I'm curious, What Paradigm speakers do you use in your setup? What do you use to power them? What components do you use with them ie CD player, DVD, DAC's etc. Is your room acoustically treated? Are you pleased with your speakers in your setup? Did your Paradigms meet your expectations?

I'd like to hear from other Paradigm owners, and their opinions!

I have the Signature S2's as my dealer recommended for my size room being 11' x 12'. I have the Birdseye Maple Series. I have the S2's on sand filled Premier J29 stands, I have the C3 Center in a oak cabinet directly above my Sony XBR, I use a Veloydyne HGS sub in the right corner. Currently I'm using my left-over B&W wall mounted speakers direct firing on side walls facing the listening position. (My SIgnature ADPs should be here this week to replace the B&Ws.

I'm using an Arcam AVR300 to power the 5 speakers, the sub of course is self powered. I purchased a Arcam DV29 for DVD's and DVD-a multi-channel music, for two channel music I purchased an Arcam CD33, WOW...what a CD player :eek: I use the DV29 for DVA-a discs, and even though i've yet to tweak the settings, when I'm in my listening position I'm stoked by the multichannel disc play...This is my first experience with DVD-A ...Didn't even know what it was a few weeks ago. After listening to it I've already bought several good DVD-As I'm blown away with the separatiion and music/vocal qualities, the Arcam DV29 does an better than admirable job at 6ch analogue....certain old DVD-A CDs blow me away...Steely Dan, Santana Supernatural, Weather Report, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeplin...just to name a few. Excellent sonic separations into the channels.

...Not to get off track, My Signatures are new and I'm playing them constantly with all different kinds of music, and I've noticed a slight characteristic change with them, the are getting (I'n my amatuer descriptions) much clearer, I guess the higher frequencies, the mid range is getting deeper and tighter, and they seem to open up the soundstage to place instruments and vocals in different locations, I guess where you would expect them to be on stage in a live performance. I close my eyes sometimes just to imagine where each sound is comin from....they do that, they place where the sound originates from. Womesn vocals are excellent BTW..

Aside from Multichannel, two channel direct is superb!

I guess what I'm trying to convey is that I'm extremely pleased in my gear choices with the help from my salesman...The best I've heard in my home to date. My salesman wants to come over and further tweat it when I get the ADP's.

I'm sure that there is the "step-above-audio-crowd" with better gear and higher quality speakers, and way more expensive equipment than I have that could shame my setup...but in defense, this setup is the best I can afford pressently and I'm ecstatic :D

I'dlike to hear from other Paradigm owners and their setup, and how they think the Paradigms integrate into their systems? Love to hear some feedback :)

Oh, and one final question??? What are the dimensions of your listening room? Thanks...

Currently I'm using;

Denon AVR-3805
Outlaw 755 5x200 Watt Amp
2 x Paradigm Monitor 11's Mains
2 x Paradigm Monitor 7's Surrounds
1 x Paradigm CC-370 Center Channel
1 x Paradigm PW-2100 Sub
Yamaha CDC-765 CD Player
Yamaha DVD-S796 DVD Player

I upgraded from Cerwin Vega E-712's as Main and a Cerwin Vega L-12 Sub that were driven by a Yamaha AX-592. I added the Paradigm 11's to the AX-592 first and was amazed by the difference, very clear speakers the 11's, far superior to my Vega's. The Addition of the Denon 3805 and the PW-2100 just improved things even further, great upgrade all around. Currently debating adding Monitor 7's as surrounds or ADP-370's also will add the CC-370 Center Channel as soon as finances allow :) Edit: Debate Over, added the 7's and CC-370 :)

Currently I'm about 60% Music and 40% HT

Great idea this Paradigm owners thread!

Paradigm speakers (all Signature):
Main: S8
Center: C5
Surrounds: 4XS2
Sub: Signature Servo (a second one coming soon!)

Amp and pre-amp:
Anthem Statement D1
Anthem Statement P2 and P5 (7X325W)

Room is acoustically treated. You can click on my links in my signature to see pictures of my set-up and my room.

I'm more then happy with my set-up. I'm in audio and video nirvana. Treating the room made a MAJOR difference in picture and audio quality.

Wow, great setup levesque :eek: ..and a great view to boot :) I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the Sigs. They are beautiful speakers..


So far two Canadians with Paradigms! Snarl, do you play more HT or music?

Love my Paradigms!

Sony DA4ES receiver as processor
ATI 1505 amplifier
Denon 2200 for SACD and DVD audio
Sony dvd changer
Studio 60v3s
Studio cc470 center
ADP 170 surrounds ( next upgrade after Studio 60's)
2 PW2200's

I just purchased a set of Paradigms.

F: 100's
C: CC470
S: 20's
Sub: Seismic-12

Just delivered two days ago. They sound fantastic!!

Front: Paradigm Studio 60
Surround: Paradigm Studio 40
Center: Paradigm CC-470
Sub: SVS 20-39 PCi

Receiver: Marantz SR-7400
Universal: Marantz DV-6400

No room treatments, but I love the way everything sounds!

My Paradigm Home Theater consists of:

Studio 100's v3
CC 570
ADP 470's 2 pair sides and rear
Servo 15

!00's are powered by Anthem MCA-20 2ch's @200 watts
the rest are powered by an Yamaha RX-V2400 120 watts

I plan on getting a Anthem MCA-5 five channel amp and use the Yammy as a prepro. So far I love this setup and the sound is awesome. A real pleasure to listen to.

I see the Studio 100 V3 retails for $2200 a pair. What were you guys able to get yours for?

Well I have:

Studio 60s
CC470
ADP470s
PS1000(I still live in an apartment, so I cant blow the neighbors away yet...lol)
Aura Bass shakers

They are powered by a Rotel1056 receiver (for now).
I have a Panasonic S77 DVD player
I play mostly Live Enabled games on Xbox.
Dont listen to music.

I will have a Rotel 200wpc Amp in about 6 months, as well as the S2s and the C3.
Then 6 months later, I will sell my 1056, and get a better Rotel Processor, the S4s and the Sig ADPs.

Then I will hold off for awhile to get the C5 and S8s. But when I do, Im getting a Lexicon pre/pro and amp...the MK12 I think. And a Runco projector, with a perferated screen. So I might actually get 3 S8s instead of the C5, I dont know yet. And somewhere along the way, I will get a really nice sub, Velodyne probably.

Oh yeah, the room isnt accoustically treated yet, but thats what I am looking into. But so far so good, everything sounds great. Its funny, less than 3 months ago, I had 2 sets of Paradigm Titans and the CC270, with a cheap yamaha sub and a Denon 1905....and the difference between that and what I have now is truly amazing!

I see the Studio 100 V3 retails for $2200 a pair. What were you guys able to get yours for?
> We're not supposed to print non-MSRP $ on this forum. That being said, most people are able to negotiate 10%-15% off MSRP when buying systems.

F: Studio 60's
C: CC-470
s: Studio 20's
sw: Sunfire True Sub EQ

Pioneer Elite VSX-56TXi
Pioneer Elite 59-AVi
Hitachi 51S700

Lovin' the sound!

100 v3 mains
cc-570 center
20 back
adp sides
Sub servo 15

B&K ref50 via balanced inputs to Sherbourne 7/2100A
red dragon speaker wire for front end. front end Biwired Does make a difference.
panny for DVDA
Sony es player for CDs
80 inch screen with infocus 4805 via DVI input

Got to love the 100 best bag for buck

CDCORN1 how do you like the new paradigm Seismic-12
sub?

15 percent off of a system was the deal I received.

room size 12X22X8

RJ

OK, I'm in.

SPEAKERS:
F: Signature S4's
C: Signature C3
Sur: Studio ADP470 v.3's
Sur Back: Studio 20 v.3's
Presence: PSB Image 1B's
Sub: Seismic 12 ( And I'm building new "treated" HT that will also have 4 X A.E. IB 15" drivers in a line array - at the painting stage right now.)

GEAR;
Pre/pro Receiver; Yamaha RX-Z9
Amps: 3 X PS Audio HCA-2's
Universal player: Pioneer Elite DV-59Ai

DISPLAY:
PJ: Epson Cinema 500
Screen: 102" Stewart Firehawk

Have the Monitor 7's for mains, great bang for the buck. Have CC370 for center, ADP 170's for side surrounds and Polk 35i's for rear surrounds. Mains are bi wired and powered by my new Parasound Classic 2125 2ch amp. Onkyo SR800 7.1 powers the rest. I would highly recommend anything this company makes..visit my gallery..

Matt

Lot's of Paradigm owners...Cool ;)

rnrgagne, may I ask why you chose the ADP470 v3 other than the higher costs of the sig ADP? I actually wondered if the Sig ADP's were actually going to be overkill for my smaller room however my dealer assured me that this will not be the case. I will be mounting them on the side walls as the Paradigm speaker manual instructs. I gave up the 6.1/7.1 setups in favor of a good 5.1 which I can use the additional channels for bi-amping the front S2's. I looked at different design bipole/dipole speakers and though some had promise/potention but, I decided to keep it matched with the Sigs. Cost was another factor, but I had originally budgeted for them. I guess I get them and give them a listen to see if they live up to their descriptions given...I've never used anything other than direct firing speakers speakers so it will be a new experience for me :)

Oh yeah, I forgot to add I absolutely LOVE my set up.
I just added the HCA's and they match up very well with the Sig's.
Paradigms are IMHO no matter what price range, are consistently at the top of the preformance/price heap.

Lot's of Paradigm owners...Cool ;)

rnrgagne, may I ask why you chose the ADP470 v3 other than the higher costs of the sig ADP? I actually wondered if the Sig ADP's were actually going to be overkill for my smaller room however my dealer assured me that this will not be the case. I will be mounting them on the side walls as the Paradigm speaker manual instructs. I gave up the 6.1/7.1 setups in favor of a good 5.1 which I can use the additional channels for bi-amping the front S2's. I looked at different design bipole/dipole speakers and though some had promise/potention but, I decided to keep it matched with the Sigs. Cost was another factor, but I had originally budgeted for them. I guess I get them and give them a listen to see if they live up to their descriptions given...I've never used anything other than direct firing speakers speakers so it will be a new experience for me :)

Quite simple really, I had them before I upgraded to the Sig's. And cost was a factor. I don't really know what the Sig ADP's would add to the equation over the Studio ADP's. Certainly the mains have what I consider to be higher resolution and detail so theoretically the Sig ADP's should folllow that as well.
To be honest though, I can't detect any sort of acoustical mismatch, and I listen to a lot of multi channel music. It could be because I'm not trying too hard either.

Generally I tend to agree with your dealer that ADP might be advantageuos in a small room, to create the effect of a larger room with more dispersion.
But there are many that prefer the sound of direct especially for music.
I'd plunk down your Visa take both home for a test drive and return the ones you least favor.

In the "low-end" group, I have 2 paradigm Cinema-110's for my Zone 2. I'll probably get 2-4 more, or perhaps the in-wall as 1 set of C110s is not enough to fill the room (13x27). I didn't want to get bigger speakers for the room, though, as then it would be dang loud near the speakers, and quiet at the other end of the room.

My take is that they're "good enough" for a Zone 2. They don't go down nearly far enough [i think 110Hz], so you really need a sub. I wouldn't use these specific speakers in a real HT, but I'm sure the higher end Paradigms would do just fine there.

I love my Paradigm Reference setup!

I running: 3 CC570's as LCR, ADP470's for surrounds and 2 Servo 15's, a v.1 and a v.2 . I'm powering them with Rotel, a RMB1075 and RSP1068, wired with all Audio Quest/Cinema Quest cables. For CD's and DVD's it's a Rotel RDV1050. My room is Acoustically treated.

Redhouse

does anybody know the difference between paradigm reference 100s version 2 or version 3 (besides the additional 7" woofer)?

Snarl, do you play more HT or music?

I updated my post and added 60% Music and 40% Movies at least that's my best guess. I'll buy my Center Channel next and then later decide on the Monitor 7's vs the ADP-370's. So far I'm inclined to think the 7's will work better for 4 Channel Music and they're almost the same price as the 370's.

does anybody know the difference between paradigm reference 100s version 2 or version 3 (besides the additional 7" woofer)?

There's that, and the change in cabinet size and weight, and the most noticeable change to me is the improved tweeter, for the whole line. I could really tell the difference when I had the v3 ADP's and v2 100's at the same time. The v2's are a little more "forward" in their presentation. Which is "better" probably depends on your tastes & room. They definately are "different"
The gap between the v2's tweeters and the Signatures was even greater, much higher resolution. Fortunately, (for my wallet) the v3 ADP's don't have a timber matching problem, that I can detect anyways, with my Sigs.

I have two questions about my setup!

To all you paradigm Studio 60 v.3 owners out there, which center channel do you feel matches the 60s more appropriately? The 470 or the 570? I don't posess a great center now and I'm curious which I should be aiming more towards.

My Setup:
Arcam AVR-300
Paradigm Studio 60 V.3 Fronts
JBL POS Center
Sony SSMB-215 as surrounds
Some Acoustic Research 8" subwoofer (in a condo atm.)

Question 2: for a 5.1 setup, do you guys recommend ADP 470s or Studio 20s in the rear? I don't have much room behind my couch right now, I could probably get away with 12" from the couch to the wall, but not more than that. Should I stick with 20s aimed AT the sides of the couch?

Here is my setup.

Speakers (all Paradigm):

Mains: Monitor 7
Center: CC-370
Surrounds:4x ADP-370
Subs: 2x PW-2100 (One in left front corner and one in right rear corner)


Receiver:

Yamaha RX-V2500


Sources:

Oppo OPDV971H (Up-converting to 720p via DVI  HDMI – Used for watching DVD’s)
Yamaha DVD-S1500 (Connected via discreet 6 channel analog and coax – Used for listening to music [DVD-A, SACD, and Redbook CD])
TW SA Explorer 8300 HD (HD Cable + PVR)
XBOX (for the occasional game of football, baseball, or Halo 2)


I bought the receiver and speakers together and received 15% off of MSRP. I bought the DVD-S1500 from another store and received 25% off. The Oppo and XBOX were purchased at the “going rate”.

The room is acoustically treated with Auralex acoustic panels and bass traps.

DST-112 panels on the front wall (the one behind all of the equipment, main speakers, and center channel speaker.
DST-114 Studiofoam panels on the side walls for early/first reflection points.
DST LENRD Bass Traps in the corners of the front/side walls (4 per coner)

I haven’t put the bass traps in the rear corners yet and I’m not sure I will. I also haven’t treated the rear wall or the ceiling and may leave those untreated as well. The acoustic treatment made a very noticeable difference and tamed the harshness I was originally experiencing with this system in my HT room (there isn’t much in the room except for hard surfaces and leather furniture).

The room is 16’ x 11’.

I’m currently using the system for a mixture of about 65% music, 20% HDTV, 10% DVD movies, and 5% gaming.

I am very happy with the sound of this system. It is smooth and very natural. The imaging is also excellent. This is by far the best sounding system I have ever owned and sounds better (to me at least) than some of the more expensive setups I have heard before. I think Paradigm speakers are a great value and I would recommend them to anyone.

I have had the system for about three months now and it is definitely sounding better now that it is breaking in. I would have to agree with WRG2’s description regarding the sound characteristics of the speakers as they are breaking in.

-Rich

I just sold some of my equipment to a friend of mine.....my Studio ADP's, PW2200 and Marantz SR8200.

Still have my Studio 60's and CC570.....Right now I'm demoing a Seismic 12....man that thing hits hard! Watching the gunfight on Open Range was pretty intense. Going to try different areas to see if I can do better. Might take me a week or two to see if I like it:D
I'd like to try the Servo15 V2 but a reality check is in order for my kinda budget.

Also purchased a Marantz SR5500 and would like to add an Anthem MCA30 for the front three....thats the plan for now.

