Just a couple of follow up notes:
This is strictly for 2 channel audio. No movies (I have a separate room/system for that)
"I would also recommend that you read the Richard Hardesty Journals"
Very Vandy focused but great info in those journals
"You can find a pair of Thiel CS 2.7 for $5K"
Only seeing the Thiel CS2.7 used. $5500-$6800 on HiFi Shark (overseas only). No way to demo. Most likely out of the running
"The 148 ProAcs like a strong amp at 4 ohms (my Audio Refinement does 200 @ 4 ohms)"
I believe the CJ MF2500 is around 450 into 4 Ohms.
"I listened to the 148s with The Pixies, Stone Roses, Nick Cave & REM among others; I can attest they handle pop/rock really well. The difference between a good & bad recording was immediately obvious, but manifested as 2d vs 3d imaging rather than any sort of harshness. I also had some Aphex Twin and the bass is extended and articulate. They do have what I'd consider a British mid-range, but I think that's a good thing when complemented by their excellent treble & bass"
This intrigue's me. I'll add these to the list. ProAc has a bad website. Not sure if there are any nearby US dealers at this point.
"If you don't hear something you fall in love with locally, I'd think setting aside some funds for a trip to a show or dealer or even return shipping would be a better use of funds than buying something non-refundable based on hearsay"
Good suggestion. This process is going to take a while.
"But, I suspect if you like the Maggies, you will love the Vandy's"
"If you can find a pair of 3a sigs or Treo's, I doubt you would be disappointed"
"I've seen used non-CT version Treos for $3400."
I'll focus on the 3A's & Treos (non CT) for now.
"How far apart (inner edge to inner edge) could you have Magnepans? Imho you need them at least 5' apart"
Min 5' apart is no problem. In my room they are more likely to be 9' to 11' apart
"If you are looking in the $5K range, and still want to check out Legacy Audio, they also have the Classic HD"
Will do
This is strictly for 2 channel audio. No movies (I have a separate room/system for that)
"I would also recommend that you read the Richard Hardesty Journals"
Very Vandy focused but great info in those journals
"You can find a pair of Thiel CS 2.7 for $5K"
Only seeing the Thiel CS2.7 used. $5500-$6800 on HiFi Shark (overseas only). No way to demo. Most likely out of the running
"The 148 ProAcs like a strong amp at 4 ohms (my Audio Refinement does 200 @ 4 ohms)"
I believe the CJ MF2500 is around 450 into 4 Ohms.
"I listened to the 148s with The Pixies, Stone Roses, Nick Cave & REM among others; I can attest they handle pop/rock really well. The difference between a good & bad recording was immediately obvious, but manifested as 2d vs 3d imaging rather than any sort of harshness. I also had some Aphex Twin and the bass is extended and articulate. They do have what I'd consider a British mid-range, but I think that's a good thing when complemented by their excellent treble & bass"
This intrigue's me. I'll add these to the list. ProAc has a bad website. Not sure if there are any nearby US dealers at this point.
"If you don't hear something you fall in love with locally, I'd think setting aside some funds for a trip to a show or dealer or even return shipping would be a better use of funds than buying something non-refundable based on hearsay"
Good suggestion. This process is going to take a while.
"But, I suspect if you like the Maggies, you will love the Vandy's"
"If you can find a pair of 3a sigs or Treo's, I doubt you would be disappointed"
"I've seen used non-CT version Treos for $3400."
I'll focus on the 3A's & Treos (non CT) for now.
"How far apart (inner edge to inner edge) could you have Magnepans? Imho you need them at least 5' apart"
Min 5' apart is no problem. In my room they are more likely to be 9' to 11' apart
"If you are looking in the $5K range, and still want to check out Legacy Audio, they also have the Classic HD"
Will do