I am currently using a Reference 3 that I bought from a fellow Audiogoner a year and a half ago. It sounds marvelous, especially since I went past the 300 hour barrier on the 3.7s. Things didn't really open up as soon as I thought they would but the wait has been worth it. I know you said the Refs were out of your price range but a used Ref 3 might be a possibility.
Good luck with the Maggies!
Good luck with the Maggies!