Need help regarding Paradigm reference speakers

[freckling]

Hi all,

I'm not really sure what to do. My friend is moving across the country and instead of having to lug his speakers with him, he is willing to sell me his Paradigm Reference Studio 60's v.1 for $475. I'm not the most speaker knowledgeable person in the world, but I think it's a good deal? What do you guys think I should do? Would my Onkyo TX-SR605 be good enough to adequately power them? I currently only use a 2.1 system with Polk Monitor 50's, but if I did buy them, I would move the Polk's to the rear. Would they be semi-compatible or is this a really bad idea? I do enjoy the 50's and would really hate to not be able to use them.

I wish I was a bit smarter about these things...

 

[Rickster71]

Have you seen them; what kind of shape are they in?
I don't remember when the v1's came out?
I've seen the v2's going for over $700.
If they are in good shape, and the surrounds aren't rotted, I'd get them.

 

[codexp3]

To me the Paradigm studio series is where I reached diminishing returns. You really have to start spending lots of money to hear small differences after the studio line. I actually heard the new Studio 60v4 last week as I was picking up a replacement tweeter. They sound superb. My understanding is V1s sound very similar, but have slightly better low range extension. The 605 will provide them with ample power. If all the drivers look good I’d pick them up.

 

[freckling]

He sent me this image, should I try to get a higher resolution image of the tweeters or do I have to see them up close? Is there a specific way to tell or should it be pretty apparent if they're in bad shape? He said there are only a few digs in the veneer in the back, but nothing major.

a highly recommended go?

 

[jcPanny]

Paradigms

The Paradigm Studio 60's would be a huge upgrade from your polks. The new studio 20's v4 retail around $1k so it sounds like a pretty good deal even though they are v1's. Check out audiogon if you want to compare prices.

 

[codexp3]

Drivers look good...considering the price you're getting you'd be hard pressed to find a better sounding speaker.

 

[mazersteven]

Tell your "Friend" you want to listen to them in your house before you make a decision. If he is a "Friend" this should not be a problem.

 

[freckling]

this "friend" is more of an "acquaintance" through a friend who told me about him and i'll be able to give them a go beforehand at his home. However, are there any loyalties on his part toward me to be truthful or to help me out? I would say probably not.

if in good condition, would you say it's worth it mazer?

 

[mazersteven]

if in good condition, would you say it's worth it mazer?

I really can't answer if they are worth it. I haven't researched Studio 60v1's. Sorry.

You can get a Book Value from Audiogon.

 

[freckling]

It might be worth it to subscribe, but I guess my ears will have to be the ultimate test of whether or not it's worth the money. The sad part is that the speakers aren't even for me as I'm getting them for my parents/siblings. I guess I'll get to vicariously enjoy the speakers through them.

Anyway, in case it wasn't apparent, I thought I'd let you guys know that I'm extremely appreciative of all the feedback you guys have given me so far. Thanks a lot!

 

[skers_54]

New guy chiming in...

Hey guys,

my first post here, just figured I'd add my 2 cents...I have some Polk R series in my living room in a 5.1 config, as well as some Paradigm Atoms v.5 in my bedroom...I would say that the Paradigm are a vast improvement over the Polks...i'm very new to this, so i'm not sure about the v.1's but if the v.5's are any indication the difference will be noticeable...but then again, it is up to your ears for the final decisiobn...I would say that the Paradigms have fuller, more detailed sound, however...

 

[AVRat]

EH EH, get the'digms and give the family the Polks.