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Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Planar Circle => Topic started by: Slapshot on 12 Jul 2019, 07:34 pm

Title: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 12 Jul 2019, 07:34 pm
I'm putting together a system for my office/den, which sees a great deal of use (about six hours a day 5-6 days a week) and have always wanted an opportunity to own a pair of Maggies. While audio shopping with a friend recently, I was amazed by the sound of the .7's in a small listening room at a brick and mortar. I have an ideal amp for them, and am wondering if these could possibly work for my situation. I do have an amp that can more than easily drive them. They would used in a 10x10 room, at close quarters due to other things filling the room. Listening distance would be about 5 feet, and the speakers would be almost four feet apart. This may be the tricky part, the ,7's could only be placed  4-5 inches from the permanently installed bookshelf behind them.

Any assistance, expertise or input would be greatly appreciated. I would truly love to be able to make this work. Thanks.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 12 Jul 2019, 07:36 pm
Apologies about the title. I do know how to spell "expertise" but the "e" must not have made the cutoff for length!

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: dB Cooper on 12 Jul 2019, 08:45 pm
https://www.magnepan.com/model_mini_maggie
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: timind on 12 Jul 2019, 10:36 pm
A few years back I used a pair of MG12qr speakers in a 12x12 room with good results. My room was dedicated to the stereo so I could place them where needed. The MG12qr is the predecessor to the .7.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 13 Jul 2019, 04:12 am
I have a friend who uses his 1.7's in a near field set up.  His room is small, probaby 10x12 or something similar.  He sits about 4-5 feet from the speakers.  His system sound fabulous.  He even uses dual rhythmik subs but does use some room treatments.

His gear also sounds great at low volumes, meaning it stays musical and keeps its dynamics.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 13 Jul 2019, 04:58 am
I have a friend who uses his 1.7's in a near field set up.  His room is small, probaby 10x12 or something similar.  He sits about 4-5 feet from the speakers.  His system sound fabulous.  He even uses dual rhythmik subs but does use some room treatments.

His gear also sounds great at low volumes, meaning it stays musical and keeps its dynamics.

Thanks. If the 1,7's worked in that space, it would seem I would be fine with the .7's. Anyone else want to weigh in? Any input is welcomed.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Kurtamus on 13 Jul 2019, 06:58 am
I have 1.7s in a 12x14 room, with some room treatments.  The 1.7s are 4 feet off the back wall, 2 feet off the sidewalls, and I sit about 6 feet from speakers.  I sure would love to have a better room, but I don't, so I have done what I can in the small room and it actually sounds pretty good.  The front wall now has the absorber horizontally in between the the two center diffusors, I was still tweaking when the pics were taken.

Maggies can be enveloping in nearfield listening, but nothing like they can sound when they have room to breathe.  I am living with nearfield for now. 

The .7 panels will not work only 4-5 inches from the front wall, you will have no sound stage.  I am agreeing with db cooper's post on the mini-maggies if you really want planars, assuming they could be paced with some space behind them.

p.s. please excuse the crappy cell phone pics...

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196534)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196535)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196536)
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: mcgsxr on 13 Jul 2019, 03:00 pm
I’m wondering about the proposed 4-5 inches to the bookshelves behind the panels.

Has anyone worked with that restriction?

I have had bookshelves close adjacent to MMG’s and DIY panels but always at least 20-24 inches behind the speakers. 
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 14 Jul 2019, 12:41 am
You want the Mini Maggies.
With a decent sub they can sound tremendous.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 14 Jul 2019, 01:34 am
You will be fine with the 0.7's as long as you can pull them at least 20" from the from wall (and that goes for the LRS's too).  The further the better however.  You can sit 5' away from the speakers with them toe'd in.  Play around with positioning and floor tape.  Even a 1" difference can make a huge difference

The LRS's are great as SF said but if you ever get a bigger room, you will appreciate the 0.7's more.  A great budget sub to pair with them is the SVS sealed PS 2000 or a used Martin Logan Original Dynamo or Dynamo 700.  I run dual original Dynamo's with my 1.6's.
They integrate seamlessly.

