Focal Electra Question

[Rod#S]

Originally Posted by Biggar

This seems to be the right place to ask this question. If I'm in the wrong location, perhaps someone could redirect me.

I listen through Paradigm Signature S8 loudspeakers, the Beryllium tweeter has me in its grip. I'm getting a strong upgrade itch. Could someone give me a studied opinion about whether the Focal Electra 1038 would represent an upgrade for me? I have not heard the Focals yet ( and I have to travel a fair distance to hear them) but everything I read about them suggests that they have that listen all day quality about them. A local guy has a pair of Electra 1037s. Was there such a significant jump between the 1037 and 1038 that I should not consider it?

Big Paradigm fan here, the S8's are great speakers and here in Canada represent a much better value than the 1038's. Aesthetically I like the Paradigm's more as well but it was a shame they dropped the exotic rosewood and bird's eye maple veneers many years ago.

So sound wise the Signatures were Paradigms stab at the higher end sound, making a speaker that could do very well with music and not just home theater which I think they achieved that very well. The Focals particularly the Electra and Utopia line and now the Sopra's have I think always been considered a speaker for music over home theater. Not to say they don't do well in home theater because of course they do a splendid job as do the Paradigm's.

The 1038 perhaps comes a cross as a bit more refined than the S8 but not enough here in Canada to justify the price difference for me personally. I could probably give the advantage of the mids to the 1038, they present as a warmer/softer sound. I think I prefer the bass of the S8's more.

Probably the clear winner will be the new Sopra tower based on people's initial impression of them. So it would seem if you want a clear distinction to look into the Sopra No2 or wait until the larger No3 comes along.