I've had the 1.6's since Nov. '98 and I power them with the same pre and power amps that Fineberg uses, MF A3cr, an excellent match. I replaced the crossovers with Hovland caps and Alpha-Core inductors in 2000 with an 80% overall improvement in sound. You can read all about the crossover upgrade in the Planer Asylum at Audio Asylum. I think the biggest weakness is the lack of clarity you get with something like a 2A3 SET powering efficient speakers. The tonal quality of the MF and Maggie combo in my opinion is at least the equal of the SET's that I have heard. Low powered tubes done right just sound cleaner. The problem with low power is dynamics, something I am addicted to. I heard a small tube amp powering ElectroVoice horns at this months Bottlehead meeting and I was quite impressed. The owner said the crossover was a bear to set up, which is the biggest problem with horns, getting them to work right in this lifetime. Good dynamics for a small amp though. I use a PSB subsonic II sub that works quite well with the rock that listen to.
Magnepan..the sun rises and sets on..or does it??
I'm updating my old but good pair of Kef 104.2 speakers.
There is certainly alot of hype ,out there ,for the Magnepan speakers..1.6QR especially.
I'm very isolated so to hear a pair of Magnepans is almost impossible.
Are they that good?
Should I be buying shares in the company?
Any suggestions or opinions would be greatly appreciated.
My system..Blue Circle 3.1 pre.4B ST amp..etc.etc.
There is certainly alot of hype ,out there ,for the Magnepan speakers..1.6QR especially.
I'm very isolated so to hear a pair of Magnepans is almost impossible.
Are they that good?
Should I be buying shares in the company?
Any suggestions or opinions would be greatly appreciated.
My system..Blue Circle 3.1 pre.4B ST amp..etc.etc.