I had a system with Paradigm Ref 100 V2's for about a year and a half. I had great sound with and Electrocompaniet 120 dmb amplifer and the 4.6 pre amplifier. The EC did a wonderful job taming the treble characteristics of the metal tweeter. The midrange was excellent and the imaging extended out from the speakers. The low end was great too. Not boomy, but tight and controlled. Not nearly as tight as a a Krell, but accurate and with better mid range and a better treble. The paradigms seem to respond well to high current amplifier designs. I really loved my Paradigms but I would steer you towards a slightly warm solid state design. The BAT solid state is very nice too. Depends on your tastes. I like to listen to mostly rock, rockability, and a little electronica. If you like that type of music and enjoy a good presentation of a soundstage the EC/paradigm combo is really quite good. Make sure you budget for a good source. A nice CD player took my setup to a much higher level of enjoyment and listenability.
I hope you get a chance to hear alot of brands. Ask for in home auditions from some good local dealers. Otherwise rely on the tin eared opinions of the denizens of these boards. Good luck.
I hope you get a chance to hear alot of brands. Ask for in home auditions from some good local dealers. Otherwise rely on the tin eared opinions of the denizens of these boards. Good luck.