Front: Studio 60 v.3
Center: CC-470
Surr: Studio ADP
Sub: D-Box David 300 (temporary until I can afford a Servo 15 or Seismic 12)

I bought the CC-470 instead of the 570 because it looked like a good match for the Studio 60's, and because the speaker had to fit behind my screenwall, and the 570 would have required moving the wall forward a few inches, which I didn't want to do.

I love the Studio speakers, but I think my sub is severely limiting the capability of the system.

Rook
how do you like the sound of Paradigms with the arcam 300. Did you compare to seperates? or another receiver like a Denon?

I prefered the 570 because they were designed to be used with the 100 I use for main. I did try both and the 570 blends better.

We had company over the other day and I demonstated the servo 15 with a scene from finding nemo(the sub falling off cliff) By the way this was a female friend. She was blow away by the bass. A friendly argument ensued about how much of the Theater experience is the audio. My feeling is 50 percent and she agreed with me, however the misses does not. you guys know the WAF factor. Smallest speaker possible or in walls are better. :cool:


RJ :D

I feel sorry for you guys who have to contend with the WAF. :-) My wife loves the Paradigms and the Arcam, and wouldn't have let me spend any less than I did on the equipment, heck if we had more available cash we would have probably gotten the 100s or looked at the signature series. For us though, the Studio 60s are great for our ears and in our space.

As far as the Arcam goes, I love it, combined with the 60s I hear so much detail and so much soundstage that I can just sit back and get lost in the music, beauty.

I did not compare them against separates, I compared it against the Rotel 1067, which I definately liked, but didn't fit my feature set requriements or my space requirements, both of which the Arcam did, for cheaper. From what I understand I'm pretty much spoiled from ever going to separates from here, at least with the level of speakers that I'll be running from the arcam, if I had 100s I might need the extra power that separates can offer, but on the 60s I think the arcam doesnt break too much of a sweat :-)

ditto on the Arcam/Paradigm ;) Rook, did I see somewhere that you have your 60's Bi-amp'd? I have my fronts Bi-wired so far. Using these very large Monster Mseries MI.4s Biwire cables on the center and fronts. Can't image a larger cable with these speakers...however if I go to Bi-amp, these cables will be of no use then :p These cables were left over from my B&W setup and sounded pretty good with them. I've heard from the few that are Bi-amping their AVR300 that there is a significant improvement in SQ though.

wrg2, I do have my fronts bi-amped off of my RSB/LSB of the AVR300. I bought some of the 4 wire 14ga bulk stuff from bluejeanscable.com (love that place).

I can't honestly tell you how they'd sound without the bi-amp becuase I had the AVR-300 configured for it and the speakers wired for it before I ever put any sound through them. They DO sound great but I will eventually go 7.1 (probably ADPs and studio 20s) and send these back to single amping, hopefully they wont suffer TOO much

3 60v3s across the front
2 60v2s in the rear
1 Servo 15

Kal

Heres the O'l setup:

studio 60's v.2 front
studio Center v.2
studio 40's v.2 surround
studio 20's v.2 back surround
2 servo 15's

Sony Da4es processer
Rotel 1095 amp 5 ch 200x5
B&k (dont remember model #) for mains 350x2
bravo D2 (yup it actually still works)
Panasonic cv-52

Hitachi 51S500

And I love it all to death, sounds fantastic, looks great and the bass is incredible!!!!

Just bought the following:

Monitor 7 v4 FL/FR
CC370 v4 Center
ADP-170 v4 Surrounds
Hsu VTF-2 MKII UberSub
H/K AVR 635
Panny RP56 DVD
RCA DTC-100 & DirecTiVo

So far so good! However, with my 17 month year old, I wonder if I'll ever get to leave my sub at its calibrated level after bedtime. :(

Room Size: 14.5' (w) x 19' (l) x 7.5' (h)

Rook_1 More than likely I go with the Bi-amp a little down the road, As soon as I get my ADPs up and running I'll re-evaluate :)

Monitor 7 v.4
paradigm 370 cc
paradigm cinema 110 rears
paradigm PW2100 sub
Yamaha RX-V 750
Marantz DV-7600 universal dvd
monster power


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=39922&stc=1 plz ignore date..to lazy to adjust

Dedicated Room

Front: Studio 20 v3
CC: Studio 470 v3
Back: (3) Boston Bravo
Sub: Boston

AVR: Denon 3805
DVD: Denon 2900
Proj: Infocus 4805

Just completed a full gut reno of the family room.

Studio 40s v.2 for the mains (in cherry veneer) picked up used off Audiogon. Mounted on Studiotech Ultra (cherry) stands (perfect match!).
Studio cc 470 v. 3 (cherry) for the center.
Studio 20s (cherry) for the surrounds, mounted on the walls with Axiom speaker brackets (very unobtrusive). Needed to go small due to WAF - she still thinks they are too big.
Seismic 10 SW. Needed to go small due to WAF - would probably have gone SVS or Hsu otherwise.

Denon 3805 AVR; Denon 2910 DVD/CD/SACD/DVD-A.

Sounds awesome - thanks to all the input I got on these boards.

Got a good deal on the v.3s/Seismic from local dealer - 20% off. Also picked up a Stickley all-cherry credenza to house the AVR/DVD/HD Cable box and to sit the Sammy DLP on, and complete the cherry motif. That is an awesome (albeit pricey)TV stand.

The wife and I both grinned from ear to ear when we first cranked Pink Floyd DOSM SACD all the way through.

So I just ordered the Arcam AVR300 and a pair of the 60 V3s, which I'll probably bi-amp with the sixth and seventh channels of the 300.

Question: on the road to going 5.1, what is the next speaker I should buy: the center or the sub? One problem is that I have a monolithic Sony RPTV, so the center will have to be placed way above ear level (or on a stand in front, but I have an extremely active 15-month-old boy).

The cc 470 center has some adjustment of the outrigger feet, so that you can boost the rear of the speaker to angle down to the listening area. Some people also use door stops to increase the downward angle of the center.

front: Monitor 9's
Center: cc-350
Rear: Titans

Sub: SVS PB-plus/2
Marantz SR7500
QSC-MX-1500a (thx cert.) running the mains

i wanted a whole house sound system, and this does it - lol.

My setup is listed in my profile, its only the lowly Performance series but its been a great bang for the buck and I really enjoy them.

F: Atoms V.3
C: CC-170 V.3
S: ADP-170 V.3
Sub: PDR-10 V.3

Receiver: Pio VSX-1014TX
DVD: Pio DV-578S

I'm fairly pleased with my setup, at least until I have a dedicated room:

Monitor 7 v.4
CC-370
ADP-170
Velodyne DPS-12

Pioneer 1014 AVR
LG 7832 DVD player

Does anyone have 7 Signature 8s in their room? My next upgrade will probably be to the Signature series.

I'm glad to hear that someone else has the Performance series. I was starting to feel very out of place. Right now I have:

F: Titans
C: CC-170
R: Atoms
Sub: MB Quart D1200si
Receiver: Denon 2400

in a ~18x18 room. I've been very happy, especially considering the price I paid. But I've outgrown them, and sometime this year, it is all going to get upgraded. Likely to either Monitor 3s or 5s with a Denon 2806.

I started few years ago back with mon 5's( the floor standing version then, now might be different), then upgraded to mon 9's. Had cc350 center, and mini's for rears.

Now I have studio 100's ver 3, 570 , mon 9's are now rears, mini's are now back center rears and 2200 sub. Powered with onkyo 898 reciever all running via HTPC.

I've had paradigm for bout 10 yrs now almost. LOVE the sound quality for the price. All that can really be said I think.

mikemorel


Quote "Also picked up a Stickley all-cherry credenza to house the AVR/DVD/HD Cable box and to sit the Sammy DLP on, and complete the cherry motif. That is an awesome (albeit pricey)TV stand. "


Mike I can relate. My Wife wanted the Stickey cabinet also to put the TV, center channel and electronics in so you can close cabinet when not in use. But I must say Stickley furniture is VERY NICE.

RJ

gregeas, I'd go with a center...heres why, just after I purchased my Arcam and the Paradigms, my Velodyne HGS took a sh*t so I was just left hooking up the S2s and the C3 center, and the existing B&W wall mounts that was my effects channel on my previous Yanaha DSP A1. I thought without the sub, the S2s just wouldn't be able to reach too low...to my suprise with the C3 hooked up with the S2s and playing multichannel music, and CDs I was caught completely off guard at how good the bass sounded with the three fronts, course there are a pair of good mid bass drivers in the C3, but I was pleasantly suprised. Being the Studio series is so similar and the 60s I believe have larger drivers, with that studio series center will give you a lot of good listening pleasure with the Arcam. Especially with the Neo6 using music, where is seamlessly seems to blend the center between the two fronts. And if you listen to movies it's pretty good also, at least for the Sigs, which is bearable at least because I still have the B&Ws for rear surround until my ADPs come in. And of course, the sub is going to make a very measurable difference is sound LFE for both music and movies. Don't get me wrong I love my sub, but until it get repaired my system seems somewhat bearable, much to my suprise. Which ever your choice either sub or center, it seems that your on your way to building up a nice system ;)

wrg2: thanks for the advice. I live in a Manhattan apartment, so I don't have much subwoofer experience... But this new system is for a house out of the city, so I don't have neighbors to worry about. That said, it seems the center makes sense.

Studio(v3) 40
Studio ADP470
Studio CC570
PW2100

Powered by a NAD T773

Kevin

Family Room Setup

studio 100s v.3 up front
cc 370 center
studio 20s v.3 for back surround
sunfire tru sub eq

Krell TAS 5x200 amp
Krell Showcase surround processor
Sony DVP CX777ES CD/DVD/SACD 400 Disc

Does anyone have 7 Signature 8s in their room? My next upgrade will probably be to the Signature series.

Now that would be a "paradigm" set up... :D

Former System: P. 5se fronts, atoms rear, phantom center, dayton 10" sub

Current
Studio 20s Front and Side, Atoms rear surrs, 15" Quattro DIY sub, still with the phantom center.

Powered by Pio 1014.

I'm in love love love.

Front Speakers Sig S-4's
Center Sig C-3
Side Surrounds Sig S-4's
Back Surrounds Sig S-2's
Receiver Denon 4806
DVD Player Denon 3910
This is where my bonus from work went to.

Front: Studio 20 v3
Center: CC-370 v3
Surround: Mini Monitors v3
Sub: PS1000

AVR: NAD T753
DVD: NAD T533

TV: Toshiba 57H83
XBOX, PS2, Gamecube all through component (Pelican system selector pro)
Pretty much all Monster interconnects, but AudioQuest Bedrock speaker cable on LCR (bi-wired)

Still in need of a CC470, but i'm currently stuck paying off my new laptop. Overall, I'm very pleased with my setup, although my apartment is an acoustical nightmare (vaulted ceilings, open to kitchen, etc.) I'm still in college though, and I know I'm already doing a decent job of spoiling myself, but lurking around this forum stokes my upgrade-itis daily. (Had to chance to demo a full 5.1 Signature setup recently, anchored by S8s... sooo jealous of you sig owners!!) Hopefully my new apartment this fall will be more acoustically friendly. With 15% off all my gear locally, I feel Paradigm is right at the top of the price/quality pile (and I work at Best Buy, where I could get lesser product for pretty deep discounts!!!)

but lurking around this forum stokes my upgrade-itis daily.

Aye. I just got the 4 Studio 20s, and was happy. Then I thought, well, I've got room to just stick the atoms in for 6.1 (no center) and see what I think. Well, I think I like rear surrounds. And I think that the atoms don't work the way another pair of Studio 20s would, occasionally the rear image just collapses. And now my 1014 won't layer IIx over DTS... and all I was trying to do was save up for the center channel.

Son of a.... and I'm forced to pretend that the Sigs don't even exist. Our get a lot more ambitious about life.

2 x 60s in front
SVS PB12-ISD

Soon to be added:
CC-470
2 x ADP-470 (sides)
2 x ADP-470 or 2 x 20s (rear) ...any thoughts on which to do here?

Also will probably go to 100s & CC-570 (100% upgrade guarantee at dealer), but need to do within 6 months or so.

Powered by Onkyo TX-SR702, will eventually get separate amp in a couple years most likely.

I started off with the Paradigm atoms with I think the cc170 and what ever rear in ceiling speakers that match it. Also had a cheap Sony A/V receiver I picked up from BB. It had the latest technology DTS!!! Being the 1st on the block with a DVD player I was thinking I had the greatest system in the world. Then I got hooked on this hobby and can't stop upgrading. (Thanks to the dealer trade in program) Had the Mini monitors with the cc370 now I have the Studio 20's with cc470. Moving into a new home in a few months and will have Bar/theater in the basement with S2s and the c3 center and adding the Statement A5 amp. Then next year I will be jumping up to the S4s and adding either the Anthem AVM 30 or Statement D1. Hopefully Paradigm will have a S6 line out to help bridge the gap to the S8s. Being married I am limited on just a few grand a year on this hobby. It kind of helps. I like doing the research and upgrading every year.

Ok, I'm in too. This is a great thread!
My system:

Pre/Pro: Anthem AVM-30
Amp: Lexicon LX-7 (7x200w)
Fronts: Signature S4's on J-29 stands
Center: Signature C-3
Surrounds: Studio SA-35's (in-walls)
Rears: Studio SA-35's
Sub: SVS PB12 plus/2 (maple)
DVD: Denon 3910s
TV: Sony KDF 60WF655 60in HDTV
Remote: Pronto Pro 6000

The sound from this setup is simply amazing. I find myself listening to whole cd's without a hint of listener fatigue. The Signature speakers are in gorgeous bird's eye maple--exquisite finish! I received a 20% discount from MSRP.

Studio 60's front
Studio 20's rear (on stands)
CC470
PDR12
Powered by Denon 3805 and DVD TBD

You went out and bought all that at once, eh? Congrats... seems like a good setup.

Monitor 5(ver.4) for L/C/R
Mirage Omnicans(Height restrictions)
2 pr. pw-2200
Integra 7.1
sony dvx777es player

I bought all monitor 5's for my front soundstage with intentions of upgrading to studio but the monitors
seem to sound better evry time I watch a movie . My room is dedicated at 17X23X10. The pw-2200 sure
move a ot of air. I wonder what two seimics would do? hmmmm?

Studio 20's/ver 3
CC-470/ver 3
Minis/ver 4
SVS PC-Ultra
Another pair of 20s or maybe some 40s will be next!
It sounds good to me though.

rpr2, I'll second that on the Birdseye Maple ;) 20% off on the Signatures is a great deal, I could have saved some extra dough with that...my ADPs in the Birdseye are in, and I'll pick them up tomorrow. Being they were more expensive than the S2's the 20% would have been nice :p ...though at least I'm in the neighborhood of 15% :) It will be interesting to see how these speakers fare on the side/back walls as the surrounds, never used a bipole/dipole speaker before!

Went here sat. to demo S8.

http://www.spearitsound.com/Paradigm/paradigmhome.htm

What a place. They have been there for 35 years and also have B&W new and used all over the place.

Stop by there if you can.

I'm another happy Paradigm owner.

All V3's

Studio 60's
CC 570
ADP 470's
PW 2200

When the wife is away I sneak down our old performance series 5se's as rears for a full 7.1 setup. It actually sounds great.

Receiver: Harman Kardon AVR 7200 (way more than enough for this setup)

Room is a dedicated theater 12 X 18 treated with acoustic cotton below ear level and dead front wall with bass traps.

Projector: Infocus SP5700 on a 103" screen
Player: Pio. 563a

I'm very happy with my results and don't see upgrading any time soon.

Nice thread :)

Fronts: Studio 60 v3
Center: Studio CC-570 v3
Rears: (on order: ADP-470) :(
Sub: HSU VTF-3 MK 2
Pre/Pro: Denon AVR-3802
Amp: Anthem MCA-50
DVD: Panasonic DVD-RP82
Sat: *C Motorola DSR500
PVR: TiVo Series2 (mod for Canada & upgrd. to 160GB)
TV: Hitachi 57T500

Any other Canadians here?!

Lots of Canadians here!

