075amp is running the v2. i'm quite happy with what i have but the upgrade bug is bitting me.

I can't speak for the 100s, but I upgraded from the 60v2 to 60v4 (along with v4 center and 20s for surrounds). I liked the imaging and high end much better. I thought the v3 60s sounded too harsh in the high end. I haven't heard the v5s yet, but I'm not liking smaller drivers and cabinets. You wouldn't have that issue with the 100s though.

cjv998

05-05-09, 03:15 PM

I can't speak for the 100s, but I upgraded from the 60v2 to 60v4 (along with v4 center and 20s for surrounds). I liked the imaging and high end much better. I thought the v3 60s sounded too harsh in the high end. I haven't heard the v5s yet, but I'm not liking smaller drivers and cabinets. You wouldn't have that issue with the 100s though.

I'll vouch for the 60 v5's. They're amazing. :)

Seriously though, I was really impressed by them; typical Paradigm highs, nice mids, really solid midbass, and decent extension. Plus they had the "presence" of a larger tower IMO. Also, I actually made the dealer double-check that there wasn't a sub connected, if that tells you anything. I almost spent the extra $400 and bought them over my 20's and stands. Unfortunately didn't get to hear the 20's compared to the 60's; I'd be curious to check that out. I may need to bring my speakers around to some dealers one weekend and see how they stack up in the same room.

JETeague

05-05-09, 06:32 PM

I'll vouch for the 60 v5's. They're amazing. :)

Seriously though, I was really impressed by them; typical Paradigm highs, nice mids, really solid midbass, and decent extension. Plus they had the "presence" of a larger tower IMO. Also, I actually made the dealer double-check that there wasn't a sub connected, if that tells you anything. I almost spent the extra $400 and bought them over my 20's and stands. Unfortunately didn't get to hear the 20's compared to the 60's; I'd be curious to check that out. I may need to bring my speakers around to some dealers one weekend and see how they stack up in the same room.

I did the same thing. "Are you sure there is no sub running?!"
Receiver was in 2-channel mode and sounded great and deep. Maybe they had a perfect room or something.
Anyway, I have 60's and a 590 on order. Back order that is :-(

DLS_222

05-05-09, 09:15 PM

I did the same thing. "Are you sure there is no sub running?!"
Receiver was in 2-channel mode and sounded great and deep. Maybe they had a perfect room or something.
Anyway, I have 60's and a 590 on order. Back order that is :-(

I just talked to a Paradigm rep today - my 100's are now ready to ship but the CC-690 is on backorder and my dealer wants it all shipped together with his other orders so I hope by the Time the CC-690 is ready the 100's are still good to go - I wonder if they hold onto them in this situation - I'll call tomorrow and find out. Waiting sucks iI know it's only been a week but it's another week from when it does ship and I don't even had a date for that yet:(

stritheor

05-06-09, 01:05 AM

I've decided what to get tentatively. (Big deal for me. Very indecisive.)

Monitor 7's (Unless I like the 60's better once I hear them)
Outlaw 997 (Assuming it's released before doomsday 2012)
Otherwise I'll get something else to tide me over until it is released.
Outlaw 7125

I'm still planning on listening to whatever else I can until I can pony up the money. But considering the horrible selection around here I might just have to settle for Paradigm.

Would that setup do it for me or would I need anything else? Power conditioner or UPS, etc.?

bricklayerharp

05-06-09, 01:20 AM

LAMBERT R CONE

05-06-09, 02:51 AM

lambert,

i finally got tracking info on my rosenut 100 v.5's.....they will be delivered to me tomorrow. How about you? Any updates?

kc

yes i was told by my dealer , paradigm shipped them so this is the week i should get it all , i will let u know ! Glad u r getting yours. I also came into a great deal on some equip , anthem amps , d2 , power conditioner , ect i will let you know the details when it all comes togeather .

Bert

LAMBERT R CONE

05-06-09, 02:54 AM

Would i benifit from bi-amping my paradigm 100's v-5's for two channel music and movies?

Thanks in advance

bert

Yosh70

05-06-09, 03:45 AM

hello all,

i'm a studio 100s v2 owner. my birthday is may 17 and it's time to treat myself to something. anyone every upgraded from the v2 to the v4 or v5?
is there a difference $$ in the sound. a rotel rsp-1068 proccessor & rmb-1075amp is running the v2. i'm quite happy with what i have but the upgrade bug is bitting me.

I have v2 100's as well.....very well regarded as far as versions go.

What center do you have? The CC690 actually goes very well with the v2 100's.
Depending on what you have, that would definitely be a step up.

And if you want to really get an improvement in sound, look into room treatment. Some bass traps, couple reflection points and you wont believe what you've been missing.

Just some food for thought.

Yosh70

05-06-09, 03:49 AM

Would i benifit from bi-amping my paradigm 100's v-5's for two channel music and movies?

Thanks in advance

bert

No but your speakers may:rolleyes:....try it and see if you can hear any difference.

Easyaspie

05-06-09, 07:57 AM

Would i benifit from bi-amping my paradigm 100's v-5's for two channel music and movies?

Thanks in advance

bert

I doubt you'll hear a difference, but if you have your speakers running full range and listen loud, it could prevent damage.

AbMagFab

05-06-09, 09:38 AM

Would i benifit from bi-amping my paradigm 100's v-5's for two channel music and movies?

Thanks in advance

bert

Almost never will this make any difference. The only time this *might* make a difference is if you have a monoblock amp that doesn't have enough power to run one of your speakers off one of the channels (resulting in clipping).

The odds of this are very slim, as most monoblocks have more than enough power to drive the Studios.

If you don't have a monoblock amp, and there's a risk of clipping, bi-amping will make almost no difference since the limiting factor is the shared transformer/power supply. Sending two channels to your speaker doesn't do anything to increase the total available power in the amp, so you'll still likely clip (if you were clipping before).

So if you have a clipping issue, you need to either upgrade your current amp, or get a second amp to share/split the load.

(And there is no sonic difference in bi-amping, as the speaker will only draw whatever power it needs. Unless of course you believe that raising speaker wire off the floor results in a sonic difference, in which case do whatever you want!)

If you have under-gauged wire, you might as well just bi-wire to increase the gauge (if it's already pulled), or pull new wire of thicker gauge.

donaldsonjune

05-06-09, 10:38 AM

yosh 70,

i have the cc590. but i'll look into the room treatments. any links or websites?
i also bi-wired them. hear a big difference in 2-channel.

Michael_V

05-06-09, 11:35 AM

I'm going to start auditioning speakers next week and paradigm is on my list. In the mean time, I'm trying to get an idea what set up to audition. I'm getting a 5.1 , sub probably will come from SVS..
My living room is 15'x13'x8', I'll be sitting 10 to 11' from the fronts.
Listening habits somewhere around HT 75%/ music 25%..
Receiver onkyo 906.
I would like to get by without an external amp for now if possible. My budget is somewhat flexible, I'd like to stay under 4k but I have a little more room. I like the studio line, hoping for some suggestion on which ones would suit my room the best. Also will my 906 handle the load on it's own, which ones will it need help with up front if any? Sorry if this has been asked a million times, I'm new to this and I don't know where else to go for help.. I don't know if i trust a dealer with my best interest once he knows what I want to spend..

Paradigm makes a great speaker, but if your budget is $4K, consider auditioning the Dynaudio Audience or Focus series, as well. Also take a look at Revel (M22) and Totem (Model 1).

Here is a great discussion of several speakers in your price range: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1011492

Here is another one with recommendations given to me when I was shopping for new speakers (to replace my Paradigms): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1139554&highlight=

Lots of really excellent choices out there. Good luck!

bricklayerharp

05-06-09, 02:06 PM

Paradigm makes a great speaker, but if your budget is $4K, consider auditioning the Dynaudio Audience or Focus series, as well. Also take a look at Revel (M22) and Totem (Model 1).

Here is a great discussion of several speakers in your price range: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1011492

Here is another one with recommendations given to me when I was shopping for new speakers (to replace my Paradigms): http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1139554&highlight=

Lots of really excellent choices out there. Good luck!

Thanks for that Michael, much appreciated sir!!!

deepstang

05-06-09, 02:21 PM

osofast240sx

05-06-09, 02:27 PM

How would you compare/rate Paradigm to Energy, SVS or HSU??Let your ears do the comparing. IMO Paradigm is #1. Plus which series of Paradigm to SVS and HSU? budget? top of to line?

deepstang

05-06-09, 02:38 PM

Let your ears do the comparing. IMO Paradigm is #1. Plus which series of Paradigm to SVS and HSU? budget? top of to line?

I would compare the speakers at similar price points. For example, with Energy....I feel that the Paradigm Monitor Titans can compare to the Energy RC-10s. The retial for the RC-10s are more expensive, but they can be had on sale now at Vanns. Anyways, the "series" comparison would be based on the one that matches at the same price point...between the various mfrs.

JasonColeman

05-06-09, 02:44 PM

This may be a silly question, but I have read on other threads that Paradigm is not high on the $$ to sound ratio. I disagree with that statement. So, what do you think about that comment?

How would you compare/rate Paradigm to Energy, SVS or HSU??

You may be referring to their subwoofers not necessarily being the best bang-for-your-buck. I've seen several posts like that lately. I own a Servo-15 that I picked up 2nd hand and I love it. Would I pay msrp for it? I don't think so.

I've since gone DIY and I'll never go back...

Jason

osofast240sx

05-06-09, 02:52 PM

I would compare the speakers at similar price points. For example, with Energy....I feel that the Paradigm Monitor Titans can compare to the Energy RC-10s. The retial for the RC-10s are more expensive, but they can be had on sale now at Vanns. Anyways, the "series" comparison would be based on the one that matches at the same price point...between the various mfrs.
i see. if if were me:) I would spend the extra money and get the paradigm studio 10's v.5. The msrp on the rc10's is $600 and the msrp on the studio 10's is $789. the street prices vary.

Yosh70

05-06-09, 08:01 PM

yosh 70,

i have the cc590. but i'll look into the room treatments. any links or websites?
i also bi-wired them. hear a big difference in 2-channel.

I got mine from these guys....http://www.gikacoustics.com/products.html

Mine are bi-wired as well, had the wire from day 1 with my old 60's, 20's and now the 100's. Difference? Cant say as I've never had just normal speaker wire.
Suffice to say that my ears probably wouldn't hear any improvement.

shawnmandel

05-06-09, 11:17 PM

Not bad. I'd love to see some pics. Do you have a gallery posted somewhere?

Hi KCWolfPck,

Yes, here is the URL -

http://photobucket.com/shawnmandel

These are really the initial pics. If you'd like, I could take more close-ups of my equipment rack. Let me know.

Best regards,
Shawn

ayrton

05-06-09, 11:34 PM

I'm going to start auditioning speakers next week and paradigm is on my list. In the mean time, I'm trying to get an idea what set up to audition. I'm getting a 5.1 , sub probably will come from SVS..
My living room is 15'x13'x8', I'll be sitting 10 to 11' from the fronts.
Listening habits somewhere around HT 75%/ music 25%..
Receiver onkyo 906.
I would like to get by without an external amp for now if possible. My budget is somewhat flexible, I'd like to stay under 4k but I have a little more room. I like the studio line, hoping for some suggestion on which ones would suit my room the best. Also will my 906 handle the load on it's own, which ones will it need help with up front if any? Sorry if this has been asked a million times, I'm new to this and I don't know where else to go for help.. I don't know if i trust a dealer with my best interest once he knows what I want to spend..

I'm running 100s w cc 590 with a 906 in a similar sized room 5.1. I'm bi amping the fronts. Very powerful with only the 906. The setup sounds great! :D

ayrton

05-06-09, 11:39 PM

Hi KCWolfPck,

Yes, here is the URL -

http://photobucket.com/shawnmandel

These are really the initial pics. If you'd like, I could take more close-ups of my equipment rack. Let me know.

Best regards,
Shawn

Sweet setup shawn!

nameless_cooz

05-06-09, 11:46 PM

Easyaspie

05-07-09, 10:10 AM

I currently am running a pair of Studio 60 v4s in a 2.0 setup. They are powered by Denon 2808. The speakers are about 30cm from the back wall and 14cm from the tv cabinet. The issue I am having is I feel that they are lacking bass. They are bi-wired using Audioquest slate speaker wires. Any suggestions? For the Denon would there be a way significantly increase the bass. I am in a condo and as such do not have room for a sub, even a ultracube 10, and was hoping that the speakers would have enough "bass punch". These were an upgrade from Monitor 9 v4s and I had a Yamaha 3800 which I sold with the Monitor 9s when I moved.

The flooring is tile.

Any suggestions? Tweaks for the Denons? I feel that they should have significantly more bass and as such I seriously regretting not getting the 100s as I figured I could live without a sub until I moved.

They would definitely benefit from a sub, but so will any speaker. I understand you don't have the room for one so lets try some other things. Can you experiment with placement? How about putting down some area rugs, the tile isn't helping any. Another thing and I hate to say it, any of the larger Paradigm Studio speakers can really sing when driven by a external amp. They seem to be held back with most receivers. I had a Integra DTR 6.8 and upgraded to a 7.8 for a little more oompth, but would still like to pick up an amp for my 100s.

One other thing to try since you have a surround receiver and are only driving 2 speakers is bi-amping the 60s using the Denon's surround back channels. It's worth a try anyway.

KCWolfPck

05-07-09, 11:20 AM

KCWolfPck

05-07-09, 11:27 AM

rtwilbur

05-07-09, 11:30 AM

I had a very similar issue. I had a Denon 3808. I think the issue is the Studio line Paradigms drift around in Ohms. Someone more knowledgable might know specifics, but I think I recall Studio 40/60's being around 4-6 ohms. And the Denon can 'handle' 4 ohms....but it's not designed for that.

My solution, was buying a power amp. I went with an Emotiva and man what a difference. Just keep the Denon as a Pre/Pro and you'll love it.

