magnepans with a sub???

ARC LS25 pre------>
NHT X-2 active x-over (low-cut filters the main signal)
High pass from X2---->ARC VT130SE---->MMGs
Low pass from X2---->Velodyne SMS-1--->2 x Rythmik 12" subs
(SMS performs digital room correction + high cuts bass signal)

NHT X2 =$300
Velo SMS-1 =$400
MMG = $600 (when I bought 'em)
Rythnik subs 2x$800 = $1600

Total budget = $2900 for full range, room corrected bass with planar response from 75hz on up. Some won't like the idea of the NHT X2 in the main path, but it's really benign (to my ear, anyway). The SMS-1 (or, I'd guess, the SVS Audyssey unit) are almost mandatory IMHO for best results. They smooth the bass response of the subs and allow you to fine tune the "hand-off" so that it's seamless.

This is probably the best bang for the buck full-range system that I've ever heard. I also use Ohm 100s in lieu of the MMGs because the I like the omni dispersion, but that's personal taste and another $1K on the price tag.

Good Luck.

Marty

BTW - I cross at 75 hz because that's where my passive treatments (bass busters) cease to be effective. YMMV on that one. However, my MMGs operated full range (no subs) started to roll off in the high 50hz range and dropped off very sharply at just under 50hz (per the readout from the SMS-1 real time analyzer). Again, in your room, MMV, but don't count on anything approaching 30hz.

As to max SPLs, I've got more than I need with this set-up. However, I've never tried to see where the MMG maxes out on its own, so I can't speak to that one.

Hi Louisl, I have a VT100 MkIII with magnepan 3.7s. There is simply not enough power. While the VT100 sounds very good with the 3.7s when you want crank it up there is just not enough power. I have since update amplifiers to a Krell 302. This combination sings. With Magnepans you need 300 to 600 watts minimum....

Try the Gilmore Raptor monoblocks they will give you great punch with your 3.7. Good luck and keep us posted.

Louis1,

Read Etbaby's email...that for me is the 5th time i have heard or read about Krells and Maggies. def worth exploring for you. if you want to add tube pre, that should be fine...season to taste.

I use a custom multidriver 3 channel subwoofer system with my MG 1.6. Unlike stock subwoofers mine can easily go up to 400 Hz or so.

After years of subwoofer experience I have concluded that the ideal crossover frequency depends on the type of music. My crossover enables easy selection of any frequency and I use from 40 to 350 Hz, and my subwoofers accomodate this.

If you want realistic high SPL (Rock concert, Brass Band, Pipe Organ. etc.) you won't get it from MG1.6 crossed over at 50 Hz or so. At moderate SPL you will get lower bass, and you might prevent the diaphram from bottoming out. which is a good thing.