Audioholics Reviews and News from Audioholics

Cambridge Audio Evo 300 Streaming Amplifier-Their Most Powerful Yet!

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 02:00:00 -0000

Back in 2023, Gene DellaSala took a deep dive into Cambridge Audio’s stylish Evo platform with his comprehensive review of the Evo 150, praising its blend of premium industrial design, excellent streaming capabilities, and impressive measured performance. Now Cambridge Audio is taking that formula to its logical extreme with the all-new Evo 300, a $3,999 streaming amplifier that doubles the power output of its predecessor while adding a host of performance-oriented upgrades aimed at demanding loudspeakers and larger listening spaces.

Cambridge Audio Evo 300 New Features

Cambridge Audio describes the Evo 300 as its “most powerful streaming amplifier yet,” and based on the specifications, that claim appears well-founded. Delivering 300 watts/ch into 8-ohms, 550 watts/ch into 4-ohms (both channels driven) via Hypex NCOREx Class D amplification, the Evo 300 is designed to offer substantially more headroom and control than previous Evo models while maintaining the compact all-in-one form factor that helped make the series so popular.

Hypex NCOREx Meets Dual-Mono Architecture

At the heart of the Evo 300 is a significant redesign of the amplifier section. Cambridge Audio has moved to Hypex NCOREx amplifier modules and paired them with a dual-mono layout intended to maximize channel separation and imaging precision. According to Cambridge Audio, the amplifier incorporates a balanced preamplifier stage and dedicated high-precision analog volume controls for each channel to help preserve stereo focus, dynamic range, and low-level detail.

The company says the Evo 300 was engineered to deliver “effortless headroom, deep control, stable imaging, strong separation and a sound that stays composed as music becomes more demanding.” While we'll reserve judgment until measurements and listening tests are available, the combination of NCOREx modules, balanced circuitry, and 300 watts per channel certainly suggests serious performance potential.

StreamMagic Continues to Evolve

Cambridge's proprietary StreamMagic platform remains the centerpiece of the user experience. The latest fourth-generation implementation supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready certification, UPnP streaming, and Internet Radio over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Cambridge notes that because StreamMagic is developed entirely in-house, it continues receiving regular feature updates and enhancements.

The Evo 300 also supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Google Home integration, and Roon multi-room systems, making it easy to integrate into a modern whole-home audio ecosystem. Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX HD is onboard for casual wireless listening.

ESS Sabre DAC and Comprehensive Connectivity

Digital conversion duties are handled by the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC, supporting PCM playback up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512. Cambridge claims the Evo 300 preserves digital signals without resampling from source to conversion, providing what the company calls "bit-perfect digital sound reproduction."

Connectivity is extensive. Digital inputs include USB Audio, USB Media, optical, coaxial, HDMI eARC, and the Evo CD connection. Analog users get both RCA and balanced XLR inputs, while vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the built-in moving-magnet phono stage. A dedicated subwoofer output offers independent crossover and level controls, and optional high-pass filtering for the main speakers—a feature many audiophiles have been requesting from modern integrated amplifiers.

Larger Display, Same Premium Design Philosophy

While the Evo series has always prioritized industrial design, Cambridge appears to be taking things a step further with the Evo 300. The amplifier features a wider chassis, interchangeable side panels, and what Cambridge calls its “largest display ever,” measuring 7.8 inches diagonally. The screen can display album artwork, system information, clocks, or animated VU meters.

Like the music it's built for, Evo 300 is designed to be timeless, visually, sonically and emotionally.

--Cambridge Audio

What we think of the Cambridge Audio Evo 300...

On paper, the Evo 300 looks like a substantial evolution rather than a simple refresh of the Evo 150 platform. The jump from 150 watts to 300 watts per channel is the headline upgrade, but the addition of Hypex NCOREx amplification, a fully balanced preamp stage, dual-mono architecture, balanced XLR inputs, independent subwoofer crossover controls, Bluetooth 5.4, and a larger display suggest Cambridge Audio re-engineered nearly every critical performance area.

Compared to the Evo 150, the Evo 300 appears aimed squarely at enthusiasts who love the Evo concept but need more power for difficult speaker loads and larger rooms. It also enters an increasingly competitive premium streaming amplifier market that includes products such as NAD's Masters Series M33 V2 streaming amplifier. What separates the Evo 300 is its combination of compact industrial design, extensive streaming support, serious amplifier power, and a feature set that bridges lifestyle convenience with genuine audiophile aspirations.

