I purchased the B&K AVR 507 Receiver, and have mated it with the Paradigm Studio Reference 100 v3s, along with the matching ADP 470 v3 surrounds and CC 470 v3 center channel. In conjunction wtih the above, I am using the HSU TN-1220 sub, powered by HSU's 500 watt subamp. The system is in a rather large room, approximately 22 x 17 x 10, which opens onto a large dining, bar and kitchen area.
Frankly, I have been quite impressed with the sound, both from a power/volume, instrumental clarity and imaging perspective. I have had several close audiophile friends over to listen, and they too have indicated that were extremely pleased with what they heard.
I had extensively auditioned the Paradigms, and was pretty happy with the Studio Reference Series V 2 speakers, until I heard the V 3s. That changed my mind immediately. I have only read reviews on how nice the new Signature Series are, but have not yet listended. If they are as good as I have read, they should be superb. But on to my decision process on the B&K AVR 507....
I listened to the B&K receiver extensively prior to purchase, and directly compared it against the B&K separates and the Yamaha RX-Z1 and Denon 5803 receivers, over 4 different leading speaker systems. (I settled upon the Sonus Faber Grand Piano's for my listening tests, as they sounded the most "natural" to me.) I found that the B&K separates were not discernable from the B&K receiver until the volume control was turned up past about +6 or 8 db - at which point the volume was so loud that I was being run out of the room. I then compared against the Yamaha and Denon, and found the sound of the B&K to be more open, and less compressed or colored than either the Yamaha and Denon. I had a bias towards the Yamaha, but was so impressed with the sound of the B&K, especially for the money, that it became my receiver of choice. I have also listened to other brands, but did not have the opportunity to engage them in AB testing with the B&K.
In short, I strongly recommend the match you are considering. I am very pleased with my subwoofer arrangement, and invite you to investigate that aspect as well. Dr. Hsu responded to my e-mails and provided advice. I am quite happy with that product, as well.
Good luck, and let us know what you decide.
B & K 507
B&K / Paradigm System
Linear Mode
