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What speakers to replace Paradigm 100.2? Help

Hello all

I have decided that I want to replace my beloved 100.2 next. I currently have a McIntosh MC7200 and C712 pre with a C333ES player and all MIT cables. I like the big sound a lot - which is why I still have these speakers. Most others I audition don't seem to pull that off. However my new room is small (14x14x8) and the Paradigms, although look ok, are a little too big. I want somewhat smaller speakers that won't leave me feeling like the bass is all gone. I would like better transparency and articulation as well. I would also like better efficiency so that I could have a tube setup in addition to SS down the road.

My current (very) short list:
Coincident Partial Eclipse II
JM Lab Electra 926

I open to most ideas. I want to stay in the $2500 used range. I live in the sticks and don't travel as much as I used to so I have to go on recommendations at this point. I heard the 926 and really liked them but wondered if they would be a little too laid back. Anyway, any ideas? Thank you!

Arthur
aball
exertfluffer
270 posts
 
Confused now? I"m sure others will add their 2 cents.
Still, the ones you have "freshest on your mind" should be what you try. Otherwise, you'll never know. Try something and compare....you can always sell later
aball OP
2,018 posts
 
Thanks for the replies. Trial and error is what I have done so far but I would rather not deal with changing speakers several times before finding the right sound - can't guarantee it though of course...

I haven't really liked Totems for some reason. I have heard the Forest and Arrow (I think). I had B&W N804 before the paradigms. I like the paradigms better. However, I did audition not too long ago the N803 and really really liked those but they are a little expensive.

Sonus Faber might be a good bet. I do like warm sound (although the MC7200 is not quite as warm as most McIntoshes I have had) and I hear that is what SF delivers. When I was out of town last week, I went to a Tweeter that had several SF but I didn't have time to hear them. I auditioned ML electros instead which was enlightening but I definately don't have the space for them.
I will look into Merlin too. Don't hesitate to suggest others. Thanks everyone!

Arthur
snofun3
601 posts
 
Have you listened to the small Snells (Type K I think), or PSB Stratus Mini's. I had the mini's a few years back and evry now and then think about how I'd like to have them back again. Note that many of the Canadian speakers have similar tonal properties, so Paradigm, Pinnacle, Psb (what's with the P thing?) might be a reasonable place to start.
Good Luck - Les
robm321
932 posts
 
I went from the Paradigm Studio 100 (ver. 1) to Von Schweikert VR-4 jr -- it costs twice as much mind you. I couldn't be happier. As good as the Paradigms were, my system sounds so much better now.

The VR-2 s arrent bad either and will sound better than the Paradigms as well for cheaper.

just an FYI
jimmy2615
443 posts
 
The Tyler Acoustics Linnbrooks have that full "bloom" sound, excellent mids and highs due to the high quality drivers, and have impressive bass - the beauty is they are easy to place, even close to the walls, and easy to drive. They don't change at high volume levels, either. I should mention I have a pair - and have owned paradigm, B&W, and Aerial before the switch. I have not bought new speakers in almost 3 years now, which is a new record for me...
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