If Cambridge Audio can deliver measured performance that matches the ambitious specifications, the Evo 300 could become one of the most compelling premium streaming amplifiers we've seen to date.

The Cambridge Audio Evo 300 will be available beginning in June 2026 through authorized dealers and Cambridge Audio's direct sales channels. U.S. pricing is set at $3,999.

KLH Model Four Speaker Brings Model Five DNA to a Slimmer Tower

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0000

Since Victrola’s acquisition of KLH Audio, the legendary loudspeaker brand founded by Henry Kloss has continued its steady resurgence with a growing lineup of retro-inspired, acoustically sophisticated loudspeakers. Audioholics highlighted KLH Audio’s historic influence on the hi-fi industry in our coverage of the most influential speakers of the last 50 years where the original KLH Model Nine electrostatic loudspeaker was named for helping legitimize high-fidelity home audio during the formative years of the stereo era. Now at High End Vienna 2026, KLH is looking to extend that legacy with the all-new Model Four, a slim three-way acoustic suspension loudspeaker designed to deliver premium sound in modern living spaces.

Positioned between the compact Model Three and the acclaimed Model Five, the new Model Four combines elements from both speakers into what KLH describes as "its most placement-friendly floorstanding design yet". The speaker features an 8-inch acoustic suspension woofer derived from the Model Three alongside the same midrange driver, tweeter, and crossover topology used in the highly regarded Model Five. Meanwhile, its wide-baffle, shallow-depth cabinet design borrows heavily from the larger Model Seven, making it easier to position near walls without the boominess commonly associated with rear-ported designs. That design philosophy also runs counter to much of today’s loudspeaker industry, where ported cabinets dominate thanks to their higher efficiency, increased bass output, and ability to produce deeper low-frequency extension from smaller enclosures. As discussed in Sealed is Not Acoustic Suspension in Loudspeakers by Steve Feinstein, true acoustic suspension systems require more engineering precision, tighter tolerances, and often sacrifice sensitivity in exchange for tighter, more controlled bass performance and superior transient response.

KLH continues to lean heavily into the benefits of acoustic suspension loading, which remains relatively uncommon in today’s loudspeaker market dominated by ported cabinets. According to the company, the sealed design allows the Model Four to maintain tighter, more controlled bass response in real-world rooms where speakers often need to live closer to walls or corners. The cabinet itself is notably slim at just 8.25 inches deep before the included angled riser is attached, helping the speaker blend more naturally into apartments, lofts, and shared living spaces.

Internally, the Model Four employs a three-way driver array consisting of an 8-inch pulp-paper woofer, 4-inch pulp-paper midrange, and 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter. Many respected hi-fi manufacturers continue using pulp-paper because paper cones offer a very natural tonal character with good self-damping properties. The biggest advantages of paper/pulp cones are their smooth breakup behavior, lower ringing compared to metal cones, and often more natural-sounding midbass and midrange reproduction. That’s especially relevant in a speaker like the new KLH Model Four because acoustic suspension designs already prioritize controlled transient response and lower distortion over sheer output efficiency. Pulp paper cones tend to avoid the harsher resonance peaks sometimes associated with stiffer materials like aluminum or magnesium.

There are disadvantages, though. Paper cones are generally less rigid than exotic materials such as Kevlar, carbon fiber, aluminum, or ceramic composites. That means designers have to carefully control cone breakup at higher output levels. Paper cones can also be more sensitive to humidity and environmental conditions unless properly treated or coated. In modern designs, however, manufacturers often use coated pulp blends or reinforced paper compounds that significantly improve stiffness and durability while preserving the sonic character people like.

Frequency response is rated at 46Hz–20kHz ±3dB with a claimed low-frequency extension down to 35Hz at -10dB. Sensitivity is listed at 88dB, while power handling is rated at 150 watts continuous and 600 watts peak. KLH also includes its signature three-position Acoustic Balance Control switch, allowing users to tailor the speaker’s mid and high-frequency balance to better suit different room acoustics.

Model Four represents exactly where KLH is headed: honoring the acoustic principles that made this brand stand out while designing products for how people actually live and listen today. This is not a bookshelf speaker, nor is it simply a smaller Model Five. It is a distinctive, full-range acoustic-suspension loudspeaker, meticulously built to deliver the natural, controlled and room-friendly sound that defines KLH in a form that fits more homes, rooms and listeners. Our responsibility is to protect the integrity of this brand while moving it forward, and Model Four is a major step in that direction.

