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Magnepans VS MartinLogan for detail and sound staging

I'm currently an owner of Magnepan 1.7s paired with a Peachtree PreDAC/GaN400 bundle. 

I'm one of those listeners who loves detail and accurate sound staging.

On some levels I'm perfectly happy with the sound as when I play Grateful Dead's Ripple at mid volume where I can position every voice, every guitar strum with amazing clarity. When I step up to something fuller and more complex musically like something off the Doors first album or even something musically symphonic like Saint-Saen's Organ Symphony or the Nutcracker at mid-level volume the fullness and detail begin to wear thin.

I also have a 30 year old Yamaha subwoofer that I occasionally use for any recording that seems to need a boost for my 72 year old ears.

Though I haven't listened to them yet, research makes me think that a pair of Martin-Logan ESL's could improve my experience since they're less demanding power-wise than my Maggie's and have a reputation for delivering the sound nuances I'm looking for. On the other hand maybe I should be investing in a different amp or preamp?

Any suggestions from anyone who's ventured down a similar path?

 

baconboy

Showing 1 response by zlone

zlone
798 posts
 

I am not sure if those Maggie’s can deliver what you are looking for, I have not heard them outside a showroom. But assuming that they can, I think you are limited by the all in one Peachtree solution. Getting to the next level would require some budget, avoid making a lateral move. 
 

In the meantime, you did not mention what you are using for a streamer, and very importantly what you are using for digital cable. Both can make a big difference. 

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