this is my initial venture into the hi-fi world. This system replaces an early 90's Sony boombox that lasted 10+ years. I'm currently looking for a better pair of main speakers. The Paradigms sound nice, but this is where I compromised based on my very limited initial budget ($2k).
With the initial $2k I was able to get the pre, amp + speakers, using my old Sony DVD player as my source. I eventually upgraded my source to the 1070 cdp.
I only do 2-channel listening, but bought the 5 channel for potential HT use. Anyway, I listened to a pair of Totem Forest and Mani-2 speakers. The Mani-2's blew me away. What a speaker! Too bad they're so pricey, but I think I can talk the wife into getting them. Any other recommendations on a comparable speaker? Better value w/ comparable sound? This speaker seems like the kind of speaker that is very future-proof since it should continue to sound better as I upgrade components in the future. Also, it's essentially a full range speaker in a small size + very attractively veneered for the wife-friendliness factor. If I do go this route, I'll likely switch my ic's and speaker wire to Straight Wire Rhapsody.
Any recommendations/opinions are appreciated.
My system has been edited! I replaced the Paradigm Monitor 7 speakers with Revel F30 speakers. Wow, what a huge improvement! My system doesn't have the same degree of resolution that the Mark Levinson setup (390S cdp + 33H monoblocks) in the store, but I am VERY happy w/ the sound of my rig with these speakers.
I may play a little with some speaker cables + interconnects, but I'm already extremely happy with the sound. Recommendations on good cables for Rotel + Revel speakers?