Scott Hagen - KLH Audio CEO

KLH Audio Model Four: What we think...

At nearly $2,000 per pair, the Model Four enters a highly competitive segment filled with established standmount and compact floorstanding designs. Still, if KLH can successfully deliver the same rich midrange presentation and acoustic suspension bass control that made the Model Five such a standout, the Model Four could become one of the more intriguing lifestyle-friendly hi-fi options in its class. On paper, its performance goals and room-friendly tuning put it squarely in the conversation with larger, more expensive speakers like the Wharfedale Super Linton, making the idea of getting comparable sonic sophistication in a slimmer, easier-to-place cabinet particularly compelling for listeners shopping around the $2K mark.

The KLH Model Four will be available beginning in September 2026 in three finishes: English Walnut, Black Ash, and White Oak. Pricing is set at $999.99 each ($1,999.98/pair), including the matching slanted riser stands.

Rotel Michi X430 and Q430 Bring High-End Audio to More Audiophiles

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 -0000

In the early 1990s, the Rotel launched a high-end series of relatively pricey components under the name Michi (Japanese for “path”). Designed to compete with the best of the best in the audio industry, that first iteration of Michi lasted only a short time, but the original Michi products left an indelible mark. In late 2019, Rotel revived the Michi name with a trio of new flagship-level components, including the Michi P5 Control Amplifier preamp (now $5,600), S5 Stereo Amplifier ($9,500), and M8 Monoblock Amplifier ($9,500). In 2021, the Michi X3 stereo integrated amp ($7,500) and Michi X5 stereo integrated amp ($9,500) joined the lineup. The P5 preamp and both integrated amps were refreshed with new features and a “Series 2” designation in 2023. Then in 2025, the Michi Q5 CD player and DAC ($7,500) rounded out the company’s initial family of products — a line that Michi now calls the Reference Series. In 2026, Rotel announced a new expansion for its Michi brand with the arrival of the Prestige Series, which is positioned as a more accessible rung on the Michi ladder. First out of the gate are two all-new components: the Michi Prestige X430 Integrated Amplifier ($4,999) and the Michi Prestige Q430 CD Player ($3,999). According to the company, these less-costly components maintain the high build-quality, design-forward aesthetic, and uncompromising engineering principles that have made the higher-end Reference Series components so successful.

The Prestige components certainly have a family resemblance to their larger and more expensive counterparts, but there are elements to the design that look fresh and distinct. The anodized aluminum casework, rounded corners, and knurled volume knob make the Prestige X430 Integrated Amplifier look not unlike a full-grown version of the adorable Rotel DX-5 amplifier, which I just reviewed. But the Prestige amp’s glass front panel and large, high-resolution color display take the DX-5’s industrial design up a few notches on the refinement scale. Under the hood, the Prestige Series reportedly builds on established Michi technologies, including power supply design, circuit isolation, and low-noise architecture.

Michi Prestige X430 Integrated Amp

The Michi Prestige X430 Integrated Amplifier is a Class AB design delivering 210 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 340 watts per channel into 4 ohms. The X430 has a high-current output stage, supported by a beefy power supply utilizing an oversized custom toroidal transformer manufactured in-house by Rotel. Considering how surprisingly powerful the little 25-watt Rotel DX-5 proved to be, I would expect this new amp to have more than enough current and headroom to drive even very demanding loudspeakers, like the Arendal 1528 Monitor or the Perlisten S4b. The amp’s design reportedly features an exceptionally low-noise architecture with multi-stage voltage regulation that reduces noise and ripple throughout the circuit. Rotel says that optimized power and signal paths further minimize distortion and help to maintain the amp’s rock-solid stability, dynamic authority, and overall clarity, no matter the loudspeaker load. The benefit, according to Rotel, is a lower noise floor and a “transparent silent background” that allows the musical signal’s most delicate details to be revealed.

