The Paradigm Servo 15 is a powerful subwoofer that delivers exceptional bass performance. This manual provides detailed information on the Servo 15’s specifications, design features, performance, and troubleshooting tips. It also includes user reviews and comparisons with similar subwoofers.
This manual is available for download in English. It provides helpful information for setting up and using the Servo 15 to achieve optimal sound quality.
To purchase spare parts or accessories for the Servo 15, contact Paradigm through their website or visit an authorized retailer.
Overview
The Paradigm Servo 15 is a high-performance subwoofer designed to deliver deep, powerful bass for both music and home theater applications. This subwoofer incorporates a 15-inch driver with a large voice coil and a servo-controlled system that ensures precise and accurate bass reproduction. The Servo 15 is built with a sealed enclosure, which helps to eliminate unwanted resonances and deliver a clean, tight bass response.
The Servo 15 is powered by a 400-watt RMS amplifier, capable of delivering impressive output levels. The subwoofer also includes a built-in crossover, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it with your existing speaker system. The Servo 15 features a range of controls for fine-tuning its performance, such as a low-frequency cutoff switch, a phase switch, and a level control.
The Servo 15 is known for its ability to reproduce very low frequencies with clarity and power. It is a popular choice among audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who demand the best possible bass performance.
Specifications
The Paradigm Servo 15 boasts an impressive set of specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance. The subwoofer features a single 15-inch high-excursion driver, coupled with a closed-loop servo system, housed within a sealed enclosure. This design ensures accurate and powerful bass reproduction.
The Servo 15 is powered by a built-in Ultra-Class-D amplifier, delivering a robust 1200 watts RMS (20-150Hz, < 0.1 THD) and an impressive peak power of 4500 watts. The amplifier boasts a low distortion of less than 0.005% and an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio exceeding -120dB.
The Servo 15’s frequency response extends from 20Hz to 150Hz, ensuring a full and deep bass experience. The subwoofer’s dimensions are 18.25 inches in width, 18.25 inches in depth, and 21.5 inches in height, making it a substantial addition to any home theater or audio system.
Design and Features
The Paradigm Servo 15 showcases a sophisticated design that emphasizes both performance and aesthetics. Its robust construction features a sealed enclosure, meticulously engineered to minimize unwanted vibrations and ensure accurate bass reproduction.
The Servo 15’s front panel houses a continuous rotary control, allowing for precise adjustment of the subwoofer’s level, low-frequency cutoff, and phase. These features enable users to tailor the bass response to their specific listening environment and preferences.
On the rear panel, the X-30 crossover/control module provides single-ended inputs from the preamplifier, along with two blended-mono output RCA jacks. This configuration ensures seamless integration with various audio systems.
The Servo 15’s design incorporates a built-in limiter, effectively controlling the maximum sound pressure level and preventing distortion even at high volumes.
Performance
The Paradigm Servo 15 delivers exceptional bass performance, renowned for its deep extension and powerful output. Its 15-inch servo-controlled driver, coupled with a robust amplifier, produces a remarkable range of frequencies, extending well into the sub-25Hz region.
The Servo 15’s closed-loop servo system ensures precise control of the driver, minimizing distortion and maximizing clarity, even at high volumes. This technology effectively manages the driver’s excursion, ensuring accurate bass reproduction without sacrificing speed or definition.
The Servo 15’s performance is particularly impressive in home theater applications, where it can effortlessly deliver the powerful low-frequency effects essential for an immersive cinematic experience. However, its exceptional musicality also makes it an ideal choice for discerning audiophiles.
The Servo 15’s ability to reproduce the very lowest audible frequencies with accuracy and power distinguishes it as a true audiophile subwoofer, complementing a wide range of audio systems and genres.
User Reviews
The Paradigm Servo 15 has consistently earned positive reviews from users, who praise its powerful bass performance, exceptional clarity, and versatility. Many users highlight its ability to deliver deep, impactful bass without sacrificing accuracy or speed, making it an ideal choice for both home theater and music listening.
