comparation between Magnepan & KEF ref. series

I have a set of three MG1.6. The big question relates to Planar vs Cones. That is something you must decide for yourself. You must also come to terms with the visual impact. If the Planar spatial characteristics are to your liking, Maggies are an excellent choice, and, from the cost point of view, unmatched. Within the Magnepan product line, the MG1.6 is (most people think) the best bang for the buck.

Gmood1...You are accurate in the observation that power levels are never even close to the ratings of the amps that people use. But, my experience is always that higher power amps sound better. This was most clearly illustrated when I changed between two Adcom amps having identical specs except for power...100wpc vs 350 wpc into 4 ohms. There is some other characteristic which goes along with high power capability that does the magic.

That said, Maggies sound very good even with low powered amps. It's just that they sound even better with high power.
This is true of all speakers, but more so with Maggies.

Gmood1...One must be careful about subjective evaluations of loudness. It has been shown that music sounds "Loud" when distortion occurs. Clean audio sounds less loud than distorted audio even if a meter will prove the oposite.

This has been cited as the reason why women are always telling us guys to lower the volume. Supposedly their hearing is more sensitive to distortion. But then I wonder if this is just more feminist propaganda!