Paradigm achieves great sound through superior design. No magic with these guys. The Reference 100 linked to in the OP is a good 3-way design with emphasis on higher output. The three woofers are used for baffle step compensation, and a high efficiency midrange, coupled with a competent tweeter make for a pretty sensitive tower by today's standards. Especially given the smallish enclosure.
Not much to complain about except the price.