Larry
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 14 Jul 2019, 06:34 am
The 4-5 inches from the front of the bookshelves to the back of the speakers is, unfortunately, not possible to change. It seems as though that limitation has ended my hopes for owning and listening to Maggies. I appreciate the recommendations of the Mini Maggies, but I just can't go there. This whole process started for me, a couple of years ago, when I originally auditioned extensively, fell in love with and was set to buy to buy some 3.7i's . However, the much larger space I then had available for my listening room was determined to be just a little too small for them, in the end. That was determined to a significant degree from comments by people here, who evaluated that scenario at my request, and finally by the local Maggie dealer who came out and took a look and said it just would never allow the 3,7i's to perform optimally.

Now, uncontrollable circumstances and setbacks have limited me to the very small room that I described for this scenario. And even then, I had already had to accept that my original wish for the 1.7's, had to be given up,  because I realized they weren't possible in this room. I the end, I was able to accept the .7's after listening to them for a lengthy period, at my friends demo. They are truly amazing given their size, price and performance. It's easy to see why they have won the awards and even "Speaker  of the Year" in one case. All of that led me to understand that I could be suitably happy with the .7's. I even specifically purchased equipment that excelled in driving them as well as could be asked. At the last minute, I decided to just verify that all would go well and created this discussion. 

Given all of the above, and more, I just cannot take the mini Maggies seriously for a full blown music system. If I wanted desktop speakers for my PC, sure, and they are quite outstanding at what they do, and are intended for. But otherwise, it's just far too big a drop off from what I hoped for. And I simply cannot imagine using a superb, $6000.00 integrated amp with the mini maggies. That would border on the ludicrous. Thanks to everyone for their input, and enjoy your Maggies. I dearly wish I could have joined you as an owner.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 14 Jul 2019, 10:59 am
Have you ever heard the Mini Maggies as full speaker system for a small room?
If not, don't dismiss them.
They were Holy Sh*t good and it was just a laptop, a Cambridge integrated amp and a small REL sub.

When they were first introduced at a show (that what's behind the curtain bit) people were expecting it to a big a very LARGE speaker system so they'll fill up a room with sound.  I believe they were being driven with a gazillion watts from Bryston amps.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 14 Jul 2019, 05:52 pm
Have you ever heard the Mini Maggies as full speaker system for a small room?
If not, don't dismiss them.
They were Holy Sh*t good and it was just a laptop, a Cambridge integrated amp and a small REL sub.

When they were first introduced at a show (that what's behind the curtain bit) people were expecting it to a big a very LARGE speaker system so they'll fill up a room with sound.  I believe they were being driven with a gazillion watts from Bryston amps.

Steve, thanks very much for your thoughts on this. Please understand that I have great respect for your thoughts and opinion, and have seen your experience and knowledge of planar speakers displayed here in the forum routinely over the years. However, as noted above, I went from originally planning to buy 3.7i's (when I had the larger room available) to, when having to deal with the smaller room, eventually making peace and being excited about the 1.7i's, to the realization they wouldnt work. Then, the process restarted and through an extensive demo I experienced with a friend, I was able to accept that I could truly enjoy a pair of .7's. Those are some very major tradeoffs, but ones I was, in the end, that I was able to make. And could have been happy with.

I'm sure you are right about the Mini Maggies, in a context, but defaulting to those, given what I had been aspiring to own, as noted above, seems very much like having wanted a Ford Mustang GT350R, and eventually having to purchase a Ford Fiesta ST. For people who go into that expecting and knowing that the Fiesta will work for them, it's not an issue. For someone who was originally going to buy the GT350R, having to settle for a Fiesta ST (as effective and enjoyable as it is within it's "class"), there would never be a day you wouldn't live with regret and feeling short changed.

JC   
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 14 Jul 2019, 07:07 pm
Just out of curiosity, I did look at the set up guide that Magnepan uses for the mini maggies. Sadly, even if I could accept the idea of trying them (which I very seriously doubt I can) it appears that my room will not even accommodate these tiny desktop speakers due to how the Magneplanar technology works. From the setup guide:



"Set-Up Guidelines:

"Note, though, that the system generally works better in rectangular than in square rooms." (my room is square)

and the real deal breaker:

"After considerable trial-and-error experimentation, I’ve come up with several recommended set-up guidelines for using the Mini Maggie system in small rooms.