I currently am running a pair of Studio 60 v4s in a 2.0 setup. They are powered by Denon 2808. The speakers are about 30cm from the back wall and 14cm from the tv cabinet. The issue I am having is I feel that they are lacking bass. They are bi-wired using Audioquest slate speaker wires. Any suggestions? For the Denon would there be a way significantly increase the bass. I am in a condo and as such do not have room for a sub, even a ultracube 10, and was hoping that the speakers would have enough "bass punch". These were an upgrade from Monitor 9 v4s and I had a Yamaha 3800 which I sold with the Monitor 9s when I moved.

The flooring is tile.

Any suggestions? Tweaks for the Denons? I feel that they should have significantly more bass and as such I seriously regretting not getting the 100s as I figured I could live without a sub until I moved.

djgcue

05-07-09, 11:35 AM

JasonColeman

05-07-09, 11:54 AM

:mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

Well, after 6 weeks of waiting, I finally got my 100 v.5s yesterday. One of the speakers was flawless, the other was damaged as pictured below. The tweeter also did not work, but I was able to fix that by taking off the binding post cover and reattaching the wires. Hopefully, it won't take as long to get the replacement. :(:(

Wow...that completely sucks.

Was the outside box pretty banged up? I bought a pair of Dali Euphonia from a shop in CT and the speakers were shipped by a freight company. The boxes looked a little rough when they arrived, but it wasn't until I opened them up did I see that one of the boxes must have been dropped pretty hard because the speaker broke through the styrofoam base. Unfortunately the grill (which is armed with metal pins) got caught on the base and got bent out of the holes in the baffle and then the pins scratched the hell out of the front baffle. Fortunately, that was about the extent of the damage and the baffle is pretty easily repaired with some basic cosmetic work. The good news is that the freight company generously compensated me for my troubles.

Sorry that yours got damaged...hopefully the replacement process will be expedited for you.

Jason

JasonColeman

05-07-09, 11:59 AM

There's appears to be, more and more, QC issues being brought up recently with Paradigm.
Other than your experience and KCWolfPack's, what incidents have you come across? I only ask because that's a volatile statement...

And a speaker getting damaged in transit (it obviously wasn't damaged before they packed it up) doesn't fall on the shoulders of Paradigm's QC...

Jason

djgcue

05-07-09, 12:07 PM

Other than your experience and KCWolfPack's, what incidents have you come across? I only ask because that's a volatile statement...

And a speaker getting damaged in transit (it obviously wasn't damaged before they packed it up) doesn't fall on the shoulders of Paradigm's QC...

Jason

Volatile? Do a search.

KC's problem also included a tweeter which wasn't attached properly. There have been other forum members who have experienced similar problems. Also, another forum member had a problem with his mid-tweeter similar to mine. These examples do rest on Paradigm's OC process.

KCWolfPck

05-07-09, 12:18 PM

Volatile? Do a search.

KC's problem also included a tweeter which wasn't attached properly. There have been other forum members who have experienced similar problems. Also, another forum member had a problem with his mid-tweeter similar to mine. These examples do rest on Paradigm's OC process.

I don't know if I mentioned it yet, but the midrange driver or one of my Esprits makes a rattling noise when turned up loudly (even during regular white noise during calibration). I've yet to receive my replacement driver, but it should be here today or tomorrow. (I'm actually supposed to receive the whole middle assembly, which includes the tweeter.)

djgcue

05-07-09, 12:49 PM

I don't know if I mentioned it yet, but the midrange driver or one of my Esprits makes a rattling noise when turned up loudly (even during regular white noise during calibration). I've yet to receive my replacement driver, but it should be here today or tomorrow. (I'm actually supposed to receive the whole middle assembly, which includes the tweeter.)

Hopefully, everything will work out fine soon. Once it does you'll love your Paradigms. It sucks, however, having to wait so long for your speakers, only to have to wait again. It took a month for me to finally get my CC690 fully functional. Luckily, my dealer has outstanding customer service and Paradigm was relatively quick to respond to my defective speaker.

unhookt

05-07-09, 03:05 PM

Yes! Sam is a great guy! He's been alot more helpful than my local Paradigm dealer here in So. Cal., where I bought my Studio 100s, 20's and CC590 (now replaced with the CC690). I wished I had known Sam sooner.

Are you saying that Sam was able to give you a better deal, including shipping, than a local dealer could give you?

OTTeK

05-07-09, 06:54 PM

Warpdrv

05-07-09, 06:55 PM

you should be pm'ing this type of info.:)

Agreed.....

JasonColeman

05-07-09, 07:11 PM

LAMBERT R CONE

05-07-09, 08:52 PM

:mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

Well, after 6 weeks of waiting, i finally got my 100 v.5s yesterday. One of the speakers was flawless, the other was damaged as pictured below. The tweeter also did not work, but i was able to fix that by taking off the binding post cover and reattaching the wires. Hopefully, it won't take as long to get the replacement. :(:(

kc

sorry , what a drag ! Hope it gets handled asap , mine are suppose 2 b here sat.

Bert

bricklayerharp

05-08-09, 07:09 AM

I'm running 100s w cc 590 with a 906 in a similar sized room 5.1. I'm bi amping the fronts. Very powerful with only the 906. The setup sounds great! :D

Sweet!!! Thanks for the feedback :)

deepstang

05-08-09, 08:42 AM

So I recently purchased some Paradigm speakers so I have to join you're thread. I was trying to be ballin on a budget.

Pair of Studio 7's for the front
CC-190 center
ADP-190's for the rear

I shopped around and did some research. Heard music and movies outta these and was amazed at the clarity of the sound. I don't have a large room at all, a small-medium size so these will definitely be good. It was also within budget.

Tell me if this is good or not =| The only other option I had at my price point($1600) I felt were the Aperion 4T system or The Energy system.

I can still return them if necessary haha

I am glad you shared your set-up and options, because I am in the same situation....minus purchasing the set-up. My Paradigm dealer is trying to get me to get a set of Monitor 7's with that center...but said they could keep me at a budget of 1k.

Memebers here said that the Monitor 11 was a very noticable and worthy upgrade from the Monitor 7's. I have a NEW set of Energy flat panel speakers (FPS), and although they are neutral I don't think they produce a large enough sound for me.

Would you describe your 7's as having a "large/big" sound, detailed? What reciever are you using to push them?

osofast240sx

05-08-09, 09:28 AM

I am glad you shared your set-up and options, because I am in the same situation....minus purchasing the set-up. My Paradigm dealer is trying to get me to get a set of Monitor 7's with that center...but said they could keep me at a budget of 1k.

Memebers here said that the Monitor 11 was a very noticable and worthy upgrade from the Monitor 7's. I have a NEW set of Energy flat panel speakers (FPS), and although they are neutral I don't think they produce a large enough sound for me.

Would you describe your 7's as having a "large/big" sound, detailed? What reciever are you using to push them?titan home theater in Plano has a Monitor 7 demo setup

Audio concepts is the best in the DFW area. the employees have degrees in audio technology. they will setup almost any side by side speaker/reciver comparision
AUDIO CONCEPTS
11661 PRESTON RD.
DALLAS, TX
75230
214-360-9520

Kai Winters

05-08-09, 10:25 AM

The Monitor 11's are very different in sound from the 7's. They have much larger mid/bass drivers and have a much fuller sound compared to the 7's. But the 7's are by no means a lame speaker. They sound great and can be a very good buy. I would suggest doing whatever you can to get the cc290 rather than the 190. There is a huge difference between the two though the 290 is more costly. Dialogue is much more pronounced with the 290.

I have the Monitor 3's and wanted towers so I borrowed a pair of 7's from my local shop and had them for 3 days for side by side comparisons. Compared to the 3's the 7's had a slightly better mid range...it was fuller and had a wider sound stage...but not my much. The 3's went deeper than the 7's because of the 7 1/2" woofer compared to the twin 5 1/2" woofers in the 7's. Based on that and the good price I was offered I went with the 11's v.5. They are a huge improvement and I am quite happy.
I also have the CC190 and used it when I was using my Titans for fronts and Atoms for surrounds. With that setup the 190 was great. When I upgraded to the 3's I had to tweak the system to boost the gain on the 190 to get dialogue where I wanted it. I wound up buying the 290 and could not be happier...well I could buy my wife and lack of budget prevent next stage nirvana hehehe....

What it comes down to is what sounds great to you and what will the budget and waf allow.

Michael_V

05-08-09, 10:29 AM

I currently am running a pair of Studio 60 v4s in a 2.0 setup. They are powered by Denon 2808. The speakers are about 30cm from the back wall and 14cm from the tv cabinet. The issue I am having is I feel that they are lacking bass. They are bi-wired using Audioquest slate speaker wires. Any suggestions? For the Denon would there be a way significantly increase the bass. I am in a condo and as such do not have room for a sub, even a ultracube 10, and was hoping that the speakers would have enough "bass punch". These were an upgrade from Monitor 9 v4s and I had a Yamaha 3800 which I sold with the Monitor 9s when I moved.

The flooring is tile.

Any suggestions? Tweaks for the Denons? I feel that they should have significantly more bass and as such I seriously regretting not getting the 100s as I figured I could live without a sub until I moved.

A few tweaks: make sure your speakers are set to LARGE in the Denon. You might also want to move them closer to the back wall so you can get some boundary reinforcement. And if you have port plugs in (you never know!) remove them!

Having said all that, if you are still unsatisfied with your low-end and simply cannot accomodate a subwoofer, consider changing your speakers. A number of other brands offer standmountable speakers (or towers) with flatter, lower bass extension than Paradigms.

deepstang

05-08-09, 12:11 PM

titan home theater in Plano has a Monitor 7 demo setup

Audio concepts is the best in the DFW area. the employees have degrees in audio technology. they will setup almost any side by side speaker/reciver comparision
AUDIO CONCEPTS
11661 PRESTON RD.
DALLAS, TX
75230
214-360-9520

Thank you so much! I have been to Audio Concepts and talked to John Warwick. John has always been very pleasant to me; however, I have felt a very unfriendly vibe from the other people that work there. They actually will never look me in the eye or even address my presence until John walks up. This has happened the two times I have been there:(.

I have never been to Titan Home Theater (http://www.titanhometheater.com/)in Plano, but will have to check them out.

jens

05-09-09, 06:44 AM

cjv998

05-09-09, 01:15 PM

Hi folks,

it has been a long time since I wrote - but now the paradigm fever starts again :-)

I need some advice in terms of setup of my speakers, since I moved into a new house and I have the feeling that the setup sounds a little bit "flatter" than before.

I have a denon 3805 combined with a 3910. I have 2 studios 40 v3 (seems that they are not produced any longer - any reason why?) as FSs and then I have 4 studio 20's v3of which 2 are connected as BS- the other 2 are in the basement (can I do something usefull with them?) I have a paradigm subwoofer as well and a center (cc470 v3)

The whole setup sounded great when I was living in Canada in a loft with high ceilings and a very open space. Now that I am back in Germany I am living in a new house with smaller rooms and lower ceilings... I have everything connected to several step down power converters which seems to work very well. All loudspeakers are normal wired - no bi wiring or something like that. Teh 20s as BS are right beside the couch, since I can not move the couch further to the front. The 40s are standing without a stand on the floor. It seems as well that I am not getting "enough" out of the center speaker. I am using the setup for HT as well as for listening to SACDs.

What bugs me is the "flat sound". Any ideas - i know this is very vague - but perhaps i am missing something.

Let me know

Thanks

jens

From what I understand, the 40's aren't made any more because Paradigm didn't feel there was enough of a difference between the 40's and 60's. The new 60's are really nice though.

For your sound problems, it sounds like you have some issues with room acoustics, since I assume you had the same speakers in the same positions before, and the sound was fine. You may want to look into acoustic treatments, if you haven't already. Also, there's the obvious question: is everything connected properly since you moved it?

What sort of floors did you have before, and now? (Wood, carpet, etc.)

If your receiver has Audyssey built into it, you could always run that and see what it comes up with. Otherwise, if the center channel seems lacking, you could just boost it by a few dB.

urmystlkal

05-09-09, 02:19 PM

Quick question about setting them up. I got the 690, 100's, and ADP 590's along w/ 2 MFW15's. Yamaha 663 w/ Emotiva XPA 5 powering them.

I ran YPAO but it set somethings like the crossover higher than what you guys have been listing so I changed it to 80hz, and the front and center speakers to Large and the ADP's to Small.

Is that where I need to be?

oztech

05-09-09, 06:02 PM

T100

05-09-09, 09:20 PM

I have a pair of studio 40v2 , and a studio ccv2 center and am having a hard time finding the adp v2 rears. Can somebody suggest and matching adp rear like a 470 v3 or others.

OTTeK

05-10-09, 05:39 PM

I am glad you shared your set-up and options, because I am in the same situation....minus purchasing the set-up. My Paradigm dealer is trying to get me to get a set of Monitor 7's with that center...but said they could keep me at a budget of 1k.

Memebers here said that the Monitor 11 was a very noticable and worthy upgrade from the Monitor 7's. I have a NEW set of Energy flat panel speakers (FPS), and although they are neutral I don't think they produce a large enough sound for me.

Would you describe your 7's as having a "large/big" sound, detailed? What reciever are you using to push them?

It currently actually is not setup, I am moving into my new place at the end of May and that's when they will be setup. I can still essentially return them and upgrade further. I spent about $1800 on the whole set-up including sub(DSP-3100). If I still do more research I could get the bigger center channel

This is going into a smaller apartment so I couldn't go humongous and wanted to stay relatively affordable and not go over my budget. Basically it should fill the room quite nicely. I'm looking forward to setting it all up.

Reciever that will be powering it is the OnkyoTX-SR806

string_bean

05-10-09, 07:05 PM

cjv998

05-10-09, 09:12 PM

I'm sure the law of diminishing returns applies to speakers where you have to pay say 50% more for a higher cost Model, yet you might only get 25% better Sound Quality (SQ). Does anyone have an opinion of which Current Front/Main Paradigm Model (I'm only looking at the Studio and the Signature Speaker Lines) is the best bang for the buck "King"?

