Paragon facelift

[57BELAIRE]

Well, I finally got around to restoring Paragon #278 with a new top
and refractor panel.

I guess the only thing that was holding me back was finding a woodworking shop that could recreate the curved panel.
I got the exact dImensions from another Forum member
(thanks SUPERBEE!) and made a crude template from 1/4 in. Luan ply (1st pic)

I found a custom shop that used flexible plywood called "bendywood".
It's grain pattern is vertical so it cannot bear a load but can be fashioned
into curved shapes.

This Paragons original finish was ebony...actually more of a black
laminate over plywood, so matching it was easier than if a wood
veneer was needed. Wilsonart gloss black fit the bill.

Is it perfect?....no. The panel (1/2 in.) is not quite as thick as an original
but fits securely and I'm still missing one rear "leg" but overall
I'm quite pleased how it turned out.

[57BELAIRE]

A peek inside....N400,N 7000, 150-4C

[JohnK]

Kind of like a kinky latex paragon.

I like it.

[Storm]

Kind of like a kinky latex paragon.

I like it.

I did not know speakers could have fetishes...



-Storm

[hjames]

I did not know speakers could have fetishes...



-Storm

C'mon - look closely at the front legs of a Paragon and say that ...

[sourceoneaudio]

C'mon - look closely at the front legs of a Paragon and say that ...

Heater,
Now that you mention it, I would say the front legs have a very SEXY profile.........

[57BELAIRE]

Kind of like a kinky latex paragon.

I like it.

.....not as warm as walnut but certainly a "statement".

Listen, I'm thrilled to own a Paragon in any way, shape or form. The fact that all the original components (at least hofmannhp and I think so)
are still present is a miracle....considering where it was found.

At some time (probably during the Disco Era) the owner had the H5038P's
triple chrome plated....not for everyone, but certainly adds dramatic
effect.....I call him Darth Vader!

[sourceoneaudio]

I think it l@@ks very cool and retro. All you need now is a 57 Chevy Belair trunk/rear section couch to go next to it.


J/S-S1A

[rrwalkertr]

is the paragon pretty rare? how much would one expect to pay for this set up needing to be reworked? i think its beautiful and would love to get my hands on one, thanks.

[hjames]

is the paragon pretty rare? how much would one expect to pay for this set up needing to be reworked? i think its beautiful and would love to get my hands on one, thanks.

From what I understand, the paragon is a striking looking speaker design, but when it comes to fidelity, its a piece of art, not cutting edge audio design. They were made in different finished and with different components. Some even had amps!

Because even in poor condition they are still quite collectable, expect a multi-thousand dollar high-price ...

And because they were made over a large number of years, the set of speakers installed in the cabinets can vary quite a bit. Use the search button above - search for Paragon to get a better idea of the variation ...

Also look up Metrogon and Minigon for variations on a theme ...

[rrwalkertr]

thanks h, i just saw that paragon that sold this week on ebay, wow what a beaut, thanks

[57BELAIRE]

I think it l@@ks very cool and retro. All you need now is a 57 Chevy Belair trunk/rear section couch to go next to it.


J/S-S1A

How 'bout the real thing?

[SEAWOLF97]

How 'bout the real thing?

beautiful ....dont think I've seen many 2 door waggons. or very many 57 chevvy waggons.

How rare are they ?

[jim campbell]

How 'bout the real thing?

damn............now that is a work of art.............

[sourceoneaudio]

O.T. But a great topic:
Folks, that is a NOMAD. Quite the beauty. My father has owned over 30 Nomads since I was a kid. Mostly 55's. I have been around those vehicles forever. In fact you might know my father. He sells all parts for 55-57 Chevy's, all models. Has lots of factory air parts, and lots of N.O.S. parts. We used to raid Chevrolet dealerships back when I was very young and you could go into the stock room and pillage what ever you wanted. Lots of fun.

Jeff
J/S-S1A