2. speakers
  3. 196499-9367

Newbie Maggie question: Best bang for buck?

I know I am destined to buy my first pair of Maggies soon. These will likely be my last “forever” speaker. So I want to get it right - one swing and a home run is what I need. Yet, I have more desires than I have money. Here’s (hear’s) my question:

 

In general (ahem, in general) as you go up and down the Maggie line, basically (ahem, basically) what changes is the size of the speakers and their drivers. Larger surface area = more moving air = bigger soundstage, etc.

 

BUT:

 

Other than size, what is the “sweet spot” in the Magnepan line from a technological / design perspective? In other words, where in the Maggie line can I get the most bang for my buck? Which speaker utilizes the best of Magnepan’s technological refinements, yet keeps the size and cost to a minimum?

 

Theoretically, if all Megnepans were the same size, which one would provide the best sound at the cheapest cost?

 

Thanks in advance for your sage like advice!

mhwalker

Showing 2 responses by ravimaui

ravimaui
4 posts
 

I started with the Tympani 1D in 1977 with the Audio Research SP-4 preamp and D-100A amp  - fantastic - had them for 25 years. 

Then tried the 1.7s  with Rel subs - very nice. Then the Larsen 9s. I just got the 2.7x - Wow!! What a difference - the 1.7s sounded veiled by comparison, and the Larsens didn’t have the soundstage I needed. I have a 25’x 30’ room with 13’ ceilings - they sound absolutely superb  with the Lyngdorf TDAI-3400 amp. I considered the 3.7i, but wanted something newer. Highly recommend the 2.7x if you have the space and budget. 

ravimaui
4 posts
 

A quick postscript - the 2.7i and 2.7x also have ribbon tweeters (48” vs 60” on the 3.7i). Stunning!

I don’t need huge bass sound, and the 2.7x delivers all I need - Michael Jackson, Steely Dan, etc all sound fantastic! 
 

Yes, placement is finicky. But it’s also fun. I finally settled on the ‘right’ spot after about 15-20 little tweaks. And put a small piece of tape on the floor to mark exactly where each one should be (in case moved by mistake by someone).

Fair warning - maybe it’s just me, but after 4 decades of Maggies I can’t listen to most cone speakers without getting listener fatigue after 30 minutes - I’ve heard many but they sound too bright/harsh. My ears are spoiled. 
 

Happy hunting!
 

 

More to discover