B&W 7NT vs. Paradigm reference 80 for plinius mkII

He actually said that he couldn't hear the 6k difference.

I would also vote for the Paradigms. I personally think they sound much better than the B&W's.

I also think that the reason all your "audiophile" reviewers and retailers friends don't own Paradigms is because they have a low snob factor. Of course any poser would rather have the B&W Nautilus...oooh ahhh. Or any other esoteric brand name you can throw out there.

"Have you ever heard the (esoteric brand y) speaker?"
"Why no, I haven't"
"Well you just don't know what you are missing"
"Actually I'd be missing another $5k out of my pocket"

In the end it's all personal preference.

My personal feelings is why buy a Rolex when a Casio will get the job done just as well for a fraction of the price.

But many people buy speakers for reasons other than JUST sound.

Just my opinion.

I heard MANY great speakers but I feel that the Paradigms offer an excellent soundstage, solid build, and excellent transparency for a great price.

Audition whatever you can and buy what sounds best for your budget.

B&W speakers are in at least two or three major electronics stores in every major city.

I had to go to a small independent shop to find Paradigms.

It's all about what the public sees. The average Joe is gonna buy what it is in front of him.