Still pondering Paradigms


The selection of speakers to audition is limited in my area. However, with a budget of $1,600.00, I can't afford the majority of the really good higher-end speakers out there. There is a Paradigm dealer here, and I must say, that I was impressed with the Studio 40's. At least I think I was!!

My dilemma is that I need to replace my ML Sequel II's (wife says there too big) and I've been very happy with their sound. I don't want to give up too much of what the ML's offer - clear, transparent upper and mid-range frequency. At the same time, I would like to find something with some good tight lower end. All this must be accomplished with $1,600.00 and fit into a very small room (12 x 14).

I thought I actually heard some darn good low end coming from the Paradigm Studio 40's (surprising for a bookshelf). And, they were very quick and didn't appear to sound harsh in the uppers. Can this be?

Would this speaker actually be a reasonable replacement for the Sequel II's?? Keep in mind; I wouldn't be getting rid of the Sequels if my wife weren’t making me shrink my sound room (for a kids room).

Okay, here's the bottom line: Is Paradigm the real deal? Are the 40's as good as what I've been reading? Can I find something better for the money? Are there any happy and satisfied Paradigm Studio 40 owners out there? Any persons out there familiar with the ML Sequel II’s and the performance of the Paradigms??

Note: My buddy, who's a B&W dealer, (I can't afford the 704's) says the Paradigms pretty much suck in comparison to the ML Sequel II's (I bought the ML's from him). But, that's not what my ears are telling me.
2chnlben

Showing 11 responses by 2chnlben

I appreciate the responses. I'd like to audition the GMA Europas. But, I live in Des Moines, IA. Where the heck am I going to get to see a pair!? Do they actually have good bass response? are you using a sub with your GMA's?
Eminent tech - I'll have to see if those are available around here. I do have access to the Proac's - seems like a lot of $ to spend (new) - I may have to check out used.
Thanks to all who responded.
Ahh, yes, the direct approach. I have been through one divorce and don't wish to go there again!! To put it in perspective, I lost a dedicated sound room, a really good one, (along with the house) in that divorce. Now, I just need to replace a pair of eleven-year-old speakers. Those old ML's really do sound good though. I can't believe that, with all the advances in speaker technology the past decade, I can't find some smaller speakers in the $1,600 range that will perform as well. Any more input out there?
thanks for the input. I'm glad you responded since you currently have the 60's. I was thinking about getting them, but something keeps telling me to keep looking. I've never heard the Totem's, but would like to. What's their web address? So, you think the Totem's sound better than your 60's?
The Totem web was limited - where are the dealers? How much are the Hawks? I don't think I'm going to be happy with any bookshelf. I'm accustom to more range. The Hawks are the right size. I bet they're pricey??
Great input/advice from all - a big thanks. I did think the studio 40's sounded good, but I think I need to look at floor standing speakers. My system is old, but I think it sounds good. I've mixed solid state with tubes and get a pretty decent sound out of the ML's. Here's what I have if it helps. Audio Research D-240 solid state amp; Musical Design SP-1 tube preamp; Audio Research DAC-2 D-A converter; Enlightened Audio T-7000 transport; Audioquest Lapis interconnects and Kimber Cable #8 biwired. I am a throwback from the 70's. My musical taste was very progressive for a while. I appreciate the way the Logans make vocals and acoustic instruments shine and they do a great job in the upper ranges. But, I still want to rock. At 43 I must be going through a mid-life or something. Because lately, I've been cranking what I listened to in high school! And, believe it or not, the ML's really do rock. Not a rock speaker, but they do a great job at high listening levels!
With that info on hand, what is my next step? Used floor standing....what? About 36 - 40 inches in height max (wife).
Oh, remember my room is small - 12 x 17. I'd like to hear the Totem Hawks - any warnings about Totem? I hear they no longer get their drivers from Dynaudio??
PS - I know, let my ears decide. Okay, but This is fun and informative getting input from all you sick audiophiles!
I found a dealer here in Iowa who distibutes Totem. he said he doesn't stock the Hawk, because the Staff is so close in sound and costs less. I read a bad review of the Staff. Any comments?
You are a wizard Mr. Upstateaudio! Thanks again. The dealer said he doesn't stock the Hawk. You know, I'm not going to agree to buying something I haven't heard. But I wonder if he'd bring a pair in so I could audition them?? I guess I'll find out! The Staff is the same price as the Paradigm Studio 40's (with stands). In your opinion, how do the two compare?
Thanks again.
Robm321 please don't bother reading my threads unless you can contribute. With that said, I will end this thread. Thanks to all, even you Robm321!!
Thanks to both. No, Robm321, I'm not serious. We're all friends here! I appreciate your input. I'd love to audition the Von Schweikerts, but there are no dealers, that I'm aware of, in my area. I think they're probably too expensive. I'll have to check out their website. Now, I do feel guilty. I really have let this thread run on too long. I still haven't decided on a speaker, but I don't think I'll be buying the Paradigms.

Again, a very big thanks to all.
Thank you again for all the great input. What I really need to do now is locate some dealers that distribute some of these "hard-to-find" speakers. I am in driving distance to Kansas City, Minneapolis, Omaha and Quad Cities (Iowa). Before I start searching the net, do any of you know of dealers in those areas that carry Totem, Thiel or anything other than B&W, ProAc & Paradigm (I can hear those here)?? What are your thoughts on PSB - another Canadian? Or, American made RBH? Wall placement is very important - I do need a speaker that will perform well closer to the rear wall (around 18 inches).
Also, I'm considering buying used from Agon - any feedback for me from satisfied or dissatisfied buyers???
P.S. I'm not a headbanger! When I say I like to rock, I mean I like my music loud. I want it to be clean, tight and cear though. I don't necessarily like real heavy bass -just realistic bass. I want to be able to turn up the volume and not worry about damaging the speakers (within reason).