The Official Paradigm Speakers Thread

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by Fors*

IMO, better clarity at both higher and especially at lower volumes is what I feel I gained the most by adding an amp to my speakers. The monoblocks work exceptionally well for when I listen to 2 channel music, and my speakers are older Monitors. The amps gave them new life and they opened up their dynamic range more than I thought they were capable of. I also like the extra headroom when I really want to push it, as my range for watching movie is in the same range as you guys, around -5db's to around -20db's

I hear what you're sayin.. when I got my XPA-3 though it was back when I still had my Monitor 11's and CC-390. I wasn't looking for more detail at lower volumes so I didn't really notice it. I bought the amp for the headroom since both my AVR's(Onkyo 705 & Yamaha 6190) went into protection mode when I really pushed them.. even blew a tweeter on my Polk CS2. So what I needed was clean power at the volumes I like.

Now since I already had the XPA-3 when I got my Studios I can't tell if it helped with detail at lower or higher volumes.. all I know is that the sound of the Studio's was very clean with no compression or distortion no matter what volume I got it at. With 5.1/7.1 movies and 2ch the XPA-3 and Marantz do very well. So If the sound is that clean will another amp make the sound $1000 cleaner

I know If I went with separates in the future I would probably stick with Emotiva for power since I've never had any issues with my amp. It does what I need and the price is right even with shipping to Canada. Americans get a sweet deal with these amps that's why they are so popular cuz it's a great value. People can spend more and get the same thing just to be different but for me if it works for less than why not save for something else.. Right now I don't think there's a need for any more amps until I do go pre/pro - the Marantz SR8002 is a beast itself and can handle the Studio 40's and RC-R's with ease. It does get warm though but not hot like my Onkyo.

If I could try out another amp maybe it might change my mind and maybe not but I won't spend more to find out. I think I finally killed that upgrade bug that hit pretty hard last year.

[aces high]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

I hear what you're sayin.. when I got my XPA-3 though it was back when I still had my Monitor 11's and CC-390. I wasn't looking for more detail at lower volumes so I didn't really notice it. I bought the amp for the headroom since both my AVR's(Onkyo 705 & Yamaha 6190) went into protection mode when I really pushed them.. even blew a tweeter on my Polk CS2. So what I needed was clean power at the volumes I like.

Now since I already had the XPA-3 when I got my Studios I can't tell if it helped with detail at lower or higher volumes.. all I know is that the sound of the Studio's was very clean with no compression or distortion no matter what volume I got it at. With 5.1/7.1 movies and 2ch the XPA-3 and Marantz do very well. So If the sound is that clean will another amp make the sound $1000 cleaner

I know If I went with separates in the future I would probably stick with Emotiva for power since I've never had any issues with my amp. It does what I need and the price is right even with shipping to Canada. Americans get a sweet deal with these amps that's why they are so popular cuz it's a great value. People can spend more and get the same thing just to be different but for me if it works for less than why not save for something else.. Right now I don't think there's a need for any more amps until I do go pre/pro - the Marantz SR8002 is a beast itself and can handle the Studio 40's and RC-R's with ease. It does get warm though but not hot like my Onkyo.

If I could try out another amp maybe it might change my mind and maybe not but I won't spend more to find out. I think I finally killed that upgrade bug that hit pretty hard last year.

I think the only think you have left to do is bring your subs up to the caliber of the rest of your system. Did you ever inquire about those Sub 12's?

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by aces high

I think the only think you have left to do is bring your subs up to the caliber of the rest of your system. Did you ever inquire about those Sub 12's?

It sure wouldn't hurt -DLS-...I love SVS and their subs, but something a little bigger would sure provide a good amount more punch.

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by aces high

I think the only think you have left to do is bring your subs up to the caliber of the rest of your system. Did you ever inquire about those Sub 12's?

I haven't contacted the seller since I last mentioned it.. I wouldn't have been able to pull it off anyway since we spent wayy too much $$ on our two trips home this summer..

Originally Posted by Fors*

It sure wouldn't hurt -DLS-...I love SVS and their subs, but something a little bigger would sure provide a good amount more punch.