Assumptions:
a) 4,000 cu. ft. (due to cathedral ceiling) carpeted room, that is not acoustically treated at all
b) Usage is 100% for Home Theater (movie & concert Blu-Rays)
c) Listeners sit on a couch approx. 15 ft. away from a corner mount Plasma (on a wall-mount articulating Arm)
d) Take into consideration MSRP versus SQ only. No other considerations apply (Studio vs Signature Series, Bookshelf vs Tower, plastic vs wood veneer, Total budget, ....., etc.)

Once I get advice on the Mains, then I think I can choose the matching Center, Surrounds, and a good Sub no problem.

Appreciate the help.

Giving us a budget would help. I realize you want the best bang for the buck, but that's pretty subjective IMO (for example, how are we measuring SQ? There are just way too many variables in there, and it's just way too subjective of a topic).

I feel Paradigm's entire lineup offers great bang for the buck...it's just a question of how much "bang" you want. I think you do start to get into diminishing returns with the Studio line, and definitely when you step up to Signature models. They're all great speakers, but I don't feel they sound twice (or four times!) as good as the Monitor series. That said, I do have Studio speakers for my front 3, so I obviously still felt the money was worth it. Yeah, I may sound like I'm contradicting myself.

If this is your first major home theater setup, I'd steer you toward the Monitor series, and due to your very large room, I'd suggest something along the lines of the Monitor 9 towers up front, with maybe a CC-290 or 390 center channel, and Mini Monitors or ADP-390's as surrounds. You'll also need a very capable sub in that large of a room - I'd put a significant chunk of your budget towards a sub, maybe even 1/3 of the total speaker budget. (Man, I'm getting good at these suggestions...maybe I should see if Paradigm needs some more dealers. :) )

I'd normally steer somebody toward bookshelf speakers when they want the best bang for the buck, but given your huge room, I think tower speakers may be in order.

One question: out of curiosity, how many square feet is the room?

grey9hound

05-10-09, 09:34 PM

Ok . Rather than try to read the entire Paradigm owners thread, i will ask a question.
Let me start by giving you my setupand thoughts :
Marantz Sr5003 as a pre/pro
Emotival LPA-1 6 channel amp (125watts p/c Continous into 8 ohms)
Monitor Audio Rs6 (L/R Bi-Amped) and Center
Onix xls for surrounds
SVS PB12 Plus/2
Room size 13x11
I am only about ten feet from the front speakers

upgraded from Yamaha Rx-V1200 to Marantz about three months ago
Here are the differences IMO
Yamaha -more detailed and better imaging, Punchier bass, unbearable with 2 Cahnnel music at higher spl. great at moderate to low levels
Marantz -more full and rich sounding, not as detailed , good at higher SPL for 2 channel music not as punchy on the bass especially sub. Music does not sound as forward or Live . Vocals seems somewhat recessed.

Since bi-amping the speakers i can now play music Subless which is good.Svs Plus2 only moderately good on music anyway .
What i would consider now is a speaker upgrade and was thinking of These:
Paradigm Studio 100
Paradigm Monitor 11
Rocket 850 or RS1000
Energy RC 70
Klipsch RF-83
I have not yet listened to ANY of these. The dealers in my area do not have ANY of these IN Stock that i could listen to .
I would just like to here some thoughts on the sound comparisons of any of these especially against what i currently own The Monitor RS6
Thanks in advance for your help

string_bean

05-11-09, 01:04 PM

Giving us a budget would help. I realize you want the best bang for the buck, but that's pretty subjective IMO (for example, how are we measuring SQ? There are just way too many variables in there, and it's just way too subjective of a topic).

I feel Paradigm's entire lineup offers great bang for the buck...it's just a question of how much "bang" you want. I think you do start to get into diminishing returns with the Studio line, and definitely when you step up to Signature models. They're all great speakers, but I don't feel they sound twice (or four times!) as good as the Monitor series. That said, I do have Studio speakers for my front 3, so I obviously still felt the money was worth it. Yeah, I may sound like I'm contradicting myself.

If this is your first major home theater setup, I'd steer you toward the Monitor series, and due to your very large room, I'd suggest something along the lines of the Monitor 9 towers up front, with maybe a CC-290 or 390 center channel, and Mini Monitors or ADP-390's as surrounds. You'll also need a very capable sub in that large of a room - I'd put a significant chunk of your budget towards a sub, maybe even 1/3 of the total speaker budget. (Man, I'm getting good at these suggestions...maybe I should see if Paradigm needs some more dealers. :) )

I'd normally steer somebody toward bookshelf speakers when they want the best bang for the buck, but given your huge room, I think tower speakers may be in order.

One question: out of curiosity, how many square feet is the room?
Thanks for your advice. I found it very helpful. The room is just under 300 sq. ft. (17' X 17.5'). My notion of SQ is "letting your ears be the judge". For my case (100% Home Theater usage), there might be a 1.0 to 5.0 Grading Scale as follows:

1.0 - 1.9 = HTIB SQ
2.0 - 2.9 = Decent SQ
3.0 - 3.9 = Sweet! SQ
4.0 - 4.5 = Exceptional SQ
4.6 - 5.0 = Incredible! SQ

I was wondering what Grade each particular Speaker would get. For example a Monitor 9 might get a 2.2, the corresponding Studio might get a 3.5, but a Signature might get a 4.4. That way, the bang for the buck "King" can be crowned. I realize things are subjective, but just wanted an opinion.

Thanks

miltimj

05-11-09, 01:32 PM

deepstang

05-11-09, 02:59 PM

the Studios are probably 50% better in sound and 20% better build quality than the Monitors, and the Sigs are about 20% better in SQ and 50% better build quality than Studios.applicable).

Those are generous numbers.

Would you stand by those numbers of improvement if the same reciever/amlification was used in all 3 series. Example if an Onkyo 605/606 with 90w per channel is used do you think the Studios would sound 50% better than the comparable Monitor (assuming no bi-amping).

miltimj

05-11-09, 03:11 PM

Good point - I'm basing this on a separate 200W amp (same one) used for all three of them (so it really shouldn't be the limiting factor in the comparison). If you're changing amps/receivers at the same time as speakers in your comparison, it becomes apples and oranges.

My numbers are also price-based (since I don't think you can quantify SQ in a percentage) - in other words, it's the amount (%) that I'd pay more than the other.

cjv998

05-11-09, 03:17 PM

"Sweet!", "Exceptional", "Incredible!"?? I didn't realize those were defined levels on a scale. IMO (for towers only.. not as much experience with Paradigm bookshelves), the Studios are probably 50% better in sound and 20% better build quality than the Monitors, and the Sigs are about 20% better in SQ and 50% better build quality than Studios. Since I'm much more concerned with SQ than how they look, Studio was the sweet spot for me.

I agree with cjv998 that a budget would help - that will typically guide you in the right direction to divide among speakers, sub(s), and components (as applicable).

Agreed. You're trying to make a scale for how we feel the speakers sound. You'll probably get different answers from each person, especially with subjective words like sweet, exceptional, and incredible. So I'll try and give you the answer you want from a different approach.

My Mini Monitors definitely have what I consider to be "above average" sound. However, moving up to the Studio series got cleaner clearer highs, improved imaging, a deeper soundstage, etc... An overall improvement in sound. How much of an improvement you hear is up to the listener.

I'm sure some of my friends don't hear a difference at all between the Monitors and Studios, so they'd say the Studio series aren't worth it. I obviously thought they were worth it, as I bought them. You need to go listen to these for yourself to determine if the Studio series is worth it to you.

Give us a budget and we can tell you what's within your price range. Are you willing to spend $2,000 on a 5.1 setup? $4000? $8000? Just a rough ballpark figure like that will help us tremendously. By the way, "I'm willing to spend whatever I need to in order to get good sound" isn't an acceptable answer here. :) After all, some people think a $200 HTIB from Walmart has "good sound", while others spend thousands of dollars on home theater setups.

Finally, since your room is only 17x17', you'd be fine with bookshelf speakers, which I feel give you better bang for your buck.

miltimj

05-11-09, 03:21 PM

I was planning on buying Monitors since I thought the Studios didn't have quite enough bang for the buck, at least to my ears, but when making the final decision and bringing my wife along, the improvement to her was quite a bit more, and convinced me to get the Studios, actually.

Another thing that should be mentioned, though, is that your room will have a massive influence on the SQ as well. More so than the quality of the speakers, amps, etc (within reason). So if you have the capability to treat your room, that's the first place to start.

ayrton

05-11-09, 04:49 PM

I love Paradigm. :D When I bought mine I was going to get Monitor 9 then 11. When I went back to the dealer, I listened to Studio 100s. I knew if I didn't get the 100s I would want them later on. Long story short, I bought the 100s.

when it comes to speakers, buy the best you can afford. I think when I auditioned Paradigm, the 100s were the biggest bang for the buck.

KCWolfPck

05-11-09, 05:37 PM

Oops....I forgot to post these in this thread. Here are pics of the new set-up.

Link to photo gallery. (http://www.blu-ray.com/community/gallery.php?member=KCWolfPck&folderid=1600)

Processing & Power:
Pre-amp/Processor: Anthem AVM-50 w/ Anthem Room Correction upgrade
Amplifier: B&K Components Reference 200.5

Video:
Projector: Panasonic PT-AE3000U
Screen: Carada Criterion 100" 16:9 BW (1.4 gain)

Speakers:
Main Speakers: Paradigm Reference Studio 100 v.5 (rosenut)
Rear Speakers: Paradigm Reference Studio Esprit v.4 (rosenut)
Center Speaker: Paradigm reference Studio CC-690 v.5 (rosenut)
Subwoofer: (2) JL Audio Fathom f113 (gloss black)

Source Devices:
Blu-ray Player: Sony PS3
HD-DVD Player: Toshiba HD-A30
Media Manager: Escient MX-531
DVD/SACD Changer: Sony DVP-CX777ES
Sat HD/DVR: DirecTV HR-20 Video
Game System: Microsoft XBox 360; Sony PS3

Power Management:
PS Audio Power Director 4.7

Component Cabinet:
BDI Avion 8529

Lambert....did you get yours set-up this weekend?

nelson57

05-11-09, 06:38 PM

ayrton

05-11-09, 07:48 PM

KC:
Must be nice!!

Beautiful!

Thanks for posting..

bigsac65

05-11-09, 10:13 PM

Wow KC that is the dogs bolx as they say where I come from

shrabok

05-11-09, 11:52 PM

LAMBERT R CONE

05-12-09, 03:57 AM

Nelson

i will be recieving all my equiptment this week , the 100's are in phoenix with all other equiptment cc690 , adp590's 4 of them , sub 15 , d2 , mca 50 , a5 , ect.... I live in tucson . I will post pic's of all the goodies . I won't be setting the system up till the room is finished . Tile , paint , av cabinet , tv and center channel stand , the av cabinet , stands for speakers and tv are being fabricated , all one off . I want it to be done but i won't rush i want it to be sweet . I have no better half , no one to ask , well fill in the blank , can't wait !!!!!!!!!!!

Bert

519audiofan

05-12-09, 12:03 PM

osofast240sx

05-12-09, 10:27 PM

KCWolfPck

05-13-09, 03:09 PM

Thank you all for your comments. Now stop quoting my whole post. :p

I will be adding new screenshots this weekend....but with real movies this time. :)

ImkSpyPlns

05-13-09, 05:59 PM

I've had my paradigm setup for two years now, and for the first time, I'm having a bit of buyers remorse and I'd like some help in squelching it! First, what I have:

Front: Monitor 11 v.5
Center: cc-390
Surrounds: ADP-390
Sub: HSU v3 w/ turbo

Okay, first off, the CC-390 is ridiculous, so no remorse there. Surrounds are surrounds it seems, so blah, no biggie there. What I'm concerned with is the 11 v5's. I absolutely love them for movies, but for two channel audio, I'm just not as impressed and here's why. I just went and demo'd AV123 Rocket 850's and was absolutely blown away. I then saw the price of $800/pair and started to get sad. They sounded absolutely fantastic with music. Lows were great and mids were even better.

Here's where I'm asking your guy's help. The Rockets were being driven by cheap monoblock class D amps (only 125W) and I'm driving my Paradigms with just the Integra 7.9 receiver. Hopefully this is the source of my remorse that my speakers sound weak in comparison to the much cheaper speaker, and that I just need a good amp to drive them. What amplifiers are you Monitor 11 owners using (if any) to drive your speakers? I'm hoping for a class D amp so I can save space / heat / electricity, but if there is an amazing AB amplifier for a good price, I'd consider it. At first I was looking at a 5 channel amp like emotiva or rotel, but now I'd be happy with a 2 channel amp that would just take my speakers where I feel they should be. $500 range new / used would be ideal, but cheaper would be awesome.

I know this is a long post light on requirements, but I just had to get it out.

osofast240sx

05-13-09, 06:07 PM

warpdrive

05-13-09, 11:19 PM

I just went and demo'd AV123 Rocket 850's and was absolutely blown away. I then saw the price of $800/pair and started to get sad. They sounded absolutely fantastic with music. Lows were great and mids were even better.

Here's where I'm asking your guy's help. The Rockets were being driven by cheap monoblock class D amps (only 125W) and I'm driving my Paradigms with just the Integra 7.9 receiver. Hopefully this is the source of my remorse that my speakers sound weak in comparison to the much cheaper speaker, and that I just need a good amp to drive them.

Upgrading amps are generally a poor way to fix "sound problems" especially if you are coming from a decent AVR like an Integra. Your problem could easily lie in the room itself, or just the speakers. I'm all for having lots of headroom to ensure that the sound is dynamic as it should be, but upgrading amps....I don't think this is going to solve your problem. One thing is a sure bet is that even in Paradigm's own lineup, moving from Monitors to Studios to Signature is a noticeable improvement in refinement, which directly translates to better musical sound all around. You should notice this easily if you compare them side by side. Don't get me wrong, Paradigm Monitors are good value, and certainly high on my recommendation list, but I personally wouldn't buy them for their pure musical performance, and even the Studios I have some nits to pick when it comes to the highs when listening to music.