Monitor 7 v3 mains
Monitor CC370 v3 center
Monitor 7 v3 sides
Mini Monitors v3 rear
PW2200 sub

Powered by Bryston 6B-SST , 4B-SST and 4B-ST

Cheers!

Front reference active 40's
center ref active 450
sides ref active 450
back ref active 40's
subs to servo 15's

Lexicon MC12 v4eq

I have had these speakers for about 4 years and really like them. I hope they last a long long time (they dont make them anymore :( )

Brad

studio 20's v3 front
CC-570 center
Focus side (temporary)
Servo-15

Marantz 7400

room is not accoustically treated.

Currently debating adding Monitor 7's as surrounds or ADP-370's also will add the CC-370 Center Channel as soon as finances allow :)

Currently I'm about 60% Music and 40% HT

Avoid the CC! Use a Monitor 5 if you have the room for it to be upright.

Monitor 11 v.4 - mains
Monitor 5 v.3 - surrounds
CC-370 v.3 in a horizontal version enclosure of the Monitor 5 size/tune
(I call it CC-370/Monitor5 hybrid)

Front reference active 40's
center ref active 450
sides ref active 450
back ref active 40's
subs to servo 15's

Lexicon MC12 v4eq

I have had these speakers for about 4 years and really like them. I hope they last a long long time (they dont make them anymore :( )

Brad

Wow nice setup Brad. I think the Actives would give the Sigs a run for the money. I am a former Paradigm owner so I hope you don't mind me posting here. I used to have semi-active setup.

Active 40v2
Active CCv2
Studio ADPv2
Servo-15
Anthem AVM20v2 pre/pro
Anthem PVA5 amp

Had to sell them do to change in living situation :(

Ron
Dont mind at all. I beat you miss them. I dont see many people with actives.
For the money they are real hard to beat.


Brad

Cool Thread..

All in Sycamore finish..

Mains: Studio 40 v.3
Center: Studio CC-470 v.3
Surrounds: Studio 20 v.3
Sub: Servo-15 v.2 (the new one.. 1200 watts!)

Powered by a humble Cambridge Audio 540R (for now until the new house and dedicated room).. Sounds fabulous despite the untreated loft.. The new room will be analyzed and treated better.

Pics in my gallery.

I have:

Denon 3805 (used as pre-amp only)
Bryston 9BSST power amp
Studio 80/v2 front
Studio CC/v2
Studio 20/v2 rear
PW-2200 sub
Source is a home-brew HTPC

The speakers were bought in '99 and have been used almost exclusively for home theater. There's no room treatment and the current location is not ideal but it still impresses everyone who hears it. I couldn't be happier and feel no great need to upgrade (although I do have a dedicated music setup in another room).

Great thread

I have-

F) Studio 100s v2
C) Studio CC
S) Studio ADP-470
BS) Studio 20s v2

Denon 4802r (used basically as a pre/pro now)
Outlaw Audio 770 power amp

...and mine are powered by 2 Harman Kardon Signature amps: 1.5 & 2.1.

Wow nice setup Brad. I think the Actives would give the Sigs a run for the money. I am a former Paradigm owner so I hope you don't mind me posting here. I used to have semi-active setup.

Active 40v2
Active CCv2
Studio ADPv2
Servo-15
Anthem AVM20v2 pre/pro
Anthem PVA5 amp

Had to sell them do to change in living situation :(

Sorry to hear that. The Active 40's are very special. I've never heard the Ac tive CC's or ADP's.

I wonder if anyone's put together a 5 Active-40 and twin Servo-15 set-up. :p

100 v3 mains
cc-570 center
ADP-470 rear speakers x 2 (mounted on side)
an old Sony sub but looking to upgrade.

Any advice? I was thinking Velodyne DD-15 vs. Paradigm Signature Servo sub. I'm jealous of all you Signature owners=) Sounds like one awesome setup everyone has. Someday I'll upgrade but I got my reference setup a few months before I heard about the Signatures coming out and am pretty happy. Gotta love the look of their products too.

Dave

Dave, don't really know how big a difference sonically the Sigs are to the Reference and for some it's not enough to justify the additional expense...I can understand that. I could have just as easily purchased the References as they sounded quite good also. Me personally, as I mentioned previously, just couldn't get past the Birdseye Maple finish. It fits in to my audion room decor perfectly. This is my first experience with Paradigm speakers coming from years of B&Ws and I'm extremely pleased. I just mounted my ADPs on the sides and I can't get over how good they sound compared to the direct firing that was previously in that position....Of course they should also, I would expect that with 5 quality drivers :p With DVD-A this Paradigm system really rocks :D

In retrospect, I'm glad I went outside the box now, if I hadn't, I would never had the pleasure to experience and own Paradigm speakers. Sonically, they are a perfect match for my tastes, just perfect :)

Sig S8's
Sig C5
Sig ADP's
Sig Servo Sub
(all in the rosewood finish)

I am really glad to hear that the ADP's sound good with multichannel/high-res music. I just placed an order for them this weekend, and was really conflicted over whether or not to get the dipoles. I am only running 5.1 at this point in time. The room I'm currently using as my HT, is somewhat small, and direct radiating speakers would just not have worked out as well.

Unfortunately, I will be unable to mount the ADP's on the side walls. I will have to put them on the back wall, right over where we sit. We use two recliners that are 2 ft. from the back of the wall. Should I put these puppies centered directly over our heads, or is it better to have them mounted a little over to the side?

Evan

[QUOTE=wrg2]Dave, don't really know how big a difference sonically the Sigs are to the Reference and for some it's not enough to justify the additional expense... ..Me personally, as I mentioned previously, just couldn't get past the Birdseye Maple finish. It fits in to my audion room decor perfectly.
QUOTE]

I've posted quite a few times on this subject, there's been a lot of comparisons between the Sigs and Reference. Most of them conclude that the Sigs are better sonically. But the argument always centers around whether the difference is worth it financially. I was drawn to the Sigs from the Studios for aesthetic reasons as well. In comparing the two you can't dismiss the build quality and finish of these speakers.
I liken it to the difference between cheap furniture and high quality furniture, you can buy a dining room suite made out of pressboard for $1000, but how much more would you pay for a quality hardwood suite? Probably 10 times more.......
As to whether the cost difference is justified sonically, that's a tougher decision.
When I heard the Sigs in the showroom, I would of had to say no. But when I got them home and spent some time with them, in my room, with my gear, I quickly began to re-think that. If budget were no consideration I'd have to say that the sonic difference was definitely worth the price. If you're limited in your budget, you've got to do you homework. That is, take both home and try them out in your environment.
If you've already got a good sub, the difference in price between the Studio 100's and the Sig S4's is not that great and merits consideration. I easily prefer the S4's over my previous 100 v.2's. I can't comment on the v3 100's without having heard them.

From the threads I've read over quite some time now:

Monitor to Studio = why'd you buy Monitors anyway? (I don't get this rationale at all)
Studio to Signature = not worth it.

I went in to the store thinking I'd get a Monitor 9 or 11 based on my budget, and ended up liking the Studio 20s for the same price much more. (I ended up getting the 60s, but my wife helped me stretch the budget more because she loved them).

I haven't heard the sigs yet... I'm not worried about the finish as much because they'll all be hidden in my HT room someday soon anyway. The main benefit I see sonically is the extra front-firing driver on the ADPs.. I wish the 470s had that.

From the threads I've read over quite some time now:

Monitor to Studio = why'd you buy Monitors anyway? (I don't get this rationale at all)
Studio to Signature = not worth it.

Those are blanket conclusions that don't take into consideration a whole whack of variables. Like equipment, budget, room characteristics, usage, and decor just to name a few.
Just as "miltimj" has eliminated aesthetics as a consideration and "wrg2" and me included it; different reasons for different applications.

Maybe I just don't get it, but what is the point of your post?

The reference series are an absolutely extraordinary deal. Simply fantastic price/quality ratio. Can't be beat. For the majority of consumers, this is the sweet spot.

To move up further in the chain, we run straight into the law of diminishing returns. It's the invisible line, where you have to spend quite a bit more money, to get that last extra bit of performance. The quality goes up not only in sound, but in aesthetics as well. To some of us it's worth it, to others, it's not. However, it's certainly not a waste of money, or an overpriced ripoff. The Signatures are still extremely competitive in terms of performance/price with other marquee brands. If compared directly to the B&W 800 series (and many others), I think they're a downright bargain.

It's only when we compare the value of the Signatures, to the incredible value of the Reference series, that the Signatures look expensive. (and when you see them in person, they do look expensive :) !). I was not comparing the Signatures to the Reference series when shopping. I was comparing them directly to much more expensive speakers. I'm extremely pleased with my purchase, and feel I still got a great deal. I believe the entire line of Paradigm products gives a lot of bang for the buck. I personally, am very glad the company decided to go head-to-head with the much more prestige and high-end speaker manufacturers. I believe they scored a bull's-eye, and hit them squarely right between the eyes.

Evan

Evan, I think you'll be very pleased with the Sig ADP's. To be honest, I was pretty skeptical about these dipole speakers, and I really didn't want to pay that kind of money for a surround speaker that is mounted on the wall. I first thought they were too large and would look out of place hanging on the side walls, but my dealer kept assuring me that I wouldn't be disappointed. They took some careful planning to mount correctly because of the size and weight, at close to 30lbs a piece, not an easy task to hang by yourself by any stretch of the imagination...sure don't want these puppies falling off the wall :p After final touches and proper hookup, I fired them up using multichannel dvd-a's....wow, what a perfect match for the fronts and sonic balance. I really think that 8" Bass driver that faces the listening area certainly improves the overall surround effect. Though I only have the S2's and the C3, it seeks a perfect balance with the ADP's. Multichannel music never sounded so good, matter of fact, they sounded so good to me that I went out and bought 3 more dvd-a's to add to my growing collection, this time it was Diana Krall, Santana Shaman, and Fleetwood Mac Rumors. I'm not going to set them up with my SL Meter yet because my Velodyne hgs is in the shop :(

...Oh, and BTW, after I mounted the ADP's and really looked at them on the walls :) with my system, they look just fine

When I was demoing and buying my Paradigm's, I looked very closely at the Sigs and the Studios. The Paradigm Rep said, that the only difference is the premium finishes. I demoed them in my theater side by side and for the cost, I personally heard no difference, nothing to make me think the Sig's sounded better at all. They both sounded flat out awesome. So, I bought the Studio's and have been very happy with them.

Redhouse

Those are blanket conclusions that don't take into consideration a whole whack of variables. Like equipment, budget, room characteristics, usage, and decor just to name a few.
Just as "miltimj" has eliminated aesthetics as a consideration and "wrg2" and me included it; different reasons for different applications.

Maybe I just don't get it, but what is the point of your post?

My point is the Monitor series are like the bastards in the family line-up. Overlooked constantly. I see suggestions for someone looking at the bigger Performance line to check out Studios (usually used for budget restraints), not Monitors. Why would Monitors, the next obvious step up, be completely overlooked?

I auditioned the Studio 20's vs. Monitor 11's. Sure the 20's sounded a little better in the mids/highs, but it couldn't hold a candle to the output levels of the Monitor 11 (which is a deal-sealer for me). So at the louder playback levels I like for music, the Studio 20 would lose out, versus the Monitor 11, because it runs out of steam, so to speak...

Now the CC-370 flat out sucks. That's why I rebuilt mine to the size/tune/bracing/enclosure thickness of a Monitor 5.

When I was demoing and buying my Paradigm's, I looked very closely at the Sigs and the Studios. The Paradigm Rep said, that the only difference is the premium finishes. I demoed them in my theater side by side and for the cost, I personally heard no difference, nothing to make me think the Sig's sounded better at all. They both sounded flat out awesome. So, I bought the Studio's and have been very happy with them.

Redhouse

BINGO!!!!
In your room, with your gear, side by each; IMHO that's the only way to find out for sure if it's worth it to you. Opions on these boards are extremely subjective at best, always take them with a grain of salt.

Yamaha 995 needs to be updated!
14x20 room
Paradigm 60v2 Fronts
Paradigm Studio Center
Paradigm PW2200 Sub
Paradigm SA25 In-Walls Rear
JBL L3 secondary set

My point is the Monitor series are like the bastards in the family line-up. Overlooked constantly. I see suggestions for someone looking at the bigger Performance line to check out Studios (usually used for budget restraints), not Monitors. Why would Monitors, the next obvious step up, be completely overlooked?

I auditioned the Studio 20's vs. Monitor 11's. Sure the 20's sounded a little better in the mids/highs, but it couldn't hold a candle to the output levels of the Monitor 11 (which is a deal-sealer for me). So at the louder playback levels I like for music, the Studio 20 would lose out, versus the Monitor 11, because it runs out of steam, so to speak...

Now the CC-370 flat out sucks. That's why I rebuilt mine to the size/tune/bracing/enclosure thickness of a Monitor 5.


I see your new pics nice set up, well I finally went for it, I traded my Monitor 11s/cc370 that I got in December, I got full value on them, every thing I paid and tax for Studio 100s/cc570, I also added NAD T773 145w x 2 or 110x7

To my ears it was well worth it and the Studio 100s really shine particularly the mid range, and the bass is even better, very accurate and more open, also the tweeter sound more airy and very pleasing, I loved my M11s and it was hard to let go, they were efficient, but with the addition of the NAD T773 it really helped, I never hooked up my HK AVR525 to the studios yet but that NAD is very dynamic and for now it is sufficient un believable tight powerful bass it's like I bought a new sub

My set up now is

Paradigm Studio 100s
Paradigm Studio cc570
Sansui Towers S1117 surround temporary until ADP 470s
JBL E250 sub will upgrade soon
Yamaha YST90 additional sub upgrade soon

I demoed them in my theater side by side and for the cost, I personally heard no difference, nothing to make me think the Sig's sounded better at all.

Strangely, I came to the exact opposite conclusion after trying both series in my room for 2 weeks. My dynamic range is so great in there that the differences were clearly audible, particularly on soft parts. At 115 db on a DD track, it's not major (like any speakers would be :D ), but with a good CD or multi-ch recording, the differences were well worth the price to my ears. ;)

I didn't realized what I was missing before trying them together. A sigh, a whisper, a clear note in the background, a soft instrument that was not there in the background with the Refs. Classical music was clearly better with the Sigs. You really need a good dynamic range to appreciate those differences. For compressed film soundtracks at insanely high levels, the difference was smaller tough...

BTW, to be back on the thread subject, I just ordered a 2nd Signature Servo today! :D

The Speakers I demoed were 3 CC570's and 3 Signature C3's as LCR. First they are the same size and same driver setup. The bass drivers are the same, the mid and high are a little different, but very close. The Frequency Response is also very close.

IMHO, they sounded the same, I demoed them with Blues, Jazz, Rock, CD, DVDA and SACD and a bunch of movies. I powered them with a Rotel Pre and Pro using Audio Quest cables. Two Servo 15's and the ADP 470's and Sig ADP's, everything calibrated and my room is treated.

A, CC 570 was $850 each
A, C3 was $1500 each

Redhouse

Does anyone know if Paradigm is planning a small floor standing Signature speaker?
Something like the Studio 60.

Redhouse, maybe I'm a bit confused...are you saying that you just compared the CC570 and the C3, and you HAVE the ADP470 and the Sig ADPs? If in fact you have the latter, why do you have both? I just purchased the Sig ADP and I think it sounds excellent, especially with the 8" bass driver.

When I listened to both the Sigs and Reference speakers, they both sounded superb. Did not demo them in my home but, now that I have them in my home and they're getting good playing time, they honestly sound better than when I first brought them home....So there must be something to break-in period. I'm extremely pleased with the Sigs for now, but as all things go, there will be another speaker, perhaps Paradigm, that will supersede these Sigs in the future and this thread will be just history :)

The Speakers I demoed were 3 CC570's and 3 Signature C3's as LCR.

And this "big" (and quite strange) set-up made you conclude that the Sigs were not worth it over the Refs? :confused:

What about trying the S8 and the C5 against the 100 and 570 before making a wide conclusion like that?

