Paradigm's new speakers: both on- AND in-wall

Paradigm's new architectural speakers can't make up their minds. On one hand, they're built into the walls, requiring holes to be cut for installation like in-wall speakers. On the other hand, they protrude from the wall, like on-wall speakers.

Not wanting to take sides, the company calls its new Reference Hybrid Millenia speakers "hybrid" on-wall/in-wall speakers, and claims the design offers fomr of the best of both varieties. Since it sticks out (slightly, at just an inch and a half) from the wall, it should offer superior acoustics than in-wall speakers that sit flush against the surface of the wall. Since it's built partly into the wall, it should offer greater stability than on-wall models that require a mount.

The new hybrid speakers will come in two varieties: the Reference Hybrid Millenia 10 and Reference Hybrid Millenia 20. The smaller Millenia 10 can handle up to 90 watts of power and features 3 drivers, while the beefier Millenia 20 can take up to 110 watts and offers 5 drivers. They will retail for $379 and $529 respectively.

— Will Greenwald

CES 2009: Paradigm Reference Studio v.5

Paradigm is showing off big time at CES. They've updated the Reference Studio line to v.5. What's changed? Smooth, rounded cabinets, new grille design, new sizes, and refined componentry, and the best part - two new subwoofers. Who doesn't love a new sub?

The complete product description is continued below. Keep reading so you can put together your own kick-ass home theater system. Let us know which you would put together.