So the bottom line for me if I was in your situation would be to upgrade to Studios before I'd swap out the AVR. Actually, if I were you, I'd also look at other brands. If I were assembling a system for top musical quality, I wouldn't be considering Paradigm until I got to the Signature series.

I've been a longtime follower/fan of Paradigm and own a few of them still, but personally I don't feel I should have to stick with one brand because there are lots of great speakers out there besides Paradigm that offer a compelling sound quality. The Rockets you heard are very highly regarded in general for their musical ability, so it's not a surprise to me that you may have found the Paradigms lacking

shrabok

05-14-09, 12:04 AM

I would probably second the room factor as well. Sure speakers will sound different from one brand to the next but room seems to impact them quite significantly.

grey9hound

05-14-09, 07:09 AM

deepstang

05-14-09, 09:45 AM

Upgrading amps are generally a poor way to fix "sound problems" especially if you are coming from a decent AVR like an Integra. Your problem could easily lie in the room itself, or just the speakers. I'm all for having lots of headroom to ensure that the sound is dynamic as it should be, but upgrading amps....I don't think this is going to solve your problem. One thing is a sure bet is that even in Paradigm's own lineup, moving from Monitors to Studios to Signature is a noticeable improvement in refinement, which directly translates to better musical sound all around. You should notice this easily if you compare them side by side. Don't get me wrong, Paradigm Monitors are good value, and certainly high on my recommendation list, but I personally wouldn't buy them for their pure musical performance, and even the Studios I have some nits to pick when it comes to the highs when listening to music.

So the bottom line for me if I was in your situation would be to upgrade to Studios before I'd swap out the AVR. Actually, if I were you, I'd also look at other brands. If I were assembling a system for top musical quality, I wouldn't be considering Paradigm until I got to the Signature series.

I've been a longtime follower/fan of Paradigm and own a few of them still, but personally I don't feel I should have to stick with one brand because there are lots of great speakers out there besides Paradigm that offer a compelling sound quality. The Rockets you heard are very highly regarded in general for their musical ability, so it's not a surprise to me that you may have found the Paradigms lacking

Warpdrive, thanks for your honest response. I have been on the fence debating between the Rocket 850 and the Monitor 11s; however, the "Bigfoot" center for AVS123 is not attractive and overkill for my 12x15 room. Also, I have been hearing that the Rocket 850s come alive with an additional amp compared to the Monitors where people seem to push them successfully with a decent receiver.

ImkSpyPlns

05-14-09, 10:38 AM

Multiquoting due to all the responses (thanks by the way)!
http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/ProductDetails.htm?Id=1
Looks nice, but what is the price on it? I would guess over $1k easy

Upgrading amps are generally a poor way to fix "sound problems" especially if you are coming from a decent AVR like an Integra...

Great response and thank you. Right now, as far as budget is concerned, upgrading my speakers isn't really an option for me, or that's what I'd do. The Signatures are outstanding speakers, unfortunately at the time, $1k/pair was about my limit, hence the monitor 11's. Don't get me wrong, the Monitors are fantastic for movies and that's what I originally bought them for, but like your reiterated, they just aren't the best for music. My thought with the amp is this: my receiver claims 130WX7, but as we all know, receiver manufacturers measure the draw at each channel ONE channel at a time. So I'm probably not even getting 80W per channel, let alone 130. So I thought I'd spend $400-$500 (a small updgrade compared to signatures) and it will make them a whole lot better. Even if it doesn't make them perfect, it should help quite a bit, no?

As far as the room goes, I think I'm okay in that regard. The ONLY place where I didn't skimp was audio treatments. I have 4 mid/high panels in all the right places (according to gik and realtraps) and two base traps in the upper corners. As a test I take them out of the room, and then no matter what you have in my room, it sounds like crap. Good suggestion though, that's usually the culprit.

I would probably second the room factor as well. Sure speakers will sound different from one brand to the next but room seems to impact them quite significantly.

Response regarding room above. Again, thanks.

Where can you buy Rocket 850s for that price? .. please tell.
i agree on the amp.. It made a big difference on my Bi-amped Monitor Audio Rs6s with the Marantz Sr5003 as a pre/pro. I only biamped the front L/R BTW

Thanks, I'm glad someone says an amp helped them, I was beginning to think I had no option ;) As far as where he got the 850's from, he got them directly from av123. Last week the price read $999 / pair, but I see now that they are back up to $1199. In fact, and you won't believe this, but I assure you its true, he got a pair of 850's, the rocket 200 center, and a pair of rocket 450's for $1600. The deal has gone up to $1699, but is still on their webpage if you know where to look -> http://*******.com/chfe7a Seriously though, that is a good crew there, my buddy just called them up and said, this is what I want, but this is what I can afford and they hooked him up. His bill had the speakers itemized out, and hence my claim of $800 for rocket 850's.

If anyone else has any amp suggestions, or anything really, I'd appreciate it. I'm curious on the price of that rotel, so now I have to go try and find a price somewhere, which always proves hard with dealer only stuff.

ImkSpyPlns

05-14-09, 10:40 AM

The deal has gone up to $1699, but is still on their webpage if you know where to look -> http://*******.com

Weird, t1nyURL is filtered, attempt two:
http://*******/P5gfq

SimpleTheater

05-14-09, 10:50 AM

I would probably second the room factor as well. Sure speakers will sound different from one brand to the next but room seems to impact them quite significantly.I'll third the room factor. Put some money into room treatments (realtraps.com comes to mind) and you'll find your music will sound significantly better.

osofast240sx

05-14-09, 11:07 AM

Weird, t1nyURL is filtered, attempt two:
http://*******/P5gfq
lets see some pics of your setup. speaker placement may be an issue also

ImkSpyPlns

05-14-09, 01:42 PM

lets see some pics of your setup. speaker placement may be an issue also

I'll try and remember to take some pictures this weekend. I'll warn you though, I do have one of the smallest home theater rooms you'll ever see. That is why I covered what seems like 50% of the surface with acoustic panels!

Hopefully I'm not coming across like a paradigm basher, I'm just looking to take what I have to the next level if it is possible. I have a great local dealer and I'm going to call him this weekend and see if he can set up some monitor 11's with a nice rotel 2 channel amp. If he can, I'll report back my findings.

warpdrive

05-14-09, 07:34 PM

Don't get me wrong, the Monitors are fantastic for movies and that's what I originally bought them for, but like your reiterated, they just aren't the best for music. My thought with the amp is this: my receiver claims 130WX7, but as we all know, receiver manufacturers measure the draw at each channel ONE channel at a time. So I'm probably not even getting 80W per channel, let alone 130. So I thought I'd spend $400-$500 (a small updgrade compared to signatures) and it will make them a whole lot better. Even if it doesn't make them perfect, it should help quite a bit, no?

I usually listen to music in two channel mode, and if you are doing so, you should have plenty of ooomph from your Integra. The Integra should easily deliver 130W to 2 channels. But even in 5 channel mode, the Integras aren't slouches.

For example, the Onkyo 875 delivered excellent measured results http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/receivers/2463/test-bench-onkyo-tx-sr875-av-receiver.html so Onkyo specs aren't really exaggerated at all. The 875 delivered 200W into 2 channels even though it's rated only 7x140W, so they aren't slouches.

I can't really see that you are going to gain that much by replacing amps just going by numbers especially since the Monitor 11's are quite efficient and you said your room is small.

Anyway, if it was me, I'd hold onto my $500 and keep it in my piggy bank until you really can afford a speaker upgrade. See if you can try the Rotel but try to be honest about it. It's easy to convince yourself that a shiny new amp is the solution to the problem.

kaiservt

05-15-09, 06:56 AM

Just took my first jump into Paradigm with the purchase of a CC-190 center. I really like it! Currently I have 2 old Polk RT-55 fronts. Next comes rears, then a sub, and eventually replacing the Polks down the road. The journey has begun.

What rears and/or sub would you suggest?

ImkSpyPlns

05-15-09, 10:29 AM

I usually listen to music in two channel mode, and if you are doing so, you should have plenty of ooomph from your Integra. The Integra should easily deliver 130W to 2 channels. But even in 5 channel mode, the Integras aren't slouches.

For example, the Onkyo 875 delivered excellent measured results http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/receivers/2463/test-bench-onkyo-tx-sr875-av-receiver.html so Onkyo specs aren't really exaggerated at all. The 875 delivered 200W into 2 channels even though it's rated only 7x140W, so they aren't slouches.

I can't really see that you are going to gain that much by replacing amps just going by numbers especially since the Monitor 11's are quite efficient and you said your room is small.

Anyway, if it was me, I'd hold onto my $500 and keep it in my piggy bank until you really can afford a speaker upgrade. See if you can try the Rotel but try to be honest about it. It's easy to convince yourself that a shiny new amp is the solution to the problem.

Thanks for the advice and link. I sort of made the assumption that my receiver (like all receivers I thought) was completely underpowering my speakers, but I guess that's not a fact (and probably isn't true at all). I'll keep trying to play with my system as far as setup goes, and for the time being hold on to my cash for that upgrade later like you said.

Who knows, I might also be crippling my speakers in my setup on the integra as well. I'm using direct mode as my true test, but maybe there's something better than that.

Thanks again for the help.

**EDIT** One last note, this post of mine is ruining my epic lurker status. At one point I had been on the form for 8 years (two unregistered) with only 15 posts!

dral54

05-15-09, 02:46 PM

Easyaspie

05-15-09, 02:57 PM

Two quick questions:

1. I am getting ready to wire my Monitor 9's v6 to my receiver, an Onkyo 607. Is there a reason NOT to bi-amp the speakers?

2. What gauge speaker wire and connector type (banana, spade, pin, bare) is recommended for this setup, assuming 10-ft runs? From the research I have done, 16-gauge will be enough and the connector type doesn't really matter.

1) No. Speaker wire is cheap. You have a 7 channel receiver and I assume you're only doing a 5.1 set-up, so you'll have the unused channels. Try it out. You won't hear a difference, but you'll seem cooler. :)

2) 14 would be fine. I wouldn't use anything less.

shrabok

05-15-09, 03:19 PM

AbMagFab

05-15-09, 05:44 PM

When it comes to speaker wire read this link
http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm
And 16 gauge is suitable for that length of run.
When it comes to terminations, bare wire is fine and cheap, if you assume you will have to connect and disconnect the receiver or speakers often then terminals are an option. I find making a receiver easier banana plugs are a nice option. Monoprice.com has some for a good price but their connectors are all copper so putting heat shrink over them is an option to avoid accidental bridging.
As for Bi-Amping, if the receiver is not very powerful it help relieve stress on the amp by Bi-Amping. The audible difference would only be noticeable if you reached a point of clipping. Where if you didn't Bi-Amp you could hit clipping earlier then if you were Bi-Amped (because your driving more speakers with the same amount of power). But most people don't listen to sound loud enough to reach the point of clipping, but it can still be a concern if your Amp doesn't have enough power.

Agree with most of what you say, except:

- Why not run 12AWG? It's dirt cheap, flexible, physically not much larger, and better to have the thickest speaker wire possible. Monoprice is the best place for thi.

- Bi-amping will make zero audible difference (as you said). Howeverm if your amp is underpowered to cause clipping, odds are it's *not* a monoblock. That means, if you're clipping, you're likely at the max of the shared transformer. Splitting that load across two channels (bi-amping) won't do anything to decrease the overall load on the shared transformer. Ergo, you'll likely still clip when you bi-amp. And if you're not clipping, it doesn't matter either.

So don't bother bi-amping under any circumstances.

LAMBERT R CONE

05-15-09, 06:13 PM

To all

leaving in the am to pick all my new toys up , cant wait !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bert

dral54

05-15-09, 07:39 PM

Agree with most of what you say, except:

- Why not run 12AWG? It's dirt cheap, flexible, physically not much larger, and better to have the thickest speaker wire possible. Monoprice is the best place for thi.

- Bi-amping will make zero audible difference (as you said). Howeverm if your amp is underpowered to cause clipping, odds are it's *not* a monoblock. That means, if you're clipping, you're likely at the max of the shared transformer. Splitting that load across two channels (bi-amping) won't do anything to decrease the overall load on the shared transformer. Ergo, you'll likely still clip when you bi-amp. And if you're not clipping, it doesn't matter either.

So don't bother bi-amping under any circumstances.

Thanks for the input everyone.

The recommendation to never biamp is in contradiction to recommendations in both the speaker and receivers manuals, so this is a surprise for me.

Keep in mind I am an amateur when it comes to audio theory so, given the opposing responses, I'm still not sure what to do.

My basic question is this: since speaker wire is so cheap, is there a reason not to bi-amp? Especially if I am never going to use all seven channels. Even if there is no audible difference at low volumes, I suspect I will play the music loud occasionally.

dral54

05-15-09, 07:45 PM

Agree with most of what you say, except:

- Why not run 12AWG? It's dirt cheap, flexible, physically not much larger, and better to have the thickest speaker wire possible. Monoprice is the best place for thi.

- Bi-amping will make zero audible difference (as you said). Howeverm if your amp is underpowered to cause clipping, odds are it's *not* a monoblock. That means, if you're clipping, you're likely at the max of the shared transformer. Splitting that load across two channels (bi-amping) won't do anything to decrease the overall load on the shared transformer. Ergo, you'll likely still clip when you bi-amp. And if you're not clipping, it doesn't matter either.

So don't bother bi-amping under any circumstances.

Both manuals for the speakers and the receiver recommend bi-amping if possible, so this quote comes as a surprise. Keep in mind that I am an audio theory amateur so that doesn't help my confusion.

I guess my basic question is this: If speaker wire is so cheap and I will never use more than 5 channels on my receiver, why not bi-amp? I suspect I will typically listen to quite music, but I'm sure I will occasionally turn up the volume.

lakebum431

05-15-09, 09:50 PM

Where can I find a list of each of the current models and version numbers as well as MSRP for each. Seems like this info would be easy to find, but it, but I can't find it yet. Thanks!