Probably because with his his setup (http://www.redhousehometheater.com/570's.jpg)...

...he uses three center channels.

Redhouse, maybe I'm a bit confused...are you saying that you just compared the CC570 and the C3, and you HAVE the ADP470 and the Sig ADPs? If in fact you have the latter, why do you have both? I just purchased the Sig ADP and I think it sounds excellent, especially with the 8" bass driver.

I did just compare the CC570 to the C3 and demoed both ADP's and ended up with 3 CC570's as my LCR and two ADP470's per Paradigms advice on my room and setup. I wanted the C5 but it wouldn't fit.

And this "big" (and quite strange) set-up made you conclude that the Sigs were not worth it over the Refs?

What about trying the S8 and the C5 against the 100 and 570 before making a wide conclusion like that?

I demoed all the speakers in the Studio Series and the Sig's lines before I decided and settled on what I have. Following the advice of my Dealer and Paradigm, my quite strange setup works very well.

Look at the 570 and the C3, the size, drivers, Frequency Response are so close, were do you justify the extra cost?

You can't compare the S8 and C5 to the 100 and 570 the Sig's are a lot bigger and handle more power. But, the Frequency Response between the 100 and S8 is very close and the 100's play as low as the C8, 28 Hz

IMHO, I don't see enough difference to justify the much higher cost between the two lines. I thought the 100 sounded just as good as the C8's.

This is just my opinion, so two each his own.

Redhouse

I have:

Studio 100v3
Studio 40v3
Studio CC570
Studio ADP 470
Studio Servo 15v2

All in cherry. I keep bringing home speakers to find a better speaker. While I'm demoing them I feel the other speaker is better. Funny thing, when I put my 100s back in I'm glad the other speaker is back at the shop. I just haven't found a better sounding speaker and I have access to a few different brands, Def Tech, Amphion, James, and Tannoy to name a few. I think I'll be selling my setup to move on to the Signiture line. Even if the sound isn't that much better they look fantastic.

DynamiteD....do you have the upgrade/exchange policy with your Paradigm dealer? Currently you seem to have a very nice system there...what Signatures would you be exchanging for the S8, C5, ADP...what about the rears? Thats a lot of bucks to jump to the Sigs....What finish are you considering? I'm finally finished with my Sig purchases...thank God :p I'm extremely pleased with em, and they sound better all the time ;)

Paradigm 100 V.3
Paradigm CC-570
Paradigm Monitor 9 (rear)
Paradigm Seismic - 12

Anthem AVM-2
2 Bryston 4bst (bi-amp 100's)
Anthem MCA 50 (center and rears -- 2 channels to spare -- eventual 7.1 --- )

All Running Balanced Interconnects (except sub)
Audioquest (CV-4) speaker wire (front 3)

Marantz CD and DVD players and some satellite music
Movies 70%
2 kids under 5 makes hard to really turn it up

Listen mainly in 2 channel
Would Love a denon 3910 or 5910 but just not enough music I like is DVD-A or SACD to justify

Waiting on HD-DVD

I work at the Audio Dealer doing sales/install/programming remotes/design, yada yada yada. I don't know of any trade-up policy that Paradigm offers. I believe that if a dealer does a trade-up policy it's on them to make good and not apart of deal with Paradigm. I was actually thinking of selling my setup and using the money to buy the Signitures, but my work doesn't carry the Signiture line so I have no way to demo them. I was thinking about getting the S8s, C3 or C5 and maybe S2s in the rear. I have the Statement D1 coming so I'm going to wait to see how it sounds with my speakers before I make a move.

Studio 60
Studio CC470
Studio 20 on J29 stands (rear)
M&K V125 (Sub)
Yamaha RX-V2400
Hitachi 65SWX20B
Panasonic DVD-F85

Sounds great! I'm very happy with the setup. Room size is about 20 x 22 with cathedral ceiling and open to kitchen, hallway, and foyer. Found that using YPAO set to FRONT is best by far. Set the fronts and rears to small and crossover to 80. Also used the Tone control to increase both the treble and bass a little.

Would like to experiment with a separate Amp and some minor room treatments just to see what it sounds like. But I'm very pleased now, so I'm not in a hurry to try. I should also get a RS SPL meter, but its hard to think it could get better.

Hi All,

Just got a Yamaha RX-V2500.

Just got a pair of Mini-Monitors for the L-R and have the CC-370 Center coming in. The dealer is letting me use a CC-170 until it gets in for the center.

I need to replace my surround in-ceiling old Realistic speakers. (Don't Laugh - were already in the house). So, he is looking into that for me.

Spent a little time listening to the PMC speakers, I don't know what the model was but they were about $1300 a pair plus center of about $700. I decided to go with the Paradigm's.

So, any comments about what I got? Did I do OK?

Those are blanket conclusions that don't take into consideration a whole whack of variables. Like equipment, budget, room characteristics, usage, and decor just to name a few.
Just as "miltimj" has eliminated aesthetics as a consideration and "wrg2" and me included it; different reasons for different applications.

Maybe I just don't get it, but what is the point of your post?

He must have a new fart can to install on his Maxima.

I don't get it :confused:

Anybody have any friends interested in a 1-year old set of Studio 100s, CC-570 and ADP-470s? I've been meaning to sell these and I think I finally want to give it a shot since I'll have 2 weeks free soon. v3's, all black, 9/10 just for being used.

It'll be sad to leave the Paradigm family, but it's like owning a car...they will be remembered fondly :)

I don't get it :confused:

Me neither :rolleyes:

Hi,

I have studio 60's v3 as front speakers.

CC370 and mini monitors as rear speakers. I used to have monitor 7's as fronts, upgraded the fronts (because I value listening to stereo music highly).
Was afraid that the sound wouldn't be homogenous anymore, but actually its less worse then I thought and for now I can live with it.

Using SVS PCi-20-39 subwoofer.
Studio 60's are powered by an Arcam P85. The rest by a Marantz SR-7400.

Currently I am using QED silver anniversary speaker cable for the studio 60's. I don't like the combination, highs are too bright! :(

Anny recommendations for good speaker cable for Studio 60's ?

tingtong, as soon as you have the ability to upgrade from the 370 to CC470, do it... there's a massive difference, especially with the 60s.

Edit: And I completely agree with rnrgagne that the speaker cable has nothing to do with how your speakers sound (provided they are of decent gauge, such as 16 or so)

Hi,

Currently I am using QED silver anniversary speaker cable for the studio 60's. I don't like the combination, highs are too bright! :(

Anny recommendations for good speaker cable for Studio 60's ?

I highly doubt that the speaker cable has anything to do with your speakers sounding "bright".
I don't want to start a cable debate on this thread, so I'll just leave it at; do some research on room acoustics that will likely yield far more noticable results in taming the brightness.

I will buy CC470 and Studio 20 in the feature when I have some money again :P But for now I think it is not a bad compromise between a high end stereo system and a mid-end Hometheater :-)

As for the cables, I am going to try some other cable tomorrow and see if it makes any difference, I have my doubts as well , I am just going to try and see (hear) for myelf.

As for room acoustics, yes I am aware that could be the cause as well. Next week someone with a lot of experience in this field will visit me to advice me :-)

Regards,

Ronald

Currently I am using QED silver anniversary speaker cable for the studio 60's. I don't like the combination, highs are too bright!

I highly doubt that the speaker cable has anything to do with your speakers sounding "bright".
I don't want to start a cable debate on this thread, so I'll just leave it at; do some research on room acoustics that will likely yield far more noticable results in taming the brightness.

I agree and disagree.
While your rooms acoustic are very important and working to fix many of the rooms problems, will give you the biggest upgrade and impact on your sound.

Speaker Cables also, have a impact on your sound. You can do Some great reading on this on the Audio Quest Cinema Quest website. These are the cables I use.

Audio Quest (http://www.audioquest.com/pdfs/aq_cable_theory.pdf)

Redhouse

Thanx for the link, very interesting piece to read!!

Speaking of cables...Can anybody suggest a replacement for my M Series MI.4s Biwire cables for my Signatures. These Monster MSeries cables are excellent but at the size they are will not fit in the cable tube mounted in the back of the Premier J 29 stands. The cable is like a 5/8" hose size, plus it's only a bi-wire cable and I'd like to go to a cable that I can Bi-Amp my speakers...Any suggestions?

I use Mini MK3's. I use three of these for the front and three of these for the back.(six all together). This makes up my music surround system.For movies I switch out the mini's (rear side) and switch in the ADP-150's. I just downloaded the review of them from about 1993 or so.

I power them with three B&K ST-140's.Thats my six ch amp.I cross them over at 100hz so they strain not!.I use a speaker switcher for the rears, soon to be replaced by a niles 12vdc trigger device to switch (lazy),

I have no reason to upgrade.Not yet.


Great thread!!

Forgot the pic.

Speaker Cables also, have a impact on your sound. You can do Some great reading on this on the Audio Quest Cinema Quest website. These are the cables I use.

Audio Quest (http://www.audioquest.com/pdfs/aq_cable_theory.pdf)
Unfortunately, since that very PDF was made by a company who makes speaker cables, it's incredibly biased (and obviously biased, based on some of the quotes in it).

There are plenty of threads on whether speaker cable makes a difference, so I suppose we don't need to keep it going here... suffice it to say that I'm in the camp that would put a lot of money down on a blind test for those who say there is a difference.

Unfortunately, since that very PDF was made by a company who makes speaker cables, it's incredibly biased (and obviously biased, based on some of the quotes in it).

There are plenty of threads on whether speaker cable makes a difference, so I suppose we don't need to keep it going here... suffice it to say that I'm in the camp that would put a lot of money down on a blind test for those who say there is a difference.

I agree, you owe it to your wallet to do some research on this subject. And try to find unbiased opinions. Just like miltimj implies, double blind testing simply doesn't lie. Any other claims are at best subjective.

There's two sides to the cable debate, those who say the cable makes no difference and those that say it does.

A company like Audio Quest that has been around for more than 25 years and has been reviewed by every sound publication you can think of. Their cables get high reviews every time. The best thing to do is buy some different cables, get some good quality cables, listen to them on your system and see what difference it makes to you.

I guarantee just like every audio reviewer I've seen over the years, that if you listen to a few different cables on your system even over a course of a week, you will come back here saying you heard a difference.


Redhouse

There's two sides to the cable debate, those who say the cable makes no difference and those that say it does.

A company like Audio Quest that has been around for more than 25 years and has been reviewed by every sound publication you can think of. Their cables get high reviews every time. The best thing to do is buy some different cables, get some good quality cables, listen to them on your system and see what difference it makes to you.

I guarantee just like every audio reviewer I've seen over the years, that if you listen to a few different cables on your system even over a course of a week, you will come back here saying you heard a difference.


Redhouse

Yes, but as a friend of mine likes to ask, was it DIFFERENT or was it BETTER?

I agree there's two sides, one side who can prove they make no difference and one side that believes they do. I don't care how long a company has been in business, that has no relevance whatsoever. Monster will likely be around forever and they are the most successful snake oil sellers out there - bar none.
Anyhow I apologize this is a "Paradigm" thread and they don't sell speaker wire.

I agree there's two sides, one side who can prove they make no difference and one side that believes they do.

That's pretty good. :)

How about this. One side that believes they can prove it makes no difference and one side believes the other can't prove that it doesn't make a difference. :D

Oaradign Studio v2 100's (L/R), ADP surrounds and Studio CC. Currently in a small room and being driven by a Pioneer Elite VSX-45TX AVR. When I relocate them to the basement I will spend the money for biamplification with something. I also have a PW-2200 subwoofer and really like it.

That's pretty good. :)

How about this. One side that believes they can prove it makes no difference and one side believes the other can't prove that it doesn't make a difference. :D

Ahhh..... the speaker cable merry-go-round. :D

I'm right & your wrong.. ;)

That's pretty good. :)

How about this. One side that believes they can prove it makes no difference and one side believes the other can't prove that it doesn't make a difference. :D
There's been multiple tests that have proven this, including one that used lamp cord vs $10/ft "audiophile" speaker wire, and nobody could tell the difference. (They were rigged into a switch that allows the conversion to go from one to another instantly).

To Redhouse, can you show us some reviews of speaker wire (or pretty much anything for that matter) that they give a bad review to? They don't want to lose customers that are loyal to brands, as long as they are even halfway decent.

By the way, I'm not saying there's no difference between any two wires... I'm saying there's no difference between two wires of the same gauge (i.e. you can't compare 22AWG to 12AWG with high powered amps).

I thought this thread was about Paradign speakers. Since the discussion has taking a deviation, how about those Yankees?

They Suck :D

(Yankee hater)

I currently own a Paradigm Servo-15 in Rosenut.
This is the best sounding sub I've been able to find locally; incredible extension and clarity.
I'd like to upgrade my current speakers (B&W CDM 9NT) to the Paradigm Signature S4 in Rosewood.

To Redhouse, can you show us some reviews of speaker wire (or pretty much anything for that matter) that they give a bad review to? They don't want to lose customers that are loyal to brands, as long as they are even halfway decent.


A quick Google search will show many reviews going both ways. Audioholics.com rips cables apart in their reviews. Stereophile has gone both ways on their reviews of cables.

AudioQuest has some of the best build quality I have ever seen, which keeps me coming back to them. I have had wire from them inwall for years that when I pulled it out, it still looked new. Last year, I installed a cheap stereo in my garage, I used some speaker wire from HomeDepot in less then six months the wire was green, which turned the speaker post green and the post on the receiver. I have also seen Rat Shack cable do this. In ten years I have never seen AudioQuest cable do that. I believe you get what you pay for, you want to save money and buy cheap ass cable that will go bad in a short time, then do it. You want to take a chance at your Paradigm speakers being damaged by wires going bad then go for it. If you want wires that are built to last a lifetime, then buy Audio Quest or something as good. I will not make any claims that brand x sounds better then brand y, AudioQuest sounds awesome and build quality goes a long way in my book.

Redhouse

[QUOTE=snickelfritz]I currently own a Paradigm Servo-15 in Rosenut.
This is the best sounding sub I've been able to find locally; incredible extension and clarity.
I'd like to upgrade my current speakers (B&W CDM 9NT) to the Paradigm Signature S4 in Rosewood.[

Search the site, there's a link to an outfit that's discounting the Rosewood Sigs

Thinking of getting two Studio 40's for front L/R.

Can I use a Studio 20 for the center speaker instead of the CC470? I have room in the center of my credenza to accomodate the 20 in an upright position.

I've heard of people doing three Studio 20s as L/C/R quite often. Since the two are very similar, it certainly may work very well. It's worth an audition of that particular setup to see if it works.

I'm selling a whole set of Paradigm Reference Studio Speakers in order to move on to the Signature Line. Here is the Link http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6037033#post6037033

NAD T-163 Preamp
Anthem PVA-5 Amp
Integra DPS-6.5 DVD plaer
Vutec Vision XWF 110" Slilver Star/Velvet frame screen
InFocus SP 7210 Projector
Paradigm Studio 100 Main Speakers
Paradigm ADP-470 Rear Effect Speakers
Paradigm CC-570 Center Channel Speaker
Paradigm PW-2200 Subwoofer

Thats my setup with the Paradigm's! Gets installed in 2 weeks!

Anyone compare driving the Studio 60's direct from a receiver versus an external 200+ Watt amp? I've got the 60's and a Yamaha RX-V2400 and was wondering what I can expect before delving in. I figure I'll be able to turn up the volume louder, but that's not what I want to do. I'm really just wondering if I can expect an improvement in the sound quality at normal listening levels.

Here is my little setup here in Canada

Paradigm Monitor 5's Front
Paradigm Titan Surround
Paradigm CC-370 Center
Paradigm PDR-10 Sub

Yamaha RX-V1500 Receiver
Panasonic DVD-F65 Changer
Panasonic DMR-E55 DVD Recorder

Xbox Media Extender
32" Sony CRT
Harmony 880 Remote
Bell Expressvu SAT

Link to Photos is in the photo galley for poolshark69



Looking to upgrade to HDTV just have to have the budget for it.

