Paradigm Signature V2 vs V3

First off, I'm not so sure that it would be necessary to change out the entire system. The entire Sig line is timbre matched and similarly voiced. The ADP1's would serve you fine for the sides. As well, the C1 is one of the recommended matching center speakers for the S2 according to paradigm. It is not a matter of timbre matching, it really comes down to volume and both the S1 and the S2 are under-sized for reference volume in any thing but small rooms, ie.- 600 sq. ft or less. You didn't mention your room size so I can't really give you a solid recommendation except to say that you should be choosing your upgrade based upon the power handling of the speakers considering your listening habits. You obviously like things loud at times. You blew the S1 and it's my opinion there is a good chance you could blow out an S2 at your listening volumes. The S1 and the S2 are fantastic performers, but the S2 has a max of 140 watts of amplifier power, which is more than the S1 but not by much. So, unless you're in a small room I would suggest nothing less than the S4's for the fronts, or just keep the volumes down. 105-110 dB is REALLY pushing the S1 and S2 to their limits which is not a great idea. The S4 and up can do that comfortably with the proper amplification. All the Signature speakers are a great value for the money imo, but if you're going to upgrade, I say do it smartly so you get what you want when you turn the volume up.

It's all just my opinion, but I know what you have and I'm in the same boat. All I want to worry about with my next upgrade are my ears, not the speakers.

Gooddoc, In my situation would you move to V3's? Stay with the V2? Or get a set of S4's, V2 or V3?? I do listen to 2 channel alot but I am about 70/30 movies/music. My listening room is 15 x 20.

Regards Bacardi

As I said, I'm at the same crossroads as you. Your choice really comes down to your budget(doesn't it always). But this is how I see it.

The S6 or S8, paired with a C3 or C5 are the ideal speaker for your room size and for 2 channel. V2 or V3, doesn't matter. Obviously, V3 will have a higher output, but the V2's are more than adequate and the dealers will be looking to make deals to clear the inventory. Money no object: V3. I haven't auditioned the S6's, but I have listened to the S8 V2's and all I can say is you don't realize how hard you've been pushing those S1's until you hear the effortlessness of the S8's at higher volumes. It is simply unbelievable, pure, moving....you get the picture? One thing I know is that Paradigm is putting a lot of pressure on their dealers to limit the discounts off the V3's. 2 channel, sans sub, with either of those speakers would be awesome. With some decrement to 2 channel, and paired with a sub, the S4 would be a good choice for ht. Paradigm discontinued the S4, so their will likely be some great V2 deals to be had as the inventory clears. The S4 is a BIG bookshelf, but too small to be a floorstander, which is probably why it is discontinued now that the S6 exists. However, it's a good choice from a value perspective at this time. It's an excellent alternative to the S6 if you don't mind its odd size(I find it too big to be on a stand, but that is purely subjective) If you decide to go for another S1 or the S2, definitely get the V3 since you'll need every ounce of headroom you can get.

Gooddoc, thx for your info...have you looked into or heard the Signature Sub 1 or 2? My good friend who works at Power Center and only Paradigm seller in town said his co- worker heard a Sub 1 and said the bass is just jaw-dropping. He said a glass of water on the top of the sub didn't even slide off at high volumes. I wonder how it would compare to my SVS PB13 Ultra??

Regards Paul

I haven't heard the Sub 1 or Sub 2 but I have read some reviews of the Sub 2 that are literally mind boggling. Anechoic measurements of 97 dB @ 10 Hz, 106dB @ 20Hz, 120 dB @ 60Hz. Add 10-15 dB of room gain and you're talking almost 115 dB at 10 Hz. That is ridiculous bass, I couldn't stop laughing just thinking about putting that thing in my living room. Everything on shelves and walls had better be glued or strapped down, lol. My Servo 15 is a joke by comparison. If you can afford it they appear to be incredible in design AND performance.

Are you considering getting one of these? If so you MUST report back on the performance. I'm jealous. At this point I am looking to upgrade my fronts and center to the S6 or S8 and the C5 or C3 center and it is stretching my budget to make that happen. A new sub is not in the cards right now, but reading about the Sub 2 has certainly taken away some of the enthusiasm I was having for my Servo 15. It's kind of like pissing off a bridge and turning to the guy next to you and proudly telling him how cold the water is....then he turns to you and says, "yea, and deep too!"