If you’re looking for speakers that deliver a truly captivating and realistic listening experience, Magnepan might just be what you’ve been searching for. These unique speakers, often referred to as “Maggies” by their fans, use a thin, vibrating diaphragm to create sound, resulting in an exceptionally detailed and spacious soundstage. This article will explore the fascinating world of Magnepan speakers, covering their history, the technology that makes them tick, and the key factors to consider when choosing a pair. We’ll also address some common misconceptions about Magnepans, helping you separate fact from fiction.
Key Takeaways
- Magnepan’s planar magnetic technology creates a distinct sound: The flat diaphragm design produces a spacious, three-dimensional soundstage, often described as remarkably realistic and clear, particularly for acoustic instruments. Keep in mind that this technology requires specific room setup and a powerful amplifier.
- Room placement and acoustics are crucial: Magnepans benefit from careful placement and acoustic treatment due to their dipole radiation pattern. Experiment with speaker positioning and toe-in to find the optimal soundstage in your listening room. Consider adding a subwoofer for bass-heavy music.
- Amplifier selection is essential for Magnepan speakers: These speakers require a powerful amplifier due to their low sensitivity. Look for an amplifier with ample power and the ability to handle low impedance loads, rather than focusing solely on current. The right amplifier ensures optimal performance and protects your speakers.
What are Magnepan Speakers?
Magnepan speakers, often affectionately called “Maggies” by their fans, offer a unique approach to sound reproduction. Unlike traditional cone-based speakers, Magnepans use a thin, flat diaphragm to produce sound, resulting in a listening experience praised for its realism and clarity. Let’s explore what sets these speakers apart.
Magnepan’s History
Magnepan, located in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, has been crafting high-end speakers since 1969. The company’s commitment to planar magnetic technology has earned them a dedicated following among audiophiles. You can explore their current speaker models on the Magnepan website.
Understanding Planar Magnetic Technology
Instead of the cones found in most speakers, Magnepan uses a thin sheet of Mylar film stretched across a frame. Delicate wires or aluminum strips, attached to this film, conduct the electrical audio signal. This assembly sits within a magnetic field. As the audio signal passes through the wires, it interacts with the magnetic field, causing the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound. This design, known as a planar magnetic driver, allows for a remarkably fast and accurate response to the audio signal.
What makes Magnepan’s approach even more distinctive is its use of a dipole design. This means sound radiates from both the front and back of the speaker panel. The sound reflecting off the wall behind the speaker interacts with the sound coming directly from the front, creating a spacious, three-dimensional soundstage. This dipole effect contributes to the immersive quality often associated with Magnepan speakers. They are similar to, but distinct from, electrostatic speakers produced by companies like MartinLogan and Quad Electroacoustics.
Popular Magnepan Models
Magnepan offers a range of speakers at various price points. Whether you’re starting your audio journey or consider yourself an audiophile, there’s likely a Magnepan model that fits your needs. Here’s a look at some popular models:
LRS+: Entry-Level Option
The LRS+ is an accessible entry point into Magnepan’s product line. Manufactured in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, these speakers emphasize quality and value. The LRS+ has received praise from audio experts like Jonathan Valin at The Absolute Sound.
1.7i: The Mid-Range Choice
The 1.7i uses a planar-magnetic design, creating a dipole sound radiation pattern. This means sound comes from both the front and back of the speaker, creating a spacious soundstage. Reviewers often mention the 1.7i’s detailed midrange and treble, describing the sound as natural and revealing. The bass extends to around 40Hz; you might want to add a subwoofer for deeper low-end frequencies.
3.7i: High-End Listening
The 3.7i offers a noticeable improvement in performance. This three-way quasi-ribbon design creates a more coherent sound, improved bass, and a richer midrange compared to the 1.7i. The Absolute Sound noted the 3.7i’s impressive soundstage, a hallmark of Magnepan speakers.
20.7 and 30.7: The Audiophile’s Dream
The 20.7 and 30.7 represent the top of Magnepan’s product line. These models are known for their low-end extension, exceeding even the 3.7i and rivaling the performance of the large Tympani series. These speakers are a good choice for audiophiles seeking top-tier sound reproduction.
Advantages of Magnepan Speakers
Magnepan speakers offer several compelling advantages for audiophiles and music lovers. Their unique design and technology create a distinct listening experience that sets them apart from traditional speakers.
Superior Sound and Clarity
Magnepan speakers are known for their exceptional midrange reproduction and accurate timbre, especially when reproducing the sound of acoustic instruments. This natural and engaging listening experience brings you closer to the true essence of the music. Reviews often highlight this characteristic as a key strength of Magnepan designs.
