Quote Originally Posted by Woochifer
That might explain why you liked the B&Ws. In general, Paradigm voices their speakers more aggressively than B&W does, and while they are very good with acoustic sources (the v.3 Studio series in particular is an exceptionally neutral speaker in its price range), their strongsuit is with rock, alternative, hip hop, electronica, and home theater sources. B&W tends to favor overall balance in the 600 series, and that does lend itself well to the music that you like to listen to.
Yeah, that makes sense - I want to emphasize that in no way did I dislike the Paradigms - but it seemed a bit more forward than the B&W 603. I can totally understand someone loving the sound of the Studios, and I could happily live with them. But for the music I like the 600 series just seemed a bit more appropriate.

Maybe it's just because I'm fairly new at this, but what I can't understand is how so many people on these forums can be so derisive of any of these competently designed speakers. To me, everything I've listened to has sounded good, but some simply sound better than others. But reading some comments, you'd think listening to some of these speakers is a cruel form of torture! Do people really loathe the sounds of some of these speakers or is this just a childish way to justify their choices?

Ah well, maybe I'm just not discriminating enough, but I kind of like it that way

Obviously, other Canadian speakers such as PSB, Energy, and Mirage might give you more bang for the buck compared to imports, so at least give them a listen.
Good suggestions - I know there is a PSB dealer in town, and Energy can be found in a few places. I will give the Maggies a listen as well - I doubt that they'd fit the decor very well, but it won't hurt me to at least hear what they're all about.

Thanks again for your helpful suggestions

Bill