Your NEW Speakers, Preventing Speaker Damage

YOUR NEW SPEAKERS

Break-In

Although Paradigm® Reference speakers sound great “out of the carton,” they will sound even better once they are “broken in.” Allow them to play for several hours before you begin any critical listening.

High-frequency and midrange drivers use ferro-fluid that can thicken at temperatures below 10° C (50° F). Surround material used in the bass/ midrange driver units is made of a compound that may stiffen in colder temperatures. If your speakers have been transported or stored in the cold, let them warm to room temperature before use.

Cleaning

Your speakers have a premium finish that must be treated with care. Use only a damp soft cloth to clean. Do not get any part of the speaker system wet. Do not place wet objects (drinking glasses, potted plants, etc.) on top of the speakers—if allowed to soak in, even a small amount of water may permanently damage the speaker enclosure.

Speaker Grilles

All Paradigm® Reference speakers are meant to be played with their grilles on. The grilles are designed to eliminate edge diffraction—the sound reflections that occur at the outer edges of the front of the enclosure which interfere with the drivers’ primary sound output.

Wall-Mounting/Optional Speaker Stands

Paradigm® Reference Surround/Rear speakers can be wall mounted following the mounting instruction sheet included and using the hanger brackets supplied.

They may also be placed on Paradigm® speaker stands (sold sep.). For convenience, your Surround/Rear speakers can also also be placed on shelves or high furniture (i.e. bookshelves), as long as there is at least 18 in (45 cm) of free space on either side of the speaker.

PREVENTING SPEAKER DAMAGE

Paradigm® Reference speakers are efficient and can be driven to loud listening levels with moderate amplifier power. They are also able to handle the output of very powerful amplifiers. To prevent damage to your speakers, please read the following guidelines before hooking them up.

Amplifier Distortion—The #1 Culprit!

Amplifier distortion is the principal cause of speaker damage. When listening at loud levels your amplifier may run out of clean power. It will then begin to produce distorted power several times greater than its rated output power. This will damage any brand of speaker very quickly! (See your Authorized Paradigm® Reference Dealer for amplifier recommendations.)

More Powerful Amplifiers are Safer

A 40 watt/channel amplifier will have substantial distortion above 40 watts. If driven to 50 watts, this amplifier will deliver distorted power—which will damage the speaker! A 100 watt/channel amplifier will have substantial distortion above 100 watts, but very low distortion below 100 watts. Therefore, when the speaker requires 50 watts, this more powerful amplifier will deliver clean power and speaker damage is less likely to occur.

Volume Control

Do not be fooled by the Volume Control of your receiver/preamplifier. It only adjusts listening level—it is not a “power-output” dial. The amount of amplifier power actually used at a given Volume Control setting depends solely on the nature of the music you are listening to. At a given Volume Control setting a quiet section of music will use less amplifier power than a loud section. With typical pop-rock, jazz or large scale classical music, the rated output power of many receivers/amplifiers is often reached when the Volume Control is between the “11 and 1 o’clock” settings (with bass/treble and loudness controls not used—otherwise rated power may be reached at even lower Volume Control settings).

Remember, all amplifiers produce distortion when operated beyond their rated output power. The resulting distortion will damage all speakers! Exercise caution! If you listen at loud levels, be careful to listen for the point of audible distortion—if the speakers begin to sound distressed turn the Volume Control down or your speakers and/or amplifier(s) will be damaged!

This type of damage constitutes abuse and is not covered by the warranty. If louder volumes are desired obtain a more powerful amplifier.

There is a Limit!

Although more powerful amplifiers are safer, there is a point at which you could have more power than the speaker can handle. At that point you will overpower the speaker and damage it. Exercise caution! At loud levels do not increase bass/treble controls from zero and ensure that all loudness/ contour/bass EQ buttons are off (otherwise rated output power will be reached at lower volume control settings). If you listen at loud levels, watch for excessive visible cone excursion (grille movement) from the woofer—then turn the Volume Control down.

The Right Amount of Power

A power-range rating is given as a guide to indicate the approximate minimum and maximum power input of your Paradigm® Reference speakers. Amplifiers that exceed your speaker’s power-range rating are recommended. Their greater power reserves provide better sound. However, exercise caution! Use the speakers within their power-range rating to prevent damage (keep listening levels below the point of excessive woofer cone excursion).

Surround/ Rear speakers, OM-560 specifications

The Paradigm OM-560 is a highly acclaimed surround and rear speaker designed to elevate the home audio experience with its innovative features and cutting-edge technology. As part of the Paradigm Paradigm Monitor series, the OM-560 is engineered to deliver exceptional sound quality and versatile performance suitable for various audio setups.

One of the most notable characteristics of the OM-560 is its sleek and modern design, which seamlessly integrates into any home theater or listening environment. The speakers feature aesthetically pleasing finishes, allowing them to blend effortlessly with contemporary decor. Their compact size does not compromise their ability to produce robust sound, making them ideal for smaller rooms or as part of a larger audio system.

The OM-560 utilizes advanced technologies to ensure an immersive audio experience. The speaker employs high-performance drivers, including a 5.25-inch polypropylene woofer and a 1-inch aluminum tweeter. This combination allows for a full range of sound reproduction, from deep bass to clear treble, ensuring a balanced audio experience for movies, music, and games.

Another key feature of the OM-560 is its ability to provide a true surround sound experience. The design includes a dual-polarized configuration, which helps to expand the soundstage and create a more immersive listening experience. This is particularly beneficial for cinematic applications, where accuracy in sound placement is crucial for an engaging experience.

Additionally, the OM-560 incorporates Paradigm's patented technologies, such as the controlled dispersion pattern, which allows for consistent sound quality regardless of listening position. The speakers also feature a rear-firing port that enhances bass response, providing deeper and more impactful low frequencies that are essential for a complete audio experience.

The OM-560 is equipped with high-quality connectivity options, enabling easy integration with other audio components. Its high sensitivity rating ensures compatibility with a range of amplifiers, allowing users to customize their audio setup according to personal preference.

In summary, the Paradigm OM-560 surround and rear speakers offer a combination of outstanding audio performance, modern design, and innovative technology. Whether used in a dedicated home theater or as part of a multi-channel audio setup, these speakers deliver rich, dynamic soundscapes that truly enhance the listening experience.