I agree with you both. After adding the PB10-NSD to the BIC it made a huge difference so getting something bigger would probably change it the same way. I don't feel my room is lacking bass but I know it can be better for sure. For those that have watched a movie at my place, some have commented on how impressed they were with the bass too but most suggestions from them were "all you need is a bigger TV" or "projector". My wife wants a bigger display too so I think that is more important since I don't have really have any complaints with the bass.

I got three things on my wish list but top of the list is a bigger better shaped room to work with.

1. Room (which means gotta wait til next home)
2. Display upgrade (at least 60" or a PJ once we get a new place)
3. Sub upgrade - (Dual Ultras or maybe look into some Paradigm Subs) don't want cylinders though since like ace - I prefer a box type look and my cat would probably destroy them.

[aces high]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

I haven't contacted the seller since I last mentioned it.. I wouldn't have been able to pull it off anyway since we spent wayy too much $$ on our two trips home this summer..




I agree with you both. After adding the PB10-NSD to the BIC it made a huge difference so getting something bigger would probably change it the same way. I don't feel my room is lacking bass but I know it can be better for sure. For those that have watched a movie at my place, some have commented on how impressed they were with the bass too but most suggestions from them were "all you need is a bigger TV" or "projector". My wife wants a bigger display too so I think that is more important since I don't have really have any complaints with the bass.

I got three things on my wish list but top of the list is a bigger better shaped room to work with.

1. Room (which means gotta wait til next home)
2. Display upgrade (at least 60" or a PJ once we get a new place)
3. Sub upgrade - (Dual Ultras or maybe look into some Paradigm Subs) don't want cylinders though since like ace - I prefer a box type look and my cat would probably destroy them.

I have a few things on my wish list as well
1) New blu ray player either Anthem or Oppo can't decide which one
2) Better room correction: Anthem receiver?
3) Another Sub 15
Do you guys have any other suggestions?

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

I haven't contacted the seller since I last mentioned it.. I wouldn't have been able to pull it off anyway since we spent wayy too much $$ on our two trips home this summer..




I agree with you both. After adding the PB10-NSD to the BIC it made a huge difference so getting something bigger would probably change it the same way. I don't feel my room is lacking bass but I know it can be better for sure. For those that have watched a movie at my place, some have commented on how impressed they were with the bass too but most suggestions from them were "all you need is a bigger TV" or "projector". My wife wants a bigger display too so I think that is more important since I don't have really have any complaints with the bass.

I got three things on my wish list but top of the list is a bigger better shaped room to work with.

1. Room (which means gotta wait til next home)
2. Display upgrade (at least 60" or a PJ once we get a new place)
3. Sub upgrade - (Dual Ultras or maybe look into some Paradigm Subs) don't want cylinders though since like ace - I prefer a box type look and my cat would probably destroy them.

I see you have a plan.....and it sounds like a good one too. I agree that a bigger display would make the biggest impact, so try to keep your eyes on projection. The prices are cheaper than TV's and the bang for the buck is incredible. Like you said, with the right sized room, it is a must!

I bet the right shaped room would only make your speakers sound better to, add some treatments, and you may love them more than you do already.

Cats > cylinder subs......bad idea for sure. Get a box.

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by Fors*

I see you have a plan.....and it sounds like a good one too. I agree that a bigger display would make the biggest impact, so try to keep your eyes on projection. The prices are cheaper than TV's and the bang for the buck is incredible. Like you said, with the right sized room, it is a must!

I bet the right shaped room would only make your speakers sound better to, add some treatments, and you may love them more than you do already.

Cats > cylinder subs......bad idea for sure. Get a box.

Thanks Fors!! I appreciate your feedback. You got pretty much what I need from my wishlist I bet all movies sound and look wicked!!

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

Thanks Fors!! I appreciate your feedback. You got pretty much what I need from my wishlist I bet all movies sound and look wicked!!

Yes it looks and sounds very good IMO, but I still want more, LOL!!! A 3rd UPA-1 and the Oppo 80 or 83 should be added before years end. I have even been thinking of selling the XPA-3 and going ahead and getting 3 more UPA-1 monoblocks just so I can power all 6 speakers individually and have a stack 6 high!

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by Fors*

Yes it looks and sounds very good IMO, but I still want more, LOL!!! A 3rd UPA-1 and the Oppo 80 or 83 should be added before years end. I have even been thinking of selling the XPA-3 and going ahead and getting 3 more UPA-1 monoblocks just so I can power all 6 speakers individually and have a stack 6 high!