Reviewers often mention the Servo 15’s impressive extension into the sub-25Hz range, allowing it to reproduce the deepest bass frequencies with authority and precision. This capability is particularly appreciated for genres like classical music and electronic dance music, where low-frequency content is essential for a complete and immersive listening experience.
The Servo 15’s versatility is also a frequent point of praise, with users appreciating its ability to seamlessly integrate into a variety of audio systems and genres, from home theater to high-end music systems. The Servo 15’s balanced performance and precise control make it a valuable addition to any audiophile’s setup.
Troubleshooting
While the Paradigm Servo 15 is renowned for its reliability, occasional issues can arise. This section provides guidance on resolving common problems. If the subwoofer produces no sound, check the power connection, ensure the amplifier is turned on, and verify the input signal is present. If distortion or humming occurs, inspect the speaker cables for damage or loose connections.
If the Servo 15 exhibits excessive vibration or rattling, ensure it is properly placed on a stable surface and that any loose objects in the vicinity are secured. If the subwoofer’s performance seems weak or lacking depth, adjust the crossover frequency and level settings to optimize its integration with the main speakers.
In case of more complex issues, consulting the Paradigm website or contacting their customer service department is recommended. They can offer expert advice and troubleshooting assistance.
Installation and Setup
Installing and setting up the Paradigm Servo 15 is a straightforward process. Begin by choosing a suitable location for the subwoofer. Place it on a stable, flat surface, ideally in a corner of the room for maximum bass reinforcement. Connect the subwoofer to the receiver or preamplifier using high-quality RCA cables.
The Servo 15 comes equipped with an X-30 crossover/control module that allows for precise adjustments. Use the controls on the X-30 to set the subwoofer’s level, crossover frequency, and phase to match your listening preferences and the characteristics of your main speakers. Experiment with these settings to achieve the desired sound balance and integration.
For optimal performance, consider using a dedicated subwoofer cable to minimize interference and ensure a clean signal path. Always ensure that the subwoofer is properly grounded to prevent electrical noise and hum.
Accessories and Spares
While the Paradigm Servo 15 is a robust subwoofer, certain accessories and spare parts may be required over time. These include replacement cables, such as RCA cables for connecting the subwoofer to your receiver or preamplifier. You may also want to consider investing in a dedicated subwoofer cable for optimal signal transmission and minimal interference.
In the event of a malfunction, it is important to have access to spare parts like fuses or other components that may need replacement. Paradigm offers a range of spare parts for its subwoofers, including drive units, amplifiers, and control modules. Contact Paradigm directly or visit an authorized retailer to inquire about availability and pricing;
For a more immersive audio experience, you may also want to consider purchasing accessories such as a subwoofer stand or isolation pads to enhance the bass response and reduce unwanted vibrations.
Comparison with Similar Subwoofers
The Paradigm Servo 15 stands out among similar subwoofers for its exceptional bass performance, thanks to its powerful amplifier and advanced servo technology. It offers a deep and accurate bass response that can fill even large rooms with rich, nuanced sound. Compared to other subwoofers in its class, the Servo 15 excels in its ability to reproduce low frequencies with clarity and precision, making it ideal for both music and home theater applications.
While other subwoofers may offer comparable power output, the Servo 15’s servo-controlled system provides superior control and accuracy, resulting in a tighter and more articulate bass response. Its sealed enclosure design also contributes to its sonic accuracy and minimizes unwanted cabinet resonance.
Overall, the Paradigm Servo 15 stands as a formidable competitor in the high-end subwoofer market, offering a combination of power, accuracy, and control that is hard to match.
The Paradigm Servo 15 is a high-performance subwoofer that delivers exceptional bass reproduction, making it a worthy investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. Its powerful amplifier, advanced servo technology, and sealed enclosure design work in concert to deliver a deep, accurate, and articulate bass response that enhances any audio experience.
Whether you’re enjoying your favorite music or immersing yourself in a blockbuster film, the Servo 15’s ability to deliver rich, nuanced bass will elevate your listening experience. Its combination of power, accuracy, and control makes it a top contender in the high-end subwoofer market, offering a sonic experience that is both powerful and refined.
For those seeking a subwoofer that can truly transform their audio system, the Paradigm Servo 15 is a compelling choice.