Paradigm H65-SM v2
Overview
The Paradigm H65-SM v2 represents the culmination of decades of expertise in in-ceiling speakers. This high-end speaker, designed and manufactured in Canada, embodies Paradigm’s commitment to innovation and sound quality. Featuring a unique dual-directional sound dispersion technology, it offers an elegant and high-performance solution for discerning home theater and music enthusiasts.
A Discreet and Sophisticated Design
The H65-SM v2 stands out with its sleek design and seamless integration into any interior. With a total diameter of 221 mm and a depth of only 92 mm, this speaker installs discreetly in the ceiling, leaving only an elegant white grille visible. This grille, designed to be paintable, allows for perfect customization to match your room’s decor.
The ABS chassis of the speaker is not just a simple support. It plays a crucial role in reducing unwanted resonances, thereby contributing to the purity of the sound produced. The integrated mounting brackets make installation easy while ensuring a solid and durable ceiling attachment.
Cutting-Edge Audio Technology
At the heart of the H65-SM v2 is Paradigm’s Dual-Directional Soundfield technology. This innovative system uses three drivers: a 165 mm woofer for midrange and bass, accompanied by two 19 mm tweeters. The standout feature is the adjustable orientation of these tweeters, allowing precise sound direction within the room.
The woofer, equipped with a mineral-filled polypropylene cone, delivers a fast and accurate response, ideal for reproducing the subtleties of voices and instruments. The tweeters, featuring Paradigm’s exclusive Perforated Phase-Aligning (PPA) lens, ensure optimal high-frequency dispersion, creating a wide and detailed soundstage.
Exceptional Sound Performance
The H65-SM v2 makes no compromises on audio quality. With a frequency response ranging from 70 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB), this speaker covers the essential audible spectrum with remarkable precision. Its ability to reach as low as 52 Hz in the bass frequencies allows it to deliver deep and articulate bass without necessarily requiring a subwoofer.
The high sensitivity of 89 dB (measured in-room) enables the H65-SM v2 to produce significant sound volume, even with moderately powered amplifiers. This translates to impressive dynamics, capable of reproducing the subtlest nuances as well as the most intense passages of a soundtrack or music piece.
Unmatched Installation Flexibility
One of the major strengths of the H65-SM v2 lies in its installation versatility. Thanks to its Dual-Directional Soundfield technology, this speaker adapts to various room and listening configurations. The adjustable tweeters allow sound to be directed toward the main listening area, optimizing stereo imaging and treble clarity.
This flexibility makes it an ideal solution for complex home theater setups, where speaker placement is often constrained by room architecture. The H65-SM v2 can be used as a main, center, or surround speaker, offering remarkable sound coherence in a multichannel system.
Technical Specifications
Design
- 3 speakers, ceiling mountable
- 2-way
- Dual-Directional Soundfield™
- ABS chassis and mounting brackets
Acoustic Components
Speakers
- Mid/bass: 165 mm mineral-filled polypropylene cone
- Highs: two 19 mm tweeters with exclusive perforated phase alignment lens (PPA™)
Crossover
- 2nd order electro-acoustic at 3.0 kHz
Audio Performance
- On-axis frequency response: ± 2 dB from 70 Hz to 20 kHz
- Off-axis frequency response at 30°: ± 2 dB from 70 Hz to 15 kHz
- Low-frequency extension: 52 Hz
- Room/anechoic sensitivity: 89 dB / 85 dB
- Impedance: 8 ohms compatible
Power
- Recommended amplifier power: 15-80 W mono, 15-40 W stereo
- Maximum input power: 100 W mono, 50 W stereo
Physical Characteristics
- Cutout diameter: 196 mm
- Minimum mounting depth: 76 mm (behind 13 mm drywall)
- Dimensions H × W × D (including grille): 221 mm (diameter) × 92 mm (depth)
- Weight: 1.8 kg
- Finishes: white paintable grille, black speaker
Accessories
- Not included: PB-8RN
Frequently Asked Questions
How should the tweeters of the H65-SM v2 be oriented for the best results?
The optimal orientation of the tweeters depends on your room configuration and the main listening position. Generally, it is recommended to direct them toward the listening area to maximize stereo imaging precision. Experiment with different orientations to find the best balance between soundstage width and focus.
What area can the H65-SM v2 effectively cover?
The effective coverage of the H65-SM v2 depends on several factors, including ceiling height and room acoustics. Generally, a pair of these speakers can effectively cover a listening area of 20 to 30 m² under typical listening conditions. For larger spaces or specific configurations, it is recommended to consult an audio installation specialist.
Is the H65-SM v2 compatible with multiroom audio systems?
Yes, the H65-SM v2 integrates perfectly into multiroom audio systems. Its in-ceiling design and audio performance make it an ideal choice for high-quality sound distribution throughout the home. Just ensure that your multiroom system can handle the 8-ohm impedance of these speakers.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