DrPainMD

05-15-09, 10:24 PM

Where can I find a list of each of the current models and version numbers as well as MSRP for each. Seems like this info would be easy to find, but it, but I can't find it yet. Thanks!

Monitor Line: http://news.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/10381/506874.html

The rest of Paradigm: http://www.castercomm.com/clients.cfm?id=113

hope this helps

shrabok

05-15-09, 10:26 PM

Agree with most of what you say, except:

- Why not run 12AWG? It's dirt cheap, flexible, physically not much larger, and better to have the thickest speaker wire possible. Monoprice is the best place for thi.

- Bi-amping will make zero audible difference (as you said). Howeverm if your amp is underpowered to cause clipping, odds are it's *not* a monoblock. That means, if you're clipping, you're likely at the max of the shared transformer. Splitting that load across two channels (bi-amping) won't do anything to decrease the overall load on the shared transformer. Ergo, you'll likely still clip when you bi-amp. And if you're not clipping, it doesn't matter either.

So don't bother bi-amping under any circumstances.

I agree completely, I also use 12 AWG, and agree if you want to just have that little extra go 12, but 16 will be fine as well.

You also make a good point on the Bi-Amping, it almost seems the same as choosing between 12 and 16 gauge, not audible difference but if it gives you peace of mind, go ahead.

vicdog

05-15-09, 10:44 PM

Two quick questions:

1. I am getting ready to wire my Monitor 9's v6 to my receiver, an Onkyo 607. Is there a reason NOT to bi-amp the speakers?

2. What gauge speaker wire and connector type (banana, spade, pin, bare) is recommended for this setup, assuming 10-ft runs? From the research I have done, 16-gauge will be enough and the connector type doesn't really matter.

So... you too busy smiling on the couch to let us know how they sound?

Easyaspie

05-16-09, 09:59 AM

Two quick questions:

1. I am getting ready to wire my Monitor 9's v6 to my receiver, an Onkyo 607. Is there a reason NOT to bi-amp the speakers?

2. What gauge speaker wire and connector type (banana, spade, pin, bare) is recommended for this setup, assuming 10-ft runs? From the research I have done, 16-gauge will be enough and the connector type doesn't really matter.

I forgot to ask before, are you running your speakers full range or are you crossing them over to a sub?

rollo131

05-16-09, 01:05 PM

Peeps, I'm proud to say I'm now the owner of a new pair of Studio 60's. I had to drive an hour to find a dealer, but I'm glad I made the effort.

It's odd, how the Paradigm owners' thread is one of the most popular among all the brands of speakers, and yet Paradigms are so hard to find (at least where I live.) I really needed to upgrade from Celestion F30's.

Now I'm trying to decide between amps - Parasound A21 or Rotel RMB 1095. Or neither, and just using my Marantz SR6003 to power them.

osofast240sx

05-16-09, 01:36 PM

cay5021

05-16-09, 05:42 PM

In need of a little advice. I am trying to decide between the V.5 Studio 60's and the PSB Imagine T's. I am somewhat of a novice when it comes to audio, and there is almost no reviews out for the studio. I have had a chance to listen to both, but the distance between dealers is substantial, and I can't say I have a well tuned acoustic memory so for the most part they sound very similiar. I know this is a paradigm owners thread so I presume almost all of you went with the paradigm, just wondering if anybody else was deciding between these two, or if you don't mind posting your opinion on what model you would choose in my situation. There will be used 70%/30% for music/movies. I appreciate any help or advice.

Thanks,
Colin

osofast240sx

05-16-09, 06:05 PM

JohnGZ28

05-16-09, 07:11 PM

dral54

05-16-09, 08:21 PM

I forgot to ask before, are you running your speakers full range or are you crossing them over to a sub?

I am running them full range.

So... you too busy smiling on the couch to let us know how they sound?

Still waiting on the speaker wire to get here - decided to go with the 12 gague for peace of mind. The wait is killing me! :)

warpdrive

05-16-09, 08:36 PM

In need of a little advice. I am trying to decide between the V.5 Studio 60's and the PSB Imagine T's.

If you heard them both, and they both sounded good to you, start basing it on other factors, price, dealer service, looks, warranty, etc. I can tell you that the PSB Imagine is a superb speaker as well....both PSB and Paradigm got their reputation by designing neutral speakers using the research facilities of the NRC here in Canada. I haven't heard the Imagine in over 6 months so my mental notes are a bit weak, but I can tell you it's a very good speaker that I almost pulled out my wallet for. I doubt there's anybody who's tested both thoroughly and fairly would say the Imagine was good and the Paradigm is bad (or vice versa). Simply put, they are both competent speakers.

JasonColeman

05-16-09, 10:51 PM

+1 on the rotel

Just curious why you would suggest the Rotel over a Parasound A21. Have you compared the two...spec-wise or otherwise?

Jason

rollo131

05-17-09, 12:27 AM

What is it you like about Rotel over Parasound? I've been comparing them for a few days and I'm leaning toward the A21.

oztech

05-17-09, 08:57 AM

What is it you like about Rotel over Parasound? I've been comparing them for a few days and I'm leaning toward the A21.

Also want the A21 handle a 2ohm load while the Rotel has no mention in their
specs.

nucl3arboNg

05-17-09, 01:38 PM

nucl3arboNg

05-17-09, 11:06 PM

pics added here.....http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16480299#post16480299

JasonColeman

05-18-09, 07:56 AM

JasonColeman

05-18-09, 07:57 AM

What is it you like about Rotel over Parasound? I've been comparing them for a few days and I'm leaning toward the A21.

Definitely the A21...it is a big, beautiful beast of an amp. They can usually be had for a good price used at A'gon.

Jason

rollo131

05-18-09, 11:32 AM

Yeah, I've decided to go with the A21. Buying it from a local shop I've bought tons of stuff from over the years. On the theory that bigger is pretty much always better when it comes to amps, and the fact that I thought it sounded slightly better. But I should say that the Rotel 1095 is a fine amp and I highly recommend it.

djgcue

05-18-09, 12:01 PM

Anyone have suggestions on the Parasound A52 (Class A/AB) vs. Rotel RMB-1077 (Class D)?

I would like to power my CC690 (center), ADP590s (surround), Studio 20's (rear) with it.

MasonWire

05-18-09, 02:31 PM

Hey guy's i'm about to dial in my speakers again after cleaning up my wiring and moving things around, and would like some advice on running setup. I'm going to use YPAO and then I think dial the sub in after the distance and what not is set. How should I setup the sub before running the test? Would it be better to lower the gain and bypass the sub crossover before the test? Should I keep my towers as large, or run them as small? Also what about gain on the sup compared to gain on the reciever, which is more usefull?

Thanks in advance for the help and as soon as this is done i'm gonna post some pics :D.

Congrats! These are just my recommendation….. First, +1 with toeing your speakers in and spreading them apart.

If your subwoofer has an EQ system, use it prior to calibrating with your receiver. After taming any peaks, set the volume control on the subwoofer at the middle of the adjustment range allowed. On your receiver, run your auto setup and take 1x measurement. Check your receiver’s channels levels and see if any levels are maxed. You may need to boost or cut your sub volume on the subwoofer accordingly. Rerun and adjust until your receiver subwoofer levels are within an acceptable range (about +-5db on the receiver should be good). Regarding, setting your speakers to small or large…I personally believe it’s best to set them to small and let your subwoofer handle below your –3db crossover point or 60hz at a minimum (between 60-120hz depending on your room response).

DigsMovies

05-18-09, 02:53 PM

Anyone have suggestions on the Parasound A52 (Class A/AB) vs. Rotel RMB-1077 (Class D)?

I would like to power my CC690 (center), ADP590s (surround), Studio 20's (rear) with it.

Just one opinion... but If I had to pick between those 2, I would take the Parasound in a heartbeat!

nucl3arboNg

05-18-09, 03:05 PM

Looks like a nice setup, but a couple of suggestions...

Definitely move your front speakers a bit farther apart and toe them in slightly. Most speaker manufacturers recommend toeing in and Paradigm is one of them. The owner's manual will tell you how to set them up properly.

What's your long-term plan for your center channel? It looks like it's blocking part of your TV screen or at least very close to (to the point that you're seeing serious reflections off the top of the speaker).

Regardless of these suggestions, congrats! Looks nice and I'm sure you're enjoying it (which is what matters most).

Jason

Well i've moved my rockband equip from the corner and moved the speakers further apart. The mains aren't actually paradigm (not that it would be any different setting them up) only the sub is.

You are correct the center channel is about half a centimeter above the bottom of the screen. I don't really think it is effecting my viewing and the reflection isn't visable much.

nucl3arboNg

05-18-09, 03:09 PM

Congrats! These are just my recommendation….. First, +1 with toeing your speakers in and spreading them apart.

If your subwoofer has an EQ system, use it prior to calibrating with your receiver. After taming any peaks, set the volume control on the subwoofer at the middle of the adjustment range allowed. On your receiver, run your auto setup and take 1x measurement. Check your receiver’s channels levels and see if any levels are maxed. You may need to boost or cut your sub volume on the subwoofer accordingly. Rerun and adjust until your receiver subwoofer levels are within an acceptable range (about +-5db on the receiver should be good). Regarding, setting your speakers to small or large…I personally believe it’s best to set them to small and let your subwoofer handle below your –3db crossover point or 60hz at a minimum (between 60-120hz depending on your room response).

My sub only has dials for crossover, phase, and gain...no eq. I'm guessing your suggestions are to be done with a spl meter which I don't have. Pretty much am just going to go by ear, with the ypao as a starting point. I will prolly only be living here awile (i'm renting), so once I have my own place i'll prolly go to a projector and tune everything to the max then. I have set my mains to small as I found out in 2 channel music it was not using my sub.

MasonWire

05-18-09, 05:07 PM

My sub only has dials for crossover, phase, and gain...no eq. I'm guessing your suggestions are to be done with a spl meter which I don't have. Pretty much am just going to go by ear, with the ypao as a starting point. I will prolly only be living here awile (i'm renting), so once I have my own place i'll prolly go to a projector and tune everything to the max then. I have set my mains to small as I found out in 2 channel music it was not using my sub.

Sorry, perhaps someone with a Yamaha receiver can help you better then I. However, I believe YPAO should set the receiver gain levels and distances for you. On your subwoofer itself, I’d recommend setting the crossover to 120hz+. LFE tracks can send 120hz and below to your subwoofer. Set your front towers to small with a crossover of 60 or 80hz (later when you have a SPL meter you can double check the -+3db crossover point and compare with YPAO). Set to “small”, everything below the 60 or 80hz crossover point should be sent to your subwoofer. Your subwoofer phase should be 0 and YPAO should set the distances. Regarding the subwoofer gain setting, set the knob to noon, run the setup and look at the channel levels. For example, if your receiver sets the subwoofer to +12….you should raise the level on you subwoofer itself and rerun the auto setup. Hopefully, this helps and doesn’t add confusion.

nucl3arboNg

05-18-09, 05:23 PM

Sorry, perhaps someone with a Yamaha receiver can help you better then I. However, I believe YPAO should set the receiver gain levels and distances for you. On your subwoofer itself, I’d recommend setting the crossover to 120hz+. LFE tracks can send 120hz and below to your subwoofer. Set your front towers to small with a crossover of 60 or 80hz (later when you have a SPL meter you can double check the -+3db crossover point and compare with YPAO). Set to “small”, everything below the 60 or 80hz crossover point should be sent to your subwoofer. Your subwoofer phase should be 0 and YPAO should set the distances. Regarding the subwoofer gain setting, set the knob to noon, run the setup and look at the channel levels. For example, if your receiver sets the subwoofer to +12….you should raise the level on you subwoofer itself and rerun the auto setup. Hopefully, this helps and doesn’t add confusion.

Yes YPAO does set the distance, gain, and crossover point for me. Strangely though when I ran it yesterday it set the crossover to 200hz, the mains as large, and the sub at -6 gain. This was with the sub phast at 0 deg, gain at noon, and sub crossover bypassed. I'm going to run it again later since I moved the mains around a bit and see what I come up with.

Once again I am very greatfull for your suggestions :).

djgcue

05-18-09, 05:37 PM

Just one opinion... but If I had to pick between those 2, I would take the Parasound in a heartbeat!

Tough decision for me. My local dealer that carries Paradigm is not a Rotel dealer but he carries Parasound. My other local dealer that carries Rotel doesn't carry Paradigm.

I would like to audition both the Parasound and Rotel running Paradigm studios before making my choice.

ace27

05-18-09, 11:12 PM

What is a good sized amp to run a pair of Studio 100s off of. Thanks!!

oztech

05-18-09, 11:17 PM

What is a good sized amp to run a pair of Studio 100s off of. Thanks!!

If it were me somewhere around 250 wpc just to make it worth getting an amp but more importantly one that would increase close to double the amount as the impedance crawls lower.

phansson

05-18-09, 11:45 PM

What is a good sized amp to run a pair of Studio 100s off of. Thanks!!

I have two Parasound A25's for the front three speakers ( 2 Studio 100's and one CC-570 all v.3's). They put out 250 wpc and I have never had a problem powering my 100's. That is probably overkill though.

LAMBERT R CONE

05-19-09, 12:00 AM

How do i attach photo's ? I have window's vista

thanks bert

JasonColeman

05-19-09, 08:02 AM

Here you go, Captain Apostrophe...;)

Lambert's Linky... (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/faq.php?faq=vb3_reading_posting#faq_vb3_attachments)

Best to use a 3rd party image hosting site (Photobucket, ImageShack, Picasa, etc) and copy/paste the URL as described in the forum FAQ.

Jason

KCWolfPck

05-19-09, 12:10 PM

Here you go, Captain Apostrophe...;)

Jason

Took me a second....very funny.

