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Amplifier Match For Paradigm Signature S8 & C5 V.3

Hi all!

I just started to upgrade my current Paradigm studio  system to contain all Paradigm Signature v.3 speakers.

I'm wondering if I should be running different amps to bring out the true potential of these speakers. I'm currently running triple Emotiva XPA-1 monoblocks to the front soundstage. 

Would switching to a different brand / style power amp make a noticeable different with my setup.

I have been happy with the Emotiva's for a few years now, its just I notice comments every once in a while saying people switched from Emotiva to another brand amplifier and now their speakers sound "so much better"  Who agrees with this?

P.S. I originally had my Anthem MCA-2 hooked up to my Studio 100's. Then I purchased a new Emotiva XPA-2 and did an A/B.  I thought the Emotiva sounded better than the Anthem in every way. The Monoblocks took it up another notch to.  

Thoughts? 

Current System.
Mains - Paradigm Studio 100 V.3's
Center - Paradigm SIGNATURE C5 V.3 (just replaced my CC-690 V.5 (for sale)
Rears - Paradigm ADP 450 V.3
Heights - Paradigm 65R PRO x 4
Subwoofers - Dual Paradigm Seismic 12's

Amplifiers
Emotiva XPA-1 Monoblocks X 3 (One to each of the towers and center)
Anthem MCA-2 (powering the rear surrounds)
Emotiva BasX-700 (powering the heights)

Processor
Anthem AVM-60

Source
OPPO-203 HD


krazystang
krazystang OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for the Replies so far guys!

I agree, I am and have been on the look out for some Signature S8 V.3's for a while now, as I feel that would be the biggest noticeable upgrade to my current system.

New speakers are also an option down the line, but currently I want to test the Signature series from Paradigm out.



As far as room treatment, I do not. System is located in a 20' x 24' room with 9 ft ceilings. Room is open to the kitchen also (just blocked by a half wall).

I actually ran Anthem's ARC room correction immediately after purchasing my new Anthem AVM-60 processor. I honestly was not impressed and am currently running my system WITHOUT the Arc file. I went the oldschool radio shack DB meter and feel it netted better results. Not sure why , I believe i did everything correct.

Any ideas on initial room treatment ideas?

Also, thoughts on the Parasound A31 to run my front soundstage avhifidelity?




maplegrovemusic's avatar
maplegrovemusic
981 posts
 
Have you heard the Anthem Statement P2 with Paradigm Sigs ? Pretty great combo . It is a guaranteed fit . Every Paradigm dealer would have used this combo to demonstrate the sigs .

krazystang OP
3 posts
 
I have not Maplegrovemusic. I'm only familiar with the Anthem MCA series.

However, the P2 would run the towers, but what would i get for the center channel?  Or would I have to get the P5?
avhifidelity
20 posts
 
@krazystang you might want to see first if you like the Parasound with your setup before committing.  I periodically see a number of used A21 for sale at around $1500, not so much the A31.  If you buy and like it, you can then get the A31 to power the center and surrounds, or move the A21 to power the surrounds. If you don’t like it, it shouldn’t be difficult to sell it and recoup the money.  The Anthem P2/P5 are great too, used to own the P2. However, I think the Parasound amps are great value. I myself wouldn’t mind owning them again. 
krazystang OP
3 posts
 
Thats a great idea! Start with the 21 and then grab a 31 to complete the 5 channels.  A used mint A31 just sold today for 1850.
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