What planer speaker to start with? Budget 2k

MMGs ($600) and a Velodyne SMS-1 ($600) to integrate your sub. If the sub is decent, you will have one awfully good, truly full range speaker system on your hands. I just set this system up (with two Velodyne SPLR 8" subs) and -in most (though not all) important respects- it's the best sounding speaker system I've had in my room. It's also BY FAR the cheapest.

Incedentally, don't overlook the benefits of a small panel. I used to own Maggie 3.5s some years back and room interactions were far more difficult to address with those than with the MMGs.

Good Luck

Marty

The MMG's would be cool...and keepers if you go to HT, and can use them as surrounds!
I sold a pair of MG-1s (late 70's issue) which had been factory rebuilt and were a fine intro to Maggie sound, and for less than the above, MMGs.

MMGs will be selling yourself short. You really need the 12's or better to get the full feel of planers. Personally, I'd find some electrostatics, Logan, Soundlab or even older Quads. I had cheap maggies and the difference between those and a pair of Acoustat 2+2's was unbelievable.

I was wondering about an "older" set of quads, the 57's possibly?

For just over half that budget you could have had my pair of Soundlab Pristine II full range electrostats. I had them advertised at a VERY low price at the Asylum because I didn't want to move them. No offers... so they're coming with.