Paradigm E7 LCR v2

The Paradigm CI Elite E7-LCR v2 represents the pinnacle of audio engineering in the field of in-wall speakers. Designed for demanding home theater enthusiasts, this model combines exceptional sound performance with visual discretion. Manufactured in Canada with remarkable attention to detail, it embodies Paradigm’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Advanced Audio Technologies: The Heart of Excellence

At the core of the CI Elite E7-LCR v2 lies a suite of advanced audio technologies, the result of decades of research and development at Paradigm. The 2.5 cm aluminum-magnesium-ceramic (AL-MAC) tweeter delivers crystal-clear high-frequency reproduction. Its coaxial design, combined with an Oblate Spheroidal Waveguide (OSW) and a Perforated Phase-Aligning (PPA) lens, ensures optimal sound dispersion and precise stereo imaging.

The 15.2 cm aluminum-magnesium (AL-MAG) midrange driver features a Shock-Mount isolation system that minimizes unwanted vibrations. Its 5 cm high-temperature multi-layer voice coil, mounted on an Apical former, provides exceptional power handling.

For low frequencies, two 20.3 cm AL-MAG woofers are equipped with Paradigm’s patented Active Ridge Technology (ART). This innovation allows for greater cone excursion, resulting in a 3 dB increase in output without distortion. Passive radiators, the same size as the active woofers, help extend the low-frequency response while maintaining a slim profile.

Sound Performance: Uncompromising Fidelity

The CI Elite E7-LCR v2 offers a remarkably linear frequency response, ranging from 80 Hz to 22 kHz (±3 dB). This extended range ensures faithful reproduction of most audio sources, from the most delicate vocals to the most dynamic sound effects in movie soundtracks.

Its high sensitivity of 95 dB (in-room) allows the speaker to deliver significant sound levels with moderate amplification power. However, its ability to handle up to 220 watts continuously enables it to effortlessly reproduce the most intense passages, preserving the dynamics and impact of the original recordings.

The sophisticated electro-acoustic crossover, with 3rd-order slopes at 3 kHz and 2nd-order slopes at 480 Hz, ensures smooth transitions between the different drivers. This design contributes to overall sonic coherence, creating a wide and deep soundstage that transcends the physical boundaries of the speaker.

Versatility and Installation: Maximum Adaptability

The versatility of the CI Elite E7-LCR v2 is one of its major strengths. Designed to function as a left, center, or right speaker, it allows for the creation of a perfectly homogeneous sound front in a home theater setup. This flexibility is particularly valuable in spaces where aesthetics and discretion are paramount.

The installation, while requiring some expertise, has been designed to be as straightforward as possible. The advanced Shock-Mount system effectively isolates the speaker from the wall structure, reducing vibration transmission and improving overall sound quality. Pocket screw holes facilitate precise positioning during installation.

A screen compensation switch allows for adjustment of the speaker’s response when placed behind a micro-perforated projection screen, ensuring optimal acoustic transparency in this specific configuration.

Compatibility and Configuration: Seamless Integration

The CI Elite E7-LCR v2 integrates perfectly into high-end audio-video systems. Its nominal impedance of 8 ohms makes it compatible with most quality amplifiers. To fully exploit its capabilities, it is recommended to pair it with electronics capable of delivering between 15 and 220 watts per channel.

In a typical home theater configuration, three CI Elite E7-LCR v2 speakers can be used for the front left, center, and right channels. This approach ensures perfect tonal consistency across the sound front. For an even more immersive experience, complementary models from the CI Elite range can be used for surround and ceiling channels.

While the CI Elite E7-LCR v2 offers respectable low-frequency extension down to 55 Hz, adding a dedicated subwoofer can be considered for systems aiming for full-spectrum audio reproduction, particularly for very low-frequency effects in movie soundtracks.

Technical Specifications

Design

• 4-speaker system with dual passive radiator
• 3-way system
• Shallow in-wall mountable design
• Advanced SHOCK-MOUNT system
• Machined aluminum baffle

Speakers

Tweeter

• 2.5 cm coaxial aluminum-magnesium-ceramic dome (AL-MAC)
• Oblate spheroidal waveguide (OSW)
• Perforated phase alignment lens (PPA)
• Patented Dual-Sync continuous flux motor

Midrange

• 15.2 cm coaxial aluminum-magnesium cone (AL-MAG)
• SHOCK-MOUNT isolation system
• 5 cm high-temperature multilayer voice coil with Apical former
• Patented Dual-Sync continuous flux motor

Woofers

• Two 20.3 cm aluminum-magnesium cones (AL-MAG)
• Overmolded Active Ridge Technology (ART) suspension
• Advanced SHOCK-MOUNT system
• 3.8 cm high-temperature voice coil
• Ultra-rigid cast aluminum chassis optimized by finite element analysis (FEA)

Passive Radiators

• Two 20.3 cm aluminum-magnesium cones (AL-MAG)
• Overmolded Active Ridge Technology (ART) suspension
• Advanced SHOCK-MOUNT system
• Ultra-rigid cast aluminum chassis optimized by finite element analysis (FEA)

Acoustic Performance

• Electro-acoustic filter: 3rd order at 3 kHz, 2nd order at 480 Hz
• On-axis frequency response: ± 3 dB from 80 Hz to 22 kHz
• Off-axis frequency response at 30°: ± 3 dB from 80 Hz to 19 kHz
• Low-frequency extension: 55 Hz
• Room / anechoic sensitivity: 95 dB / 92 dB

Electrical Specifications

• Recommended amplifier power: 15-220 W
• Maximum input power: 150 W
• Impedance: 8 ohms compatible

Dimensions and Weight

• Cutout dimensions: 106.6 cm × 21.5 cm
• Minimum mounting depth: 9.8 cm
• Dimensions H × W × D (with grille): 109.2 cm × 19.5 cm × 10.5 cm
• Weight: 14.9 kg

Finishes

• White, paintable grille, black speaker