Immersive Soundstage
One of the most striking features of Magnepan speakers is their expansive soundstage. Sound emanates from both the front and back of the speaker panel, with the rear wave reflecting off the walls of your listening room. This creates a wider, more realistic soundstage, immersing you in the performance.
Slim Profile
Unlike bulky box speakers, Magnepans have a distinctive, slim profile. Their flat-panel design uses thin wires or aluminum strips attached to a Mylar sheet. This makes them visually appealing and contributes to their unique sound characteristics. You can learn more about the Magnepan design on Wikipedia.
Low Distortion
The planar-magnetic technology in Magnepan speakers results in remarkably low distortion. This is crucial for discerning listeners who value clarity and accuracy. Reviewers praise models like the 1.7i for their natural sound and ability to reveal subtle details often lost with conventional speakers, making them a popular choice among serious music enthusiasts.
Potential Drawbacks
While Magnepan speakers offer a unique and rewarding listening experience, it’s important to be aware of some potential drawbacks before you buy. Understanding these limitations will help you decide if Magnepans are the right fit for your listening room and preferences.
Power and Amplification Needs
Magnepan speakers are known for their low resistance and inefficiency. This means they demand a robust amplifier to perform their best. A weak amplifier simply won’t cut it and could even damage the speakers. For example, the Magnepan 1.7i requires considerable power—not necessarily high current—for optimal performance. This discussion on amplifier current and Magnepans clarifies the relationship between these two factors. If you’re considering Magnepan speakers, factor in the cost of a suitable amplifier.
Room Placement
Setting up Magnepan speakers correctly is crucial for good sound. These large, planar speakers require careful positioning and significant toe-in—often between 15 and 20 degrees—to create the ideal soundstage. Reviews of the Magnepan LRS+ emphasize the importance of experimentation to find the sweet spot in your room. Don’t expect to just plug them in and be amazed; you’ll need to dedicate some time and effort to placement.
Bass Response
While Magnepan has made strides in bass performance, some limitations remain, especially with their smaller models. The LRS+, while a marked improvement over its predecessor, still faces constraints due to its size, particularly in the low bass and dynamic range. This makes it less suitable for very loud listening or bass-heavy music. The 1.7i, despite its unique planar-magnetic sound, has a limited bass response, extending down to roughly 40Hz. This review provides further details on the 1.7i’s performance.
Price
Though often considered a good value in the high-end audio world, Magnepan speakers aren’t inexpensive. The LRS+ offers a more balanced and realistic sound compared to the original LRS, with improvements in both bass and treble. Its compact size makes it competitive, but it’s still a significant investment. Remember to factor in the cost of a powerful amplifier, which can add considerably to the overall expense.
Recommended Amplifiers for Magnepan Speakers
Magnepan speakers are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, but they require careful amplifier pairing to reach their full potential. Choosing the right amplifier is crucial for getting the best performance from these unique speakers.
Power Output
Magnepans are known to be power-hungry due to their low sensitivity. They demand more power than typical speakers to achieve the same volume. While some recommend a minimum of 100 watts per channel into 4 ohms, a more powerful amplifier is often beneficial, especially with a larger room or when listening at higher volumes. Ample power allows your Magnepans to reproduce dynamic passages with greater ease and accuracy, creating a more satisfying listening experience.
Impedance Matching
Impedance matching is another key factor. Magnepan speakers typically have an impedance curve that dips down to 4 ohms or even lower. Choose an amplifier stable into low impedance loads to prevent overheating or damage. A lower impedance means the amplifier works harder, further emphasizing the need for sufficient power. Explore our guide on speaker impedance.
Top Amplifier Brands
Several amplifier brands are well-suited for powering Magnepan speakers, known for their ability to handle the demands of planar magnetic drivers.
Pass Labs
Pass Labs amplifiers are highly regarded by audiophiles for their exceptional sound quality and robust power delivery. Their high current output designs are ideal for driving the low impedance of Magnepan speakers, ensuring clear and dynamic sound.
Bryston
Bryston amplifiers are known for their reliability and long-term performance. They offer a range of power outputs suitable for various Magnepan models. Their robust build quality and ability to handle low impedance loads make them a solid choice.
McIntosh
McIntosh is an iconic brand known for its distinctive design and high-quality sound. McIntosh amplifiers provide ample power, offering a rich and immersive listening experience with Magnepan speakers.
