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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 5 responses by sbank

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
Ben,
I've heard the Staff & Hawk, side by side. The Hawk was shockingly better to me, for only a few bucks more. From the similar appearances, I didn't expect it. Never heard two "next in a line" speakers sound different. Cheers,
Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
2chnlben,

When I went searching for a mid-priced HT setup, I heard the 40s and thought they sounded pretty good for what they were. The more competition I listened to, the worse in comparison the Paradigms fared.
Most important to know: what amp are you using,and are you planning to keep it?
Other things I think would give you the refinement you're seeking, w/o too much floor space:
Merlin TSM-M(used $1400-1600)
Totem Hawks (used around $1600)
Meadowlark Kestrel 2 (msrp $2k new)
Assuming you've got an appropriate amp, IMHO, these would all beat the 40s and in some parameters the MLs, too.
Cheers, Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
The Totems also sound very different from each other. In my experience the Arro sounded okay, but the Hawk blew it away for not too much more $$$.
I agree w/Upstateaudio; the paradigms are good for what they are, but IMHO they won't satisfy most w/high end aspirations in the long run. They are more of a HT, short listening session "sizzle" kind of speaker.
If you want to buy them, I dare you to try listening at the store for 90 minutes straight, uninterrupted with your favorite music. No sales-dude-chit-chat at every track's end. Bet you can't sit there for 90 minutes. That says it all. This is a good test for any gear. Fatigue kills! Cheers, Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
2chnlben,
I've seen used Hawks here for around $1500, that's why I suggested them. They go quickly when offered.

Tonyp54, I thought a Chevy I drove had a pretty good ride, once upon a time. Then I got to drive a Honda, Toyota, B&W, etc. Chevy no more for me. Doesn't matter what kind of tires they put on that Chevy. It still couldn't beat many better alternatives.
Ben is in a tough spot; his love of his MLs proves that he is a somewhat discriminating listener. Hate to see him compromise because of "what's local". If he prefers the 40 or 60, that's another story. Cheers, Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,381 posts
 
Hard rockin' might not be the Totem's strong suit. Bass is tight, but doesn't go too low, give the small size of the drivers & cabinets. Gunbei is correct, they can be closer to walls than most others, and this helps the base. The other thing worth mentioning is that the somewhat goofy metal "beaks" make a huge difference.
Perhaps Thiel 2.2 or 2.3 would be good from the standpoint of small footprint, not too tall, and can rock. They do need some room though.
Tradeoffs everywhere, Ben.
Cheers, Spencer
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