I have 2 different Paradigm speaker setups.
Living room: Monitor 7s, CC-350 and mini-monitors for surrounds with a Dayton 10" sub powered by a Denon 3300.

In my dedicated theater room I have a 6.1 setup with three pairs of Atoms and a PS-1200 sub (which used to be in my living room) powered by a Panasonic SA-XR25.

I really love Paradigm speakers. Even the inexpensive Atoms sound amazing with movies and music. In some ways I prefer their sound to my monitor speakers since they're not as bright sounding, and are less fatiguing to listen to.

Some day I'd like to check out the Reference series. Unfortunately the local dealer where I bought my current speakers doesn't carry them and there isn't a dealer anywhere near me that does either.

Thinking of getting two Studio 40's for front L/R.

Can I use a Studio 20 for the center speaker instead of the CC470? I have room in the center of my credenza to accomodate the 20 in an upright position.

Decided to go with this arrangement and am VERY pleased :D

Hello. Just joined the forum. First post

I have the Studio 60's....I think version 1. I've had them since around 1998 I believe.

I picked up some Studio 20's v.2 I believe back in 2000? Also have a P reference series center channel. CC-370?

They are hooked up to Acurus Mondial Design amps 200x3 and 200x2. Acurus Pre-amp. Also have M&K sub two 12's 200w.

Overall I like the sound but I feel it lacks some mid bass punch and that deep barritone deep male voice midrange. The driver size difference from 12's to 6 in seems noticeable to me.

I've been running this system in two different homes and I still feel the same.

Oh...souce is a Sony DVD/CD 5 disc changer.

DynamiteD...So you're going to take the $$$ plunge...It's madness I tell you...madness...maybe you should consult with an AV Doctor..."HEY...DO WE HAVE A DOCTOR IN THE HOUSE..THIS MAN HAS A FEVER" :p On the other hand, congratulations :) What are your Signature plans? Finish? Every day I come home and grab a coctail and sit back and listen to DVD-As or 2-ch, I'm so damn pleased I made my choice being these speakers, Paradigms are really growing on me :D

I'm selling a whole set of Paradigm Reference Studio Speakers in order to move on to the Signature Line. Here is the Link http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6037033#post6037033
If you didn't live so far away I'd seriously consider this, as it's very close to the setup I'm working toward (except for the sub).

I do have a question for you with your setup though... Are you glad you went with 40s for the rears and ADP-470s for the sides? Would you get all 470s if you could do it again, or did you like the 40s in the rear? I'm debating which way to go.. all bipole for surrounds, or combination of bipoles and directs. Thanks..

Hello people,

So I am currently in the process of building a new setup, and wanted to get your opinions... nothing fancy. we aren't crazy audiophiles, but do enjoy clean quality music. its probably about 60% Music and 40% HT.

Front Paradigm Phantoms or Espirits
Center CC-170 or 270
Rears Atoms
Sub PDR-12

As of yet undecided on amp, but generally happy with the speakers (heard them instore yesterday). I can basically get the Performance Series 5 set (with atoms in the rear though, but phantoms up front and cc-270) for about 1450 (msrp 1800).

any comments on the setup and price?

thanks again
--soheil

A while back someone posted a link to a page with all of Paradigm's MSRPs. Does someone have that link to post? I think it would be helpful to everyone considering upgrading.

A while back someone posted a link to a page with all of Paradigm's MSRPs. Does someone have that link to post? I think it would be helpful to everyone considering upgrading.
http://www.bradfordshifi.com/prices.htm#Paradigm

Thanks, exactly what I was looking for.

Anyone familiar with the OW (On-Wall) series? I'm having trouble searching for those models. I'm just looking to put them next to a plasma in a large (Great) room that opens up to the kitchen. Mostly for TV viewing and music. It will not be the primary HT room.

http://www.bradfordshifi.com/prices.htm#Paradigm

Those prices aren't perfectly accurate. I was quote $600 retail for the CC470, $800 retail for the CC570, and $950 (pair) for the ADP470s. Slightly lower than the Bradford prices. The 40s, 60s and 100s were quoted as $1200, $1500 & $2300 which, I believe matches this price list.

Well then you have a nice dealer. I was quoted the exact same prices (MSRP) as Bradford for all of the speakers you mention.

so anyone have any experiance with the performance series?
--soheil

Hmm, I thought we had better price here in Canada for Paradigm products, I was quote $2000 (CND) last week for a pair of Studio 60.

Hello all SO Now I have a pair of Mini Monitors L&R- CC-350 ,Cinimas in the rear ,& a PDR8 with a denon 3805. The WIFE told me she does NOT like the wall unit towers ( that the Monitors sit on the shelfs) so This was my in to say IF we get rid of the wall unit where will we put the L&R speakers ( not giving her the ida we could get stands) SO NOW is my chance to upgrade to a nice pair of floor full range speakers. I was thinking about looking into the Monitor 90P & dump the PDR 8 also . any thoughts ?? I would love to get the Signature S8 But I do not have that kind of $$$$$$ I may be able to swing a pair of Studio 100 But I think the Monitor 90P Might be a better choice IF I also dump the sub.
Thoughts ??

Paradigms and amplification.

First Some background

Previously my 2CH sys consisted of a Rotel RSX 1055 receiver (5 X 75 watts), a pair of Studio 60V2 and s Servo 15 V2 sub.
I was somewhat satisfied with the above. Its sound was a little laid back but reasonably detailed. Soundstaging was good and dynamics were decent for a smaller speaker.
My first upgrade was to a Rotel RMB 1075 power amp (125 X 5). I kept the RSX 1055 and used it as a pre-pro.
This was a disappointment. I thought there was only marginal improvement.
So I sold the 1075 and went back to Receiver for a while.
Next upgrade was to Studio 100 V3 from the 60 V2s.
Very nice improvement especially in the mid and high frequencies.
Next I bought an Aragon 8008ST amp (200 X 2 into 8 & 400 X 2 into 4)
Wow. This was probably the biggest improvement to date. I was still using the 1055 as a pre-pro but the new amp really made the 100s shine. Dynamics were hugely improved along with imaging and soundstage. All aspects of the sound were transformed.
With the Studio 60s the separate amp (rotel rmb 1075) made little difference over the receiver alone so I’m going to draw some possible conclusions from this.

-The Studio 60s V2 put such a minimal load on amplification that a decent receiver will sound as good as an Ok separate amp.
-The Rotel 1075 was not an OK amp but rather a dud.
-The Studio 100 V3s present a load too heavy for Rotel 1055 receiver and a separate amp is therefore needed.

For the record.
If you are using a receiver to power Studio 100 V3s then you are not getting anywhere near the potential of those speakers.
Try to beg, borrow or steal a good 2CH power amp and try it with the 100s. You will be stunned at the difference over a receiver. I promise.

Steve

Well I took a walk@ lunch today to have a listen to some speakers .They did not have the Monitor 90P so I hade a listen to the Monitor 11s. I thought they hade great punch with out a sub ( I listened to SRV Tin Pan Ally & Screamin Cheata Wheelies ) I love bluesy rock! Than I hade a listen to the same tracks on the stuido 60s , I thought it sounded cleaner brighter but NOT as much punch as the M 11s . Like I said I now have MM & a PDR8 sub but If I upgrade I would like to lose the sub. My room is 14 Ft wide & 30 ft long but half is dinning room so I sit about 12 ft from speakers .The foks @ the store said my 3805 would not be enough to drive the stuido 100s With all of that said - room size music I love & reciever what towers would you suggest ?

If you have a sub, you might as well get Studio 20s instead of any of the monitor series. I know you said you'd like to lose it, but the 20s and your sub will probably sound much better than no sub and only monitors.

Thanks for that great analysis, Energeezer.. I have 60s and am interested to know the caveats and "requirements" when moving to 100s, as I probably will in the spring.

hey guys !
as the title says im having probs with my surround sound, reason being
i have studio 20's front, cc-570 center, servo-15 and paradigm FOCUS as side surrounds, all powered by Marantz 7400.

the sound doesnt blend well with the fronts esp when watchin movies, sumtimes in some intense effects scenes i feel Focus dont deliver well. i would have got adp--470 but it is not available in my COUNTRY. Yes ! ive called up every dealer and ended up in disappointment, i live in Pakistan. my HT is 75% used for movies, even when i listen to music i prefer to listen in STEREO.

would do u guys suggest about adp-470 over studio 20's as surrounds?. now that im definite to give the FOCUS back for sumthing for my side surrounds shud i go for 20's or adp-470 are really worth it. i will have to get adp-470's without auditioning them.

one more question which im sorry to throw in this thread is, the guy has POLK Fxi5 surrounds available with him, would they blend well with the system??

I want to move to Floor Standing speakers - One major reason I think my 2 year old would pull on speaker stands & pull the speakers off the stands .

Tim
Your question

Thanks for that great analysis, Energeezer.. I have 60s and am interested to know the caveats and "requirements" when moving to 100s, as I probably will in the spring.

My answer

The only 2 caveats are the size of the speakers, which for many is no problem, and the fact that they need more power to really shine. With the 60 V2s a good receiver had plenty of power to drive them properly. They sounded great with my Rotel Receiver as I stated above. When I inserted a seperate power amp (Rotel Rmb 1075) there was some improvement but not night and day. Upon reflection I feel that the RMB 1075 was PROBABLY not the greatest amp. Not that it was bad but it was after all a 5/ch amp with only about 50 w/ch more than the reciever.
There is one other thing that I feel may be related to the size of the 100s. Speaker placement is harder to nail down. I found myself tinkering for longer with the 100s to find the optimum placement. IMO they need more space around them.

The 100 V3 are a completely different league than the 60 V2 IMO. Even with an underpowerd amp (my receiver) the level of refinement was easily better in the mid to high freqs. With the receiver there was some improvement in the bass as well but I think the receiver was straining a bit in the low freqs and as a result pulling it all down somewhat.
Put the 100 V3 on good power and the results are stunning. Suddenly those extra bass drivers are being utilized and it is tight, clean bass. I could have afforded 80s at the time I bought my 60s but preferred the 60s due to thier speed and tight bass. Of course the 80s had em in impact but then I have a servo 15 so.....
With the 100 V3 you get that slam, dynamic impact and the speed.
The tweeter on the V3 is light years ahead of the V2 IMO. Its just smoother, more detailed and more realistic. Female voices have a completely different tone and all for the better. If you like your music up front and bright then I think the V2 is probably your speaker. I'm not classifieng the V2s as really bright or upfront but they are more that way than the V3. Paradigm has got the tweeter close in V2 and right in the V3.
I've heard people say that they prefer the looks of the V2 over the V3 but not me. I love the looks of the V3. They do sound better with the grills on which is too bad because with them off they look even better.

On a related note I have heard another pair of speakers (at a friends place) that really impressed me.
They were Anthony Gallo Ref 3.

http://www.roundsound.com/ref3.html

They sounded very very nice to me and are around the same price maybe a little more. I've seen em go on a-gon for 2K.
The problem is that my friend runs a completely tube system consisting of very expensive Audio Research and Audio Note gear so I'm not sure how much of the sound was due to that. On the other hand I had heard his system with Vanersteen 3s and hated it.
That is the very first time since I got my 100 V3s that I thought I might like to try something else. But then in my case I often like the sound of a system at first listen and then slowly start to sour on it as I find its faults.
I will say that those speaks are interesting and depending on your tastes way cool looking.
Food for thought.

BTW
Is it obvious that I have upgrade fever? :)

would do u guys suggest about adp-470 over studio 20's as surrounds?.

I can't say about the 470s, but if you can try out the 20s I think you might be pleased regarding the matching. I had just recently picked up 2 pairs of 20s, and had one pair 4 days before the other. I tried my old 5se's as surrounds, didn't sound so great. I tried some v.3 Atoms, and while they seemed to match tonally better than the 5se's, they still left a lot to be desired. When the 2nd pair of 20s hit, everything was perfect.

I've read numerous claims that "surround sound speakers don't have to match, you'll be mostly ok as long as you have the same brand" and to me, I just can't believe that anymore. Granted the 5se's and the Atoms are a long way from the Studio 20s. But even with movies the difference was amazing.

Unless you're already biased against dipoles, the adp-470s will probably suit you fine, unless of course you listen to lots of multi-channel music, then you might be happier with the 20s. The MC music, and slightly cheaper led me to the 20s. But with the narrowness of my room, I may drop some 470s in later.

Again, great info Energeezer. I have my 60s about 8" away from the wall... isn't very realistic to pull them out more due to it being my smallish living room. I currently am driving them with a 100Wx7 receiver, and they sound very good, but I'm sure could be better. I'll upgrade to 100s then a separate amp shortly thereafter.

Okay, so now I have a question for everyone...

Assuming you had the following setup:
100s
CC-570
ADP-470
20s

How would you power them separately? Would you get a 2-channel amp for the 100s and a 5 channel for the rest? A 3-channel and that's it? Or a 7-channel?

After pondering this for a few months, I'm leaning toward a 2-channel and a 5-channel, though I'm wondering how important it is for the L/C/R to be equally driven. I'm guessing the difference won't be noticeable if it's very similar.

Okay, so now I have a question for everyone...

Assuming you had the following setup:
100s
CC-570
ADP-470
20s

How would you power them separately? Would you get a 2-channel amp for the 100s and a 5 channel for the rest? A 3-channel and that's it? Or a 7-channel?

After pondering this for a few months, I'm leaning toward a 2-channel and a 5-channel, though I'm wondering how important it is for the L/C/R to be equally driven. I'm guessing the difference won't be noticeable if it's very similar.

How much 2 channel audio do you listen to? If you have a large CD collection that you listen to I'd go the best 2 channel amp your budget will allow and let your receiver handle the rest. Put the money you were going to spend on the 5 channel into the 2 channel.

If you listen to a lot of DVD A and SACD then go the 2/5 route.

Probably will be 95% HT, 5% music. (Dedicated HT use)

Probably 2 channels 20% of the time, all 7 channels 80% of the time.

I'm going to make the assumption that the bulk of you 7 ch listening is HT and not 7/CH audio. If it is a lot of 7 CH audio then I'd change my recommendation a bit.
If 80% of my listening was 7 channel (HT) then I would get a real good 5 oh amp. The 100s will really like 200 w/pc of quality amplification so I would power the 100s off a 2ch dual mono power amp and the other 5 off a good 5 ch amp (similiar to your 7 ch amp like you have now). IMO the other 5 speakers will not demand the same level of power reserve as the 100s especially for movies.
Since the bulk of your use is HT then a seperate 2 CH system (2CH preamp with HT Pass) is probably not neccessary. There is no getting around the fact that the 100s like the power.
If on the other hand you listen to a lot of multichannel music like SACD or DVD audio in 5/7 channel then I'd put as much cash as possible into a high powered 7/CH amp.
It really all boils down to how much you can spend. With a really, really high budget I'd go for seperate amps as much as possible
Do you plan on buying new or used?
For me I like to set my budget and then see what I can get new, then surf Audiogon for a while and see what I can get used.


You will find that buying used electronics (amps) will allow you some much nicer stuff. If you do your research and buy products with a good reputation and you still end up with a used product that does not really live up to your expectations then you can re-sell at close to par.
With my limited resources there is no way I could afford to buy all the equipment I really like new. The markup is so high and I like to change my equipment as I find ways of improving. I think it is real hard to choose components w/o testing them in house. As far as i'm concerned listening in the showroom is mostly a waste of time due to all the variables. The problem here is that the only way you will really get to test equip is if you fully intend to buy new and have a dealer who will let you test drive. Otherwise it is research on web sites and an educated guess. I prefer to make sure what ever I purchase is a great deal (used) and get my money back on a resale if I don't like it. This is also a lot of fun if you are an audio nut like myself.
One more thing.
If you want the 100s to sound thier best you will need to find a way to get more space around them than 8". I suppose there may be ways around that if you want to treat your room.

