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Magnepan 1.7s in a 10x13' dedicated room?

I'm planning on upgrading my speakers soon and want to go back to Magnepans. I'm considering MG12s but came across nearly new 1.7s on Craigs List for a good price. Problem is, my room is only 10x13x8', but I can do anything I want to it. It already has three bass traps, (two in front corners, one at ceiling wall juncture in back) and 24 1x2' Auralex absorbers spaced around the room. Floor is hardwood with a big think area rug. Anyone put 1.6s or 1.7s in a room of similar size?
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kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 

This may sound unresponsive but any good quality speaker paired with high quality components will sound much much better than mediocre speakers paired with mediocre components. The real question is whether or not these components are delivering their maximum potential in these respective arrangements. I have no doubt I would love the experience if I stuck a pair of Wilson's XXX (fill in the blanks) hooked up to an Audio Research Ref-XXX amp and Ref-X preamp in my basement.... but .....Sorry just could not resist.

lak's avatar
lak
4,747 posts
 
Johnto,
I had the 1.7 in a similar size room and upgraded to the 3.7.
All aspects of the music improved and sounded more pleasing.
Although I would agree that the 3.7 should be used in a larger room, it was still an improvement.

chrisr's avatar
chrisr
543 posts
 
I have had mmgs and mg12s in a room a little smaller than yours 10x11. 12in diameter/4ft tall foam column 2ft behind speakers, back wall fully covered with auralex, side walls partially covered, top corners treated, and it sounded great! I have had many speakers in that room, Magnepan and monitors worked the best. I probably could have had the bigger 1.6 back then, but I was very pleased with mg12.
limniscate
241 posts
 
In general, I would not recommend Magnepans in small rooms.  I went from having my Maggies 4' off the front wall to 9' & 7' (uneven front wall), and the difference was massive.  You really hamstring the speaker by having them close to the front wall and are probably better off getting a different brand.
johnto
1,072 posts
 
My room is 12 x 15 x 8 just upgraded from 1.7i to 3.7 i.  Don't be scared of large Maggies in a small room the sound is totally amazing you get more of everything. Also upgraded amp from Emotiva ( which kept blowing) to Parasound Halo integrated a match made in heaven. Plenty of power and great sound.
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