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Paradigm studio 20 vs 60? Help please

So, Im currently somewhat locked into paradigm because of my trade up issues at my local audio store, but that's okay because I do like the sound I'm getting out of the v.5 studio series. My initial plan was to upgrade until I got to studio 60's, and then call it good for awhile, and now that I have the chance to do so (for $650), I'm starting to question if I actually want to go through with it. My concern is that I really like my studio 20's and wonder if stepping down from a 6.5 inch driver to a 5.5 inch driver with two extra 5.5 inch "midbass drivers" (crossed over at 500 hz) is going to add much to my listening experience. I've always liked monitor sized speakers, and now that I'm researching it I'm finding out that more drivers isn't always better because of conflicting dispersion from numerous drivers, more reflection off walls, etc. I'm new to this hobby, and know there are some really knowledable folks here to help steer me in the right direction, so thank you to all who respond, and please, this is only between the studio 20 and studio 60, both v.5. I know there are probably better speakers in this same price range but I'm currently somewhat locked into these speakers. Thanks again!
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b_limo's avatar
b_limo OP
2,274 posts
 
I did go and listen to both speakers lastnight side by side. We were using the same exact set-up for each as we had to disconnect one pair and using the same speaker cable, connect it to the other pair. The studio 60's had way more bass. It was in a large room and the difference was not subtle at all. Im going to go ahead and get the 60's in a week and I'll report back once I've listened to them for awhile in my own rig. I did have the studio 10's before the 20's so I'm familiar with the strenghts of the 20's over the 10's. Im just hoping that at high volumes the 60's don't "collapse" under high volumes like Kz suggested. Anyways, like I said, I'll report back once I get them! Thanks!
sthomas12321
408 posts
 
Ive owned a ton of Paradigms. Keep the 20's IMO. If you want to upgrade get away from paradigm from my experience. The S2 V1's I had were nice too. Above 1k used Paradigms value drops off(Studio 20's & S2)
b_limo's avatar
b_limo OP
2,274 posts
 
Sthomas, Dang you, makin me question myself again...
Have you owned both the studio 20's and studio 60's (both v.5)? If so please tell me what your thoughts are. I guess I could try selling my 20's used for $900 and put $600 with it and buy something used for $1500...
wmbode
66 posts
 
I purchased the 20v5 over the 60's after auditioning both and found the 20's with a good sub produced a clearer mid range and depth. Just throwing my 2 cents in the ring.
aaronknock
44 posts
 
B_limo. If you have Focal (816V) or Dynaudio in your area, it's worth auditioning those, too. Both offer substantial improvements over both Paradigm Studio 60s and 100s, but without skyrocketing in price. When I was first searching for speakers, I auditioned the 20s, 60s, and 100s side by side, then the Focal 816V (same day, on two different occasions). First impressions got me hooked on the Focals, and I came in determined I was going to walk out with the Studio 60s. I later heard some $2800 Dynaudio floorstanders. No doubt they bettered the Focals, but in my mind it wasn't worth another $800 plus tax. I think the 816V by Focal (JM Lab) offered the best performance/value ratio at that price point. In Canada, you might get them new for $1900, and obviously less if you can find a used pair. Something to consider, I suppose, if you want a quite substantial upgrade, but without paying much more than originally planned.

On the other hand, maybe you'll just be happy with the Studio 60s. It's not like they're bad speakers, and you sound like you'd be quite excited to get your hands on a pair.

All the best with your decisions. :)
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