Mirage crossover point

January 22, 2010

To Roger Kanno,

I recently purchased a pair of Mirage OMD-5 speakers. I had read your review of the OMD series, as well as a few other reviews I could find. One of these reviews posted measurements showing a -3dB point of 101Hz for the OMD-5, which is much higher than the rated 60Hz.

I was curious what crossover setting you chose for the OMD-5 when doing your review. Did you notice any issues with smooth blending with the subwoofer at any of the crossover frequencies tested?

Thanks for your time.

Frank

I can't remember exactly what crossover point I used for the OMD-5s, but it was probably relatively high (I am guessing that it was in the 80 to 100Hz range). I used them as surrounds so any problems with bass integration would not have been as apparent as it would have been had I used them as mains. I do remember that I was able to get the entire system to integrate beautifully.

Remember, too, that speaker/sub response and integration will also be dependent on the room and placement within that room, so the crossover point that I used might not necessarily be the one that would be best in your room. . . . Roger Kanno

Paradigm HT questions

January 12, 2010

Editor,

I just purchased two Paradigm Reference Studio 100 v.5 loudspeakers and a Paradigm Reference Studio 690 v.5 center-channel, and also a Paradigm Reference Sub 12 subwoofer. And last but not least two Paradigm ADP-590 surround-sound speakers. I wanted to know if that’s a good system with that sub or should I get the Paradigm Sub 15 subwoofer to replace the Sub 12? Also, will the Paradigm Studio 100 loudspeakers compete with the Paradigm Reference Signature S6 v.2 loudspeakers?

Kal

The system you have will no doubt provide you many years of home-theater enjoyment. As you no doubt know from reading our many Paradigm reviews, we’re very fond of the brand and the company's products. What you’re asking is really not a hard question. Essentially, are Paradigm’s more expensive products better products? The answer is, generally, yes -- that has certainly been my experience with the models I have evaluated as I've moved up their current product line. (It's quite possible that a newer, less expensive model can outperform an older, more expensive one, mind you, which is why I used the words "generally" and "current.") What I can’t answer for you is whether or not the additional outlay of money to upgrade the Sub 12 to the Sub 15 and your Studios to Signatures will be worth it to you. It all depends on your tastes, your listening habits, and your room, as well as what you consider good value for the money. My take is to always get the best thing you can as long as it is within your budget. But then, I have been known to spend a lot of money on stereo equipment! . . . Jeff Fritz

• Go Back