The Prestige X430 offers good connectivity, including balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog line inputs, plus a built-in moving-magnet phono stage. The dual subwoofer outputs will certainly come in handy for many users, though the amp does not offer bass management. The amp includes a DAC section based on an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M chip. The coaxial and optical S/PDIF inputs can accept standard PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz, but the USB input supports up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 via DoP. The Bluetooth input supports AAC and aptX HD, but not aptX Lossless. Even the best Bluetooth implementation will not yield the highest possible streaming quality, however. For best results, use an external streamer connected to one of the amp’s digital or analog inputs. The Prestige X430’s DAC section can also be used for TV audio, thanks to the presence of an HDMI ARC input. The more expensive Reference Series integrated amps lack this useful feature (though I am willing to bet that the next iteration of those amps will offer it). I very munch enjoyed testing the HDMI ARC function on the Rotel DX-5.

The Prestige X430’s large color display offers selectable VU meter and spectrum analyzer views, but the real appeal for me is the ability to read the selected source and volume level from the listening position. At 17 inches wide, 6 inches high, and 16.5 inches deep, the 37-pound Prestige X430 is a bit smaller and substantially lighter than the 64-pound Michi X3 Series 2 integrated amp, which sells for 50% more. Still, the Prestige’s precision-machined chassis appears to be of very high quality. And for some customers, an amp that is smaller, lighter, and more compact will have its own appeal.

Michi Prestige Q430 CD Player

Designed to be a visual match for the X430 amp, the Michi Prestige Q430 CD Player is as simple a device as you’re likely to find in high-end audio. It’s just a straight-forward CD player. It doesn’t do streaming, and doesn’t even have digital inputs for using its internal DAC with other digital sources. It doesn’t play SACDs. But if you value high-quality redbook CD playback — and plenty of audiophiles with big CD collections clearly do — you will appreciate its multi-stage regulated power supply, which reportedly to minimizes electrical noise, and its high-quality tray-loading mechanism designed to reduce vibration during playback. Inside you’ll find a fully differential DAC built around the 8-channel ES9028PRO chip. This should be a noticeable step up in audio quality compared to the X430 amplifier’s built-in DAC. In the Q430 CD Player, each channel of the stereo output uses four of the eight channels available in the ES9028PRO chip, thus reducing noise and improving signal performance, according to Rotel. Given the attention poured into the quality of the CD player’s analog output, most users will probably rely on either the Q430’s RCA or balanced XLR outputs. But if you have a high-end DAC that you prefer, the Q430’s only other connectivity option is a single coaxial digital output.

Although the more expensive Michi Q5 offers a wider variety of digital inputs and outputs, it’s worth pointing out that both the Q5 and the Q430 use the same DAC chip. Of course, we can’t assume that the players sound identical, as they do not have identical power supplies or analog output stages. But if you don’t need the Q5’s connectivity options, the Q430 may be all the CD player you need. Like the Q5, the Q430 features a color display capable of showing album artwork. Also like the Q5, the Q430 does not play SACDs. You already know whether you have an SACD collection, so this omission may be of no concern to you. But the Q430’s lack of digital inputs might give you pause. Many high-end CD players, including the Michi Q5, allow the user to connect external digital sources, such as the popular streaming devices from companies like WiiM, Cambridge Audio, Eversolo, and HiFi Rose. If you’re investing in a CD player with a high-quality built-in DAC, it only makes sense that you’d want to maximize value by putting that DAC to work in other playback scenarios. It remains to be seen whether this limitation will have an effect on this new Michi player’s sales numbers.

I expect the X430 amp to be a runaway hit, but even as interest in CD playback is enjoying something of a renaissance, there is less of a market for a standalone CD player than for an integrated amp. In any case, both components appear to offer superb build and materials quality, and I have no doubt that they will perform at a very high level. Both units come with an aluminum remote control that looks far nicer than the plasticky remotes offered by some other brands at similar price points, and even higher. I will be curious to see whether these new remotes are as finicky as the remote supplied with the DX-5, which only worked when pointed directly at the amplifier.

We didn’t have the same budget, but the engineering team looked at it, challenged themselves at every component level and said how do we really tune this to be a 2026 initiative and not a refreshed 2019 product in just a different chassis. So there was a bit of work involved, but we think you get the same Michi cleanliness and the same Michi feel.

— Daren Orth, CTO of Rotel, speaking to What Hi-Fi?

More information: Rotel Michi

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: Flagship ANC Headphones Get a Major Refinement

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 -0000

Wireless flagship headphones have become one of the most competitive categories in personal audio, but Bowers & Wilkins continues to carve out its own niche by blending premium industrial design with audiophile-grade sound quality. The British audio company’s original Px8 already stood out as one of the most luxurious wireless ANC headphones on the market, but the new Px8 S2 ($799) looks to push performance even further with upgraded acoustics, enhanced comfort, improved connectivity, and more customizable sound tuning.