You're correct that the bulk will be HT use... HDTV, DVD, games. My budget will probably be around $2500 for two amps... so I'll probably go $1000 for the 2-channel and $1500 for the 5-channel or so, I'm guessing. I'm not sure about used vs new. I'm not a big fan of constantly swapping out gear, but I don't have the most convenient method of doing so right now either, and I will by the time I'm ready to get the amp(s).

I'll probably get the 2-channel first, then a 5-channel later, based on your comments. I'm a bit worried about warranties, as I won't want to be screwed out of that much cash if it breaks. I agree with your assessment of how to audition them -- I'm guessing it would be rather difficult, and you mostly have to go by reputation and other people's systems. I think I'll go to my Paradigm dealer and see what their policy is for test driving the amps at home (I think it's 30 days), and if it's a liberal enough policy, I'll actually test drive a few and just get the one that I like new. Of course, I'll be posting back my impressions when I do so, to help others in their pursuits...

Hi-

I'm putting together a music/HT setup (25% 2-ch music, 75% HT) in a relatively small room (13'x11'x8'). I'd like to keep the speaker budget in the $1200-$1500 range for a 5.1 setup. The receiver will probably be a $600-$700 Denon/Integra/Yamaha AV model. The main dealer in town is basically a Paradigm shop, so I'm looking at a pair of Focuses up front, paired with a CC-170 center and ADP-170 rears, and a PDR10 sub. (Seems a bit odd to spend a good percentage more on surrounds than for the fronts, but I suppose if I was really worried about it I could skip the dipoles and go with Atoms or Titans in the rear.) Anyway, for another $100 bucks or so, I could step up to either Esprit's or Mini Monitors for the front pair. Would mixing in a different series (Monitors) into an otherwise Performance setup cause problems with voice-matching, etc., esp. with the CC-170? Would it make more sense to go with the Focuses and drop that extra $100 into a CC-270?

Last question, and I realize this is a Paradigm thread and this is a loaded/open-ended query, but how would such a setup compete with a similarly priced Axiom system?

Thanks,
Sean

Any thoughts on my possible upgrades ?
Hello all SO Now I have a pair of Mini Monitors L&R- CC-350 ,Cinimas in the rear ,& a PDR8 with a denon 3805. The WIFE told me she does NOT like the wall unit towers ( that the Monitors sit on the shelfs) so This was my in to say IF we get rid of the wall unit where will we put the L&R speakers ( not giving her the ida we could get stands) SO NOW is my chance to upgrade to a nice pair of floor full range speakers. I was thinking about looking into the Monitor 90P & dump the PDR 8 also . any thoughts ?? I would love to get the Signature S8 But I do not have that kind of $$$$$$ I may be able to swing a pair of Studio 100 But I think the Monitor 90P Might be a better choice IF I also dump the sub.
Thoughts ??
I want to move to Floor Standing speakers - One major reason I think my 2 year old would pull on speaker stands & pull the speakers off the stands

Well I took a walk@ lunch today to have a listen to some speakers .They did not have the Monitor 90P so I hade a listen to the Monitor 11s. I thought they hade great punch with out a sub ( I listened to SRV Tin Pan Ally & Screamin Cheata Wheelies ) I love bluesy rock! Than I hade a listen to the same tracks on the stuido 60s , I thought it sounded cleaner brighter but NOT as much punch as the M 11s . Like I said I now have MM & a PDR8 sub but If I upgrade I would like to lose the sub. My room is 14 Ft wide & 30 ft long but half is dinning room so I sit about 12 ft from speakers .The foks @ the store said my 3805 would not be enough to drive the stuido 100s With all of that said - room size music I love & reciever what towers would you suggest ?

hey!!
would the lucky people with paradigm signatures make some comments?
what is your experience with these speakers in home theater, movies. would it make a great upgrade from my studios?

antman, as said is it is to say this, as there is often a WAF issue, you don't want to go backwards and get rid of the sub, or she'll think you won't need one. It'll be that more difficult to go back to a sub later. Just some food for thought. I have 60s and they work very well driven by a receiver.

Darryl, from what I've listened to, and read on this forum, the Signatures do not sound much different from the Studios, except for the ADP due to the additional driver. They look unbelievably better, though. If you don't like the look of the Studios and want to spend a few thousand dollars to make them look insanely nice, then go for it. If you're expecting a big sonic benefit, get a separate amp or two.

IF I get the studio 100s will a Denon 3505 be enough to power them ?

According to others, not nearly to their full potential. But it'd probably be enough to only get a 2 or 3-channel amp (no need to drive the surrounds separately I would guess).

darryl, though I don't have the particular Signatures in question..the S8's, I do have the S2's, C3, and the ADP's. I use a sub with the S2's up front. I'm very pleased with the way they sound in my audio room. I listen to 75% 2-ch and multi-channel music, and 25% movies. I have them powered by Arcam and use all Arcam gear. I couldn't be happier, they're perfect for my particular room and needs. The Studio is a great line of speakers as well, the Birdseye Maple was a deal breaker for me....they are exquisite looking, but...sound as well also. I guess it boils down to what you're willing to pay for a certain speaker if you just can't move on without it...I'm happy with mine and haven't looked back ;)

Late entry ...

Center: Paradigm STUDIO/CC V.2
Fronts: Paradigm LCR-450
Surrounds: Paradigm ADP-450
Rears: Paradigm LCR-450 X2
Subs: Paradigm PW-2200 X2

Receiver: Rotel RSX-1065
with a QUAD-405 driving the rears.

Late entry ...

Center: Paradigm STUDIO/CC V.2
Fronts: Paradigm LCR-450
Surrounds: Paradigm ADP-450
Rears: Paradigm LCR-450 X2
Subs: Paradigm PW-2200 X2

Receiver: Rotel RSX-1065
with a QUAD-405 driving the rears.
Just curious, I'm from Montreal area also, where did you purchase your Paradigm gear? :)

Im in so cal where would I purchase paradigms either online or retailer

Just curious, I'm from Montreal area also, where did you purchase your Paradigm gear? :)

I got most of my Paradigm speakers a long time ago, but, I got them from multiple sources... Codell Audio, La Boutique Electronique, eBay and canuckaudiomart.

Hey thanks a bunch Disto, if you have other links or hints like those for Canadian source for A/V enthusiasm (anything, review sites, online retailers, retailers, etc.), don't hesitate to share them, it seems like I have difficulties finding good Canadian online retailer. You can PM them to me if you will :)

Thanks in advance!

hey!!
would the lucky people with paradigm signatures make some comments?
what is your experience with these speakers in home theater, movies. would it make a great upgrade from my studios?

I have to disagree with miltimj on this one. And it's just an opinion for what it's worth.

I used to have the 100 v.2s, and while I had those, I bought the v.3 ADP 470's. To my ears it was quite apparent that the tweeter in the v.3 series was superior to the v.2's. That gave me the upgrade bug again. And to top that off the wife agreed with me that I should build a dedicated HT in an unfinished part of my home.
I loved the way the Sigs looked and wanted them for my HT instead of the monolithic 100's.
Here's where it gets goofy. I didn't think they sounded much better than my 100's or the v.3 100's in the showroom. I bought them anyways because of how they look and also because I got a great deal on the demos they had in the store.
When I hooked them up in my home, it took all of about 10 seconds to realize just how good these are. They were better than my v.2's and the tweeters are again another step up from the v.3's they are just liquid and detailed beyond belief. I attribute this to two things, one, is that I might have a better "memory" of my own room's acoustics making it easier to distinguish the diferences between the two. Two, in the showroom they were using an Anthem AVM20 and a Denon 3900 so they were using a lower resolution signal transfer (either coax or optical) than I was with my Elite 59AVi & Z9 through i-Link.
Either way no buyers remorse here. Also I could have been happy with my 100's forever, we're not talking huge differences. We're talking about that last 5 - 10%.

No contest on the finish though. The Sigs are very pleasing to the eye.

Were you A/Bing the 100s vs the Sigs in your room, or going off of memory? I find it very difficult to accurately compare speakers from memory. You think, "wow, these look great, and they cost 3x as much, they're going to sound better...", and then begin listening with a bias, whether intentional or not. Same thing with comparing video displays to a certain extent.

I do agree that a better source can show differences between speakers much better, however. Also, I'm not saying that the Sigs don't sound better, but rather that the difference is very small. For the most part, you're upgrading from a great sounding speaker, to a great sounding speaker that is absolutely gorgeous. :)

hey guys !
as the title says im having probs with my surround sound, reason being
i have studio 20's front, cc-570 center, servo-15 and paradigm FOCUS as side surrounds, all powered by Marantz 7400.

the sound doesnt blend well with the fronts esp when watchin movies, sumtimes in some intense effects scenes i feel Focus dont deliver well. i would have got adp--470 but it is not available in my COUNTRY. Yes ! ive called up every dealer and ended up in disappointment, i live in Pakistan. my HT is 75% used for movies, even when i listen to music i prefer to listen in STEREO.

would do u guys suggest about adp-470 over studio 20's as surrounds?. now that im definite to give the FOCUS back for sumthing for my side surrounds shud i go for 20's or adp-470 are really worth it. i will have to get adp-470's without auditioning them.

one more question which im sorry to throw in this thread is, the guy has POLK Fxi5 surrounds available with him, would they blend well with the system??

I found the same to be true, until I used a receiver that EQs the rears and center to be roughly equivalent to the fronts. Non-believers can sit down; this works to make a similar-sounding package virtually perfect in creating a seamless soundfield.

After several months of stalking boards like this one and auditioning equipment, I've finally decided to pull the trigger on the Studio 100's & 570 center. I'm going to hold off on the rear/surround (can't decide between the 20's and the ADP's). I also just ordered a Velodyne SPL 1200 II (closeout price...trying not to blow the budget). Now I just need to decide what to power this all with. Any input? I'd like to get a Denon 3805 or Yamaha 2500 (because either is about $1000) for now and add an amp later, but I'm not sure from what I've read that this would adequately power the 100's. I've also been considering the Outlaw 770/990 combo, but I'm a little hesitant to buy w/o seeing, touching, etc. first. Sorry if this has all been beaten into the ground several times over, I'm just excited that I finally found the system I've been looking for.

It was quite a pain in the a$$ for me to choose Paradigm. I live in Las Vegas, and there is no Paradigm dealer here. So I drove to my nearest dealer in St. George, UT, (2 hours) but they only display/stock the Studio 20. I asked the 12 year old salesman to get me a price on the entire Studio setup...he said he would call me the next day with the information (he never did). Not being willing to buy w/o fist listening, I drove to Phoenix (5 hours) to listen to the 100's and really liked them and I liked the salesperson. The St. George store beat the Phoenix store's price by about $500, but I can't get the kid to call me back! I guess I'll have to figure this one out myself.

Went here sat. to demo S8.

*edit*Cant post URLs*edit* (grr)

What a place. They have been there for 35 years and also have B&W new and used all over the place.

Stop by there if you can.

Thanks for the link!!

Been pricing around. Thankfully I have a local Paradigm dealer 1 mile away to demo between the Studio 100s and the Signatures. Next part was finding a good deal. The local dealer wouldnt budge very far off the MSRP, then I found this link. Saved me a bunch of cash.

On order, due to be delivered at the end of the week:

Pair of Signature S8s
Signature ADPs
Signature Servo 15" Sub

All in that luuuvely Rosewood finish! The guy said they were flat out of the C5s, but would call me in a week or two to tell me if he would get anymore in stock. Anyone else knows a good place with similar prices, please let me know.

Were you A/Bing the 100s vs the Sigs in your room, or going off of memory? I find it very difficult to accurately compare speakers from memory. You think, "wow, these look great, and they cost 3x as much, they're going to sound better...", and then begin listening with a bias, whether intentional or not. Same thing with comparing video displays to a certain extent.

:)

Yeah I was going off memory. Which I believe is why I wasn't so impressed by the in store demo. I also went from the v.2's to the Sig's. I have the v3 ADP470 and Studio 20's on hand to compare at least the tweeters. There's no doubt in my mind the Sig's tweets are more "refined".

I'm very wary of buyers remorse causing a bias in opinion, having been there myself. I bought some Anthem PVA's to bi-amp my 100's thinking my HK AVR8000 might be on the lean side powerwise. Yep, conviced myself that it sounded way better until I decided to get the Z9 and sold the Anthems before the HK. Hooked it back up and, surprise, there was no dicernable difference.. period... Ouch.

So another walk to have a listen today & Lunch - My Dealer is telling me I should lean towards a pair of Ref 60s & not the Mon 11s
I think the 60s are brighter & more acurate But the 11s mave more of a punch
Ant thoughts ?

antman, I directly compared those two speakers and my wife and I both liked the 60s much better. In fact, she didn't want the 11s at all, and wanted me to get the 60s. Who am I to complain? :)

Did you find the 11s to have more Low's & a pit more punch ??

Hey Surfrider, Congrats on the Signatures, I know you'll enjoy your purchase when they get into your home and set up properly, I think they're great speakers myself :)

How will the new V compare to a V1 in the 60s ? I am looking & a pair of used 60 V1 for $500 ish

Did you find the 11s to have more Low's & a pit more punch ??
Yes, but the mids and highs were much more crisp on the 60s, and the lows are covered by my sub.
How will the new V compare to a V1 in the 60s ? I am looking & a pair of used 60 V1 for $500 ish
Supposedly the V1s & V2s are very similar, bigger difference between the V2 & V3. Not sure about the V4s.

I would imagine any sensible shopper could find the differences in writing, and then again in hearing. This should be able to discern between noteable improvements (or differences) and snakeoil.

I love my V2's (100's), but I cannot see a reason to upgrade.

I love my V2's (100's), but I cannot see a reason to upgrade.


Put in your situation I would not upgrade either. On the other hand if one was to upgrade to 100s from a lower level then there is a definite improvement in the V3 over the V2.

[QUOTE= On the other hand if one was to upgrade to 100s from a lower level then there is a definite improvement in the V3 over the V2.[/QUOTE]


What in particular is the improvement? I have the V3. 100s never heard V2. I'm just curious

I’m just about to pull the trigger on these and had a question about the ADP-470s.

The frequency response on the ADP-470 surrounds is ±2 dB from 90 Hz - 22 kHz. 90Hz sounds a bit high (especially since I was going to set my LFE crossover to 80Hz - possibly 60Hz). Have any of you had any problems when things get loud and low with the ADP470s crapping out? I’m considering using the 20s but I think the ADPs will give me a better movie experience.

Speakers Setup:
----------------
- Fronts: Studio 20’s
- Center : CC570
- Sides Surrounds: Studio 20s or ADP 470s
- Rear Surrounds: Studio 20s
- Sub: HSU VTF-3
- Receiver: Denon 3805 (or Marantz 7500)

Room Setup:
--------------------
- 15 x 17 x 9 (screen on 17’ wall)
- 115” diag 16x9 screen
- BenQ PE7700 DLP Projector
- 12’ view distance from screen
- Couch 3’ from rear wall
- 90% HT, 5% DVD-A/SACD Music, 5% 2-Channel Music

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Steve

One difference is that the V.3 uses a solid aluminum phase plug in the mid/bass driver where the V.2 uses a dust cover. The V.3 also has a small adjustment in the crossover setting. Other than that I'm not sure if there is much difference in sound. I listened separately but not side by :cool: side.

I’m just about to pull the trigger on these and had a question about the ADP-470s.

The frequency response on the ADP-470 surrounds is ±2 dB from 90 Hz - 22 kHz. 90Hz sounds a bit high (especially since I was going to set my LFE crossover to 80Hz - possibly 60Hz). Have any of you had any problems when things get loud and low with the ADP470s crapping out? I’m considering using the 20s but I think the ADPs will give me a better movie experience.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Steve

I need to make the same decision. I just ordered the Studio 100s for front and the 570 center channel, but couldn't decide between the 20's or ADP 470's for the surround speakers...so I decided to hold off for now. I am definitely interested to see what other people's experience has been.

I’m just about to pull the trigger on these and had a question about the ADP-470s.

