Would getting a pair of Maggie 1.4s be an upgrade?

Are you referring to the Magnepan 1.4, Chandler, AZ seller on Phoenix craigslist? If so, I emailed the seller regarding his "re-gluing" work yesterday (24MAR), but no reply yet.

The 1.4s are definitely worth $200 if all checks out. Webnick's response is very good.

"Would replacing the VR with the 1.4s be considered an upgrade?"

Maggies sound and do things differently from conventional dynamic designs.

I think that would depend mostly on whether you consider the differences you will hear to be an upgrade or not.

Most would consider the potential benefits to be with certain kinds of music, more acoustic forms of music and less electronic/rock/pop types or for HT, at least without use of subs.

Wow. Thanks for the responses, fellows!

I wanted to include more info in the original post, but there was a word limit on the post.

I will be listening to Progressive rock (Porcupine Tree, Riverside), Classic Rock (Pink Floyd and the likes) and occasionally Hard rock/ Metal (Metallica/ Tool/ A Perfect Circle) kind of music.

I prefer listening to music more than watching movies. I don't listen to things loud as I prefer to NOT blow my eardrums out.

I have a sub (Paradigm PS-1000) that does nice duty during movies. I put the DTR6.5 in Pure Audio mode when listening to music.

That said, unfortunately the Maggies are sold. (Stevensctt - Yes, they are from the guy in Chandler, AZ :D)

With a tight budget (<$500) can you folks recommend something that will fit my bill?

Not surprising the Maggies sold. I likely would have bought them for $200 if the seller responded. Good deals like this go fast.

I would continue with Craiglist searches. With your budget and music preference, maybe look for a pair of Paradigm Studio 60s to pop-up. I bought a pair on Craigslist a few months ago for $175 from a seller in Mesa. They were v2 and in great shape. The Studio 60s are good for your listening tastes and budget. Since you have a SW, maybe consider the Studio 20 or Studio 40 bookshelfs.

I've seen B&W DM640s on Craiglist for less than $500/pair another good choice. Also, look for B&W DM602s -- a large bookshelf monitor that is VG for rock. Depending on the version, you should find a pair for less than $300.

"With a tight budget (<$500) can you folks recommend something that will fit my bill? "

Since you have a sub already, you do not need anything too big or extended, but speakers that can do the rest that the sub does not very well. A pair of Triangle Titus monitors can be had for <$400 used. These often get recognition as one of the best speakers around in their price range and I would have to agree. Integrate a good sub well and you have a sound that can contend with the big boys.

Same true with Maggie mmgs which you might be able to find used in your price range.

Another option would be to look for refurbished OHM Ls at www.ohmspeakers.com. You might be able to work a deal to get these newly refurbed from teh factory for $500 or less maybe. I've had mine (with some mods) for over 30 years now and they hold up quite well. I can say from experience that they particularly shine with the kinds of music you identify, specifically Porcupine Tree. Fear Of A Blank Planet in particular sounded so good on mine, that I was tempted to just go with them and ditch my upgraditis at the time.