Bowers & Wilkins says that virtually every core element of the Px8 S2 has been reimagined. The company describes the new model as its “best headphones ever made,” combining upgraded drive units, improved DSP processing, and advanced wireless technologies to deliver what it claims is its most refined wireless listening experience yet.

Bowers and Wilkins Px8 S2 Design Analysis

At the heart of the Px8 S2 are custom-designed 40mm Carbon Cone drive units paired with a dedicated amplifier/DAC section and a high-performance 24-bit DSP platform. According to Bowers & Wilkins, the combination delivers greater clarity, improved dynamics, and a more focused presentation compared to the original Px8.

The headphones support true 24-bit audio transmission over Bluetooth 5.3 using aptX Lossless technology, allowing compatible devices to stream higher-quality wireless audio with reduced compression artifacts. While many premium wireless headphones claim “hi-res” capability, Bowers & Wilkins has consistently emphasized preserving musical detail and tonal balance over exaggerated tuning tricks.

The Px8 S2 also introduces a new five-band customizable EQ through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app. Previous generations relied more heavily on fixed factory tuning, but the new EQ allows listeners to fine-tune the sound signature to their preferences while still retaining the company’s TrueSound mode for purists who prefer the intended voicing.

Improved ANC and Call Quality

Noise cancellation performance has also received significant attention. The Px8 S2 uses a total of eight microphones — four in each earcup — to improve both active noise cancellation and voice pickup during phone calls.

Bowers & Wilkins says the updated ANC system is designed to eliminate unwanted environmental noise without negatively affecting the energy and dynamics of the music itself. That balance can be difficult to achieve, as overly aggressive noise cancellation often introduces pressure effects or dulls musical impact.

The expanded microphone array should also help improve call clarity in noisy environments, making the Px8 S2 more versatile for travel, commuting, and hybrid work use.

Luxury Materials and a Slimmer Design

One of the defining characteristics of the original Px8 was its premium construction, and the Px8 S2 continues that approach with soft Nappa leather, die-cast aluminum arms, and a slimmer ergonomic profile.

Bowers & Wilkins says the new silhouette has undergone extensive ergonomic testing to improve long-term comfort during extended listening sessions. At just 0.68 pounds, the headphones aim to balance substantial build quality with reduced listening fatigue.

Comfort matters more than many audiophiles care to admit. Even great-sounding headphones quickly become frustrating if clamping force, ear cup shape, or overall weight make them uncomfortable after an hour or two. The slimmer Px8 S2 design appears intended to address exactly that issue while maintaining the premium aesthetic that has helped distinguish Bowers & Wilkins products from much of the competition.

Battery Life and Modern Features

Battery life remains strong at up to 30 hours of playback per charge, placing the Px8 S2 squarely among the better-performing premium ANC headphones currently available. Fast charging support provides up to seven hours of playback from a quick 15-minute charge.

The headphones also support multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, allowing simultaneous pairing with multiple devices, along with USB-C charging and direct USB-C audio support. Apple users get MFi certification, while Android users benefit from Google Fast Pair support.

Two New Premium Finishes Join the Px8 S2 Lineup

A major part of this launch centers around the introduction of two new premium finishes for the Px8 S2: Midnight Blue and Pearl Blue. The new colors expand the Px8 S2 lineup beyond the existing Onyx Black and Warm Stone finishes, giving buyers even more options to match their personal style. Both new finishes reinforce Bowers & Wilkins’ long-standing emphasis on industrial design and premium craftsmanship. The Midnight Blue version offers a darker, more understated aesthetic, while Pearl Blue delivers a lighter and more contemporary look.

Bowers & Wilkins says the expanded color lineup reflects the company’s belief that premium audio products should look as refined as they sound. The addition of Midnight Blue and Pearl Blue also expands the company’s overall wireless headphone and earbud lineup to 21 total color variants — the largest selection the brand has ever offered. Importantly, the new finishes are not limited editions or reduced-feature models. Both Midnight Blue and Pearl Blue retain the full flagship Px8 S2 feature set, including the upgraded Carbon Cone drivers, advanced DSP platform, aptX Lossless wireless support, improved ANC system, and luxurious material construction.

