Paradigm Signature V2 vs V3

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

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.