Topic: I need a new set of bookshelf playback speakers. Please help.

[Jason B]

Alright, my current playback speakers suck. I need a new set of bookshelf style speakers to add to the mix. Im not looking at spending too much money, maybe like $400 or $500 at absolutely max. I just want something that can handle a lot of watts and sound good played loud. I have been looking at some JBL's, but am having a hard time making a decision. My current integrated amp has a safety feature where it will cut the volume down real quick or cut off to prevent the speakers from blowing, and it cuts the volume on them on a regular basis. They sound good at lower volumes, but when you want to crank it, they can't handle it.

So, can you guys offer up some good suggestions? I would sincerely appreciate it!

[nickgregory]

for what it is worth I got a set of JBL E30s for the office and have been very happy with the sound....you may want to check out the E50s which I have heard good things about as well

[Jason B]

I had been looking at these, and I am leaning towards them heavily. Thanks Nick

[Willie T.]

I have a pair of paridigm Atoms I just adore, great sound for their price.

[Lee]

I've got a set of Paradigm studio 20 v3s that are really growing on me.  They can definately handle the power, too.

[Jason B]

I've got a set of Paradigm studio 20 v3s that are really growing on me.  They can definately handle the power, too.

Thanks Lee, +T. I have looked into them as well. Hmmm...  what is the best place to buy Paradigm speakers? Is there anywhere online, or only at local distributers?

[Mojowill]

The paradigm web site should be able to direct you to a distributor.
Take one of your cds with you and listen to the speakers.    
Good luck!

[Lee]

I bought mine through Audiogon, but I tried them out at a local place.  If you're buying new, I hear their significantly cheaper in Canada... might be worth looking into.

FWIW, they tend to the bright side of neutral, but don't all bookshelf models?  Maybe I'm just used to hearing a much larger model that goes a little lower.  The bass is very clear, but just not gutteral... hopefully I'll have a sub on the way soon.  Either that, or I'm thinking about upgrading to the 40s if I can find a good enough deal.

[Mojowill]

Lee I have the PS 1000 for a sub with my Monitor 9s.  That is a solid sub.  Great for movies and Phil's bombs on a good Dead SDB will rattle your teeth.

[BC]

I've got a set of Paradigm studio 20 v3s that are really growing on me.  They can definately handle the power, too.

I will also recommend the paradigm stuff, I am a very satisfied owner of a pair of active 20's (now discontinued). Their small 2 way models (atom, titan, etc) sound amazing given how small they are.

Take care,
Ben

[Lee]

Lee I have the PS 1000 for a sub with my Monitor 9s.  That is a solid sub.  Great for movies and Phil's bombs on a good Dead SDB will rattle your teeth.

I've been looking at that, as well as some of the smaller pinnacle and sunfire models.  It's a cash flow issue now, more than anything.  Thanks for the rec, though.  +T

[Craig T]

Definitely check out the Klipsch RB-35's.  They'll play very loud (96db sensitivity) and really don't need a sub - I think they have in-room response down into the upper 30's.  They can be found online for about $450, but you should be able to find them at a local a/v store (ie Tweeter).

Even if you haven't been a fan of the Klipsch "horn style" tweeter, I think they put together a pretty well balanced speaker with this model.

[Mojowill]

I have heard that the Sunfire sub is incredible for it's size.  I think it is less than a square foot of floor space.  $$ wise I spent 470 for my Sub new at a Hi Fi House store 1 1/2 yrs ago, I love the thing.
I also have been impressed with the Mirage Omnistats
www.miragespeakers.com

[Jason B]

Thanks for all the advice guys. +T's...

[scb]

find some tannoys...