Paradigm or PSB?
March 29, 2005
I enjoy all of your commentary. I am looking to buy new
speakers for my simple stereo setup used for music listening in a 25' x 15' room. I run a
Yamaha 80Wpc receiver. I am trying to decide between the Paradigm Esprit v.3s or the PSB
4Ts (currently called the T45s, I think). I like to listen to various artists at moderate
to loud volumes. I am looking for accuracy along the spectrum, with no holes. I don't have
a dealer in my area who carries these speakers, so it is tough for me to decide. Of
course, any other recommendations for me concerning loudspeakers is appreciated. I am open
and am looking to spend $400-$500.
Kevin
We've
reviewed the Paradigm Esprit v.3s, and they received a GoodSound! Great Buy
award. Although we have not reviewed the T45s, we do have a review of the larger T65
pending. The T65s will have deeper bass response and play louder than the T45s, but should
offer an otherwise similar sonic experience, so perhaps that review will help. Paradigms
and PSBs are both very good speakers -- they both represent great value and solid
engineering -- and it would be difficult for me or anyone else to pick the best one for
your listening preferences and your room. The specifications are similar, with both
speakers rated to play down to around 35Hz. The PSBs are a little newer -- our review of
the Paradigms was over two years ago. The cosmetics are on the opposite end of the
spectrum. The Paradigms are more traditional-looking while the PSBs have a more modern
look. The Paradigms have one 6.5" woofer while the T45s counter with two 5.25"
units. At the end of the day, with two similar products such as these, it's best to try
and experience them for yourself. If that's impossible, which you elude to, at least
you're looking at two speakers that both are backed by excellent companies with solid
reputations.
Yamaha speakers
March 25, 2005
Audiophiles and enthusiasts alike are standing up and
taking notice of the Yamaha NS series line of speakers, but it seems that many of the
professional reviewers are ignoring these incredible speakers, which are an unbeatable
value. Please, please, please test these bad boys and let us know what the pros say about
Yamaha's latest efforts. Inquiring minds really want to know!
Adam White
Thanks for the tip, Adam, we'll see what we can do.
Either way, it sounds as if you like them. When you find something that suits you, don't
worry about what the reviewers say.
Receiver weaknesses
March 24, 2005
I've been debating whether or not I should go with
separates or a receiver for my new home theater. I like the idea of separates, but
receivers take up less space and I'll end up spending less money. Here is my question:
What, in your opinion, is the biggest weakness of receivers that I will notice day to day?
Roger
The biggest weakness of receivers, even some
flagship models, is the inability of the amplifier sections to drive difficult loudspeaker
loads. Most receivers I have come in contact with are unable to drive, for instance, a
4-ohm five-speaker array at moderately loud listening levels. Many times the protection
circuitry in receivers is quite sensitive, causing the receiver to shut down while in use.
Protection circuitry is a good thing because it can save your electronics from damage if
they're being overdriven, but it can also be a pain in the neck if you're watching a movie
and all of a sudden the lights go out and -- poof -- no sound. Separate amplifiers, on the
other hand, are typically endowed with greater heatsinking (which helps keep things cool)
and larger power supplies that enable the user to push it a little harder -- the ability
to play louder, longer, and drive lower-impedance speakers with greater ease. Your speaker
selection will play a large role in whether you need to consider a separate power
amplifier over a receiver. If your speakers are easy to drive and efficient in their use
of power, your choice of electronics will likely be a non-issue.
"XM Radio looks cool"
March 21, 2005
Wow, XM Radio looks cool. Any chance we'll see a review of
the Sirius players and how they compare, along with the actual music selections, to the Polk Audio
XRt12 XM unit that you reviewed? Your reviews and website are really helpful. Keep up
the good work.
Tim Utzig
We're working on an article explaining the ins and outs
of satellite radio, the technology involved, and the current music channels offered. This
article will appear on our sister site, www.soundstageav.com. On the main page you'll see a tab labeled "ON
HIFI." The article(s) will appear there in the near future.
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