Paradigm Signature V2 vs V3


I have a full Paradigm Signature S1 v2 series 5 channel home theater set-up. I am running a Parasound HCA 2205AT 220 x 5 power amp with pre processor. I recently blew my left S1 woofer with a higher than normal music burst. The S1's are rated for 175rms and can reach an access of 110 db. For a few second raise in volume the woofer driver blew. I would like to upgrade but don't know much differences in the V3 series than the V2's. Or maybe upgrade to the S2 v3. What would I gain for the difference in upgrade price? Would I need to upgrade the rest of my speakers to have a seamless blend sonically? I am running a SVS PB13 Ultra subwoofer with the Paradigms. Anybody recommend anything???

Regards Bacardi
128x128bacardi
I have the same S1 setup as you but I also have Paradigm Signature in-ceiling for the rear 7.1's. Although the S1's are an incredible speaker, I always feel they are on the edge when listening at reference levels. They do it, but you blowing the woofer confirms my suspicion that they ARE on the edge at reference levels or beyond. I have had mine bottom out on me in the past and it is an ugly sound. Also, the maximum input power for the S1 is 100 watts, not 175. 15-175 watts is the suitable amplifier power range.

I think the S1's are more than up to the task of surround duty but I think I push them too hard when using them as mains and center. Sounds like you're in the same boat. I intend to leave the ADP1's for sides and I might put the S1's into duty as direct radiating rears. The C1 will probably go up for sale here on Audiogon.

I am looking at the W5 Signatures on-wall since I have a WAF to deal with, which is the reason I got the small S1's to begin with. Personally, I think your solution is to get front's and a center that have a higher power handling than the S1's, such as the sig S4 or higher. The W5's for example have an maximum input power of 225 watts and a suitable amplifier power range of up to 475 watts.

Good luck.
Also, all the Signature speakers are voiced the same, so you don't have to worry about integration. That goes for V2 vs V3 and for up and down the signature tree.
Thx Goodcoc. I've heard the v3's are more efficient. Also if I change to S2's, they are ported and won't be timbre matched with a sealed C1 center and sealed ADP1's. I would have to change to the C3 and ADP 3's V2 or V3. Correct?? Also some say the S2's are the best for money out of all the Signature series. They would blend better with my SVS PB13 Ultra than the S1's. Fill in the midbass more as they go lower, I think 43.

Regards Paul