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Magnepan 3.7i with two (2) DWMs with Pass Labs XA100.5

I recently upgraded by speaker cables between my Pass Labs XA100.5 and Magnepan 3.7i and a pair of DWMs. I've tried connecting the DWMs both in parallel and in series (using the DWMs crossovers).  I moved from Kimber 12TC to Audience Au24 SE.  This change added more detail and transparency.

Interesting when running in parallel (i.e., the 3.7i and DWM each connected directly to one of the XA100.5's two connections), the XA100.5 quickly left A-class.

Having the each cable around and given the nature of the DWM, I tried running the system both parallel and in series on the same system.  In other words, I was using all four sides of the two DWMs.  I wouldn't say that the XA100.5 couldn't handle it (opinion welcome, read on), but it was quickly out of A-class.  The meter would swing back and forth.  The interesting thing, is that I lost the Pass Labs sparkle.  Bass was very powerful and could be felt.  Yet it was almost muddy for the loss of a better word. Was the loss of mid-range magic, the XA100.5 running out of steam?
tgonzales
bluesy41
211 posts
 
@tgonzales

What are you using to drive the Maggies? I have a similar size room and a pair of 20.7’s that I recently upgraded from 3.7i’s and I didn’t need a sub then nor do I need one now. And get this I’m currently driving them with 95wpc tubes. I honestly believe it’s in your speaker placement. I suffered through lifeless music with my 3.7i’s for almost a year and then I read the manual and dialed in the placement and got immediate gains. To the point that I’m either going to sell or trade the DWM modules. I also replaced my ARC solid state mono-block amps 600wpc in 4ohm with PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium HP amps. A Wall of Glorious Sound!
tgonzales OP
30 posts
 
I'm driving them with Pass Labs XA100.8 mono blocks.  100wpc in class A and 200wpc in A/B.
bluesy41
211 posts
 
@tgonzales 

Play with the placement and I’m certain you will see the 3.7’s go to an another level of deph and dynamics. Also make sure if you have the tweeter on the inside that the panel is closer to your listening chair then the tweeter. The tweeter must be further away from you for maximum imaging and openness. As I’m sure you are aware Maggie’s are finicky when it comes or placement but once you get them dialed in the rewards are incredible. Happy listening and cheers 
gkr7007's avatar
gkr7007
154 posts
 
Yeah, the way you have them wired you are definitely putting a strain on those monos.  I have the 3.7s and used to run them with a Pass 250.5.  Tried the DWM's and never did get used to them. Tried several subs (some pretty expensive too) and just couldn't find the right integration.
Finally tried an inexpensive Martin Logan and it was great.  Non ported and built to work with ML Electrostats so it was fast enough and very accurate.  I never looked back.  BTW..... Just a quick note.  Take out those steel jumpers on the back panel and listen for a very large change in detail and dynamics.  I happened to use Anticables but anything is better than the steel. 
tgonzales OP
30 posts
 
The combination of a 3.7i and DWM on each XA100.8 pushed it. It would occasionally leave class A. Now with the JL Audio F112 "driven" directly from the pre-amp, this is not a concern.

The XA100.8 rarely leave Class A now, but ultimate SPL can only reach loud rather than "unneighborly." I was surprised that the change from XA60.5 to XA100.8 barely impacted ultimate SPL and transition between A and A/B.

Mine had upgraded the fuses, jumpers, and stands (myestands) when I first bought them.  So I didn't have the chance to appreciate the difference.  
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