Paradigm Studio 100 V3 versus the Paradigm S8 V1


Hi All ,
 I am currently using the Studio 100 V3's in a dedicated 2ch system ( music only) and want to move them to another room , I have found a good deal on some S8's to replace them in my main room , question is , would they be a step up from the 100's or a lateral move , my problem is the closest Paradigm dealer is 2 hrs away and all he has is a used pair of S8 V3's which will not sound the same due to the tweeter and the ones I'm considering are abour 3 1/2 hrs away . Powered by all Rotel separates and no subs . 

  Thanks
bozoe

Showing 2 responses by soix

If I were you I'd take the opportunity to listen to some other speakers rather than jumping on another pair of Paradigms.  Nothing against Paradigm at all, but there are tons of excellent competitors in this price range.  Three I'd recommend auditioning if possible would be Joseph Audio, Vandersteen, and ProAc -- any of which I'd take over Paradigm (BTW I had your Studio 100s in my system on demo so I'm familiar with the sound).  Just perusing the Audiogon speaker listings, there are models from PMC, Revel, Usher, Reference 3a, and Joseph Audio at $4k or less that are worth a serious look versus the S8.  Just sayin', there are lots of options.  If you give more of an idea of specifically what you're looking to improve upon and what aspects of speaker performance are most important to you along with budget, you'll get lots of other good recommendations here. 

Ill just add add that at this level you'll eventually want to upgrade your upstream electronics to get the most out of the speakers.  Personally I'd start with the preamp FWIW.  Best of luck in whatever you decide. 
Yeah, that’s a ridiculous amount of speaker for that price. I got nuthin’ that can touch that. GO! RUN! BUY!!! NOW!!!!!

Oh, forgot to mention I had an audiophile friend who had both the Studio 100s and S8s in his system, and his impression was that the S8 is a large step up in overall performance and refinement over the 100s.  Enjoy!!!