Anyone using RSX-1056 with Paradigm Monitors?

[mtodde]

I have the upgrade bug and will be replacing my Polk (RT600 front, RT 2.5 rear, CS245I center) speakers in about a month. I am also considering upgrading my H/K AVR-525 and am considering the Marantz 7500 & 8500, the 1056 & NAD.

I'm curious about the results you've had with the Paradigm Monitor series paired with the 1056 (or the other receivers). I'm looking at the Monitor 7s up front, either the Monitor 5s or Mini-Monitors in the rear and the CC370 center channel. I can get a pretty decent deal from a local dealer here in Atlanta. I thought about moving up to the Studio series, but that would probably break the budget and I definitely wouldn't be looking at a receiver upgrade. I'm not running a sub at the moment as I live in an apartment.

The appeal of the RSX-1056 is the strong pre-amp. Next year I'd like to move to a separate amp and the high quality pre would enable me to ease into the world of separates.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[Mary]

I run Paradigm Monitor 9's front, Mini Monitors rear, CC370 center with Rotel 1066/1075. I have a Velodyne F-1200 sub conected as well. I have to say that I enjoy the sound coming from my system. I do like the sound of the B&W's but budget wise at the time I could not swing them. At this point I am very satisfied with what I hear. The combination for me is "music to my ears". And with the separates giving me a great base to grow on, I do know when $$$ permits I will be able to upgrade speaker wise. Always let your ears be the judge!

[mtodde]

Thanks Mary. My problem is that there isn't a dealer in Atlanta that carries both. I'm pretty sold on the Paradigms and they are a great value.

Are you using your system mainly for music, multi-channel music or both pretty equal? I'm curious as to whether your Monitor 9s over shadow the Mini Monitors for music.

I think I'll buy the speakers first and then try to demo an RSX-1056 once I've had the speakers for a week or two.

[basementjack]

Hey Mtodde,

I have the studio series (last years v2 revision) and they sound great with the rotel.

Depending on your budget, you might look on ebay for used studio series stuff if its what you really desire.

Whatever series you choose, I have no doubt the 1056 will sound better than other receivers in it's price range.

[Mary]

I listen equally - 2 channel, HT, SACD, DVDA. I in no way find that the the 9's over power the mini monitors. I did have a problem earlier on when I was just making the change over and I had mismatched speakers. Now I do not have any issues with that. I too had considered the 5's for the rear. But do to lack of space and with talking to my trusted salesman, I went with the mini monitors. They are mounted on the wall. I would just recommend that you listen to the speakers with your choice of receiver/separates. Like I said let your ears be your guide! Will your dealer let you demo at home? Mine did and that made a huge difference in the decision process.

[mtodde]

Thanks again Mary. That's exactly the type of feedback I was looking for. I'll be using stands for the rears and will probably have a very similar listening pattern to yours. The Mini Monitors would definitely give me more money toward the Rotel! A friend that has given me some advice thought the Monitor 5s may be overpowering in my current room.

How do you like the Velodyne with the Paradigms? When I do add a sub it will probably be a Hsu or Velodyne.

I don't know if the Rotel dealer will let me demo it at home because they don't always have them in stock and as big as Atlanta is there is only the one dealer today. I went over there this afternoon with a friend and feel the 1056 would make me very happy. I plan to do the speakers first so I'd probably only need one night. When I get down to that point I'll certainly ask...even if it is their floor model. There is no subsitute for listening to something in your system.

Thanks again.

[Mary]

I did demo at home the RSX 1055 (the model available at the time) and stuck it out a little longer to go separates. My goal for a long time was to go separates.. a personal preference. Also by waiting my speakers had a decent break in period. If you listened to the 1056 with your speaker choice and truly enjoy the experience then that is the way to go! My sub is 14 years old!! An oldie but a goodie - imo. Good luck you will have to post when you make that Rotel purchase.