The frequency response on the ADP-470 surrounds is ±2 dB from 90 Hz - 22 kHz. 90Hz sounds a bit high (especially since I was going to set my LFE crossover to 80Hz - possibly 60Hz). Have any of you had any problems when things get loud and low with the ADP470s crapping out? I’m considering using the 20s but I think the ADPs will give me a better movie experience.

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Steve

I wouldn't worry about it. I cross mine over at 80hz as well and there's no problem whatsover. I listen to a lot of loud SACD, DTS and DD music.
You should look at the low frequency extension spec; I believe it's in the 50's or lower. And I doubt that there would be a steep drop-off between the 90hz and the LFE; it just wouldn't fall in the +/- 2db range Paradigm uses.
A lot of speaker manufacturers use + / - 3 db as the reference point for their F.R.'s to make it look better. From what I undestand a 3db variance is supposed to be inaudible.

I just checked their site, the ADP 470's LFE is 58Hz.

S&V measured it down to 50hz @ 70db SPL before it got below their 10% tolerance

What in particular is the improvement? I have the V3. 100s never heard V2. I'm just curious

To expand on the physical differences that Phideax mentioned there is the obvious. Slightly smaller cabinet and absence of veneer side panels as well as outboard spikes as opposed to gold spiked feet underneath. The binding posts are also different. Some/many will consider the smaller cabinet, non veneer and loss of gold feet negative differences.
Sonically the V3 has a sweeter midrange and less aggressive tweeter IMO. I did not do side by side comparisons in my house but I did do this at the dealer. I think that the difference is large enough that it is quite obvious. If you loved the tweet in the V2 then the V3 will seem perhaps a little laid back for your tastes but many including myself feel that the only real V2 weakness was the sometimes harsh tweeter. A smaller difference to my ears was perhaps a little more speed in the bass with the V3 but at the same time a little less weight in the bass. Some will love this and others will consider it a negative. For myself I like the speed but I also like weight so I'm glad I have a servo 15 which can carry any weight the V3 may be giving up.
Please remember these are my opinions and I will not be surprised if some people prefer the V2 over the V3. Like I said earlier. If I had 100 V2 already I'm not sure I would upgrade to V3 but if I were to go from a 60 or an 80 then 100 V3 all the way.

I never really noticed the tweeters in my V2-100's until a friend brought over his table and we spun some horn (brass) music. WOW, did those puppies come alive. No where near reference level, but loud enough to get rid of the cats and the wife. Completely changed my impression of my speaker's capabilities. Took me a few to get off the floor and stop bowing to the gods they are. lol :D

I just checked their site, the ADP 470's LFE is 58Hz.

S&V measured it down to 50hz @ 70db SPL before it got below their 10% tolerance

rnrgagne,

Thanks for the reply. I'm going to demo them again and put some volume to 'em. I'll see if they hold up :D

Steve

To expand on the physical differences that Phideax mentioned there is the obvious. Slightly smaller cabinet and absence of veneer side panels as well as outboard spikes as opposed to gold spiked feet underneath. The binding posts are also different. Some/many will consider the smaller cabinet, non veneer and loss of gold feet negative differences.
Sonically the V3 has a sweeter midrange and less aggressive tweeter IMO. I did not do side by side comparisons in my house but I did do this at the dealer. I think that the difference is large enough that it is quite obvious. If you loved the tweet in the V2 then the V3 will seem perhaps a little laid back for your tastes but many including myself feel that the only real V2 weakness was the sometimes harsh tweeter. A smaller difference to my ears was perhaps a little more speed in the bass with the V3 but at the same time a little less weight in the bass. Some will love this and others will consider it a negative. For myself I like the speed but I also like weight so I'm glad I have a servo 15 which can carry any weight the V3 may be giving up.
Please remember these are my opinions and I will not be surprised if some people prefer the V2 over the V3. Like I said earlier. If I had 100 V2 already I'm not sure I would upgrade to V3 but if I were to go from a 60 or an 80 then 100 V3 all the way.

Very well put.

I noticed the diference in the tweeters right away between the 100 v2's and the ADP v3's when I had them both going. And I would say the difference is just as pronounced in the tweets between the Sigs' and Reference

I have found a pair of Monitor 7 V3 for sale (asking $450) and am seriously considering them. Do you guys think the V3 would be a decent chioce for Music / HT?

It seems that for the price compared to the retail of the Monitor 7 V4 these might be a nice find.

The only diffrences i can can dig up for the V3 to V4 are an improved tweeter and redesgined crossover.

Are they the same size, height wise? Will the V3 likely be more bright sounding?

How do you thik these would compare to the Ascend 340s?

Just got my Signature S4s today. I've owned a set of Paradigm Studio 100v3s with the Servo 15v2 for over a year. I have a very good ear as to how they sound with music. How do the Sigs stack up. The Sigs are much better than the Studios. Some would say %10 or %20 better, but in the audio world that last %10 is huge. It's the difference between a good speaker and a great speaker. The Sigs are truly great speakers.

I’m just about to pull the trigger on these and had a question about the ADP-470s.

The frequency response on the ADP-470 surrounds is ±2 dB from 90 Hz - 22 kHz. 90Hz sounds a bit high (especially since I was going to set my LFE crossover to 80Hz - possibly 60Hz).

Although not the same speaker the situation is similar, my Paradigm CC-370's have a range of ±2dB from 100 Hz - 20 kHz however I set my receiver's cross over point at 60Hz, this number bieng well within the limits of my 11's and 7's. I have to date noticed no adverse affects because of this and all seem's to work great, IMHO you won't notice any problems.

Denon AVR-3805
2 x Paradigm Monitor 11's Mains
2 x Paradigm Monitor 7's Surrounds
1 x Paradigm CC-370 Center
1 x Paradigm PW-2100 Sub

A question for you Paradigm owners. Given the choice between the following 2 setups, which one would you pick?

Monitor 11 Fronts
CC-370 Center

- OR -

Studio 20 Fronts
CC-470 Center

MSRP on these setups look pretty close. I have a Denon AVR-2805, and I'm leaning towards the SVS PB10-ISD subwoofer. Surrounds will come later. It will probably be used equally for movies and music. My family room is about 14'X16' with 9' ceilings, but it is also open to a dining area and kitchen. Thanks for the input!

Assuming you're getting a sub (as you stated), without a doubt I'd get the 20s & 470. The 470 is a much better sub than the 370, but each center matches with the fronts that you have listed. You can also use the 20s later for surrounds if you end up upgrading beyond the 20s for fronts.

FYI, I have almost your exact room configuration, and use a PB12-ISD, which I think is a perfect fit for the space.

A question for you Paradigm owners. Given the choice between the following 2 setups, which one would you pick?

Monitor 11 Fronts
CC-370 Center

- OR -

Studio 20 Fronts
CC-470 Center


Although there's no question the Studio's are superior to the Monitor Series I would go with the 11's and CC-370 over the 20's and the CC-470. If however you choose at a future date to add Studio 60's or 100's as Fronts and move the 20's to the back as surrounds then I'd go with the 20's. It's my opinion having heard both, that the 11's are superior to the 20's.

Thanks for the input, guys. The fronts I get now will stay in the front for good, so it sounds like the Monitor 11's with the CC-370 would be the better choice. Tim, I'm considering that 12" sub instead of the 10", considering how much open area there is with the dining room and kitchen.

In My upgrades I may concider SA 35s Over the Monitor 11 Or the Studio 60 Just for a clean look BUT not sure yet .

After demoing the Klipsch RF-35's, Paradigm Monitor 7's, Monitor 11's, and Studio 60's today I made my decision to go with the Studio 60's and the CC-470 center channel. Quite a bit more than I wanted to spend on speakers, but after hearing them I knew I just couldn't settle for any of the others. Even my wife thought they sounded best, and afterwards she said that she didn't think there would be so much of a difference in speaker sound. She wanted them almost as much as I did! Have to wait for my dealer to get them in from up north, so it may not be until Friday of next week before I can hook them up.

True tales of an adventure in purchasing a paradigm product: today is the six-month anniversary of when I first purchase my paradigm Signatures. Once delivered, I excitedly unpacked them and instantly noticed that the C5 had a completely different finish than the S8's. It was so pronounced that it simply looked out of place with the S8's. Not even a close match. Upon further inspection, I noticed pronounced blemishes on the front of the speaker. Completely unacceptable. I was really disappointed by the lack of quality control. But I figured no big deal. So I immediately returned the C5 to my dealer and asked for an exchange for a new one.

After about four months (in July) the dealer became so exasperated with the company , that they gave me the names of two different individuals at Paradigm, and suggested I contact them directly to plead my case. I of course gave that a try, and was told they would send me a new one in a few days. Two months later, four more e-mails, and three more telephone calls, and nobody would get back to me. Simply unbelievable! The dealer is apparently having many similar issues of a complete absence of customer service with other customers as well. I believe they are about to give up completely, and stop carrying their products.

I finally gave up today, and my dealer graciously allowed me to trade in my Signatures for a B&W 800 series set up. It cost me more money, but I feel so much more comfortable knowing I'm dealing with a reputable company. It's really quite sad how tremendously enthusiastic I was to own the flagship Paradigm system. I was so genuinely proud of my Signatures (even though I never got to actually hear them in my home, because I was waiting for the freaking center channel speaker before I set them up). I now feel completely duped for having remained so patient and loyal, and allowing Paradigm to rectify this situation. I'm really quite saddened to have to return the speakers. However, I am so happy to have them out of my house, because they bring nothing but bad feelings.

I truly believe these were some of the finest speakers I ever had the pleasure of hearing. They were also beautiful to look at. However, part of the experience of ownership is directly related to customer service. I am simply amazed at how badly I have been treated by this company. I don't mean to take away from any of the pleasure or pride of any current owners of Paradigm products. But I do want to warn any fellow forum members who are considering buying from Paradigm. They make such a tremendous product, I really hope they get their act together.

Evan

redline65,
Congratulations on the speaker purchase! Let us know how it goes once you get them home. :D

I truly believe these were some of the finest speakers I ever had the pleasure of hearing. They were also beautiful to look at. However, part of the experience of ownership is directly related to customer service. I am simply amazed at how badly I have been treated by this company. I don't mean to take away from any of the pleasure or pride of any current owners of Paradigm products. But I do want to warn any fellow forum members who are considering buying from Paradigm. They make such a tremendous product, I really hope they get their act together.
Evan

It's unfortunate you had such a bad experience and it didn't work out for you. Since you had the S8s perhaps your dealer could have let you use the floor model C5 until yours finally arrived.

I wouldn't call the dealer "gracious" for allowing you to give him more of your money. Trading the the 800's for the S8s straight up would have been "gracious". I do admire your patience. Once the dealer gave me the names of people to call at Paradigm I would have asked for a refund of the sales commission to get the speaker at cost. Or cancelled the order for the C5 and found another Pdigm dealer that had one in stock.

Good luck with the B&Ws

Thanks for the good wishes John. My apologies to any and all, for being a dark cloud on an otherwise celebratory thread. I do hope all who own Paradigm products continue to enjoy their speakers, and I hope my experience will not be shared by others.

Evan

Evanfew: No one here is a bigger Paradigm fanboy than me. But, if I had your experience with them, I would not have had your patience. This is an unfortunate example of success breeding arrogance. I would e-mail Paradigm and let them know that your mission in life is now to post on every home theater and hi-fi forum about the miserable customer service you experienced with them. Enjoy the B&W's and let us know how they work out for you.

I had a similar experience with the US rep in customer service, he got very arrogant when I had a few questions regarding cone material and I also wanted to report a blemish on one of my previous speaker cones, (Monitor 11s)

he had no apologies and said we,re not perfect and how come I did,nt call my dealer, which I did, I told him it was my choice to call Paradigm direct not the dealer's, and that I wanted to be sure I have the correct information

anyway he was not much help, and wouldn't elaborate on any info,and insisted that I call my dealer, who was more proffetional any way

very shocked I was disappointed the guy called my dealer and wanted to know why I was calling them, after I told the guy it was my choice to call not the dealers,

I now upgraded to Studio 100s/ CC570 and I still see the same kind of blemishes on one of the drivers but less visible than the last set

I still love the product, but this left a very bad taste in my mouth and will always remember this arrogance, you named it (success breeding arrogance)

Did you find the 11s to have more Low's & a pit more punch ??

As far as 11's go, the mid/tweets sound quite a bit better on the v.4 vs. v.3.

Lots of good Paradigm info in this thread, sorry if my question has already been answered but I couldn't read the whole thread. I have your basic JVC 110 watt per channel receiver (RX-7030VBK). I am running Monitor 7's for my fronts and the CC-300 for my center. I recently blew up my receiver (almost literally, actual smoke coming from the unit). I like to listen to my music very loud, I have a large house and when I'm cleaning or doing work on the house I like to have the music up loud. My question is, with a regular 7 channel AV receiver, what is the best way to wire my bi-amp capable fronts and center? I was just running the main speakers outputs to the monitor 7's that have the bi-amp bars installed and the same with my center. Since these are 6 ohm speakers, doesn't that actually bring them down to a 3 ohm draw i.e. parallel connection? Or are they 6 ohm with the bi-amp bars installed and 12 ohm without? Fortunately my receiver was still under warranty but the warrany runs out in a month and I don't want to blow it up again. Then again I have been considering getting a more powerful receiver, although I would like to stay with JVC because of the compulink feature and their most powerful receiver is 130 watts. Any feedback would be appreciated. TIA

As far as 11's go, the mid/tweets sound quite a bit better on the v.4 vs. v.3.

Prozakk,
Do you think this would apply to the Mini-Monitors and Monitor 7 as well? I have heard that the v.4 Monitor line has an improved cross-over compared to the v.3 with trickle down technology from the studio line.

Prozakk,
Do you think this would apply to the Mini-Monitors and Monitor 7 as well? I have heard that the v.4 Monitor line has an improved cross-over compared to the v.3 with trickle down technology from the studio line.

I'm sure it would since Paradigm upgraded all Monitor's crossovers.

If I was just using a receiver's power, I'd say get 7's for front L/R. Since I have a 200wpc amp on my mains, I opted for the 11's.

I'd avoid the CC370, no matter which version. The MiniMonitor makes a better center. I speak from experience. I used to have 4 Mini's for surround. After getting tired of the CC370v.3's lack of reproduction below 100 hz, I tried a Mini as center. MUCH BETTER!!!

I sold my Mini's & moved my 5v.3's to rear surround...and bought another pair on closeout for side surround.

I modded my CC. I made a horizontal version of the 5's enclosure/tune for the CC's drivers. See the link in my signature for pics of finished CC/Monitor 5 hybrid.
My center/surrounds are powered to a identical looking 100wpcX5 amp.

Harman Kardon Signature 1.5 (200X2) I bought refurbished for $500.
Harman Kardon Signature 2.1 (100X5) I bought off eBay for $600.

From time to time either are available on eBay &/or Audiogon for $500 to $600, & are a STEAL.

Thanks Prozakk. I'm familiar with your setup from both here and the spot.

Thanks Prozakk. I'm familiar with your setup from both here and the spot.

I've replaced almost everything in my pics since the SPoT. I listed it there, but the pics weren't updated.

I've replaced almost everything in my pics since the SPoT. I listed it there, but the pics weren't updated.

It looks like you had Mon 7's in your first HT set-up. Do you find a big difference between the 7's and the 11's you have now? I know the 11's can go lower, but if you have the 7's paired with a decent sub, is it a big difference?

I have owned various Paradigms for 15 years and have only experienced exceptional customer service. I'm in Canada though so maybe I'm dealing with different reps.

It looks like you had Mon 7's in your first HT set-up. Do you find a big difference between the 7's and the 11's you have now? I know the 11's can go lower, but if you have the 7's paired with a decent sub, is it a big difference?

As I stated in a post above, I had 5's for fronts. They were on DIY stands the same width/depth/height as the 5's, thus the illusion of 7's.

As I stated in another post above, if just using a receiver, get 7's. If using an amp, get 11's. I haven't listened to the 7's since v.2's BTW.