Parasound
Parasound amplifiers offer a compelling combination of performance and value. They have several models capable of driving Magnepan speakers effectively, providing clean and powerful sound reproduction.
NAD
NAD amplifiers are a popular choice for budget-conscious audiophiles. They offer solid performance and are often surprisingly capable of driving Magnepan speakers, especially in smaller rooms or with less demanding models.
Setting Up Your Magnepan Speakers
Getting the most from your Magnepan speakers involves more than just plugging them in. Their planar-magnetic design sends sound waves both forward and backward. This “dipole” effect creates a spacious, realistic sound, but it also means placement is critical. Your room becomes an extension of the speaker itself, so experiment to find what works best for your space.
Room Acoustics and Positioning
Room acoustics significantly affect how your Magnepans perform. Hard surfaces like bare walls and windows cause sound reflections that muddy the audio. Adding rugs, curtains, or acoustic panels can absorb some of that reflected sound. Speaker placement is often emphasized in Magnepan reviews. Start with the basics and adjust as needed—even small changes can make a big difference.
Toe-In Adjustment
“Toe-in” refers to the angle at which your speakers point toward your listening position. With Magnepans, even slight adjustments can dramatically affect the soundstage. Begin around 15–20 degrees inward. Expert reviews often suggest this as a starting point before fine-tuning to your preferences. Listen for the sweet spot where instruments have the most presence and the soundstage feels focused.
Wall Distance and Listening Position
The ideal distance between your Magnepan speakers and the wall, as well as the distance between the speakers themselves, depends on your listening position. Magnepan recommends positioning the speakers about 60% of the distance they are from your listening spot. If you sit 10 feet from your speakers, they should be about 6 feet apart. This setup helps create a balanced and well-defined soundstage.
Magnepan vs. Traditional Speakers
Comparing Sound
Magnepan speakers are known for their exceptional midrange reproduction and the way they capture the timbre of acoustic instruments. This characteristic is often praised in reviews, such as The Absolute Sound’s evaluation of the Magnepan LRS. This focus on midrange can sometimes come at the expense of other frequencies. For example, while the Magnepan 1.7i offers impressive detail and a precise soundstage, some find it lacks the warmth of traditional box speakers like the Harbeth M40.1, as pointed out in this Magnepan 1.7i review. Ultimately, the best speaker depends on your individual sound preferences.
Design Differences
The most striking difference is the construction. Traditional speakers use cones inside a box. Magnepans, however, use a thin, flat panel. This panel has wires or aluminum strips attached to a Mylar sheet. These wires interact with a magnetic field to produce sound. This design contributes to Magnepan’s signature wide and realistic soundstage.
Genre Versatility
While Magnepans excel with certain genres, they might not suit all music. The LRS+, for instance, isn’t designed for high volumes or bass-heavy music, according to this LRS review. The 1.7i shines with acoustic and live recordings, where its detailed midrange and treble frequencies truly stand out, as noted in this 1.7i assessment. Consider your listening habits when deciding if Magnepans fit your music collection.
Common Magnepan Misconceptions
Magnepan speakers have a devoted following, but some audiophiles hesitate due to lingering misconceptions. Let’s clear up a few common myths.
Current Requirements
One persistent myth is that Magnepan speakers demand high-current amplifiers. The truth is more nuanced. While Magnepans are low-sensitivity speakers, meaning they require more power (watts) to achieve a given volume, they don’t inherently need exceptionally high current. This misconception stems from outdated information and doesn’t reflect the reality of modern Magnepan designs like the 1.7i. A robust amplifier with sufficient power is key, but don’t get overly fixated on current. This discussion on amplifier requirements for Magnepans clarifies this point further, debunking the high-current myth.
Durability
Another concern is the perceived fragility of Magnepan speakers. While they aren’t as rugged as traditional box speakers, Magnepans are reasonably durable. With proper care, they can last for 20–30 years. The Magnepan Wikipedia page notes that excessive heat and direct sunlight can shorten their lifespan, but they can be repaired if needed. Keep them away from windows and heat sources, and they’ll reward you with years of listening pleasure.
Bass Response
Some listeners believe Magnepans inherently lack bass. While it’s true that their bass response differs from traditional speakers, it’s more about character than absence. The planar magnetic design of the 1.7i, for example, produces bass down to around 40Hz. This in-depth review of the Magnepan 1.7i points out that this might not satisfy bass enthusiasts or those who listen at very high volumes. Adding a subwoofer can easily address this, extending the low-end and providing the rumble some crave. For more information on subwoofers, check out Supermarket Sound’s beginner’s guide to subwoofers.
