How big should center spkr be to set to "large"?

We're not talking about $$$, were talking about Brown belt with black shoes.

If I'm correct the Paradigm is a $900 center channel? Which you should almost be able to swap for a used Silver Screen, it should be a even trade or +/- $100 at the worst.

I don't know how much the Silverscreen weighs, just know having one will make a huge difference.

I have the 570 myself and use it on large. Paradigm themselves told me to use the large setting. In fact if you are using a sub and any of you speakers do atleast 40Hz or lower. Use the large setting for those with your systems crossover but not rolled off.

Well, now we are getting back to my original question.

The thing is, I do NOT use a sub. And it seems when I set the center speaker to "large" in the receiver menu, I lose a lot of overall bass. I think that is because in 5.1, the center channel is full range, but the Paradigm only goes down to ~50hz. But when I set it to "small", I get a lot more overall bass.

And not only that, but when set to "large", I think because it is trying to reproduce more LF, the clarity of the center is poorer.

Perhaps I should have asked not only how big, but how GOOD a center speaker needs to be, to be set to "large".

Just checked the spec between the Paradigm and Silver, just out of curiosity. It looks as if the Silver is ahead by 2.5 paces.

Mtrot...unless something unforseen takes place, I would take the silver and part with the 570. A bit on the chunky side at 46lbs. 1lb over the 570. The Mits RPTV might not be to happy about that. But don't take my word, check the numbers for yourself. Numbers aren't everything(some say), but it sure is a good place to start.

http://www.legacy-audio.com/manuals/silversceenII.pdf

http://www.paradigm.com/Website/SiteReferenceProduct
/RModels/StudioSeries/StudioSpecs.html#1

Oh...and Ozz

Considering the specs only give the 570 60hz on and 30 degree off axis, you should get better results by switching the setting to small, this spareing your drivers the burdon of 20hz lower than intended. With a good sub, small setting, and a xover point at about 80hz instead of 40hz, chances are you may be more pleased with the outcome. Not sure who you spoke with at Paradigm, but it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot. Never know, you might like it.

Could part of the problem be putting the center channel on top of the RPTV? Putting the speaker on a stand in front of the RPTV just below the picture might improve performance. I favor a good sub, and crossing over the other speakers at 80Hz.

db