Need Coaching re: Maggies & Subs


I'd welcome some experienced coaching re: the following scenario. Looking to purchase new Maggies (most likely 1.7's) to be driven by a Mac 402 Amp (400 watts per).

1. I have a smallish room (15.2'W x 14.2'D x 8'-9' (varying) ceiling height. Do smaller maggies work better in smaller rooms? or does it matter? I'm assuming placement in this room will be a bit challenging with ANY maggies...just wondering if staying smaller (mmg or 1.7) will help?

2. I'm growing convinced that I'd be happier by adding a good quality sub to the maggies. I listened to a rather expensive REL ($6K)...but after reading a stellar Absolute Sound review of a smaller REL T2 (less than $1K), I'm wondering if anyone has listened to this combination--and can recommend for/against?

I always get great coaching from my Audiogon mates and i'm sure this time will be no different. I welcome any and all to contribute. Thanks!
128x128earzona
I've tried many, many subs with my Maggies (JL Audio, Rel, Velodyne DD, SVS, Sunfire, Vandersteen, Martin Logan...), and I just got a Definitive Technology Supercube I ( I was going to buy 2, but am sticking with one), and it's awesome.

You can use LFE and speaker level connections simultaneously, so it's super flexible. Oh yeah, and it's unbelievably fast and DEEP!!

Oh yeah, not expensive either.
About the room size, you are on the edge of having a room a bit too small for the 1.6/1.7 models. I recommend you look at the Magnestand site for some pointers on models and room size.
I've used the little MMGs with two 12" Rythmik subs and gotten great results. Integration is the key and - IMHO - digital room correction of the subs will make all the difference in the world. I use a NHT X-2 x-over to roll off the MMGs and a Velodyne SMS-1 to correct the Rythmiks for room induced anomolies.

The MMGs sell for (I think) $600, the SMS-1 is $450, the X-2 is $300, and the Rythmiks were $1600/pr. Just under $3K gets a beautifully integrated, full range system that is smoother and flatter thru the bass region than any non-corrected speaker I've ever heard.

You can move up the Maggie line for the same $, but I definitely prefer this solution (and, yes, I've previously owned 3.5s).

Marty
Martykl, I applaud your solution. I originally bought the MMG straight from the factory and loved them. I only changed to the MG12 because I could take advantage of the factory sponsored full-trade in offer. Being able to go from 3.5 to MMG with DSP is the essence of being involved in this hobby. Thanks for your post. Listen every day.