Yes, the IIIa is an unbelievable deal if you can find them in good shape. I am not sure if Magnepan will still rebuild them, but if they do, you basically get a new speaker for about $400. I have the 3.6r's and I think the IIIa's are in the same league with similar amplification.
1.6 are great speakers too, but they don't have near the bass response of the IIIa's.
1.6 are great speakers too, but they don't have near the bass response of the IIIa's.