Genre Performance
Finally, there’s a misconception that Magnepans only excel with certain genres, like classical or acoustic music. While these genres do showcase the speakers’ strengths in midrange and treble detail, Magnepans are surprisingly versatile. This 1.7i review praises the quality of the bass, even if it’s not as prominent as with some other speakers. This balanced performance makes them enjoyable across a wide range of musical styles, from jazz and vocals to rock and electronic music. You can explore different speaker types to compare and contrast with Magnepan’s unique sound profile.
Where to Buy Magnepan Speakers
Authorized Dealers
Magnepan works with a network of authorized dealers across the country. These dealers offer personalized service, helping you find the right Magnepan speakers for your system and budget. They can also provide expert advice on setup and amplifier pairings. Visiting a local dealer lets you audition Magnepan speakers, which is essential given their unique planar magnetic technology. Overture, an authorized Magnepan dealer, highlights the importance of experiencing these speakers in person.
Online Retailers
You can purchase Magnepan speakers directly from the manufacturer. This offers a streamlined process and ensures you’re receiving authentic products.
Pricing and Availability
Magnepan speakers range in price, from the more affordable LRS+ to the high-end 3.7i, as listed by Northcoast Audio. Remember that prices can vary, so check with authorized dealers or the Magnepan website for current pricing and availability. You can also find optional accessories, such as stands, to complete your setup.
Caring for Your Magnepans
Your Magnepans are an investment. Keeping them in top shape ensures they’ll sing sweetly for years to come. Here’s how:
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular dusting is key. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and keep the Mylar diaphragm clean. Never use cleaning solutions or liquids directly on the speakers—moisture is a Magnepan’s enemy. A simple dusting every few weeks will prevent buildup and maintain sound quality.
Addressing Delamination
One potential issue is delamination, where the wires separate from the Mylar diaphragm due to glue failure. This usually happens over time, but humidity, salt spray, and UV exposure can speed up the process. Delamination can cause buzzing or rattling. If you hear these sounds, contact a professional for repair—reattachment or a strip-and-rewire are common solutions.
Longevity and Performance
With proper care, Magnepan speakers can last 20 to 30 years. However, heat and direct sunlight can shorten their lifespan. Repairs can significantly extend their life, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Amplifier choice is also crucial. Magnepans need a high-powered amplifier (at least 100 watts) that can handle 4-ohm speakers. Using a weak amplifier can damage them and prevent them from reaching their full potential. A properly matched amplifier will give you the best sound and protect your investment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Magnepan speakers different? Magnepan speakers use a thin, flat diaphragm with wires embedded in a magnetic field. This design, called planar magnetic, creates sound by vibrating the entire diaphragm surface, unlike the cone in a traditional speaker. This results in a faster, more accurate response to the audio signal, leading to a distinct sound often described as incredibly detailed and lifelike. Also, Magnepans are dipole speakers, radiating sound from both the front and back. This interaction creates a spacious, three-dimensional soundstage that many listeners find immersive.
Are Magnepan speakers difficult to set up? Placement is crucial with Magnepan speakers. Because they’re dipoles, the sound radiating from the back interacts with the room’s acoustics. This means you’ll need to experiment with positioning, toe-in angle, and the distance from walls to find the optimal sound in your specific listening space. It takes some effort, but the resulting soundstage is often worth it.
What type of amplifier do I need for Magnepan speakers? Magnepans are known to be somewhat inefficient and require a powerful amplifier. Look for an amplifier that can comfortably deliver ample power, especially into 4-ohm loads, as Magnepan’s impedance can dip quite low. Don’t focus solely on current; adequate power (watts) is the primary concern. Several brands, including Pass Labs, Bryston, McIntosh, Parasound, and even NAD, offer amplifiers well-suited for Magnepan speakers.
Are Magnepan speakers fragile? While not as rugged as traditional box speakers, Magnepans are more durable than you might think. Common sense care, like regular dusting and avoiding extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, will keep them in good condition for many years. One potential issue is delamination, where the wires separate from the diaphragm. This is usually repairable, so don’t panic if it happens.
What kind of music sounds best on Magnepan speakers? Magnepans are often associated with classical and acoustic music, and for good reason – their detailed midrange and treble frequencies shine with these genres. However, they’re more versatile than many people realize. With a well-matched amplifier and proper setup, Magnepans can deliver satisfying performance across a wide range of musical styles, from jazz and vocals to rock and even electronic music. Adding a subwoofer can enhance the bass response for those who prefer a more impactful low end.
