Ake, when I switched from my Maggie IIIAs to Proac 3.8s, I noticed the following differences.
Sound Stage...
The Maggies throw a much bigger sound stage due to their larger physical size.
Setup and HF dispersion, imaging, focus...
The Proacs are much better. The Maggies are very sensitive to room location and toe-in. The Proacs can be aimed straight ahead with little loss of imaging, and the Cardas room placement works very well with them. I was continually playing with the placement of the Maggies.
Bass...
There is more apparent bass from the Maggies, again due to their larger physical size, but the bass from the Proacs is very well controlled and accurate. I do think the Maggies may go down a few more Hz.
Midrange, vocals, dialog...
I prefer the Proacs. I feel they are more natural. The Maggies are euphonic in this area.
Overall...
The Proacs impart less of a sonic signature on the music and render a more natural and balanced presentation. I do miss the larger sound stage of the Maggies, but not their directionality and limited sweet spot. I still remain a Maggie fan and would encourage anyone thinking of parting with them to audition the possible replacements carefully.
Note...
I understand the Proac Future series has a ribbon tweeter, but I have never heard them.
Sound Stage...
The Maggies throw a much bigger sound stage due to their larger physical size.
Setup and HF dispersion, imaging, focus...
The Proacs are much better. The Maggies are very sensitive to room location and toe-in. The Proacs can be aimed straight ahead with little loss of imaging, and the Cardas room placement works very well with them. I was continually playing with the placement of the Maggies.
Bass...
There is more apparent bass from the Maggies, again due to their larger physical size, but the bass from the Proacs is very well controlled and accurate. I do think the Maggies may go down a few more Hz.
Midrange, vocals, dialog...
I prefer the Proacs. I feel they are more natural. The Maggies are euphonic in this area.
Overall...
The Proacs impart less of a sonic signature on the music and render a more natural and balanced presentation. I do miss the larger sound stage of the Maggies, but not their directionality and limited sweet spot. I still remain a Maggie fan and would encourage anyone thinking of parting with them to audition the possible replacements carefully.
Note...
I understand the Proac Future series has a ribbon tweeter, but I have never heard them.