Paradigm Speakers
I bought my Paradigm Studio Reference Monitor system a couple of years ago and love the sound it produces. I spent a long time listening to numerous products, including Axioms, prior to deciding to spend the extra money on the Paradigms, and couldn't be happier. I perceived the Paradigms to have a much smoother and more natural sound than the Axioms, which while still very good, seemed excessively bright and forward. Plus, I perceived the build quality differences to be obvious between the two lines. For me, although the Axiom price point was attractive, I just felt that I would be happier long term with the Paradigm product. Perhaps it just gets down to the amount of expenditure one can afford. That said, I also listened to many higher priced speakers in as contolled of an environment as possible - inlcuding most of the favorites you often read about in these pages. I still thought that the Paradigms were the best value of the group. Of course, it will come down to personal preference at some point - but then, we are our own arbitors of taste and value, right?
On to the finish vs price issue. After Paradigm discontinued real wood veneers for the Studio Reference Series speakers with the Version 2 product, and started using laminates only on the Version 3 product, I don't believe there is any difference in cost between finishes. Of course, there are differences in their Signature series, which offer premium finish wood veneers that are drop dead gorgeous. Of course, I couldn't justify that kind of cash to achieve a beatiful furniture quality finish on my speakers. Perhaps someday.
Pat
Paradigm Studio Reference Series 100's
Paradigm Studio Reference Series CC-470
Paradigm Studio Reference Series ADP-470
HSU dual TN-1220 Subwoofers with HSU 500 watt amp
B&K AVR-507 Surround Receiver
Marantz DV-8400 Universal Player
Pioneer Elite 50" Plasma
2) ART SLA 150 WPC stereo power amps
2) pairs of NEAR 8T external speakers
Scientific Atlanta Hi-Def DVR
