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Moving from the Magnepan 3.6 to the 20.1

I've been enjoying my Magnepan 3.6's immensely since I picked up a used pair about six months ago. This has got me wondering just how good the 20.1's could really be. My room is probably large enough for the 20.1's; it's 17.5w x 26L x 9h.

Unfortunately my local dealer doesn't stock the 20'1's so I don't have easy access to a pair for serious auditioning.

Have you made this move? How much 'better' are the 20.1's than the 3.6's? Were they better? What stood-out between the two?
stickman451

Showing 2 responses by james63

james63
534 posts
 
I have heard both back to back at a dealer demo. The 3.6 was on a Mcintosh 252 and the 20.1 was on Mcintosh 1000 watt mono blocks.

The 20.1 have a LOT more bass. They dig deep and have good output. The midrange is not as forward on the 20.1 and a little more laid back. The highs sounded the same to me. I actually really like the forwardness of the 3.6 midrange, it makes vocals standout.

The 20.1 are a big up grade in sound quality. But $13,000 is a lot to spend on Magnepans with their sub-pare build quality...
james63
534 posts
 
Don_c55,

You have an interesting point about the midrange on the 3.6 vs 20.1s. I honestly like the mids better on the 3.6 for lack of a technical reason. I just keep my comments to myself though because I have only heard each of these speakers for a few hours.

Can you give us anymore details on why you feel the 3.6s midrange is better in sonic terms? I felt the 3.6s had more midrange energy and life but I could not put my finger on it. I needed a longer demo I guess.
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