JasonColeman

05-19-09, 12:44 PM

Took me a second....very funny.

I figured it was appropriate since he has seemingly retired his Captain Caps Lock moniker...:)

Jason

osofast240sx

05-19-09, 01:35 PM

here you go, captain apostrophe...;)

lmao'

benny z

05-19-09, 05:35 PM

when i purchased my 330s the major requirement was that the speakers be wall-mountable to surround the tv on our fireplace. since placing the tv in front of the fireplace on the hearth temporarily, we've gotten very accustomed to it and have decided to leave it there as we never use the fireplace anyway. i have a thumb drive with a video of a fireplace to put on for effect. i digress...

anyway, the point is that i've got some buyer's remorse with the 330s. my major complaint is the lack of midbass and a resonance in the lower midrange which is becoming more intolerable the more i listen to them. my listening is a 60/40 split of ht/music. i'm happy with the majority of the midrange and high end, though at times these are a bit bright.

i'm thinking the bookshelf studio 20s might be a better option. can anyone comment as to their midbass performance? i have an adequate subwoofer, but feel i am really missing out on the 90-120hz snap. if i were to go this route i would likely just buy the pair for now and then pick up the bigger center channel as cash permits with the hopes of eventually moving up to dedicated amps and studio 100s for the front.

my final question, i promise... what is a fair used value for a set of 330s in gloss black ($20 per upgrade) with two of the 18" ls-15 stands? i've got 2 weeks' listening time into them.

thanks for your time!

- ben

LAMBERT R CONE

05-19-09, 06:06 PM

[QUOTE=JasonColeman;16488300]Here you go, Captain Apostrophe...;)

jAsOn

THANKS, U R QUICK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BeRt AkA CaPtAiN ObViOuS

JasonColeman

05-19-09, 08:00 PM

Lookin' forward to pic's of you're setup! (;))

Jason

LAMBERT R CONE

05-19-09, 11:09 PM

lookin' forward to pic's of you're setup! (;))

jason

thanks . As soon as i figure out the pictures i will post pics . Sorry for the caps my doctor's and i are working on the problem .

Bert

mmcelyea

05-19-09, 11:42 PM

Easyaspie

05-20-09, 08:54 AM

Sorry for the caps my doctor's and i are working on the problem .

Bert

Now THAT is taking it all in stride. :D

JasonColeman

05-20-09, 11:04 AM

thanks . As soon as i figure out the pictures i will post pics . Sorry for the caps my doctor's and i are working on the problem .

Bert

Now if you could only have them help with the apostrophes! :D

Jason

benny z

05-20-09, 02:34 PM

Hi
You are describing what I hear from the Cinema series. There is only so much they can do at the price and the small plastic cabinet lends to a brighter sound with no lower midrange power.

thanks - i think you've hit the nail on the head.

i've listed them for sale.

what kills me is that for what i have into them i could have bought a pair of studio 20s. now to upgrade them they want an additional $550. :(

cheers,
ben

davdev

05-20-09, 03:45 PM

Quick question for all here

Would a Pio Elite 91 be powerfull enough to power Studio 100's? I am looking to upgrade my speakers but I can't afford to replace the receiver as well.

JasonColeman

05-20-09, 04:28 PM

The Studio 100s will definitely benefit from good amplification, so if you're planning to pick up a pair, I'd plan to get an external amp at some point. That being said, the Pioneer has plenty of power for you to enjoy them for now. I had my 100s for a couple of months with a Denon 3805 until I picked up an Anthem MCA-20. The 100s certainly benefitted from the extra power, but I very much enjoyed them with just the Denon. The external amp will take the workload off your AVR and give the 100s the power they really need.

Jason

Dan Hitchman

05-20-09, 09:32 PM

200-250 watts of clean amp power will do Studio 100's justice! Parasound's Halo series (which I've heard mated with a few different speakers) are superb for the money... if you have the money for them, that is!

I don't know if Emotiva amps are a decent match or not, as they certainly don't cost $2,000+ for a stereo amp like the Halo line.

jamnsam

05-21-09, 02:52 AM

Warpdrv

05-21-09, 09:59 AM

Quick question for all here

Would a Pio Elite 91 be powerfull enough to power Studio 100's? I am looking to upgrade my speakers but I can't afford to replace the receiver as well.

I was running a Pioneer Elite 91 as my preamp, driving a Rotel 1095 amp, I sold off my Rotel to replace it with a Wyred4Sounnd amp. There was a week that I was without an amp and was driving the 100's with my Elite 91.

I never told my son that I removed the amp, he never noticed - he came to me when I was cooking dinner while he was watching Jurrasic Park - He stops the movie and comes in by me cooking dinner and said "Dad there's something wrong with the System, it doesn't sound right.... somethings missing, the impact is just not there".

I thought that was a good blind test....

Take that for what its worth, I like to listen at very spirited levels and the external amp adds extra headroom and far greater control of the drivers making for a more robust sounding system...

rtwilbur

05-21-09, 10:01 AM

As an Emotiva owner I can put my vote in for them. Best bang for the buck amp around. I picked up a LPA-1 7-channel amp on ebay to take the load off my Denon 3808. Best $ I could have spent to improve the sound. And when you get into Studio Line speakers it best to get out of Amps made for 8ohms. I think the Stuidio 100's drift around in the 4ohm, sometimes 2ohm range. So yes, you WILL hear the difference in the headroom that a beefy poweramp can provide.

Another thing about Emotiva, they have a great forum on their website full of people that know a lot about that brand. Not only do I have an Emotiva amp, but I have 2 pairs of there di-pole speakers paired with my Paradigm Studio's. Sounds great.

Quick question for all here

Would a Pio Elite 91 be powerfull enough to power Studio 100's? I am looking to upgrade my speakers but I can't afford to replace the receiver as well.

shrabok

05-22-09, 12:43 AM

Over the past 2 months I have been reading forum after forum looking for advice for a new home theatre systems. I was interested in your thoughts on the following system. Budget is around $10,000. Australian.

AV receiver Yamaha rv3900 or Pioneer LX 71 Listening to music 60% Movies 40%.

Speakers Monitor 11's at front, cc390 centre and in ceiling speakers for rears. AMS 150R 30's. I haven't made my mind up about 5.1 vs 7.1.

I have no clue about subwoofers. It seems that whilst most people stick with the same brand for HT setups, subwoofers are in thier own league. I had been suggested a REL T1 but like the look of the R505 better.

My room is 6metres long by 4metres wide and my TV is a 166cm Samsung DLP rear pro.

As I live in country NSW finding places to demo speakers is a pain in the arse. So far I have only found 1 Paradigm dealer and I plan to see him next week. Other than that I have listened to BW 600 series and Krix phoenix speakers. Not real fussed with either of them.

I love the look of the studio 100's but they might just be out of the price range considering the price over here in OZ. ($3500).

Anyway am I on the right track. I gotta have in ceiling speakers for the rear as I already did the wiring for them when I built my house. Plus my wife doesn't want big speakers at the back.

Any help and advice would be appreciated.

Forgot, what about the imagine range of PSB speakers????

On the part about subwoofers. I had a listen to the REL 505 and I have to say that for what it costs, I will never consider it. They look okay, but for what you pay for it's outrageous. I don't know how easy it would be to get an SVS or an AV123 down in Australia, but it might be worth the consideration when you want to get some bang for your buck. I own a paradigm sub as well and really don't think they are that hot for what you pay for either.

As for the speakers, I find the Monitor line and the B&W 600 series sit very close to each other for sound, although they both have a little different timber they both produce a level of quality that I personally think is very close, usually the B&W cost more though. The studio line is expensive, but they just sound wonderful, if they are out of your budget you might not want to listen to those since they are hard to resist after you get a taste. Although for a room like that size, why not consider something like Studio 20's and match with a good sub, that way you will get great sound and still save a little cash as well, and the sound quality will be really good.

shrabok

05-22-09, 12:49 AM

Actually after looking into it Australia has a SVS distributor
http://www.deephzaudio.com/index.html
I have a room similar about your size and I've been considering the PC-12 NSD it has quite the range for a sub and the price here (in Canada) is 850$ with shipping, no clue how it would math out there but I still think the REL's push way past that price point and don't come close to that kind or frequency range.

jamnsam

05-22-09, 01:11 AM

Yeah I saw the site for SVS last night..... I think I can get a SVS pb12plus for about $2400 and I would think that the PB13 ultra would be near $3000, they dont actually put the price on their web site. The REL 505 COSTS $3200 downunder. I can get the Paradigm DSP3400 for $2000 and the ultracube 12" for $2700. I have also heard good things from Velodyne but there are so many different models??? CHT15Q $1900, SC15 $2150, SPL-U1200 $2700.

It seems like a bit f a mind field out there in picking a sub.

I had also thought about getting the smaller studios and doing what you suggested, but i love the look and the presence of the larger floor standers. Could I get away with Studio 100's at the front and centre, good sub and in ceiling surrounds maybe the AMS350 or something similar??

LAMBERT R CONE

05-22-09, 01:27 AM

WOW I HOPE THAT I DID THIS RIGHT THESE ARE PICS OF THE , SPEAKERS I WILL POST MORE AS THE ROOM GET'S FINISHED , LOVE THE WAY THE SPEAKERS MATCH THE CABINETS . THANK YOU ALL BERT
http://s718.photobucket.com/albums/ww181/LAMBERTRCONE/

JasonColeman

05-22-09, 06:22 AM

LAMBERT...LOOKING GOOD, THOUGH THE COUNTERTOP SEEMS LIKE AN ODD LOCATION FOR YOUR STUDIO 100's! ;)

LOOKING FORWARD TO PICS WHEN THEY'RE ALL SETUP!

CONGRATS!

JASON

Warpdrv

05-22-09, 09:16 AM

Congrats Lambert....

You should be extremely happy with this one alone http://s718.photobucket.com/albums/ww181/LAMBERTRCONE/?action=view&current=020.jpg

Thats my favorite.... even though its a bit fuzzy.... :)

osofast240sx

05-22-09, 09:57 AM

AbMagFab

05-22-09, 10:43 AM

Warpdrv

05-22-09, 11:14 AM

AbMagFab

05-22-09, 11:17 AM

Yeah I think your right, I didn't notice, but upon closer inspection of the faceplate its a D2, I was wondering how he got that so quickly... from what my dealer told me, he has a boatload of D2v's and AVM50v's on order and nothing is coming in, I got the only one he has seen for quite some time... His customers are getting pissy... :( Poor Guy

Yeah, I was super lucky. I got like the last one of the initial batch way-back-when (took only about 7 days). Amazing there's such high demand for an item as expensive as this...

kjstanger

05-22-09, 03:11 PM

I recently decided to do a complete overhaul of my HT. I am on a budget so I started saving for my first purchase, which is going to be the new Denon AVR-2310CI. That is until I happened across an HT retailer going out of business and selling the speakers that I was planning on buying for my fronts. I called and they were available, now these are demo models, but only on the floor for three and half months. So I drove over there this afternoon and purchased Monitor 9 v.6's for $518/pr. he also had demo 11 v.6's for $899/pr. I really wanted the 11's but convincing my financial advisor, wife, was hard enough on the 9's. Anyway, just thought I would throw this up on the forum.

kjstanger

05-22-09, 03:13 PM

P.S. hometheater geek was actually going to buy the 11's but after many minutes of contemplating, decided against it. He currently owns Forte II's that are over 12 years old and still goin' strong.

unavol

05-22-09, 04:37 PM

Monitor 9 v.6's for $518/pr.

I think you can rest assured that you got a good deal. That's probably below dealer cost! :eek:

LAMBERT R CONE

05-22-09, 04:42 PM

lambert...looking good, though the countertop seems like an odd location for your studio 100's! ;)

looking forward to pics when they're all setup!

Congrats!

Jason

thanks the set up will take a little longer to finish , room completed , but i have a vision . The counter top was the perfect place to check the color of the wood's . Looks close

bert

LAMBERT R CONE

05-22-09, 04:45 PM

congrats lambert....

You should be extremely happy with this one alone http://s718.photobucket.com/albums/ww181/lambertrcone/?action=view&current=020.jpg

thats my favorite.... Even though its a bit fuzzy.... :)

yes a d2 with arc on the way , then upgrade , d2v , when it is available .

Thanks bert

LAMBERT R CONE

05-22-09, 04:55 PM

what amps did u get?

i have an a5 , mca50 . The paradigm dealer i work with hooked me up .

Thanks bert

skinsfan28

05-23-09, 03:44 PM

Hello
First off I know thi isnt a subwoofer thread but was wondering what your opinions are on a used PS1200 witch i can get for 200$ compared to any thing else in that price range?
Thanks

vidoprof

05-24-09, 04:29 AM

I got a few answers in other threads but thought i would try it here.

I am going to audition the Studio 10's on Tuesday, but I can't audition the 20's at the same time as they don't have them so I have to leave and drive an hour to hear the 20's (which are v4 btw).

My question is this: HT = 40- 50% or so, TV 40%, and music 10-20% (getting into this more though IF I get good speakers). They will be used in a 2.1 system (no room for 5.1 or more). Matted to a Pioneer SC05.

Would the Studio 20's v4 be worth $250 more than the Studio 10's? Is there more bass /midbass? I listen to mostly rap and hip hop btw.

Thank you to Jason and Warp for your answer in the other threads btw. Just trying my luck here one last time.

Thanks
Ryan

cpostma

05-28-09, 08:33 AM

Hey everyone,

I'm hoping some of you might be able to offer some insight, or any comments on my situation.

I am interested in purchasing a 5.1 setup using Paradigm speakers. Here is what I am planning so far:

L and R: Titan bookshelves
Center: CC290
SR and SL: Atom bookshelves

Sub: HSU VTF-1 or SVS or eD (not sure what to choose)

I am also not sure what receiver to use. I was hoping I could get by on a Denon 1909 or something cheap, but I could spend up to $500 on my receiver if it really sounds better.

I will be using this setup for 50% games, 40% movies, and 10% music.

