Paradigm vs. Definitive Technology vs. Totems

[thereal_1_]

Hello,

I recently upgraded my receiver to the Yamaha RXV-1500 thanks to the feedback on this forum. I'm now thinking of upgrading my main front speakers and have narrowed down to 3 of them based on a budget of about $1,000Cdn ($800US).

My current setup is all Paradigm:
Front: Titants on stands, Rear: Cinema 90, Center: CC-170, Sub: PDR-10

I was planning to go with Paradigm Monitor 5/7 but decided to spent a little more to get a higher end product. Which of the following speakers would offer me the best value for the bucks and or be the most suited for my setup? I have listened to them all at the show rooms and have mixed reviews. They are:

- Paradigm Reference Studio 40 ($1,000 Cdn)
- Definitive Technology PM 500 ($950 Cdn)
- Totem Accousitc Arro ($1,100 Cdn)

If there are any other speakers in the same class should consider, please let me know.

Thank-you all in advance.
Brad

 

[dloweman]

thereal 1,
Do you watch alot of movies? I would suggest taking your 1000 and getting the either the monitor 5/7's and the cc370 to go with it. The center channel would add alot to the overall effects of movies. The 170 only has a 3/4inch tweeter and really lacks some omphh. I just upgraded from titans to monitor 7's and they are really a great speaker. Just a suggestion, as that would add alot to your movie viewing. If you listen to a lot of 2 channel music, then you may want to go with the 40's or another brand, not sure about the other 2 you are looking at. But as a general rule, you should try and timbre match the fronts with the center to make them all blend together.
Derek