Magico Room at RAMF How good did it sound


Did not go to RAMF this year wanted to know what was Magico showing and how did it sound?
ebm

Showing 11 responses by peterayer

Hifi,
I guess we just disagree. I would describe the "Magico Concept" as very neutral, very transparent, low in distortion. No immediate sonic thrills. It takes a while to get used to because they do sound different. You just don't get it. That's fine. I have not heard the Q1 yet, so I can't comment on that speaker specifically. I do like the Q3 though. Don't worry about it. I'm sure there are better speakers out there and some for less money.
That's an interesting report. What amps were being used with the Q1's? And was the source analog or digital?

These are the replacement for my Mini 2's. They are supposedly better and cost less money. I'm not aware of the Mini 2's ever getting so badly criticized as Team212 and Hifimaniac suggest.

Is this based on sonics alone?
Usermanual,
How would you describe the difference between the Q1 and your former Mini 2 or even the Q3 for that matter? I just haven't had a chance to hear the Q1 yet. I heard the Q3 at a demo at Goodwins introduced my Alon Wolf. It was wonderful and perhaps the best such demo I've ever heard. Congratulations on your new speakers. I also "get" the Magico concept.

What source were they using at the show?
Audiofeil,
Typical selective quote. I followed that with "That's fine." He doesn't get the Magico Concept, that's all. He admitted as much when he said "I don't get it" one post up. I agree with him. I'm sure there is lots I don't get either. You are right about that and thank you for pointing it out. I do get the Pass Labs stuff that you sell. I just don't get why one would buy anything from you with your attitude.
Ritmo,
Thanks for that report. That's an interesting comment about price-points. I thought my Magico Mini II was competitive in the $18-20K range, but not at its final price of $32K. Now you suggest the Q1s would be good at $10K. Considering that they are supposed to outperform the Mini II, my $18-20K range was a bit off. I have to go and listen to the Q1.
Razmika,
I'm a Mini II owner who has not yet had a chance to hear the Q1. Could you please describe why you think the Q1 is "MUCH" better. I'm hoping to audition the Q1 in Boston, but I don't think the dealer has one yet. Also, do you think the Q1 is more efficient or easier to drive for an amplifier than the Mini II? Thanks.
Thanks Rasmika,
That is quite a list of improvements. I love the Mini II, so this Q1 must be really
something. Now, if it just had a different aesthetic... It really surprises me how
divergent the opinions are about the Q1 and the brand in general. With few
dealerships today, many form a first and final opinion of a speaker from show
conditions.
Rasmika,

You'll find no argument from me. The Q line, based on the 3 and 5 that I've seen and heard, is incredible. Great sound and seemingly of the highest quality. Fit and finish are superb.

I've heard Avalon sound wonderful, but I agree, Magico is pushing some boundaries in terms of aluminum enclosures and they do sound different from the audiophile norm. Not everyone likes that. I've described the sound as neutral and transparent in other threads and I think a lot of that has to do with the enclosures. I just hear very little distortion.

I also agree, that in terms of brand awareness and perhaps sales, it's "working well for them."

I also agree with Bvdiman. The Mini2 sure looks great in a more formal, traditional setting. It is a classic design and brought much awareness to the brand. I'll hear the Q1 someday, and I'm sure it will sound fantastic.
EBM keeps his comments very pithy. I like that and they are very often, quite funny. I totally agree with Sirspeedy about the Magico MINI. It was designed and built to a very high standard with little regard to cost. Now that it is discontinued, it deserves its spot among the classics.

I have not heard EBM's system, but I hope to when I'm next in NYC.

EBM, could you please post some system photos?
I agree about the M5 looking a bit odd. They are smaller in person than they appear in photos. I actually like the look of the V3, though the aluminum faceplate should have covered the front edges of the plywood sides, like the Q series baffles do. Now that would have been one gorgeous speaker, IMO.

The older Ferraris have a classic beauty to them, as do many of the sports cars from the '60's. Great curves and proportions. They were smaller, lighter and easier for the hobbyist to fix, though I'm too young to have ever owned one.