Any ideas or suggestions? Is this a good combination of speakers?

Much appreciated!

unavol

05-28-09, 09:48 AM

cpostma,
Unless you are putting this in a huge room or need incredibly loud volume, I'd say that would be a pretty good setup. What are you using now...for comparison purposes?

Kai Winters

05-28-09, 09:52 AM

Hi cpostma,
Nice choices.

cpostma

05-28-09, 09:59 AM

shrabok

05-28-09, 11:04 AM

Please don't laugh, but I am coming from a $400 set of Klipsch Promedia 5.1 (computer speakers!). My current room is a basement. No windows, it is a long rectangular room. Maybe 10 feet wide and 30 to 40 feet long with kind of low ceilings. The walls are cement with darkwood paneling over them (maybe an inch away from the cement) and hard carpeted floor.

I was also considering Axiom, Energy, or NHT speakers. I've only really heard the Paradigms and I was VERY impressed by even the Atoms.

Do you think a cheap(ish) receiver will drive them ok? I am totally new to all of this.

My local Paradigm dealer offers:

Titans (not sure what version, they are huge) for $558 (pair)
CC290 for $499
Atoms for $298 (pair)

What do you guys think?

I'm running V4 Titans front and back, and CC 170 V4 which is somewhat similar to your setup, and I would think the Denon AVR1909/789 is an appropriate choice, it should be able to provide good power and sound and still provide all the technology you are looking for in a receiver. If I had to choose it would probably be that receiver to match those speakers.

cpostma

05-28-09, 03:40 PM

Lukedog17

05-28-09, 04:26 PM

Thanks for the info Shrabok. Do you think the 1909 would sound as good as some of the receivers mentioned below in my post?

I really have no idea what receiver to choose to power the Titans, Atoms, and CC-290.

Onkyo 607? Marantz 5003? HK 254? These are all within my price range. I'm slowly making my way reading through all of the threads in the AVR section.

Thanks guys.

I have an Onkyo 606 running Atoms and a cc190 and it sounds great. Only a 3 channel set-up compared to your 5.1 but I have had this setup for a little while now and have no regrets. My local dealer had Onkyo, Denon and HK and he suggested the Onkyo over the others. Whatever you get I am sure it will blow you away!!

Hope that helps a little.
Luke

unavol

05-28-09, 05:19 PM

Do you think the 1909 would sound as good as some of the receivers mentioned below in my post?

Onkyo 607? Marantz 5003? HK 254? These are all within my price range. I'm slowly making my way reading through all of the threads in the AVR section.

As for the receivers, it's really a matter of preference. IMO, any of those (along with Pioneer, Yamaha, etc.) should provide plenty of power for the speakers you've chosen and sound fine at normal listening levels. Your best bet would be to listen to each of the receivers paired with the speakers...if possible.

tmoney82

05-28-09, 08:46 PM

benchmarkjoe

05-28-09, 10:47 PM

Need help, just bought Studio 20 v4 today for $660 without the stand. Would someone give me direction to buy the stand that fit with this speaker, I'm not that type high end please. Just start to love music recently.

Kai Winters

05-28-09, 11:49 PM

Hi benchmarkjoe,
Nice buy...good for you.
Stands in general should be tall enough that when the speakers are on them the tweeters are at approximately ear height when you are seated. How much you spend or don't spend is up to you. The stands are only to provide a stable platform and a disconnect with the ground...especially if you have them on a hard surface floor rather than a rug. They should have a good stable base and support platform large enough to support the speaker...20's are a decent size and well built speaker so the cheapest stands are out of the question. If there are kids or animals in the house that could knock them over the heavier the stand the better and you better figure out some way to hold the speaker onto the stand as well so it doesn't accidentally get knocked off.

Good luck and keep us informed...enjoy the 20's you lucky son of a gun.

Warpdrv

05-29-09, 09:55 AM

For stands for the Studio 20's, Paradigm suggests a 29" stand....

Check both these places.....

http://www.racksandstands.com/Speaker-Stands-C7.html (http://www.Standsandmounts.com)

http://www.standsandmounts.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=583

I have always thought Lovan makes some great looking stands...
BTW, Paradigms Stands are extremely well made and mate directly with your speakers. I love the look and I use the J-23 with my Signature S4's http://www.paradigm.com/en/pdf/paradigm_stand_brochure.pdf J-29

You can Call John at Axxis Audio of Durrango (http://www.axxisdurango.com/Welcome.html) to see what he can do for you on the J-29

JasonColeman

05-29-09, 11:40 AM

I just finished a pair of custom stands that are designed to match the Studio 10s and Studio 20s. They are solid walnut and have a walnut veneered column. They are stained to match the Rosenut and finished with satin lacquer. I'll get some pics up this evening.

Jason

bellanrusty

05-29-09, 01:31 PM

Times are tough. Stock market is still down, recession is still here. But I want to get my surrounds. Mid last year, I got Paradigm Monitor 9s, cc-290, and and AV123 sub. Now want to get adp-390s and atoms for sides / surrounds. Anyone know of a Paradigm dealer who (hypothetically) might be willing to cut a deal with a customer outside their area?

JasonColeman

05-29-09, 02:36 PM

If you're talking about getting current version speakers, most dealers should not be making sales outside of their area. Paradigm strictly controls the sales of their products and dealers risk losing the Paradigm brand if they get caught. If you're talking demo, returns, b-stock, older versions, etc then it is a different story. Check A'gon...

Jason

Warpdrv

05-29-09, 03:23 PM

Jason's ADP-470's are still for sale aren't they Jason, I'm sure those would be more then adequate... http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54781

JasonColeman

05-29-09, 04:53 PM

Yes, they are still available. Thanks for the plug, Patrick! :)

Jason

Footboard

05-29-09, 05:52 PM

knik

05-29-09, 08:09 PM

I hope you don't mind me repeating myself from another thread and asking this in the general Paradigm thread. Has anyone over the past 12 weeks received studio 60's V5 in rosenut. Just trying to figure out if they are really that far behind or if I have an issue with the dealer.

I got my Studio 60 v.5 in rosenut about 2 months back. I received them within two weeks of placing my order with the dealer.

Footboard

05-29-09, 08:56 PM

Crap, I really don't want to start running around auditioning speakers again, but if I hear the same story from a few more people it looks like I will have no option but to cancel the Paradigms. Tried calling Paradigm direct 10 days ago but that did not work. They just took my name & number and then turned around and called the dealer, who then called me and once again made a promise that they would be in the next (this) week. Of course it's Friday and no speakers.

Thanks for the reply knik, it's appreciated.

ImkSpyPlns

05-29-09, 11:32 PM

grey9hound

05-29-09, 11:46 PM

Okay, I finally got around to taking some pictures of my home theater in its current state. Thanks for all the suggestions and help guys, I made some adjustments to my speakers and moved them from the walls a bit (to give the ports more breathing room) and faced the fact that I need to use my amazing HSU sub to provide the base instead of going into true direct 2 channel mode. So even though I think most of my problems are solved, here is my super small home theater.

Lightbox slideshow of my theater (http://jaredm.smugmug.com/gallery/8375920_LP9H4/1/#549538907_guj5a-A-LB)
Beautiful Setup ,and Great Camera by the way. What took those pics?
Can you give us your impressions of the Monitor 11s as i have been considering them strongly
The traps to tame the bass or the Highs?
What are you feeding them power wise .
More power almost always = better sound IMO:D

JasonColeman

05-29-09, 11:48 PM

Looks good, Jared! :) I love that you refer to your HSU sub and your CC-390 as amazing...that's great! :D So good to see that you're enjoying your setup so much. Congrats!

Jason

ImkSpyPlns

05-30-09, 12:16 AM

Beautiful Setup ,and Great Camera by the way. What took those pics?
Can you give us your impressions of the Monitor 11s as i have been considering them strongly
The traps to tame the bass or the Highs?
What are you feeding them power wise .
More power almost always = better sound IMO:D

First off, my wife has my nice camera, so I used my waterproof outdoor Pentax W60 that somehow still takes really nice pictures.

So if you look back at my posts you'll see that I was having problems earlier with my 11's, but it is mostly due to my abuse of them as far as space is concerned. Now that I have given them some more breathing room, i still think they are a great speaker for the price. My only complaint really is they don't put out a lot of bass, but like I said in my post, as long as you realize that you must rely on your sub for what it is meant to do, you'll be fine.

As far as the acoustic treatments go, I use them for both highs and bass. The flat panels on the wall are for first reflections and echo (highs) while the two triangle bass traps in the upper corners are to make the bass more consistent and powerful. I think anyone will suggest for you to do both, and for the cost, they do more than you can ever do with an upgrade to speakers, amp, etc.

Lastly, I think I have plenty of power because I have never turned them up loud enough to distort or clip, I would be deaf WAY before I got there.

Looks good, Jared! :) I love that you refer to your HSU sub and your CC-390 as amazing...that's great! :D So good to see that you're enjoying your setup so much. Congrats!

Jason

Thanks. It is sometimes hard, on this forum especially, to be happy with what you have. There is ALWAYS someone who has bigger and better stuff than you (in my case A LOT of ppl fit that bill). So sometimes I find myself getting down on myself when I see ppl's signatures, or theta amp or whatever, but that in the end is ridiculous. I love what I have and all of my friends love to come over and ooooh and ahhhh over my dedicated space. So I'm thankful for what I have and love what I have. It's fine to always want something better, but you have to squelch that at some point and make what you have perform better instead of throwing money at the problem.

Lastly, I have to throw this in, I finally opened my eyes and learned about reference recordings (http://www.referencerecordings.com/), holy balls I have never enjoyed classical music until now. If you want to demo your speakers pick up Stravinski or Rachmaninoff from them, hopefully you will wet yourself like I did (sorry to be crass).

LaoChe

05-30-09, 12:27 AM

Kai Winters

05-30-09, 06:00 AM

Wow you did a great job with a small space.
Beautiful system and room.
Thanks for sharing.

JasonColeman

05-30-09, 11:40 AM

Here are a few pics of the stands that I recently finished.

Rosenut v5 Stands (http://s195.photobucket.com/albums/z285/vikingdwarf/Rosenut%20Stands/)

Jason

Porknuts

05-30-09, 01:10 PM

Just took possesion of my new house; finally got everything just how I like it

Paradigm Monitor 9s
Polk PSW505
Denon 2809CI
Bell 9241
PS3
Media Center
Harmony One

144012

144013

144014

benchmarkjoe

05-30-09, 02:45 PM

Here are a few pics of the stands that I recently finished.

Rosenut v5 Stands (http://s195.photobucket.com/albums/z285/vikingdwarf/Rosenut%20Stands/)

Jason

Beatiful Jason, you could sell those thing.

LAMBERT R CONE

05-30-09, 04:38 PM

Here are a few pics of the stands that I recently finished.

Rosenut v5 Stands (http://s195.photobucket.com/albums/z285/vikingdwarf/Rosenut%20Stands/)

Jason

jason

those speaker stands are smaShing nice job

bert

benchmarkjoe

05-31-09, 01:24 AM

I have old paradigm 60 v1 and am going to replace with monitor 20 v4. They are connected to Denon 2808ci. Should I replace the 60 with 20?

LAMBERT R CONE

05-31-09, 03:40 AM

Took me a second....very funny.

KC

i am looking for plugs , banana , to hook up speakers amps d2 ect . the look you have is beautiful . i would like info to duplicate it , or close . can you steeR me in the right direction ? please

thanks bert

dpnaugle

05-31-09, 12:14 PM

Just took possesion of my new house; finally got everything just how I like it

Paradigm Monitor 9s
Polk PSW505
Denon 2809CI
Bell 9241
PS3
Media Center
Harmony One

144012

144013

144014

Very Nice

DN

unhookt

05-31-09, 11:22 PM

I bought my Studio 60 v.5 in Rosenut on April 11. They still haven't arrived. What's up, Paradigm??

Footboard

05-31-09, 11:28 PM

I bought my Studio 60 v.5 in Rosenut on April 11. They still haven't arrived. What's up, Paradigm??

Well at least I'm not the only one out there. I placed my order back in March.

MrPorterhouse

06-01-09, 11:03 AM

Well at least I'm not the only one out there. I placed my order back in March.

I ordered Studio 60 v.5 Rosenut about 3 weeks ago. I have not received them yet, but, honestly, I'm not expecting them for 4-6 weeks. I know right now they are slammed with orders.

At least I got my Studio Esprit Center in 4 days. I am amazed at how well this thin profile center does. Regardless of the small form factor, I am impressed and very happy with it.

KCWolfPck

06-01-09, 12:42 PM

Nice set up man. But with all your gear, what I'd really like to know is what kind of speaker cables are you using? I like the plugs and how the cables look.

LaoChe - I use AudioQuest speaker cables. I think the ones I use are discontinued, but they are from the double star quad series, probably comparable to the current AudioQuest Rockefellor (http://www.needledoctor.com/Audioquest-Rockefeller-Speaker-Cable-with-36V-DBS?sc=7&category=1223).

Dynarider

06-01-09, 12:43 PM

I hate to throw a wrench into this thread, but has anyone experienced any problems with their 'Digms? I bought a pair of ADP 590 v5s to finally finish my speaker package, and had to send one back due to some crackling from one mid driver. The AV store ended up replacing both mid-tweet driver assemblies and the crossover. After well over a month of an agonizing wait, I finally got my speaker back, and neither mid driver was firing. There's no question, they will definitely acquire a new unit for me now, but the wait is killing me. Since the problem started, I've been invited to buy the new Oppo BD 83, and it shipped today. It might kill me if I get the player before I get the speaker.

KCWolfPck

06-01-09, 12:43 PM

KC

i am looking for plugs , banana , to hook up speakers amps d2 ect . the look you have is beautiful . i would like info to duplicate it , or close . can you steeR me in the right direction ? please

thanks bert

Sorry....this applied to you too....see my post directly above.

Hudda

06-01-09, 09:36 PM

Well at least I'm not the only one out there. I placed my order back in March.

