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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 2 responses by gunbei

gunbei
2,327 posts
 
2chnlben,

Or, you could be like me, buy a used pair sight unseen/unheard on Audiogon and if you don't like 'em, sell 'em and try something else.

A lot of us on A'GoN take that approach because if you buy used you stand to lose very little and you get to "live" with them for as long as you'd like.

It's sometimes difficult to get a good feel for a component without spending more than a weekend or a week with it.

Do the research and listen to what your audio brethren have to offer.

Have fun!
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
2chnlben,

From what I understand, Totems can be placed close to rear and side walls. I've never owned them, but when I had the opportunity to hear them I was impressed.

It's funny, because I've been using ProAc 1SCs and Tablette 50 Signatures in a room smaller than yours and with a ton of junk scattered in it, but I've gotten great results. I just bought a pair of Response 2.5s last week which are 42" tall floorstanders, so they're 2" taller than your wife will allow. Even in my small room I think they're fantastic. As big as they are, they disappear better than the 1SCs!

I'm a couple years older than you, so maybe I'm going through a similar MLC, heheh.
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