Bowers and Wilkins Px8 S2 Initial Listening Impressions

The premium wireless headphone category has matured rapidly over the last several years, and expectations for flagship ANC models are now incredibly high. With the Px8 S2, Bowers & Wilkins appears focused on refining nearly every aspect of its flagship design rather than reinventing it.

Improved acoustics, upgraded DSP processing, enhanced ANC, expanded customization features, and a more ergonomic chassis could make the Px8 S2 a compelling option for listeners who want luxury materials and audiophile-focused sound without giving up modern wireless convenience.

I recently was invited to Shirakawa, Japan to tour the facilities for Denon and Marantz. During my 20+ hour journey, I had the pleasure of testing out the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 headphones for extended travel use. I was pleasantly surprised by the improvements in both fidelity and noise cancelling over their predecessor.

After a bit of EQ tweaking, I was off in my own world listening to some of my favorite albums from Pink Floyd, Genesis, Porcupine Tree, Miles Davis, The Weeknd, and many others throughout the long trip. The Px8 S2 delivered excellent clarity, natural tonality, and deep, extended bass that made the listening experience highly engaging.

Battery life was also excellent. I simply left the headphones on for most of the journey and found them particularly useful for reducing cabin noise during the few hours I was able to sleep. The clamping force never felt excessive, and I experienced no significant ear discomfort even during very long listening sessions.

The Px8 S2 proved to be an outstanding travel companion and will definitely be joining me on future flights.

- Gene DellaSala, President, Audioholics

The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 is available now in Onyx Black, Warm Stone, Midnight Blue, and Pearl Blue for $799.

Stay tuned for our full featured review of the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 for our extended listening impressions and usage experience.

Paradigm Premier V2 Takes a Great Speaker Line Upmarket with Flagship Tech

Wed, 20 May 2026 04:10:00 -0000

The original Paradigm Premier Series launched eight years ago to much fanfare, and with familiar promises of trickle-down technologies inherited from the brand’s top-of-the-line Persona Series. In his 2018 Paradigm Premier Series review, my colleague James Larson found that, although the Premier speakers were not built to the same lavish standard as the Persona Series, they did in fact share many of the same virtues, including a neutral, balanced tonality, wide dynamic range, well-controlled off-axis behavior, and nice styling for the money. Now in 2026, Paradigm is back with the next-generation Premier Series v2, which the company calls “the definitive performance benchmark in its class.” The Canadian manufacturer sees the new Premier line as “an approachable entry point into high-end audio,” designed to deliver “near-reference quality sound” at prices that don’t threaten to escape Earth’s orbit. Given the trend of ever-increasing prices throughout many segments of the audio industry, Paradigm’s commitment to value will be appreciated by many enthusiasts hoping to “experience music and film with a level of precision and immersion previously unattainable at this price point.” The Premier Series v2 includes two floorstanders, two standmount speakers, a large dedicated center-channel speaker, and a smaller LCR speaker that can do double-duty as a center or left/right speaker. Prices range from $800 per pair for the smaller standmounts to $2,600 per pair for the large floorstanders.

Unlike trickle-down economics, trickle-down technology actually works. When a company like Paradigm has already completed a long and costly R&D project, it only makes sense to apply the fruits of that labor to as many products as possible. As Paradigm puts it, “our flagship DNA is reflected in every component we create.” As such, it’s no surprise to see flagship-inspired technologies like Paradigm’s AL-MAC tweeters (which use aluminum, magnesium, and ceramic) and Carbon-X unibody woofers in a loudspeaker series that remains within reach for many audiophiles.

But the use of tech inherited from existing speaker ranges is just one way that Paradigm has managed to keep the prices of the new Premier Series v2 in check. The company has also moved production of these new speakers to Indonesia; the original Premier speakers were built in Canada. This is a departure for Paradigm — for decades the company has stressed the value of its “made in Canada” pedigree, building as many products as possible in its own massive facility in Mississauga, Ontario, just outside of Toronto. Hopefully we all know by now that a move to overseas production does not necessarily mean a drop in quality. (Most of the big British loudspeaker brands now build most of their products in Asia, and in some cases, build and finish quality noticeably improved after the move.) Still, some Paradigm fans might be disappointed by the change. Paradigm is quick to remind us that “every speaker in the Premier v2 series is designed, engineered, and overseen by our team at our headquarters in Canada.” But perhaps more important is the company’s determination to build high-performance speakers that remain relatively affordable, one way or another.

Our heritage is built on the belief that everyone should have access to exceptional sound.