•Place the Mini Maggie satellites on stand at ear level for a seated listener, and locate the satellites well away from nearby walls. Leave plenty of open air space behind the satellites." (the most open air I could manage, with the speakers on stands, as required, is six inches, from the bookshelf to the back of the mini maggies.)

I do currently have a pair of speakers which can work quite well in the space I now have, a pair of floor standing, single driver/coaxial speakers. They were originally in my office system (when I still had an office). I will simply have to settle for using them. They are fine. But given that I am relegated to this small room for my audio system, which is extremely important to me, and I had already accepted the painful need to downsize my system, "well" and "fine" simply fall far short of what I wanted. And, in addition, I truly desired that magic which only Maggies bring. Oh well, sometimes things simply remain beyond our grasp, despite best efforts.

My one additional concern now is that the very good integrated amplifier that I just bought specifically for the .7's, may not pair well with the existing speakers. There is some reason to believe that is true, unfortunately. I even spent significantly more than I normally would on specific speaker cables that were optimal for the integrated amp, and which would have also been ideal for the .7's. But again, sometimes you can only do what you can, and live what what is possible. I just wish the impact on my music system was not so great. It is my one real form of solace and relaxation at the end of a long day. I know you can all appreciate that. Best of luck to all of you in music and audio.

JC

Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 14 Jul 2019, 07:32 pm
Sounds like you'll need a different type of speaker after all.
I know all about having a room that's not sized quite right.  My living room is a bit too big for 3.7s, way too small for 20.7s.

The Minis I heard were at The Listening Room quite a few years ago and now that I think about the set up, they were on a desk which was a good 6' out from the wall.  The desk was sitting out in the room.
Set up didn't look like much of anything, just two little speakers on a desk, the DMW under neath the desk (it was more like a table) and then an REL sub in the rear left corner.

All these years later I'm STILL impressed.   
Those little weasels sounded great but he did have them out in the open.

While I think of it, I'm told that the Mini Maggies need a LOT of power to really sing but when I heard them they were being driven by an inexpensive integrated amp.  It was nothing fantastic, just a Cambridge Audio Azur with a built in DAC.
I would have strapped that system onto a motorcycle and ridden home with it and been perfectly happy.

I am lucky, though, as the upstairs is just perfect for 1.7s.
If there is a next house I'll make sure there's a 20.7 sized room!

Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 15 Jul 2019, 05:11 am

I am lucky, though, as the upstairs is just perfect for 1.7s.
If there is a next house I'll make sure there's a 20.7 sized room!

Steve, I think that a room optimal for 20.7's should be the absolute FIRST priority in choosing a new home for you, or, possibly even a reason to buy one!

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 15 Jul 2019, 06:06 am
There "could" be some hope for me and being able to use the .7's!!! An old friend is currently visiting overnight with my significant other and I. He and I were just discussing my immense disappointment about not being able to make .7's work in my small room. While he has no real interest in audio, he did just had an interesting thought about my situation. it turns out that the bookshelf that is causing the critical issue with distance limitations behind the speakers could possibly be overcome. Turns out that what appeared to be a built in bookshelf is actually a type he is familiar with. It can all be disassembled (and removed) except the panel that makes up the back of it which is attached to the wall. Even that could be removed, but it would require the wall being repaired in a major way, which is not something I would undertake.

If I did follow through and eliminate the bookshelf, I believe it would could create enough space for the .7's.

Here is how it would spec out:

distance to listening position just about six feet

distance from back wall to the rear of the .7's = 20 inches

distance from the inside edge of each speaker to the other 40 inches (distance between speakers)


My only concern is some comments on Maggies in general, and I believe the .7's possibly needing space to the sides. The left speaker would be right next to a large piece of furniture which is six feet tall. The side facing the speaker consists of 12 inch deep, open shelves containing collected items from around the world sitting in different places  on the shelves.

