Paradigm H55-IW v2
Overview
The Paradigm H55-IW v2 is an in-wall speaker that embodies the acoustic expertise of the Canadian brand Paradigm. This compact two-way model offers an elegant solution for those seeking high-quality sound without cluttering their living space. Designed to blend harmoniously into your interior, the H55-IW v2 promises a refined audio experience while remaining invisible.
The Art of Discretion
The H55-IW v2 stands out with its sleek and functional design. With dimensions of 259 × 182 × 87 mm (including the grille), this speaker installs easily into standard walls. Its acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) chassis ensures durability and longevity, while the mounting brackets facilitate secure installation.
The white grille, included as standard, can be painted to perfectly match your interior decor. This customization allows the H55-IW v2 to literally blend into your wall, offering a truly discreet audio solution. The contrast between the white grille and the black speaker creates a simple and elegant aesthetic when the grille is removed.
Balanced and Precise Sound
Despite its compact size, the H55-IW v2 delivers impressive acoustic performance. Its on-axis frequency response of ± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 20 kHz ensures faithful and balanced sound reproduction. The bass extension down to 60 Hz reproduces a significant portion of the musical spectrum without requiring an additional subwoofer for many applications.
The sensitivity of 88 dB in-room (84 dB in anechoic conditions) ensures appreciable energy efficiency, allowing for satisfying sound levels even with moderately powered amplifiers. The recommended amplification power of 15 to 80 watts offers flexibility for use with a wide range of electronics.
Innovation in Service of Sound
The H55-IW v2 benefits from Paradigm’s advanced transducer technology. The 19 mm tweeter features a horn with an exclusive perforated phase-alignment lens (PPA). This unique design enables optimized sound dispersion and better integration with the mid/bass driver.
The 139 mm mid/bass driver uses a mineral-filled polypropylene cone. This composite material offers an excellent balance between rigidity and damping, ensuring precise reproduction of midrange frequencies and part of the bass.
The second-order electroacoustic crossover at 2.5 kHz ensures a smooth transition between the two drivers, contributing to the overall sonic coherence of the system.
From Home Theater to Multiroom
The versatility of the H55-IW v2 makes it suitable for a wide range of audio configurations. In a home theater system, these speakers can serve as main, center, or surround channels, offering perfect integration and immersive sound. Their discreet design makes them particularly suitable for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X setups, where ceiling speakers are required.
In a multiroom audio system, the H55-IW v2 allows music to be played in different rooms without taking up space. Their ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies also makes them ideal candidates for stereo music listening in spaces where traditional speakers would be impractical.
Technical Specifications
Design and Construction
- Two-way in-wall speaker
- Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) chassis with mounting brackets
- Finishes: paintable white grille, black speaker
Acoustic Characteristics
- Second-order electroacoustic filter at 2.5 kHz
- On-axis frequency response: ± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 20 kHz
- Off-axis frequency response at 30°: ± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 18 kHz
- Low-frequency extension: 60 Hz
- Room/anechoic sensitivity: 88 dB / 84 dB
Drivers
- Tweeter: 19 mm horn with exclusive perforated phase alignment lens (PPA)
- Midrange/woofer: 139 mm mineral-filled polypropylene cone
Electrical Specifications
- Recommended amplifier power: 15 - 80 W
- Maximum input power: 50 W
- Impedance: 8 Ω compatible
Dimensions and Installation
- Cutout dimensions: 233 × 156 mm
- Minimum mounting depth (behind a 13 mm partition): 70 mm
- Dimensions H × W × D (including grille): 259 × 182 × 87 mm
- Weight: 1.2 kg
- Accessories (not included): PB-6X9N
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the H55-IW v2 as the main speaker in my living room?
Yes, the H55-IW v2 can absolutely serve as the main speaker in a medium-sized living room. Its extended frequency response and good dynamics make it a viable option for music listening or movie watching. However, for larger rooms or if you’re looking for deeper bass, adding a subwoofer might be beneficial.
Does the H55-IW v2 require a backbox to function properly?
While the H55-IW v2 can operate without a backbox, using the PB-6X9N pre-construction bracket can enhance its performance, particularly in terms of bass response and resonance control. This can be especially beneficial in constructions where the space behind the wall is significant or variable.
What is the difference between on-axis and off-axis frequency response?
The on-axis frequency response (± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 20 kHz) represents the speaker’s performance when listened to directly in front. The off-axis response at 30° (± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 18 kHz) indicates how the sound behaves when not directly in front of the speaker. The minimal difference between these two measurements reflects the H55-IW v2’s good sound dispersion, ensuring a wide listening area.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
