Maybe looking at the following to replace my Magico S-5 MK 1

would highly recommend the Bird 2.Its really magical paired with the right electronics. Have it as a demo.

Mat
www.jjaudiosolutions.com

You are missing the point Sciencepop, I am clearly stating that I will NOT be unbiased or ignore my preferences when buying for myself. I don't want to! I'm also realistic enough to understand that accuracy versus pleasant CAN mean two different things to two people.  The original poster has biases, as well he/she should, which no one but he understands and appreciates. But he should follow his path. You should follow yours. I will follow mine.

The Magicos that I have heard obviously didn't float my boat or I would have written a check. I will repeat though, they are exceptional speakers and I am confident there are many happy owners out there but we are contributing to a thread where there is one who is not. Alot of speakers are exceptional but ignoring our biases and preferences is how people end up with gear they don't enjoy.

The A3 Magicos seem promising as most everyone on this thread who is not in love with the brand are turned off to varying degrees by the treble, which Mr. Wolf has been working on apparently. I look forward to hearing them someday soon. I will repeat, I appreciate Magico and many other companies striving to add value to our hobby.

I too have the S5’s, but the MkII iteration. I do a lot of low level listening and it is VERY different in this regard than its predecessor. I think Magicos are really neutral and transparent so a lot of the tonal balance boils down to the gear you have. I’m running an all tube setup (Zanden 3100 and 8120) and the sound is full, fast, sweet and very lush. The S3 MkII doesn’t share this attributes with the S5. I know you that you didn’t ask this, but I would not rule out the mk2. It is a better speaker than the ones you listed - more linear, neutral and transparent.

I like the Martens a lot, but I like my S5’s even more. They are more coherent and effortless - even with low power.

Hope this helps

Is the Zanden 3100 superior to the preamp stage integrated in the 6000 ?
Is it a good idea to couple the 3100 with the 6000 ?

I own LHC208 so I can answers any questions you might have. I have tried it wits several speakers but finally settled down on DeVore 0/96.
email me at arturgorniak@yahoo.com so I can give you my phone number and we can talk.