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Maggie 1.7i vs Marin Logan Electromotion ESL - Which is less critical for room placement?

I’d like to buy either the Maggie 1.7i or Martin Loga Electromotion ESL or ESL X. I have a long room, so distance from sidewalls shouldn’t be a factor. However, It’s not very wide. Right now I have Vandersteen 3As placed 26" from the front wall & my listening position is 8’ away from their front. The most I can go with any speaker is about 30" out, or they’ll be sitting in a traffic area.

I’ve been reading in many MG owner reviews, that Maggies must be a minimum of 3’ from the front wall or the imaging/soundstage really suffers. Can the MLs be closer than 3’ without hurting the sound?
stevehardy1
mcreyn
293 posts
 
Before you even ask that question, Martin Logans and Maggies sound very different. I would listen to both to see which you prefer. Given you have Vandersteens, I would expect Magnepans.

If you treat the front wall behind the speakers (look at GIK Acoustics) you can place dipolar speakers closer to the rear wall (20-24”) without them getting shouty.  Note I have owned Maggies for 25 years and currently use 3.5s.  
stevehardy1 OP
77 posts
 
I'm familiar with MLs & Maggies & like them both for different reasons. As great as either speaker is, niether will sound up to their potential with bad placement. I've read a few online discussions stating MLs can work closer to to the front wall than the Maggies. Looking for somebody that has had experience placing them. Thanks for your input. I'm going to look at the place you suggested for room treatment as well. 
dvinkl
19 posts
 

Dear both

Which amplication and speakers cable do you use with Maggies 1.7i?

I am driving them with AYRE K-1XE+V-5XE combo and ANALYSIS PLUS SILVER OVAL 2 speakers cable.

I do prefer how the USA gear sounds.

I would like to upgrade the system, but do not know where to start.

By the way I am from Europe.

I also have a long, narrow  and low room.

I measures: 5m long, 3m width and 2,10m high (previous garage)



secretguy
1,607 posts
 
I had 1.7s and really found that the placement concerns are way overblown. I think the most they was away from the front wall  2 feet and they sounded beautiful.
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