Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- The system produces a 'powerful, polished sound quality' that is clear, subtle and composed
- Elegant design and solid build quality
- Multiple satellite mounting options
- Smooth in-room response, with the shallow waveguide of the tweeter seeming to control the input of adjacent room boundaries through the midrange
- Seamless blending of the five speakers, with sounds panning smoothly around the room
Product Considerations
- Tabletop stands and binding posts can be fiddly
- Small satellites require a high crossover point, which can cause some midbass bloom
- Lacking in midbass purity and output
- The system is not the smallest
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Cinema 100 CT package treads a slightly less informative middle ground, with ample scale and impact, but not the forensic detail that tells two violins with different strings apart—that the Paradigm MilleniaOne system can provide
Takeaway: The Paradigm Cinema 100 CT is a speaker system with a big sound that makes movies and music more exciting, especially for smaller rooms. Its full-scale sound and seamless blending of speakers create a complete and enjoyable listening experience.
All
Cinema 100 CT
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Design: 2-driver, 2-way acoustic suspension, mineral-filled polymer enclosure
- Crossover: 2nd-order electro-acoustic at 1.8 kHz
- High Frequency Driver: 25-mm (1 in) S-PAL™ dome tweeter, ferro-fluid damped and cooled
- Frequency Response On-Axis: ±2dB from 125 Hz - 20 kHz
- Frequency Response 30° Off-Axis: ±2dB from 125 Hz - 15 kHz
- Mid/Bass Frequency Driver: 102-mm (3-1/2 in) mineral-filled polypropylene cone, 25-mm (1 in) high-temperature voice coil
- Sensitivity Room/Anechoic: 88 dB / 85 dB
- Low Frequency Extension: 85 Hz (DIN)
- Suitable Amplifier Power Range: 15 - 100 watts
- Maximum Input Power: 50 watts
- Impedance: Compatible with 8 ohms
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 8.375" × 4.8125" × 6.8125" (21.3cm × 12.2cm × 17.3cm)
- Weight: 4 lbs. (1.8 kg)
- Finishes: Black Gloss
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Paradigm designs and manufactures their own drivers, including the rare and expensive Beryllium drivers used in their higher-end Persona and Founder series, allowing for precise control over performance characteristics.
- They utilize Perforated Phase-Aligning (PPA) lenses over tweeters and midrange drivers, a visually distinctive technology they claim smooths and widens dispersion while protecting the drivers.
- Paradigm is known for integrating Anthem Room Correction (ARC) technology from their sister company, Anthem Electronics, to optimize bass performance and room integration of their subwoofers.
- They focus on delivering high dynamic range, enabling their speakers to play loudly and cleanly without compression or distortion, even at mass-market price points.
Select products
Monitor SE 8000F
- Positioning: The entry-level floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, offering high performance at an affordable price.
- Description: Features a 5-driver, 3-way bass reflex design that delivers robust bass and clear highs, with dynamic sound and excellent imaging. Compared to higher-end models like the Premier 800F, it offers great value for those with budget constraints, making it ideal for medium-sized rooms where affordability and quality are key.
Premier 800F
- Positioning: The mid-range floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, balancing performance and value.
- Description: Features clear midrange and well-integrated bass, using Active Ridge Technology (ART) for reduced distortion. While it offers superior sound quality compared to the Monitor SE 8000F, it remains more accessible than the Founder 120H.
Founder 120H
- Positioning: The high-end floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, designed for audiophiles seeking advanced technology and superior sound.
- Description: Features a hybrid design with active bass and a built-in amplifier, providing deep, controlled bass and precise sound. Its advanced technologies, such as the AL-MAC high-frequency driver, offer a more refined audio experience than the Premier 800F.
Persona 9H
- Positioning: The flagship model in Paradigm's lineup, representing the pinnacle of their speaker technology and design.
- Description: Features Truextent Beryllium drivers for exceptional clarity and Anthem Room Correction for precise audio tuning. It surpasses all other models in the lineup, including the Founder 120H, in terms of technological sophistication and soundstage.
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Used
Paradigm
What if you spend more?
Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, Duetto marks Sonus faber's inaugural active stereo wireless speaker system. Powered by four bespoke amplifiers, Duetto presents an all-in-one sound solution, harmoniously blending a multitude of connectivity options while keeping the listening experience wire-free.
Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.
Ultra Wide Band Technology
Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.
SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber
The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.
Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.
Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.
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Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
- Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
- Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
- Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
- Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
- Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
- Prototype unit had operational bugs
- No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
- Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.
Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
- Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
- A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
- A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel
Product Considerations
- Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
- A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
- The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
- While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
- Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances
Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound power and early directivity indexes make it a true point source speaker.
- Special sound quality for the price offers a level of performance not typically found in speakers at this price point.
- Very good neutrality is present when the speaker is turned off axis.
- It is a very versatile speaker to drive.
- The midrange presentation is very dead center and coherent.
Product Considerations
- The bass does not reach as low as some listeners might prefer.
- The speaker can get bright at times.
- Care should be taken to place it not directly on axis, because when placed directly on axis, it is no longer a neutral speaker.
- There's no stand included in the package.
- It is made in China, and construction can be suspect.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15, the SourcePoint 10 is more precise and focused, while the PureAudioProject has a bigger soundstage.