I wouldn't suggest either without a sub though. Sure they have okay bass output, but even an el cheapo sub would help.

I do like having towers up front vs. the 5's. I have my x-over @ 80hz, & towers reach it with more authority, thus blending better w/sub(s)...this was much more noticable with music, than movies. Plus when my son's asleep & I want to turn off subs, movie watching is much better w/towers, than bookshelf speakers.

I hope this has been helpful. :D

P.S. And dont forget...MiniMonitors sound better as a center than the CC370! ;)

Evanfew: No one here is a bigger Paradigm fanboy than me. But, if I had your experience with them, I would not have had your patience. This is an unfortunate example of success breeding arrogance. I would e-mail Paradigm and let them know that your mission in life is now to post on every home theater and hi-fi forum about the miserable customer service you experienced with them. Enjoy the B&W's and let us know how they work out for you.

I agree completely. I'm running Paradigm speakers as my surrounds and rears and adore them, but if I had the problems you guys are speaking of I would definitely get word to the main office as to just how atrocious both their service and reps have been, and that they are costing the company not only the customer's sales but also the sales of others who become leery of such word of mouth. Lots of people on this forum, and if their poor business ettique costs them just a percentage of their potential sales, that's still a wad of cash.

Just finished the basement and putting the finishing touches on the new home theater (my first!). It's appx 22'x25', but only using about 2/3 the room for the theater. Went to the dealer a couple of weeks ago, auditioned paradigms, and fell in love. I told him my room requirements and my budget, and purchased the following:

Fronts: Monitor 7
Center: CC370
Sides: MiniMons
Rears: Maybe later!
Sub: PDR10
All ver 4

In his (10'x15') demo room, these sounded fantastic, but I've been reading that Paradigm subs are a bit lacking in power. After scanning through this topic, I don't really see anyone who has bought the PDR10. Should I look to exchange my sub for something else? Is there a comparably priced sub that performs better? I have no illusions about these speakers being as spectacular in my large basement as in the dealer's room, but I'm wondering if I can squeeze just a little bit more out of my dollar. I might even be able to spend a bit more for something better. I did get a good deal on this set (significantly below MSRP), but the dealer is a good guy, and will exchange speakers if I'm not satisfied.

BTW, these speakers will be driven by a H/K AVR635.

I have a PW2100 Paradigm Sub and I love it, it's a 10" as I listen to a little more music I wanted a "faster" Sub so opted for a 10" over the 12". I've never heard the PDR10 however after listening to my PW2100 I know paradigm knows how to make a sub :) I would however recommend at least a PS1000 or PS1200, more money than the PDR Series but you'll appreciate the extra power.

BTW the Monitor 7's rock :)

Yuri33,
I have a PDR-10 sub in a 17 x 15 room. The PDR-10 is a relatively fast sub which makes it decent for music, however if you are looking for that deep gut punching bass then you might consider some other subs. For a room your size, you might be better off with a second sub or a more powerful one.

If you can swing it, then the PW2100 is another 10" sub that has gotten really good reviews. You might also check into subs by Hsu and SVS which are not that much more than the PDR-10.

If you are constrained by the size of the sub, which it doesn't look to be based on the size of your room, then you might want to check out the new Paradigm Ultracube 10. Its footprint is even smaller than the PDR-10, but retails for $699.

I have been lurking here for a while and am about ready to purchase some paradigm speakers. My room is 17x17 with the couch against the back wall. As such, I will have sides and no rears. We watch 80% movies/TV

Fronts: Monitor 7
Center: MiniMons or CC-370
Sides: MiniMons or ADP-370
Rears: Not much room. Couch is against the back wall
Sub: PS-1000 or PS-1200 or non-paradigm
Receiver: Denon AVR-1906 or 2106

I had a few questions/thoughts:
1. I understand the CC-370 isn't..umm..highly regarded in this thread. I was thinking about getting a MiniMon for the center and maybe just using the other MiniMon from the pair (do they sell them outside of pairs?) mounted on the rear ceiling to fire downward. Although this may not pass the WAF.

2. I have noticed a wide variety in subs in this thread. Any thoughts on a good sub to pair with my set-up and watching habits?

3. Given that the couch is against the back wall and I will only have sides. Would the MiniMons or ADP-370's be better? For budgetary reasons the MiniMons are a lot better, but if there would be a noticeable difference, I could move up to the ADP-370s.

4. Is the Denon AVR 1906 enough to power the front and sides?


Gosh, I feel like a five year old on the day before Christmas. Thanks for any help.

Based on your intended usage, I would normally suggest going with the ADPs. However, since your couch is right up against the back wall, then the ADP-370 probably won't be right for you. In a 5.1 set-up, the ADP-370's should be mounted on the side walls with at least 2 feet between the back wall and the speaker in an ideal situation. I have my ADP-170's about 1.5 feet from the back wall and it seems to work ok.

Hi guys, well I am throwing in my request for paradigm help also ;)

I’ve looking, reading and listening to Paradigm speakers since a long time, and in 2 months I’m moving into a condominium, so I will upgrade in coming years. So far that’s what I’ve pull up:

MAINS: 2X Paradigm Studio 60 (Rosenut finish, oh-oh!)

SIDES: 2X Paradigm Studio 20 (or 2X ADP-470, but I’m not sure since I have no back wall, I need your advice on this…?)

REARS: 1X Paradigm Studio 20 (Since I got a small room, I figure I don’t need 7.1, I’ll go 6.1)

CENTER: 1X Paradigm Studio 20 (Or the CC-470, but it might a good idea to use a Studio 20? Not sure either)

SUB: That’s the area where I have no idea, since I will live in a condominium (basement level, pretty much concrete all around except for the ceiling), I don’t want to disturb the neighbours too much, but still want to enjoy my HT with bass. I’ve look in into room dampening, stuff like bass traps, and such, can it really help diminish the neighbour disturbance?

For the sub, I need advice on this too, since I got a small room, it probably won’t cost me too much, my budget is about 600-700$. I like tight bass. One salesman recommended me the Monitor Audio Radius 360, I didn’t have time to listen to it yet though. How about Paradigm subs? Witch should one I look at? I’m Canadian, so I get a little more value for my dollars when buying Canadian, so maybe I could go that route?

RECEIVER: I’m currently looking at the Integra 6.5

ROOM: 12’ X 14’ (but there is no back wall, it goes right through the dinner room and kitchen, witch give a total room size of 12’ X 27’ 6”)

LISTENING: 60% Music (CD, SACD, DVD-A) / 20% Movies / 20% Games

That’s it so far, thanks in advance for any input!

with those dimensions i would look into a large sub velodyne or paradigm with a 15 inch woofer. close to my space i had to take back the 12 get the 15 vel to fill the space won't to feel the explosions not just hear them.

1. I understand the CC-370 isn't..umm..highly regarded in this thread. I was thinking about getting a MiniMon for the center and maybe just using the other MiniMon from the pair (do they sell them outside of pairs?) mounted on the rear ceiling to fire downward. Although this may not pass the WAF.


I have absolutely no problems with the CC-370 whatsoever, It's basically for HT only and to that end it does it's Job just Ducky :) for 5/7 Channel Stereo I set it to -6dB as I feel it's not needed. I run all speakers small, 60hZ Cossover.

I have absolutely no problems with the CC-370 whatsoever, It's basically for HT only and to that end it does it's Job just Ducky :) for 5/7 Channel Stereo I set it to -6dB as I feel it's not needed. I run all speakers small, 60hZ Cossover.


I also ran the cc370 for about three years and never felt that it underperformed.

Gentlemen, I’d love to hear some opinions… I’ve had a set of Studio 60 v.3’s and CC470 for about a year or so now and really enjoy them. Previously I’ve used the reference SA-15R ceiling speakers for surrounds but I’ve recently moved and ceiling speakers won’t work in the new room. The new room is a rectangle, with TV against a long wall and couch against the other long wall. One short side is open to kitchen area. I can’t decide what to do for new surrounds. Should I go with 20’s mounted to the back wall pointing at listening position or should I go with ADP 470’s mounted on back wall facing TV? Side placement is out since one short wall is open and speaker stand wouldn’t really work due to couch placement. Also what would be a good price for a pair of Studio 20’s or ADP 470’s keeping in mind that I’ve moved and have no relationship with the local dealer. Thanks for the input!

Gentlemen, I’d love to hear some opinions… I’ve had a set of Studio 60 v.3’s and CC470 for about a year or so now and really enjoy them. Previously I’ve used the reference SA-15R ceiling speakers for surrounds but I’ve recently moved and ceiling speakers won’t work in the new room. The new room is a rectangle, with TV against a long wall and couch against the other long wall. One short side is open to kitchen area. I can’t decide what to do for new surrounds. Should I go with 20’s mounted to the back wall pointing at listening position or should I go with ADP 470’s mounted on back wall facing TV? Side placement is out since one short wall is open and speaker stand wouldn’t really work due to couch placement. Also what would be a good price for a pair of Studio 20’s or ADP 470’s keeping in mind that I’ve moved and have no relationship with the local dealer. Thanks for the input!
I'm in a similar situation, I have Studio 60's and the CC-470 on the way but I don't know what to do for surrounds. My couch sits against my back wall, and there are no side walls to mount surrounds to. Floor standing surrounds fall short of the wife approval factor and are out of the question. I could mount the surrounds to the wall behind my couch, each one approx 5'-7' from the center position of the couch. Not sure which surrounds to go with for this, maybe the ADP 470's flush mounted to the wall facing the TV. Don't know if these speakers are bipole/dipole, or what that would mean for mounting them.

If you can't tell a CC370 doesn't do <100hz, lucky you. ;)

If you can't tell a Mini sounds better than a CC, again, lucky you. ;)

If you can't tell a CC370 doesn't do <100hz, lucky you. ;)

If you can't tell a Mini sounds better than a CC, again, lucky you. ;)

I'm aware of the <100Hz limitation but for a center channel it hasn't appeared to be an issue (Assuming mainly for the human voice sounds in HT -- approximately 500hz to 5khz), now if I was using it for other duty i.e. surrounds etc.. I could see where it would be more of a problem, thus for music I faze it out (-6db or greater channel level and leave the imaging to my 11's ).

I have no doubt the Mini is an excellent speaker and am in no position to compare the two, just to comment on the lack of problems with the CC-370 in my configuration.

I don't doubt you meant well and were not intending to offend, however your comments came across a little condescending.

Try listening to a muscle car go across the front 3 channels. The low rumble will be missing.

My dealer didn't notice a problem. I didn't at first. But the more I listened to it, the less I liked the weak/thin sound of it.

Since I modded mine, I like it alot.

Next time you go to a Paradigm dealer, ask to hear a Mini as a center. It will make the center come to life, in comparison to the CC.

For the price of a CC, you can buy a pair of shielded Minis, and use the second one as a rear center, or just a spare.

I just hate to see people spend hard earned money, on a speaker they'll grow tired of if a critical ear is developed.

But if you don't want to compare, don't. If you're happy, good. If you're happy or not, then compare, you'd hear what I mean.

Now that I'm a working man, I'm thinking about going from a 2 channel setup to 5.1 (bought Titans back in '94, they must be V1's). I never really loved their sound as they I think they sound too nasal, but being the cheap bastid that I am, I am willing to expand on them as a foundation for 5.1. I had half a mind to throw a bunch of Atoms around them as some have said the vocals are smooth and amazing (ie not nasal) and that they preferred them to the Monitor line. So armed with this knowledge I went to the local Paradigm dealer for some auditioning...

First off I get settled in for a comparison between the Atoms and Titans. Well, all I can say is they sounded vastly inferior to the Titans. It must be that they are lacking in bass? I'm no expert but there is no way I could be happy with them.

Next was an A/B comparison between the Titans and the Mini-monitors. IMHO there is a huge step up in performance going to the Minis. I am forced to spend at least the 'monitor level' now. Should've stayed home...

Wanting to hear an A/B comparison between the Minis and Studio 20 was gonna be hard since the 20's were kept in a separate room. 'No problem', the sales guy said. He went and got them with the stands and wired them up. Nothing like working hard to extract those extra duckets. Anyway, there is a definate improvement going from the Minis to 20's, although the I could be happy with the Minis, and the jump wasn't as drastic as going from the Titans to Minis (which was Drastic). However, I don't want to be yearning to upgrade like everyone else on this forum, so I think I'm going with the Reference line. No one seems happy with the 370 on here (from my limiting reading here) and they seem to eventually upgrade to a 470 or 570, so thats another reason to go Reference rather than Monitor line

With that being said, I have to ask, why is it that the cc-470 gets mentioned alot more than the cc-570? I have to figure that the CC is the most important speaker for HT, so why skimp on it...

And my other question is, should I go for the 20's or 40's? I'm gonna use it for 95% HT and 5% music (if at all). I can't go 60 or 100 since I live in a condo and may move out of this city, so I need smaller speakers for easy transportation...

You mentioned cheap, then Reference. You might want to look into the used market then.

www.audiogon.com
...................................type Paradigm in the search box.

Still though, 3 pairs of Mini's get's you a 6 channel surround sound speaker set, with quality, for not too much $$$... if you bought 3 pairs at once from a dealer, you should get a pretty good deal.

EskimoPie & redlin65: I was in the same position earlier this year. Bought 60 v3's, CC470, and ADP470s. My couch is against a partial wall with the dinette open behind. I did not like the sound of the ADP470's as surrounds. I experimented in many ways (placement, height, loudness, etc), but still could not get them to my liking. I exchanged them for 20's on speaker stands. In my opinion, the 20's were a big improvement. Others here swear by the ADP470's, so I would suggest to go do some critical comparisons. The 20's on stands are about the same cost as the ADP470's; both less than $1K/pair.

EskimoPie & redlin65: I was in the same position earlier this year. Bought 60 v3's, CC470, and ADP470s. My couch is against a partial wall with the dinette open behind. I did not like the sound of the ADP470's as surrounds. I experimented in many ways (placement, height, loudness, etc), but still could not get them to my liking. I exchanged them for 20's on speaker stands. In my opinion, the 20's were a big improvement. Others here swear by the ADP470's, so I would suggest to go do some critical comparisons. The 20's on stands are about the same cost as the ADP470's; both less than $1K/pair.

Ditto :) except for the partial wall with dinette open behind.

EskimoPie & redlin65: I was in the same position earlier this year. Bought 60 v3's, CC470, and ADP470s. My couch is against a partial wall with the dinette open behind. I did not like the sound of the ADP470's as surrounds. I experimented in many ways (placement, height, loudness, etc), but still could not get them to my liking. I exchanged them for 20's on speaker stands. In my opinion, the 20's were a big improvement. Others here swear by the ADP470's, so I would suggest to go do some critical comparisons. The 20's on stands are about the same cost as the ADP470's; both less than $1K/pair.

Thanks for the advice. So do you place the 20's against the back wall facing directly at the listening position?

I hear a lot of people preferring a Mini Monitor compared to a CC-370, is it the same with a Studio 20 and a CC-470? Anyone can comment on whether they like a Studio 20 as a center better then say a CC-470, or even a CC-570?

I hear a lot of people preferring a Mini Monitor compared to a CC-370, is it the same with a Studio 20 and a CC-470? Anyone can comment on whether they like a Studio 20 as a center better then say a CC-470, or even a CC-570?

I like my 570 as my center. I have not tried my 20 as a center so I can't give a direct comparison. The 570 is purpose built as a center so you would hope it would sound better than a 20.

When I run the auto set up EQ on my Denon 3805 it sets my Mini & large speaker and the CC-350 as small . I would think they should be set the same -the cc has 2 drivers @ the same size HUMMM

I just recently upgraded from monitor 3s, mini monitors, and cc350 (all V1) to monitor 11s, minis, and cc370 (all V4 in light cherry).

Love my Paradigms.

-Eli

Is there a place to find out the MSRP on Paradigm speakers? I can't seem to find it on their website, and many sites like audioreview and audiogon don't list what version the price is for.