— Paradigm

Paradigm has another core philosophy: “There is no value in the absence of performance.” In other words, low price doesn’t mean high value if the performance isn’t there. By focusing on “technical excellence over unnecessary complexity,” the Premier v2 aims to deliver the goods. That technical excellence comes by way of the aforementioned trickle-down tech.

The AL-MAC Ceramic dome tweeter uses a blend of aluminum, magnesium, and ceramic that is reportedly lightweight, rigid, and resistant to resonance, resulting in detailed, lifelike high frequencies, according to Paradigm. It is ferro-fluid damped and cooled.

The AL-MAG midrange drivers are crafted from aluminum and magnesium. This combination is said to provide the “agility and precision required for natural vocals and instruments.” This design uses a 2-inch high-temp multi-layered voice coil with a ventilated Apical former. The coaxial versions also feature a patented Dual-Sync Continuous Flux Motor.

Carbon-X Unibody Bass Drivers use single-piece, unibody cones designed for maximum strength and minimal mass. These woofers deliver “deep and controlled bass even at high volumes,” according to Paradigm. The Ultra-High Excursion Carbon-X unibody cone features Gen3 Active Ridge Technology (ART) with Vertical Mounting System, and a 1-inch, high-temp, multi-layered voice coil with a ventilated Apical former.

The OSW (Oblate Spherical Waveguide) is designed to precisely shape output to “focus sound on the listening area while reducing unwanted room reflections,” according to Paradigm. By focusing the sound directly on the sweet-spot and minimizing ceiling and wall reflections, the OSW reportedly contributes to a clear, focused image, regardless of your room’s acoustics.

Paradigm’s patented PPA Perforated Phase-Aligning Lens (try saying that five times, fast) “ensures all frequencies reach your ears simultaneously, significantly improving realism and detail,” according to the company. It reportedly acts as a physical shield and an acoustic filter, blocking out-of-phase frequencies. Paradigm reckons you’ll notice a “significant leap in the three-dimensionality of the soundstage.”

Outrigger Shock-Mount Isolation Feet are featured on the Premier v2 floorstanding models. This adjustable, flagship-inspired system is designed to decouple the speaker from the floor, “effectively controlling vibrations and resonance that can muddy your audio,” according to Paradigm. Isolating the cabinet in this way results in a cleaner, more detailed soundstage and tighter bass across any surface, according to the company. Every Premier v2 floorstander includes both precision-machined spikes for carpets and protective rubber caps for hard surfaces.

All of this tech is built into beefy MDF cabinets that are internally braced to be acoustically inert. Paradigm says that these “rock-solid” enclosures are designed to eliminate cabinet colorations, leaving the drivers free to deliver the performance as it was meant to be heard. Somewhat unusual at these price points are the premium painted finishes, real wood veneers, and sleek aluminum and stainless steel trim. Here is a brief breakdown of the Premier Series v2 lineup.

Paradigm Premier v2 Model Breakdown

Paradigm Premier 820F v2 — $2,600/pair

The Premier 820F v2 is the flagship floorstander in the range, engineered for “the ultimate home theater or high-end stereo system,” according to Paradigm. Standing 43.4 inches tall, the 820F v2 uses a pair of 7-inch Carbon-X bass drivers and a high-volume enclosure, so you might be surprised that its frequency response is listed as 52Hz – 23kHz (±3dB). But Paradigm says that in a typical room, its low frequencies will dig all the way down to 21Hz (-3dB). And thanks to its 90dB sensitivity, this speaker shouldn’t be terribly difficult to drive. Paradigm says that the 820F v2 “provides the massive air movement required for visceral, controlled bass and expansive soundstaging.” A 3-way design, it also uses a 1-inch AL-MAC tweeter and a 6-inch AL-MAG midrange driver.

Paradigm Premier 720F v2 (left) and 820F v2 (right)

Paradigm Premier 720F v2 — $2,000/pair

If you want “compact elegance” but “reference authority,” Paradigm says the 720F v2 is for you. It aims to bring the scale of a floorstander to a space-friendly footprint (the 720F v2 measures 39.6 inches tall, by 12.5 inches wide, by 17 inches deep). A 3-way design like its larger sibling, the 720F v2 uses a 1-inch AL-MAC tweeter, a 6-inch AL-MAG midrange driver, and a pair of smaller 6-inch Carbon-X unibody woofers, delivering an on-paper frequency response of 55Hz – 20kHz (±3dB), with in-room bass response down to about 27Hz (-3dB).

