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totem model 1 signature

i have a chance to get a used pair for about $1000. i currently am using paradigm reference studio 20's v.2 with a simaudio i-5 integrated. i usally spin vinyl. i have a fairly small listening space and would like to be able to position the speakers closer to the back wall, and i hear the totem's are good for this. 2 questions: do folks think that the totem's are step up from the paradigm's? i like the paradigms, but would like a speaker that delivers more transparency than ive found the paradigms capable of. and is the i-5 going to have any difficulty driving these somewhat inefficient speakers?

thanks!
sberger
marakanetz's avatar
marakanetz
5,473 posts
 
You'll have a big step-up from Paradigms since they're also great nearfield.
They're exceptionally detailed and clear sounding and I-5 can rock them with ease although I'd prefere Plinius 8200 or Primere with these speakers.
rbstehno
1,401 posts
 
IMO, it would be a huge step up. when i owned a pair of model 1's, i had them 3ft from the back wall, and my mani 2's are further from the back wall. i would not recommend putting the totem model 1's close to the back wall because of the rear port. i had a pair of totem arros and they could be setup very close to the back wall. also with the model 1's, the more power an amp has (not watts, current), the better. there was a huge difference in sound when i hooked up the model 1's to my 140 watt onkyo receiver in my den setup to when i put them in my audio room using a pair of odyssey monoblocks.
sberger OP
146 posts
 
thanks folks...sounds like i better try and grab the model 1's...however, would appreciate any further comments particulary from owners of the model 1(and if you're using the i-5 even better).
andy2
1,522 posts
 
Anything would be a step up from Paradigm. Sorry for being sarcastic but I don't think I am too far from the truth.
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