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New vs old Magnepan models

I own a pair of 1.6qr Magnepans purchased in 2002. They are still in great condition and don’t have any physical issues due to age that affect the sound as far as I can tell. I love the Maggie’s sound and want to stay with Magnepan but I am curious if the new .7 model may be a good substitute for the old 1.6’s. I know from reading the Forum and other sources that the 1.7’s are a definite improvement over the 1.6’s especially in the treble area, but would consider the .7 due to it’s smaller size and better integration in my listening room setting since I have to move the speakers back and forth from the rear wall when using them. My listening/living room is large, 17’+ width x 26’ long x 9’ high. For critical listening, I sit about 9’ from the speakers that are placed 4’ from the rear wall and 8-9’ apart. I use the speakers with older Sonic Frontier tube separates and an older Belles Hot Rod 150watt solid state amp. In summary, can the .7’s compare or exceed the 1.6qr’s on sonic quality and sound stage?
 

 

 

sml19
pryso
1,985 posts
 

sml19, sorry but no experience with the .7 for a direct answer to your question.

I have a pair of 1.6s modified by Peter Gunn.  Unfortunately he passed away and his Magnestand site is no longer up.  He had reasons he did not recommend the 1.7s.  Also he didn't modify any larger model than the 1.6.  But he was controversial and many on the Planar Asylum disagreed with him.

I have heard the MG 20.1 and thought they were exceptional.

I think contacting Magnepan will receive a recommendation for one or another of their new models.  Big surprise.  So the best answer (as always) would be to somehow audition one model or more in the current lineup.

tomcarr
1,672 posts
 

Best  sound I've ever heard was the largest Maggies, driven by Mark Levinson amps. Source was a Linn Sondek table. Still remember it, 40 years later.

secretguy
1,838 posts
 

Having had a lot of Maggies over the years, I'd say that, all things being equal, bigger is better. However, newer models use slightly different technology. They do seem better top to bottom, smoother. Whether that's enough to make up for smaller panels.....Gotta let your ears decide.

BTW I still have my 1.6s also. Seems like every time I sell something, I end up regretting it. So they may live on, packed in their box.

jeffbij
221 posts
 

Steve Guttenberg on YouTube has done several reviews on Magnepans, including the newest X series.  Might be a good place to start.

 

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