Paradigm Premier 220B v2 — $1,100/pair

The 220B v2 is the larger of the standmount offerings in the Premier v2 lineup, featuring a 1-inch AL-MAC tweeter and a 6-inch AL-MAG mid-woofer, housed in a larger cabinet volume than the more petit 120B. Paradigm calls the 220B v2 “the definitive choice for listeners seeking floorstanding-caliber performance in a versatile bookshelf format.” On paper, the 220B v2 offers a frequency response of 58Hz – 20kHz (±3dB), with in-room bass response down to about 36Hz (-3dB).

Paradigm Premier 120B v2 (left) and 220B v2 (right)

Paradigm Premier 120B v2 — $800/pair

The Premier 120B v2 is “the ideal entry point into audiophile-quality sound for space-conscious environments,” according to Paradigm. It features a smaller 5.5-inch AL-MAG mid-woofer and a smaller cabinet measuring just 12 inches tall, by 7 inches wide, by 12.1 inches deep. Yet this speaker delivers a “detailed, immersive soundstage that far exceeds its size,” according to Paradigm. Designed for a high-performance stereo or a compact theater, the 120B v2 has a frequency response of 62Hz – 20kHz (±3dB), with in-room bass response down to about 39Hz (-3dB). Sensitivity is about average, at 87dB — not bad for a small speaker.

Paradigm Premier 620C v2 Center Channel — $1,300 each

Designed for large-scale cinema, the 620C v2 is “the ultimate center channel,” according to Paradigm. It utilizes a 4-driver layout that includes a 6-inch coaxial tweeter/midrange array and a pair of 7-inch Carbon-X Unibody woofers. The latter are supported by dual 7-inch passive radiators. Paradigm says that the passive radiator design delivers “deep, impactful low-end while maintaining the sealed cabinet benefits for cabinet placement.” This configuration promises crystal-clear dialogue and “an authoritative presence that anchors the largest home theater systems,” according to Paradigm. At 41 inches wide, it definitely looks the part.

Paradigm Premier 520LCR v2 — $900 each

The more compact 520LCR v2 is a dedicated Left/ Center/Right solution designed for high-performance theater. Its sealed cabinet maximizes placement flexibility, according to Paradigm. Surely destined to be used as a pure center-channel speaker in various Premier v2 home theater configurations, the 520LCR v2 uses a 6-inch coaxial tweeter/midrange array and a pair of 6-inch woofers.

We designed the Premier v2 for the enthusiast who is ready to move into a higher tier of performance without the typical high-end cost. This series represents the future of our brand by proving that truly exceptional audio can be both approachable and attainable. We are committed to ensuring that Paradigm remains the standard for performance in its class, giving our customers a clear path to owning a world-class listening experience.

— Badar Qureshi, CEO of PML Sound International

With the Premier v2, we wanted to make a reference-grade acoustics platform available at a more attainable price point. By using some of the technologies and materials developed for our award-winning Founder Series and tuning them for this new line, we’ve delivered a strong level of value — and an experience that we are incredibly excited to share with our dealers and fans.

— John Bagby, Managing Director at PML Sound International

If we have one nitpick to offer, it is that Paradigm lists the impedance for all models in the range as “compatible with 8 ohms.” While we understand that Paradigm wants to indicate that these speakers are not especially demanding loads, we would always prefer to be given a specific nominal impedance for each model. There is no dedicated subwoofer for the Premier v2 speakers, but Paradigm has no shortage of options — including the beastly Paradigm Defiance X15 reviewed by our own James Larson in 2019. On paper, the Premier Series v2 looks very promising indeed. We’re always happy to see speakers with solid engineering at reasonable prices, and we are curious to see how these new speakers perform in the real world. Although James enjoyed the sound of the Paradigm Founder Series speakers that he reviewed in 2022, he noted some slightly wonky findings when measuring the coaxial driver array used in the Founder 70LCR speaker. Since the Premier Series v2 inherits tech from the Founder Series (and both center-channel models use a similar coaxial driver array) we are especially curious to see whether Paradigm has been able to deliver improved measured performance at lower price-points.

The Paradigm Premier Series v2 is slated to launch in June 2026, in your choice of Piano Black, Walnut, or Black Walnut finish. The 120B and 520LCR models will also be offered in Satin White finish.

More information: Paradigm Premier v2