That's outrageous. I wouldn't mind so much but they could at least be honest up front about backorders. What started as a few days has turned into a few weeks for me on the Studio 100's. I'm getting ticked off and after a couple of excuses they finally admitted they are backordered and it will be another couple of weeks. Ugh. How much you want to bet they don't come through on time again? Not a good way to start off with a customer.:rolleyes:

JasonColeman

06-01-09, 10:14 PM

Paradigm is swamped...hopefully this won't mean more QC issues that seem to have cropped up lately. I ordered mine on 5/5 and might see them this week if the planets are aligned just right. What sucks is that I sold my v3's a couple of months ago and have been sans speakers in my HT for a while. Thank goodness for my 2-channel rig! :)

Jason

AbMagFab

06-01-09, 10:27 PM

LaoChe - I use AudioQuest speaker cables. I think the ones I use are discontinued, but they are from the double star quad series, probably comparable to the current AudioQuest Rockefellor (http://www.needledoctor.com/Audioquest-Rockefeller-Speaker-Cable-with-36V-DBS?sc=7&category=1223).

100/foot for 12AWG copper cable is rediculous.

JasonColeman

06-01-09, 10:36 PM

100/foot for 12AWG copper cable is rediculous.

To each his own...his own ears...his own money...

Jason

AbMagFab

06-01-09, 10:47 PM

To each his own...his own ears...his own money...

Jason

It makes no sound difference, as electricity travels the same way over any two copper cables of the same AWG - whether you got it from monoprice for 0.27/foot or paid $100.00/foot (that's 400x the cost of cable that results in the exact same sound). And just do a comparitive sound curve measurement (using Audyssey Pro, or ARC, or something comparable) - no difference, as has been proven over and over...

However you're right, that everyone can spend money on whatever they want. I prefer fun things, like projectors and toys, some people prefer cables. That's all cool.

JasonColeman

06-01-09, 10:57 PM

Absolutely (and quite possibly even true...:D)

And while you might be eeking whatever performance you can out of your projectors or other toys (cars, pc's, etc) other folks might be spending money on cabling to eek that bit of perceived performance out of their sound system. Don't get me wrong...I'm no $1k cable guy...about $250 is my limit for a nice pair of Tara Labs bi-wire runs that look and sound spectacular (both perceived, of course). I don't mind throwing a bit of coin at the cabling even if it's just for build quality or looks (and maybe SQ...;)). Besides, how would my poor $3k Studio 100's feel if I gave them some ghetto Home Depot 12-2...:p

Jason

Footboard

06-01-09, 11:26 PM

That's outrageous. I wouldn't mind so much but they could at least be honest up front about backorders. What started as a few days has turned into a few weeks for me on the Studio 100's. I'm getting ticked off and after a couple of excuses they finally admitted they are backordered and it will be another couple of weeks. Ugh. How much you want to bet they don't come through on time again? Not a good way to start off with a customer.:rolleyes:

Yeah I've had at least four different promises from Paradigm to the dealer on delivery dates and none have come to pass. I really can't get too upset with the dealer though as lately he as offered to let me take his display 60's home until mine show up. So far I have taken a pass on the offer, I really would feel bad if I put a scratch or ding in his display unit, and it's kind of hard for him to make a buck if he has no speakers for customers to hear.

LAMBERT R CONE

06-02-09, 02:16 AM

I hope you don't mind me repeating myself from another thread and asking this in the general Paradigm thread. Has anyone over the past 12 weeks received studio 60's V5 in rosenut. Just trying to figure out if they are really that far behind or if I have an issue with the dealer.

i waited three months for my v5 100's , cc690 , sub15 , all in rosenut. made many calls . they are that far behind . my 2 cEnt it was well worth the wait , period !

bert

LAMBERT R CONE

06-02-09, 02:24 AM

Sorry....this applied to you too....see my post directly above.

k.c.

thanks , i dId . hope all is well ? your set up is smashing . a friend of mine and i decieded on the final designs of the av rack . tv and center chanel piece . hope to start fabricating this week .

bert

bmonlycg

06-02-09, 10:45 PM

Hey guys im in the market for a new receiver to power my millenias. I sold off my HK avr 247 (upgrade bug). I am asking you guys for help cause ive heard not so good things with yamaha and denon matched with paradigm. Any truth? I was looking at the HK avr 354, Marantz 6003 or Denon 2309ci. Any thoughts or any others I should be looking at? I have Millenia 200's and 20 for the Center. Main use would be 40%movies 30%music and 30% gaming. Thanks and I appreciate all input.

jamnsam

06-02-09, 11:25 PM

Hi Guys, I am thinking about to buying the following system.

Yamaha RVX3900
Studio 100's
CC690
Sa15r
Sa15r30's

A couple of questions......

I have heard the Yamaha receiver paired up to the monitor 11's and it sounded great. Is there any real benefit upgrading to the studio series??

Due to the wife factor, I have to install in ceiling speakers for centre rears and rears. Will the ones I have picked match up well??

For your info the rear wall of my lounge room opens into a moderate sized entrance way. I plan to put the directional in ceiling SA15R30's in the hallway and direct them to the lounge room so to ensure that the speakers are behind the listening area. Is this a good idea??

And finally, if I get the studio 100's I wont be able to afford the Studio sub 15. It about about $5300 here in OZ, I was thinking about getting am SVS PB13ultra which I can get for $3000. Bloody import taxes.....:(

Anyway and info would help.

ImkSpyPlns

06-03-09, 11:36 AM

ImkSpyPlns

06-03-09, 11:39 AM

osofast240sx

06-03-09, 12:06 PM

And finally, if I get the studio 100's I wont be able to afford the Studio sub 15. It about about $5300 here in OZ, I was thinking about getting am SVS PB13ultra which I can get for $3000. Bloody import taxes.....:(

Anyway and info would help.are you talking us dollars?

unhookt

06-03-09, 01:37 PM

My dealer offered to lend me his floor models as well, and I took him up on his offer. My credit card was charged the day of purchase...

jamnsam

06-03-09, 04:28 PM

Talking Australian dollars, there is only one imported in OZ that does SVS and they price them as they see fit, which to be pair isn't that bad. Paradigm also only has one importer and studio 100's retail for $4400 AUS.

It's not perfect but there are no other options.

bmonlycg

06-03-09, 05:01 PM

I would also give the Onkyo 806 a look, it is in that same price range as the denon.

Thanks,

Hows the 806 compare to the others mentioned? From what ive seen so far it seems a good fit. Ill have to read up on it. Thanks again

JasonColeman

06-03-09, 05:53 PM

My dealer offered to lend me his floor models as well, and I took him up on his offer. My credit card was charged the day of purchase...

Did he charge you for the loaners?

Jason

Myron_H

06-03-09, 09:30 PM

Hudda

06-03-09, 10:06 PM

Hey folks, after a little more auditioning this week, I bought a pair of Monitor 9's and the CC-290. They sounded really good at the dealer. But after bringing them home, they seem to be lacking in bass considerably. They had a lot more bass in the dealer's showroom.

I am in a small apartment with living room 12x15 and open to the kitchen on one end. If I crank them up, I can hear a little more bass, but then the sound level is too loud. I am running them through the new Onkyo TX-SR607 in Direct Mode. I tried running Audyssey but it turned my speaker levels down -10,-11. So I turned it back off.

I had some old-school speakers with 15" woofers that had no problem with bass in my apartment. So I'm not sure what the problem is with the Monitor 9's? I have attached pics of my apartment layout. The speakers are standing on either side of the TV.

You might want to consider buying a dedicated sub. I'm not too familiar with the Monitor line but I've got Studio's on the way and I STILL bought a high quality sub for 2.1/5.1 listening. Not only will you get louder bass than the old school's but you'll get cleaner bass. It will also free up the towers to do what they do best.

jaball77

06-03-09, 10:50 PM

Myron_H

06-04-09, 12:19 AM

I would guess it's something in your receiver setup. Do you have the "Subwoofer" setting set to No, and the front speakers set to "Large"?
Yes, the subwoofer setting is disabled in the receiver. There isn't an option to specify speaker size in the receiver. I have crossover frequency options(Full Band, 40Hz-100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz, 200Hz).

I have the speakers set to "full band". Isn't that correct? Would it be beneficial to bi-wire the speakers to my Onkyo?

peter_vfr

06-04-09, 02:46 AM

Hey folks, after a little more auditioning this week, I bought a pair of Monitor 9's and the CC-290. They sounded really good at the dealer. But after bringing them home, they seem to be lacking in bass considerably. They had a lot more bass in the dealer's showroom.

I am in a small apartment with living room 12x15 and open to the kitchen on one end. If I crank them up, I can hear a little more bass, but then the sound level is too loud. I am running them through the new Onkyo TX-SR607 in Direct Mode. I tried running Audyssey but it turned my speaker levels down -10,-11. So I turned it back off.

I had some old-school speakers with 15" woofers that had no problem with bass in my apartment. So I'm not sure what the problem is with the Monitor 9's? I have attached pics of my apartment layout. The speakers are standing on either side of the TV.

Well you can't really expect the Monitor 9's to have the same sort of Bass as a speaker with 15" drivers!

I have a Monitor 11 based setup in my lounge and these speakers are very sensitive to the proximity of the wall behind. You can effectively "tune" how much bass they output by varying the distnce to wall. I currently have mine about 7.5" from the wall as I found that to give me the right balance.

I also find they like a bit more room on each side than you have from the pics of your setup.

As for your amp setting, full range is the right setting when in direct mode.

Management

06-05-09, 03:42 PM

shrabok

06-05-09, 04:06 PM

Can some of you guys comment on the these speakers?

Paradigm Monitor 7 v.5 2-1/2-Way

How good are the 7's? How is the performance? I need to make a decision quick. 6ave is having a name your price on them.

They're Great! unless they aren't designed for what your looking to do, so in that case their crap.

Seriously though, they are decent speakers, but whats the level of quality your looking for, also if you haven't listened to them then I wouldn't name a price till you've heard first. They are good for smaller rooms and but there are many factors to consider.

osofast240sx

06-05-09, 04:11 PM

Raptorsys

06-05-09, 05:43 PM

i waited three months for my v5 100's , cc690 , sub15 , all in rosenut. made many calls . they are that far behind . my 2 cEnt it was well worth the wait , period !

bert

Ouch!

I had been waiting for a couple years to be in the possition to buy a new setup and when the v.5's were available I was at the dealer within a few weeks. I placed my order at the end of January for nearly the same kit as you (Studio 100's front, CC-690 center, Studio 20's rear and Sub 15 subwoofer -- all in Cherry) and had them home within 10 days! Perhaps Rosenut is a lot harder to get. I went with Cherry because I had a set of v.2 60's in Cherry and like the finish.

Waiting for toys for months is no fun at all!

Brian

Management

06-05-09, 05:56 PM

How often does Paradigm refresh their versions? Is it once a year?

And are the version 6's out already?

I just came back from the dealer and listen to the Titans and didn't really like them. Wanted to listen to the Studio 20s but they couldn't get the blu-ray player working and I had to leave. Will return and listen to everything they have (besides Paradigm) but he is willing to give me 33% off the MSRP for the display model.

Good deal?

osofast240sx

06-05-09, 06:10 PM

Management

06-05-09, 07:09 PM

not once a year. Paradigm/Amthem are one of the few companies that actualy do R&D and improve. you probaly wont see studio v.6 for another 3 years

33% off the studio 20's:eek:

I see.

But yeah the 33% is off the floor model. He said it was the last one they have. Are they good? I'm going to listen to them on Monday.

What center goes with the 20's?

osofast240sx

06-05-09, 09:41 PM

What center goes with the 20's?another 20. or cc590

LAMBERT R CONE

06-06-09, 05:01 AM

[QUOTE=Raptorsys;16593124]Ouch

Waiting for toys for months is no fun at all!

you are righT . but worth the wait thank god for sand cars , and i am still finishing the room , but it is nice to have them . can'tt wait !

bert

Kai Winters

06-06-09, 08:13 AM

I thought the 7's were "okay" but that was about it. I was in the market for a pair of floor standers to replace my Monitor 3's. My local shop had the 7's and 11's in stock and on the floor. They allowed me to take the 7's home for a few days to try out. I did A/B, side by side comparisons with the 7's and my 3's. My impressions were that the 7's had a moderately better mid-range...the sound stage in that range was wider and I felt the singers, etc. were more widely spaced on the "stage" with better separation. It was not a huge difference but noticeable. The bass however was quite noticeably lacking on the 7's compared to my 3's. That is due to the 3's having a 7 1/2" bass driver compared to the 5 1/2"s in the 7's. I could not justify spending the money for the 7's as they were not much better at all than the 3's...They no longer offer the 3's in their Monitor lineup...
I wound up buying the 11's and could not be happier...well I could be if my speakers were all Studio's but that is not in my budget as of yet lol...The 11's and the 9's as well are well worth the money if you are thinking of going that route. The 7's are a very nice speaker just lacking some of the bass in my opinion.

Myron_H

06-06-09, 09:12 AM

I wound up buying the 11's and could not be happier...well I could be if my speakers were all Studio's but that is not in my budget as of yet lol...The 11's and the 9's as well are well worth the money if you are thinking of going that route. The 7's are a very nice speaker just lacking some of the bass in my opinion.

I didn't like the 7's at all. They sounded really thin. I wouldn't buy them unless space was limited in your room.

I'm thinking I should've went the 11's too. Although my Monitor 9's sound really good for jazz and can play very loud, they just don't rock. (This is when I'm using "Direct Mode" on my receiver.) You still need a subwoofer for most music, especially rock. If I adjust the Bass to +4 and turn Audyssey ON, I start to get a little more bass and acceptable full sound. But I really would like to be able to use "Direct Mode" to hear the music "as recorded". On a positive note, I must say that the 9's have a very smooth sound to them, and I am hearing details in my jazz CD's that I never heard before.

What is everyone's opinion on using Direct Mode vs adjusting Bass/Treble on a receiver?