I have long felt that system/room synergy is ultimately what determines if we like our systems.
Obviously, to your ears, the B&K + Paradigm coupling is not working. Some are of the opinion that amps need to break in. Without agreeing or disagreeing on this, you might try leaving your system on with an FM signal running through it for three days straight at moderate volume. Do not listen critically to the system during that period. Then, re-audition the B&K/Studio combo.
IMHO, there is nothing wrong with using tone controls, provided you do not notice them degrading the sound.
Check back with your dealer. Tell him you're unhappy with the B&K, and that you're not keeping it, whether he takes it back or not. Tell him that he can work on some kind of accomodation offer for you, or that he will forever lose your business and the business of any future potential referrals. See if he will allow you a generous trade-in (don't settle for less than 90% of what you paid for the B&K), especially if you like some of his other brands.
If you go the Audiogon route, you should get at least 80% of MSRP if everything is pristine.
You should also audition some Anthem amps with your Studio 100s. They are both Sonic Frontiers products, and AFAIK, Anthem electronics are used to voice Paradigm speakers, especially the Reference line. I've heard the Reference/Anthem combo many times, and IMO it is a winning combination, and should provide the level of detail you seek.
Obviously, to your ears, the B&K + Paradigm coupling is not working. Some are of the opinion that amps need to break in. Without agreeing or disagreeing on this, you might try leaving your system on with an FM signal running through it for three days straight at moderate volume. Do not listen critically to the system during that period. Then, re-audition the B&K/Studio combo.
IMHO, there is nothing wrong with using tone controls, provided you do not notice them degrading the sound.
Check back with your dealer. Tell him you're unhappy with the B&K, and that you're not keeping it, whether he takes it back or not. Tell him that he can work on some kind of accomodation offer for you, or that he will forever lose your business and the business of any future potential referrals. See if he will allow you a generous trade-in (don't settle for less than 90% of what you paid for the B&K), especially if you like some of his other brands.
If you go the Audiogon route, you should get at least 80% of MSRP if everything is pristine.
You should also audition some Anthem amps with your Studio 100s. They are both Sonic Frontiers products, and AFAIK, Anthem electronics are used to voice Paradigm speakers, especially the Reference line. I've heard the Reference/Anthem combo many times, and IMO it is a winning combination, and should provide the level of detail you seek.