Help pick next speakers: Have Paradigm, Totem


Help choose my next speakers!

I own a set of Paradigm Studio 60 v2 (tower) and a pair of Totem Rainmakers (monitors). Neither one does everything I need, so I am looking for recommendations on what to try next.

The paradigms are just a bit too edgy and fatiguing for me. I've owned them several years and while I do like them, I find myself turning the volume down frequently. The imaging and crispness of the sound is amazing, but compared to the Rainmakers the Paradigm's presentation is somewhat recessed and hard/glassy.

The Rainmakers are an odd mix. They are easier to listen to for sure. Yet at the same time they are more forward and dry with vocals. They're not harsh at all, but on some music they are too dry and I wish there were more midrange at times. This may be an unfair criticism because room is way too big for the tiny 4" driver in the rainmakers (23'x15' and wide open into a dining room and kitchen). They simply have no punch compared to the Studio 60's, even at moderate volumes.

So: I want the best of both worlds. I want the imaging, precision, and punch/power of the Paradigms towers, with non-fatiguing sound of the Rainmakers. Suggestions???? I'm all over the map. Here's a bunch of random thoughts:

- Although I like the totem sound, I believe they are all single driver and more at home in medium sized rooms. I am leaning toward putting the rainmakers in the bedroom and going a different direction for the living room.

- I'm struggling with towers vs monitors. I'm tempted to try a good monitor, but based on the size of the room I'm thinking a tower is my only choice. Does a kick-ass monitor (like a Totem Mani-2) even have a chance?

- I'm tempted by a Revel M22 or F32 (there's some for sale locally) but I've read they're relatively bright.

Here's my current setup, subject to change:

- AMP: Outlaw 7125 7-channel amp (looking to replace with 2-channel once I pick speakers)
- DAC: CIAudio VDA-2
- Transport: OPPO DVD player, or computer (lossless)
rumatt
Dali Helicon 400 or 400 MKII (ribbon tweeter combo) with 6.5 drivers.

Totem Forest
Amphion Xenon
I like Totem's. Maybe you just need something a big larger for your room?

Dynaudio might be something to consider if you are just looking for a tweak to the current timbre of the Totems.

If you want to try something completely different than monitors or box floor standers, in particular in a room where optimal placement and listening position are a challenge, or you just want the sound stage and imaging to hold together better regardless of listening position, consider a pair of Ohm Walsh series (www.ohmspeakers.com).
Your temptation of Revels is a good one. The M22 are extraordinary in soundstage and detail retrieval and offer very decent bass. The downside is that they are quite placement sensitive and need very good electronics pushing them. The F32 is a tremendous performer and may be a very good choice given your large room.

I run Cary tube gear with my Revel M22's and really feel I have everything I want...but still keep an eye open for a local pair of F32s!