Maggie 20.1 and Marchand XM-44

I politely disagree with Chadeffect, I never have heard a 20 or 20.1 even with modified passive X-overs sound any were close to the performance of these speakers when they are bi-amped with a good active crossover.

I recommened the Bryston 10B active crossover, it's what I use in my system with great results. I believe it retails now for around $3000.00. I agree that the Pass Labs crossover is terrific, but costs almost twice as much as the Bryston. I know Maggie owners who have run the experiement between these to active crossovers and they came to the conclusion that sonicly the Bryston is right there with the Pass Labs for alot less money. Both are extremely well built, see if you can find either used here on the GON.

I've owned the Marchand and currently own the Pass XVR-1. The Pass is an awesome piece with tons of flexibility. While I don't have Maggies, I am running ML CLS IIZ's and the Pass has been great integrating those with my JL sub.

I've never heard the Pass Xover, but I have heard an excellent 3 way Marchand on the 20.1's (sub attached to the active and crossed over at 34 hrz) with Pass amps on the bottom and ARC tubes on the top, and that was one of the best sounding systems I have ever heard.

Of course I need to say that the analog set up was top notch as well so.......

I pulled the trigger on the Marchand crossover and ordered the stock freq's as well as a few variations that plug in as modules. Will let you know what transpires. Phil Marchand is a good guy to deal with should you have the inclination.

UPDATE,

I received the Marchand crossover yesterday and installed it last night. I am now running a Cary 120S tube amp(EL34) which powers the mid and high frequencies and Cary 500MB monoblocks powering the base of my Magnepan 20.1's.
I am shocked at the difference the Marchand has made. It's a completely different speaker. Sharper, more cohereant and bassey. I must say, I did not expect this much of an improvement. I have to experiment with the various modules to find the best slopes but for now, the sound is incredable.