- Vs Fleetwood Deville SQ, they sounded more alike than different when in action, but SourcePoint was more extended from top to bottom and brought more lively dynamics and impact.
- Vs Klipsch Heresy IV, the SourcePoint 10 is the superior speaker in every way from build to sound, with more refinement and smoothness, and it seems just as dynamic as the Klipsch.
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40s, the SourcePoint 10 sounds much bigger, more dynamic, has much better bass, and fills a room with ease.
- Vs KEF LS50 META, the LS50 sounds smaller, leaner, and not as special in the vocal region.
Takeaway:
The SourcePoint is a speaker with a neutral sound that originates from a single point, and it has remarkable early directivity indexes. It is a speaker that offers very good performance for the money, but careful attention needs to be paid to its placement in the room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
I am the overperforming little guy who will demand your respect after your first audition. I can be a serious 2 channel system with a subwoofer, an LCR, or a surround channel. Effortless dynamics and lightspeed transients remain the common thread of all Signature series speakers including the S4b. A bookshelf with this much technology is hard to find and can literally be the Ninja of any system. Bookshelf, main for a 2.1 system, LCR, Dominus Surround, it can transform into anything you need.
Features including our proprietary DPC-Array controlling Mid/High frequencies and centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers bringing decades of research and culminating in this world class design. All S-Series speakers share the same DPC-Array and benefit from our unique timbre matching technique across the entire series utilizing Beryllium and our advanced Carbon fiber.
These speakers are an acoustic suspension to meet the demands of any listening room with unparalleled dynamic range and musical finesse. Very impressive system alone or when combined with a PERLISTEN subwoofer. Great for use in 2.1 systems or any channel of theater system utilizing subwoofers. Can be used as surround, height or LCR. Bookshelf, stand or on-wall mounting with keyhole or available bracket.
Featuring our DPC-Array as for controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S4b shares the same DPC-Array and benefits from our unique timbre matching technique as found in the entire S-Series range of speakers. Unparalleled dynamic range, low distortion and musical finesse. The PERLISTEN S4b continues the lineup of speakers that have the distinguished honor to be the world's first and only loudspeakers to be certified for THX Dominus – their highest rating.
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Secure imaging, believable vocal and instrumental timbres, and a superb sense of atmosphere and presence
- The speaker does a 'small-box disappearing act supremely well,' not drawing attention to itself and letting the music spill forth
- Provides tight, tuneful, convincing, and properly focused bass that securely underpins the music
- Emphasizes detail and resolution, and has one of the best detail/resolution figures that one reviewer has heard in the price range
- Has a wide sound dispersion, allowing listeners to sit anywhere in the room and still have a great sound
Product Considerations
- Can get sharp—shouty—harsh at high listening volumes
- Bass may not be sufficient for those looking for a lot of bass, and a subwoofer is recommended
- Soundstage is fairly intimate
- The treble can be a bit too hard, and some reviewers wished for a treble cut switch
- One reviewer disliked the cartoonishly large binding posts, and dangling leads can contact the passive radiator
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400: The Argon3S sounds more neutral and mid-centric, has a sweeter voicing, and a sharper treble
- Vs KLH Model Five: The midrange is slightly cleaner on the Argon3S, but it sounds very focused in comparison
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless PRO: The baseline clarity is considerably better for the pricier Argon3S, but the soundstage is far more holographic on SVS Prime Wireless PRO
- Vs ATC SCM 11 Version 2: Similar frame of mind, but the Amphion Argon 3S is more expressive and colorful
Takeaway: The Argon 3S is a compact speaker with a focus on detail and clarity, perfect for those who enjoy analyzing their music, especially at low to moderate volumes. Its design ensures it sounds great in various placements, making it a versatile addition to any audiophile's setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Aesthetically pleasing design with high-quality cabinet finish
- Excellent imaging and soundstage, creating a three-dimensional aural hologram that immerses the listener in the music
- Good for rock, punchy, fast, crisp, and engaging sound
- Accurate tonality, with a natural and realistic reproduction of instruments and vocals, enabling the listener to discern nuances
- Highly efficient and easy to drive
Product Considerations
- Bass response may not be sufficient for larger rooms or those seeking deep sub-bass without a subwoofer
- Can be a little cool as you go down the frequency response range, potentially requiring a subwoofer for a smoother balance
- May sound too bright or gritty when paired with certain amplifiers
- Placement is key due to the rear-facing bass port
- Bass could be a bit flabby for some listeners
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The 40B shares the same signature as the Paradigm Founder 120H Towers, though it doesn't have the same presence as the larger, more expensive towers
- The 40B is more introverted and less flashy than the Canton A36.2
- The KEF LS50 Meta had more presence and body
- The CSS Audio 1TDX is a superior overall speaker with deeper bass, but the 40B has superior phase coherency
Takeaway: The Paradigm Founder 40B is a visually appealing and well-built bookshelf speaker that offers impressive imaging and a detailed sound. These speakers are a great option for those seeking an engaging listening experience in smaller to medium-sized rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Precise and stable stereo imaging
- Good detail retrieval
- Neutral tonal balance
- Versatile directivity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
- Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
- Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter
Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.
Video review
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