Haha yeah a 3rd UPA-1 would be sweet for your setup but 6 total you're CRAZy lol. That Emo thread is bad for you!! Did the UPA-1's really make that much of a difference? I've always wondered but don't want to believe it since it already sounds good but you guys I gotta try not to read your posts.. I think either oppo would be a nice add-on for you. I love my BDP-83. I even wanted the SE but why I won't use the analog section it's just to have something better I guess. I use the HDMI to the Marantz and let the Marantz do it's thing. Are you keeping you Elite if you get fully amped or getting a pre/pro?

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by aces high

I have a few things on my wish list as well
1) New blu ray player either Anthem or Oppo can't decide which one
2) Better room correction: Anthem receiver?
3) Another Sub 15
Do you guys have any other suggestions?

The oppo is a good choice and already known to be reliable and a great player for many uses. Havn't heard andything about the Anthem players.
I haven't seen your setup yet but the gear list sounds nice and a second sub 15 would be awesome! Can't suggest anything else til you get your stuff moved back into the HT room and post back on how you like it all. You'll be able to tell then what your missing if anything..

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

Haha yeah a 3rd UPA-1 would be sweet for your setup but 6 total you're CRAZy lol. That Emo thread is bad for you!! Did the UPA-1's really make that much of a difference? I've always wondered but don't want to believe it since it already sounds good but you guys I gotta try not to read your posts.. I think either oppo would be a nice add-on for you. I love my BDP-83. I even wanted the SE but why I won't use the analog section it's just to have something better I guess. I use the HDMI to the Marantz and let the Marantz do it's thing. Are you keeping you Elite if you get fully amped or getting a pre/pro?

You have the 83, but don't use the analogs and you don't havde a projector....so couldn't have the 80 done the saem thing for you? This is the actual dimenna I have had between the two and why I haven't decided yet. I bought the 2 monoblocks for the purpose of improving my 2 channel listening, hence the possible Oppo 83 with its analogs for SACD's.

Here is what I posted about what the 2 monoblocks did for my fronts:

I did find time to finally push the mono's to get an impression and opinion on them versus what the XPA-3 provided. I felt the sound of the monoblocks versus the 3 channel amp can best be heard with the low frequencies IMO. The woofers seem more active and pushed a little harder. This in turn seems to have improved the actual "presence" of the towers in my 6 channel set-up. They now seem to sound like a "bigger" speaker and I became more aware of their sound coming from the front soundstage. I am not sure about this, but due to having individual parts, transformer, etc..but perhaps the headroom provided from the monoblocks as compared to a multi-channel amp also gave the higher frequencies a bit more "cushion" to them...but I am not really sure. But I can say the low end seems to be contributing more and has made my Monitor 7's sound like a larger speaker than it is.

[aces high]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

The oppo is a good choice and already known to be reliable and a great player for many uses. Havn't heard andything about the Anthem players.
I haven't seen your setup yet but the gear list sounds nice and a second sub 15 would be awesome! Can't suggest anything else til you get your stuff moved back into the HT room and post back on how you like it all. You'll be able to tell then what your missing if anything..

I've been hanging around the house all day waiting for the ESA inspector to pass all the wiring so we can close it all in again, luckily not everything had to be torn out. When it passes today the drywallers should be here thursday to board it and first coat of mud, it will problably be three coats. Which means it won't be done this week but next, we're getting close though.

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by aces high

I've been hanging around the house all day waiting for the ESA inspector to pass all the wiring so we can close it all in again, luckily not everything had to be torn out. When it passes today the drywallers should be here thursday to board it and first coat of mud, it will problably be three coats. Which means it won't be done this week but next, we're getting close though.

Hopefully soon man I hate waiting I am very impatient. It will be worth it though I guess - wont have to worry about any more work in the future..

[Genocide316]

Maybe a dumb/random question. Are there any etailers or retailers that sell Paradigm speakers? I tried searching their site and one of the places it mentioned near me is strictly car audio sales (as far as I know) and the other place builds custom theaters for businesses or homes but doesn't seem to have a brick and mortar store to walk into. Just curious.


