Which magnepan

I owned 3.5Rs and could never get past the door size room blocker physical size.  I tried a wide variety of amps, both SS and tube (Rogue 150s), but found them hard to drive.

I supplemented the bass with 2 SVS subs (one Ultra and one Plus). Eventually I replaced them with Emerald Physics KC IIs, which are easy to drive 94dB, the bass is good that that I no longer use my SVS subs.

I ordered the KCIIs with the WireWorld OCC internal wiring upgrade (+$500). They include this wire in their more expensive speakers, but mine was a first to put it into the KCIIs. I was told by the assemblers that the improvement (by comparison to the basic wire) was amazing 

IMHO, they are well worth the stretch

In your price range I agree with those that recomment the 1.7 series.

My opinion is to try all that qualify in your budget/equipment match and take them home and listen for a week-end.  That should point you in the right direction.  Typically, the larger the Maggie, the more power amp(s) you need to get the SPL up to fun listening levels.

Whatever you decide, you are getting the most accurate speakers made, period, IMO.

If you're close to Indiana, this may interest you:   https://indianapolis.craigslist.org/ele/d/magnepan-17i-loudspeakers/6661088405.html

Larryys , I have heard all the maggies at a dealer who is a long-time friend
and heard them a lot .I thing you are spot on with the 1.7 's .