Vandersteen 3a vs Magnepan 3.7i

John...……………………………..

I owned Vandersteen 3A speakers years back and never found them bright or analytical.  As a matter of fact, it was quite the opposite although the newer 3A may have newer and or upgraded drivers .

You have mentioned in OP two speakers that imo inhabit opposite ends of the design and performance spectrum (Not so much in absolute quality, but in idiosyncrasies of performance). Very different characteristics displayed. 

You may find three of my reviews for Dagogo.com of interest:
Eminent Technology LFT- 8A/B
Magnepan .7
PureAudioProject Trio15 Horn 1

Blessed Christmas to all! 

@johnto I agree with @tomic601,sounds like good system matching and setup could be the culprit. Do you have any absorptive panels at the first side reflection points? the second reflection points? Do you have an absorptive rug at the first reflection off the floor? Borrow and try some if possible. 

If it's not setup and room treatment, I'd try borrowing another source and seeing how much impact that has. The Pass/Maggie combo should be great(perhaps the best available in their price range) and you shouldn't have the trouble you are describing. Cheers,
Spencer

Thanks tomic601 have changed to 38" for tweeter outside and 32" on inside keeping the 13" from side wall seems to be much better focussed. I will get back to some of the problem recordings later. 

Your room is way too small for the 3.7i in my opinion.  The Vandies should serve you better, especially since you listen to rock.