speakers similar to Magico Mini's

Linkster, one thing I like about your comments is that you made a claim and then backed it up with an example. You almost never see that on audiogon anymore.

Thanks for the comments. I have not heard of your speaker, but will check it out.

Rhljazz, you are correct, the 805S is a ported design. The CM 1 uses a 5 1/4" driver I believe. I think part of the problem with a sealed design is that they are typically a little harder to power. (Could be wrong)

I'm VERY intrigued by the Mini, although WAY out of my price range. I'd love to atleast hear it sometime.

For a good deal on sealed box speakers, there are frequently Hales' speakers on here at really low prices. I know all of his speakers were sealed box, but I'm not sure about first order crossovers. Happy listening!

Rhljazz, you are correct, the 805S is a ported design. The CM 1 uses a 5 1/4" driver I believe. I think part of the problem with a sealed design is that they are typically a little harder to power. (Could be wrong)

The CM1's I have date from the late eighties and are one of the original matrix constructions. The cabinets are some sort of a composit and the box is rigidly braced internally and the space is completely filled with foam. It's a two way with a kevlar woofer about four inches diameter. I would like to know more about Linkster's speakers. What size and type of drivers and cabinet size and finish? What is the frequency range?

Dear Rhljazz,

I am a proud owner of a pair of Magico Mini.

First of all, they are not first-order cross over designs. I actually had the opportunity to meet with Alon Wolf a few months ago when he dropped by Hong Kong. I asked him about first-order crossovers, and his immediate response was that one must differentiate between first-order crossover electrically or acoustically... The Mini as far as I know are third order designs.

Has anything come close? I wish! I could have save a lot of money. But you are absolutely right that a good execution of a properly designed sealed enclosure sound absolutely wonderful. the bassline is SO clean and articular that any ported designs will immediately show their shortcomings.
There aren't that many sealed designs these days. If you find a 'substitute', do let me know!

Don't even bother with the B&W 805s. They are not even close to the same league... they are fine speakers, just that they should not be compared to the Magico Mini on any level.

Ultimate Monitors are interesting alternatives. But from what I understand, they are not as 'flat' as the Magico Mini, according to the reviews done by a japanese magazine. They may be worth a shot though.

dunlavy monitors or merlin monitors or harmonix bravos will compete......the ultimate in sound in my book is still the totem mani for a small musical monitor.....that is if you must have a monitor with an other the top cabinet build.