I have had several pairs of Maggies starting with MMG's and then 1.5's, 1.6's and now 3.5's. I loved the 1.6's, great midrange and a wonderful overall sound but the 3.5's give me that extra level of refinement that the 1.6's couldn't do with there true ribbon tweeter. As well, the bass is better with the 3.5's. I do agree with the other threads that they needs lot's of power and current to really sing. I have tried several amps before settling on a McCormack DNA-1 which really works well with them. I was able to use moderate powered tube amps with my 1.6's and they sounded great but the same amps wouldn't work well with the 3.5's. You can't go wrong with either one but the 5's are a bit better in the overall presentation of music.
Which Magnepans 3.5 or 1.6?
I am looking to purchase a set of Magnepans. My budget is about $1800. Would I be better off with a new set of 1.6QRs or a used set of 3.5s? I am using a CAT SL-1 mk 2 pre, Resolution Audio Opus 21 cdp, and for now an old Bryston 4B amp. My next step will be to replace the amp.