Given all the above, please tell me that the .7's will now work for me!

Now, I just have to try to identify what I would do with the roughly 300 vinyl LP's (unused for over 30 years) and books that are currently on the bookshelf. Hmmmm.....maybe I could hide all the books under the bed.........

JC

Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 15 Jul 2019, 04:22 pm
You will be fine with the side wall.  It won't be optimal but it will still sound good.  You will get a little more bass from that speaker.  You could always place some bass traps in the corner and behind the speaker.

I have my MMG's in my basement in an area where each speaker is about 12-15" from the side walls and they sound very good.  The extra bass is appreciated and it does not sound boomy.

My 1.6's have about 3-4' to the side walls but my right speaker has the 6' tall stereo rack about 10'' from its side and there are no issues with the sound.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 15 Jul 2019, 09:29 pm
Sides don't matter like I.Greyhound Fan said.
It sounds like you've found your solution and as for the retirement home, I couldn't agree more!

I just want a big box to live in.
Upstairs one monster room to live in, small kitchen and bathroom.
Downstairs motorcycles and reptile quarters.

Maybe a small house for the wife, she can bop over for a conjugal visit on occasion.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 15 Jul 2019, 11:39 pm
Sides don't matter like I.Greyhound Fan said.
It sounds like you've found your solution and as for the retirement home, I couldn't agree more!

I just want a big box to live in.
Upstairs one monster room to live in, small kitchen and bathroom.
Downstairs motorcycles and reptile quarters.

Maybe a small house for the wife, she can bop over for a conjugal visit on occasion.


I like your thinking :icon_twisted:
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: tull skull on 16 Jul 2019, 01:27 am
Gosh Slapshot, those records seem to be a real problem. Well I guess I would be willing to take them and free up more room for you but you gotta pay shipping! :green: This is a pretty nice gesture I am offering after all!

Also wanted to throw a monkey wrench in there... if you somehow get over your speaker size envy and start considering the Mini Maggies then I think you should also consider the ETs as well. They have a pretty loyal following as well but not many companies can match the dedication Maggie owners have.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 16 Jul 2019, 04:53 am
Sides don't matter like I.Greyhound Fan said.
It sounds like you've found your solution and as for the retirement home, I couldn't agree more!

I just want a big box to live in.
Upstairs one monster room to live in, small kitchen and bathroom.
Downstairs motorcycles and reptile quarters.

Maybe a small house for the wife, she can bop over for a conjugal visit on occasion.

Doesn't seem much to ask for. Let me know when you manage to arrange all that. I'll happily come by to visit and listen to your 20.7's! And I'll bring the beer.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 16 Jul 2019, 05:54 am
Sides don't matter like I.Greyhound Fan said.
It sounds like you've found your solution and as for the retirement home, I couldn't agree more!

I just want a big box to live in.
Upstairs one monster room to live in, small kitchen and bathroom.
Downstairs motorcycles and reptile quarters.

Maybe a small house for the wife, she can bop over for a conjugal visit on occasion.

I cannot possibly tell you how excited that I can add the .7's to my system. Now on to the work required to make it reality.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: rollo on 16 Jul 2019, 06:42 pm
Have you ever heard the Mini Maggies as full speaker system for a small room?
If not, don't dismiss them.
They were Holy Sh*t good and it was just a laptop, a Cambridge integrated amp and a small REL sub.

When they were first introduced at a show (that what's behind the curtain bit) people were expecting it to a big a very LARGE speaker system so they'll fill up a room with sound.  I believe they were being driven with a gazillion watts from Bryston amps.


   Excellent advice. Agree 100% Steve. My buddy in DC had them set up on stands. After listening to his main system he switched over to the Mini Maggies on stands. I'm still shaking my head as to how good they sounded. Actually better in some ways compared to big Stats.


charles
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 16 Jul 2019, 11:32 pm
After their big unveiling demo Wendell started his under sell, over deliver bit and didn't push them like I would have.
I think he was afraid that people would be disappointed by trying to use them in really large rooms where 3.7s or something would be more suitable.
From what I heard they just killed the smaller ones, my MMGs sound pathetic by comparison. 