Edit - I did just read on their site that they only offer them through authorized dealers.....I just sent an e-mail to one of the places seeing what they offered etc. Hope they send me some good info

Thanks for any help.
Jay

[Morrissey]

Originally Posted by Genocide316

Maybe a dumb/random question. Are there any etailers or retailers that sell Paradigm speakers? I tried searching their site and one of the places it mentioned near me is strictly car audio sales (as far as I know) and the other place builds custom theaters for businesses or homes but doesn't seem to have a brick and mortar store to walk into. Just curious.


Edit - I did just read on their site that they only offer them through authorized dealers.....I just sent an e-mail to one of the places seeing what they offered etc. Hope they send me some good info

Thanks for any help.
Jay

Just insert your zip code here and you'll find the closest location to Richmond:

http://www.paradigm.com/where-to-buy/where-to-buy

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by Morrissey

Just insert your zip code here and you'll find the closest location to Richmond:

http://www.paradigm.com/where-to-buy/where-to-buy

This is what I used previously.

[-DLS-]

Genocide 316
If that search to the link Morrissey provided doesn't pull up anything in your area I would still call the shops around your area. When I enter my postal code the closest shop shows 182kms away but I got a dealer 40kms from my place. They have been selling Paradigms for over 10 years but not listed on their site so there are probably a few like that not listed. When I called Paradigm to verify they were an authorized dealer the Paradigm rep knew my dealer by first name and confirmed.. she said it might have been because my dealer changed locations 4 years ago but wasn't sure why he's no listed on the site..

[Genocide316]

Originally Posted by -DLS-

Genocide 316
If that search to the link Morrissey provided doesn't pull up anything in your area I would still call the shops around your area. When I enter my postal code the closest shop shows 182kms away but I got a dealer 40kms from my place. They have been selling Paradigms for over 10 years but not listed on their site so there are probably a few like that not listed. When I called Paradigm to verify they were an authorized dealer the Paradigm rep knew my dealer by first name and confirmed.. she said it might have been because my dealer changed locations 4 years ago but wasn't sure why he's no listed on the site..

Thanks DLS and thanks everybody. I sent an e-mail out to one of the places and received a response back that they are in fact a dealer! I'm mostly trying to get an idea on pricing at this point. I've got the general speaker / audio upgrade bug at the moment. What people have in their home theaters today put my dinky setup to shame! Unfortunately my sub woofer crapped out on me so that is more than likely first on the agenda but I plan on going the new receiver (with pre outs), amp, new speaker route in the hopefully not to distant future. Paradigm speakers have caught my eye for some reason and I've heard / read a lot of good things about them. Anybody have any insight on what I might be looking at cost wise? Base setup vs mid vs high?

[-DLS-]

Originally Posted by Genocide316

Thanks DLS and thanks everybody. I sent an e-mail out to one of the places and received a response back that they are in fact a dealer! I'm mostly trying to get an idea on pricing at this point. I've got the general speaker / audio upgrade bug at the moment. What people have in their home theaters today put my dinky setup to shame! Unfortunately my sub woofer crapped out on me so that is more than likely first on the agenda but I plan on going the new receiver (with pre outs), amp, new speaker route in the hopefully not to distant future. Paradigm speakers have caught my eye for some reason and I've heard / read a lot of good things about them. Anybody have any insight on what I might be looking at cost wise? Base setup vs mid vs high?

No prob.. Here's an updated Paradigm price list along with a few other speker brands and other gear.

[Ferrari Fan]

OK, well, after my posting of pics of my new set up last week, everybody gave me a thumbs up, with the exception of the shelf support somewhat blocking my center channel speaker. So, today I re did the tv stand to elimanate the center support bar, and replace it with a 4 x 4 on the backside which won't be seen as the center channel will block it. The smaller 4 x 4 support you can't see as it's between the floor and the bottom shelf.

Many original suggestions mentioned turning the shelfs around which I can't as each shelf has 2 quanty 2 inch holes to pass cables through. You can see the holes on the picture of the stand without the center channel speaker.

I have included the original photo showing the support bar along with the three new pictures from today. There is a slight difference in the quality of the sound, now that the support is removed, but this could also be in addition to moving the center channel speaker forward about 5 inches. The front of the center channel speaker sits about two inches from the edge of the shelf, though it looks farther back in the last picture.


ORIGINAL

SHELF SUPPORTS

SHELF SUPPORTS IN PLACE

SPEAKER BACK ON SHELF