Paradigm H55-LCR v2
Overview
The Paradigm H55-LCR v2 represents the culmination of decades of acoustic expertise, offering a premium in-wall speaker solution for discerning home theater enthusiasts. This versatile model, designed for use as a left, center, or right speaker, combines exceptional sound performance with visual discretion.
Advanced Technical Design
The H55-LCR v2 stands out with its three-way configuration, incorporating cutting-edge technologies in a compact format. At the heart of this system is a 19 mm tweeter equipped with an exclusive perforated phase-alignment lens (PPA). This innovation ensures optimal high-frequency dispersion, creating a precise and detailed soundstage. The midrange and bass are handled by two 139 mm drivers featuring mineral-filled polypropylene cones. This material provides an ideal balance between rigidity and damping, ensuring faithful and dynamic reproduction of the sound spectrum.
The second-order electro-acoustic crossover, with a cutoff frequency at 2.5 kHz, ensures a seamless transition between the different drivers. This meticulous design results in a remarkably linear frequency response, ranging from 75 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB), with bass extension down to 60 Hz.
Reference-Level Acoustic Performance
The sound quality of the H55-LCR v2 is evident in several key aspects. Its high sensitivity (89 dB in-room) allows for substantial sound levels with moderate power, while preserving the dynamics of recordings. The recommended power range, from 15 to 100 watts, offers great flexibility in amplifier selection.
One of the strengths of this speaker lies in its ability to maintain a balanced frequency response even off-axis. With a variation of only ±2 dB up to 30° off-axis, the H55-LCR v2 ensures uniform sound coverage throughout the listening area, a major advantage for home theater setups where listeners are not always ideally positioned.
Discreet and Thoughtful Integration
Designed to blend seamlessly into any interior, the H55-LCR v2 features compact dimensions and a sleek design. With a minimal mounting depth of 70 mm, it fits most standard walls. The ABS chassis and integrated mounting brackets facilitate installation while ensuring optimal rigidity, thereby minimizing unwanted vibrations.
The magnetic grille, supplied in white but paintable, allows for perfect aesthetic customization. This attention to integration details makes the H55-LCR v2 a preferred choice for installations where visual appeal is as important as sound quality.
Remarkable Versatility
One of the most notable features of the H55-LCR v2 is its versatility. Designed to function equally well as a left, center, or right speaker, it offers unmatched flexibility in configuring home theater systems. This versatility not only optimizes available space but also ensures perfect sound consistency across the entire front soundstage.
This uniform approach offers several advantages. It simplifies the process of selecting and installing speakers while guaranteeing an identical sound signature for the three main channels. The result is a precise and stable sound image, essential for an immersive cinematic experience.
Technical Specifications
Design
- 3-way in-wall speaker for left, center, right channels
- ABS chassis and mounting brackets
Acoustic Characteristics
- On-axis frequency response: ± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 20 kHz
- Off-axis frequency response at 30°: ± 2 dB from 75 Hz to 15 kHz
- Low-frequency extension: 60 Hz
- Sensitivity:
- In-room: 89 dB
- Anechoic chamber: 85 dB
Components
- Tweeter: 19 mm tweeter with exclusive perforated phase alignment lens (PPA)
- Midrange/woofer: Two 139 mm mineral-filled polypropylene cones
- Crossover: 2nd order electro-acoustic at 2.5 kHz
Electrical Characteristics
- Recommended amplifier power: 15 - 100 W
- Maximum input power: 70 W
- Impedance: 8 Ω compatible
Dimensions
- Cutout dimensions: 209 × 295 mm
- Minimum mounting depth (behind a 13 mm partition): 70 mm
- Dimensions H × W × D (including grille): 321 × 235 × 88 mm
- Weight: 2.7 kg
Finish and Accessories
- Finishes: White, paintable grille, black speaker
- Accessories (not included): PB-8X12N
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences compared to the previous version of the H55-LCR?
While specific details are not widely disclosed, one can expect subtle improvements in component quality and potentially in crossover tuning. The overall philosophy and main features remain similar, ensuring continuity within the range.
Are these speakers compatible with multiroom streaming systems?
As a passive speaker, the H55-LCR v2 can integrate into any multiroom streaming system via a compatible amplifier. Solutions like Sonos Amp or Bluesound Powernode would allow these speakers to be part of a modern streaming ecosystem.
Can the H55-LCR v2 be used in both vertical and horizontal orientations?
Yes, the H55-LCR v2 is designed to perform effectively in both orientations. This allows for great installation flexibility, particularly for use as a horizontal center speaker.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