The late store owner said that he replaced his expensive headphones with the Mini Maggies and I always think about that when I'm looking at the latest Stax products. 

Oh well, can't own everything (right now, ha, ha).
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 17 Jul 2019, 06:22 am
I am happy to announce that I was just able to close a great deal, earlier this evening, for a locally available pair of 18 month old .7's in mint condition, with all original packaging, etc., and the optional plexiglass bases. Now I just have to convince a friend with a suitable vehicle to help me go and pick them up this weekend.


In other news, received the new issue of Stereophile today, with the new Magnepan LRS  speakers on the cover. LRS stands for "little ribbon speaker". These are a replacement for the MMG's, per the article, and the review was extremely positive. And only $650.00 a pair. Remarkable.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 17 Jul 2019, 03:23 pm
Congrats, keep us posted in how they sound.

Larry
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 23 Jul 2019, 03:27 am
Just was finally able to get things set up and working. This may be the single most difficult audio experience I've ever had (at least other than driving two states away one winter to pickup some very large speakers in a very large, rented SUV ). It was a series of setbacks that started this morning when the seller of the ,7's that I went to pickup was delayed in getting home for over three hours due to a flat tire. I got to his apartment building at the agreed upon time, and no one was home. Not his fault, certainly, and no real choice but to wait until he got home, as it was a nearly an hour and a half trip to get there. So, I read a lot of a book on my phones kindle app, while sitting under a tree, and looking out over a big lake. Met with him got the speakers loaded, arrived back at my house, and  had to wait a bit longer for assistance in getting the box out of the car and into the house, having been delayed so long.

Once the package was in the house, unpacking was easy and stand mounting was also without issue. And so, I moved the speakers to my upstairs office where they will reside, gave them an initial placement, and went to connect them up. Problem number two then appeared. I had no idea that Maggies (I don't know if all models, but certainly at least the .7's) only accept banana pins, not spades. The only pair of speaker cables that I had available of the necessary length were spades. Of course my other speaker cables were all terminated with banana pins, but were, of course, too short.  I then made a call, and ended up driving over to an audio friend's house, about 20 miles each way, where he loaned me a pair of cables that would work, as he was going on vacation for two weeks and could spare them temporarily.

Finally made it home again, and got the speakers connected, only to find that the digital front end of my system (NAS, USB to SPDIF converter, streamer/network player, and DAC) had developed an unknown problem. Spent two hours troubleshooting that without success. Went downstairs to the main system and disconnected the cd/sacd player, took that and a handful of cd's and SACD's upstairs, and connected up the unit. Finally, now, eleven hours after the process started, I am sitting here and listening to the .7's which sound wonderful, even with just my first take at positioning. They are currently 25 inches from the back wall, about just over three feet apart (inside edge to inside edge, based on room limitations), five feet from my listening spot, and toed in a bit. Even this early on, and without any further tweaking the sound is bordering on amazing. Imaging is dead on, soundstage is quite surprising for a small room and their placement. There is also, front and center that seamless presentation of music that Maggies are famous for. I'm jumping around and playing favorite songs and couldn't be happier.Even the degree of bass that the .7
s are capable of, at least in my scenario, is surprising.

JC

Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 23 Jul 2019, 05:06 am
Sadly, and unbelievably. forty or so minutes after I sat there listening, so entranced by the ,7's, and the new to me/used, very high quality, integrated amp, with widely noted ideal power for even the 3.7i's, the sound suddenly stopped. An issue I eventually identified with the integrated amp. I will not name the manufacturer as his products are superbly well built, and this was almost certainly the fault of the company that shipped it. All I know, is that after all I went through to make this happen, as told in my last note, I'm essentially gutted. I can tell myself that I need to look to the future, and that I own these amazing .7.s, but, just now, it's a serious challenge, given all that has passed in this effort.

