I auditoned Snells vs. Paradigms many years ago. The Snells easily bested the Para's, esp in the mids/highs. And Snell was once described as Boston Bland. Anyway, I never heard Paradigm's sound 'right' although I respect completely the Canadian model of spkr manufacture. I still have old Energy 3s and wouild use them if not for dead tweeters after countless years of uh, use.
Many spkrs sound good loud, it is low-level listening that separates the big boys from the girlie-men. I agree tha bi-wires May help, and perhaps lighter room furnishings. Does the Denon have tone controls? If so Try a subtle +1/+2 setting, and perhaps backing off the bass a bit. My pre has +/- 1 and 2 settings, period! First, do no harm! Good luck Slappy, and please let us know what replaces the Para's if/when you get there.
Many spkrs sound good loud, it is low-level listening that separates the big boys from the girlie-men. I agree tha bi-wires May help, and perhaps lighter room furnishings. Does the Denon have tone controls? If so Try a subtle +1/+2 setting, and perhaps backing off the bass a bit. My pre has +/- 1 and 2 settings, period! First, do no harm! Good luck Slappy, and please let us know what replaces the Para's if/when you get there.