Paradigm Studio 40s vs Studio 60s

Q: I noticed reviews (Audioholics.com) of both Paradigm studio 40s and 60s, yet received different marks with respect to each other. The 40's with stands cost about the same as the 60's without stands. Is it a no brainer to chose 60's, or do the 40's for some reason have an advantage?

• H/K Receiver
• DVD/CD: Nakamichi 10-S
• Sub: Velodyne FSX-12
• Room: Midsized with carpet

OR... Would I gain a greater benefit from a good amp using the H/K AVR as a pre-amp.

Audioholics: The Paradigm Studio 40v2 and Studio 60v2 are very similar in design with the exception being in overall cabinet volume and the resultant low end bass extension.

I felt that the Studio 40v2 had a slightly better midrange performance and imaged a tad better than the 60v2's mostly because of the smaller cabinet and possibly more inert construction. If you plan on using these speakers in a 5.1 multi-channel surround configuration, then the added bass of the 60v2's becomes a moot point. However, if you intend to use these speakers in medium to large sized rooms for two channel applications without a subwoofer, then you may wish to consider the 60v2's.

As for our ratings comparisons, please realize when we do face off reviews and tally the points in the subjective comparison tables, the values are relative to each other and not absolute.

Ie. If we were to directly compare the 40v2 and 60v2, they would rate very similarly in build quality, and overall fidelity, with the 60v2's edging out the 40v2's in bass extension and macro dynamics, while the 40v2's would hold a slight upper hand over the 60v2's with respect to midrange clarity and imaging.

However, my best advice to you is go and take a listen to both of these models for yourself in the same set-up (i.e. electronics, room, source, etc). This will help you determine which speakers sound best to you.

Enjoy the music!