Martin Logan Aeons and Depth


I have read so much about this that it is time someone steps up to the plate and tells me what to do.

I like the Aeons, but maybe for the wrong reasons, plus I have only heard them at the dealer with some huge amp. Here's the deal: I want a cool HT for my basement room about 22x13x8. I listen to all kinds of stuff, but mostly rock. I have picked out the Aeons, Depth, Cinema, Scenarios, and a Sunfire Ultimate. I don't really know if I want some high maintenance system that is hard to setup. Also, the above hardware is going to take about $10k of my hard earned money. So, what should I do? I know there are a lot of people plugged into this board who are a whole lot smarter than me. I value any and all imput.
Paul
mnjacksonman
I guess I thought Scenarios because I also considered 4 Aeons for a matched room full of sound. Maybe I should look into the Scripts?? A pair of Scenarios (demo from dealer) will cost me $1,279 plus tax. Aeons are $1,900. Not sure about the Scripts, although I've seen them available at auctions for less than $1k/pair. What is the opinion of new v. used? Warranty not transferrable? Potential for panel replacement at some point?

Paul
I don't want to throw a monkey wrench into your plans, but as a former Martin Logan owner, I want to make sure you take some things into consideration.

1. The sweet spot of ML is extremely small and if you stand up even in the "sweet spot" things quickly go awry. If you normally have more than one person watching/listening to your HT, then make sure you audition it outside the sweetspot and find it acceptable or the tradeoff versus cones worthwhile.

2. The models of ML you choose really should be dependent on the size of the listening room. They all basically use the same parts, but are designed to fill different size rooms. Your dealer should recommend the appropriate models for your room. Don't try to guess and make sure you have liberal placement options once in your room since they are a little finicky with setup.

3. If you like the cool look of the Logans and the wall of sound they present, I would also recommend looking at the Magnepan HT setup and pairing it with the Vandersteen sub. Using the 1.6 as fronts and wall mounted surrounds, you will likely save money even versus the discounted ML prices you received. Arguably, I think you would be doing slightly better soundwise, especially for two channel.

Don't get me wrong, I don't want to totally turn you off of Martin Logans. You can definitely get a very pleasing HT experience with a ML setup. However, I just found the risk profile for a ML setup to be a little higher and should be thoroughly considered to ensure maximum results.
Thanks! This is exactly the kind of feedback I was hoping for. The dealer usually just smiles and says this will be an awsome system. With a room at 13(w)x20(l) with 8' ceilings, are these parts appropriate? Auditioning in my room (presently unfinished) will certainly prove to be a colosal inconvenience, although it is probably the best approach. When ever I can gleen information from other people's real life experiences, I my comfort level in my ultimate decision increases.