Denon 3803 + Paradigm Titans?

[kexodusc]

I fell in love with the inexpensive Titans maybe 7 years ago or so in a Pro-Logic HT setup that replaced an even older PSB rig I had. Back then I hadn't heard anything in the price range that was as versatile as Paradigm's Titans and Atoms. Today, they've got lots of competition and probably wouldn't be my first choice anymore, but I still get sentimental.

But mating them with a 3803 Denon is just wrong. You could seriously improve your system's sound by downgrading the receiver to an 1800 or 1600 model and upgrading your speaker's budget. I won't repeat anyone else's advice because it's all good, but please don't buy Titans and the 3803. To be perfectly honest, dumping an extra 300 or so into your speakers will yield far more audible results than dumping it into your receiver.

You should be able to put together something pretty decent for the budget you are implying. Good luck!

[saidiadude]

Wow, thx for all the feedback folks! To clarify further: I was not planning on paying full price for the 3803 - I will probably purchase it (or the equivalent 1083) for abt $650ish. I like the sound of the denon and also the fact that it can handle HiDef TV signals. Regarding the speakers, I like the sound of the paradigm titans, but will listen to other speakers as suggested. Looking to pay $170-$180ish per pair on the Titans.

To address other points brought up in this discussion: I need to setup a full home theater system for 2 homes (relatives). At a min, the systems must be DTS capable & building the systems incrementally is not a choice at this time. However, the systems dont need to be in place until July. The systems will be used mainly for HT and must be able to handle HiDef TV bandwidth. The budget for each system is abt $1200 or so: abt $650 for the Denon, abt $450 for Titans & center (+taxes). The budget can go up a bit to $1500 Max (incl tax+s/h). Subs are not included in the system at this time and are the only items that will be purchased later.

Back to the original question: Where can I buy Titan's for a reasonable price in LA area? Does Paradigm still make Shielded Titans?

BTW, also posted this query at audioholics.com as suggested

[RGA]

I don't trust audioholics as far as I could throw em. They review brand new of brands they like agaisnt decade old brands they don't like - there's a nice apples to apples comparison...also thte price ranges are weird.

Post your question at http://www.audioasylum.com/audio/speakers/bbs.html

For cheap the Titan is probably fine - I would personally buy used. Something without a Paradigm metal tweeter preferably.

[markw]

Where can I buy Titan's for a reasonable price in LA area? Does Paradigm still make Shielded Titans?

1) Paradigms are sold through a fairly tightly controlled dealership network and aren't generally available over the net new. I wouldn't expect too much price variations.

2) Dunno. Many a "stereo" main speakers are not shielded. This allows more $$ towards the sound. Check their web site to see if they offer a timbre matched center channel.

Warning... it will probably cost more than a pair of titans but you seem to have your mind made up on the titans, so...

http://www.paradigm.ca

In either case, don't count on putting the titans right next to a CRT TV.