And now, I am at the mercy of the very good brick and mortar store that sold me the integrated amp, who is already dealing with the manufacturer to see that this is taken care of. But, in the end, I don't know how this works, I still, at best need to ship the integrated amp back to the manufacturer, wait weeks before it is shipped back, and sit here without any music in my office. Oh well. There is even more to this, but I won't bore you with it.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 23 Jul 2019, 09:24 am
That sounds like a totally frustrating ordeal.
Hope it all gets sorted out.
You can get banana to spade adaptors from PartsExpress, I believe.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Elizabeth on 23 Jul 2019, 12:07 pm
Sad to read about your frustrating experience with the equipment. I hope it can be rapidly resolved.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: rollo on 23 Jul 2019, 01:40 pm
  Wow that sucks. Hope it was not UPS who damaged unit. It may take some time to resolve. If your close to NY I could lend you an Integrated amp in the mean time.

charles
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 23 Jul 2019, 02:24 pm
Sorry to hear about all the problems but I am glad to hear that the near field set up is working.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 23 Jul 2019, 04:14 pm
  Wow that sucks. Hope it was not UPS who damaged unit. It may take some time to resolve. If your close to NY I could lend you an Integrated amp in the mean time.

charles

Thanks for the very kind offer of a loan, but I'm quite a ways from the state  of NY. And yes, it was indeed UPS. I suppose I should prepare myself to expect a significant delay in getting the issue resolved. Yet another reason why I always use FedEx for anything I ship. Thanks for the information.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: timind on 23 Jul 2019, 08:57 pm
Thanks for the very kind offer of a loan, but I'm quite a ways from the state  of NY. And yes, it was indeed UPS. I suppose I should prepare myself to expect a significant delay in getting the issue resolved. Yet another reason why I always use FedEx for anything I ship. Thanks for the information.

JC
I'd also loan you an amp if you were near me. Indiana.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 24 Jul 2019, 05:23 am
I'd also loan you an amp if you were near me. Indiana.

I have to say I'm very touched at now having received two incredibly considerate offers from people who would loan me an amp to help me through this process. Just another reminder of what great people you come across in the audio world. You guys are immensely kind to make such offers. Thank you, very much.

Through his assistant back in the office, the owner of the company who manufacturers the integrated in question, has already been in touch with me about ensuring a very quick resolution to the problem. And he took the time to do so while on vacation in Europe with his family, no less. He believes he has an idea of what must have been compromised by the rough handling the unit received during shipping from the brick and mortar in Nova Scotia to me, in Michigan. And to his credit, he is still clearly disappointed that a product he made failed to stand up to such treatment.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 24 Jul 2019, 07:54 pm
JC, you should hit up any local Pawn shops for a cheap receiver.  I have seen several high end Denon AVR's for $75-100 in my local shops.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 24 Jul 2019, 11:41 pm
I just took a look and Denon says that they'll handle 4 Ohm loads as long as the listening levels are kept down.
That might make for a good temporary fix for a low price.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: I.Greyhound Fan on 25 Jul 2019, 03:41 am
I just took a look and Denon says that they'll handle 4 Ohm loads as long as the listening levels are kept down.
That might make for a good temporary fix for a low price.

The older Denon 3800 and 3600 series AVR's from the early 2000's had robust power supplies and should be able to handle Maggies at moderate volumes.  I was able to run a JVC AVR at 120wpc with my MMG's at moderately loud volumes.  It would occasionally go into protection mode if I played it too loud with dynamic music though.  The Denon's have way better power supplies.

Or he can look for one of the older high powered Harmon Kardon 2ch receivers as they put out 45 peak amps.  A lot of people ran them with MMG's.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 25 Jul 2019, 06:12 am
Thanks, guys, for the suggestion of buying an inexpensively priced older receiver to hold me over. I'll look into your suggestions. The sad part is that, until very recently, I had about a six year old, top of the line Denon, with surprisingly high quality and very substantial amplification. I used it in my home theater before replacing it only due to needed surround sound technology upgrades. Just a couple months back, I gifted it to a friend who loves movies, and has had some serious financial setbacks in recent years. He had been using a much older, absolute minimal receiver for his very modest home theater. He has probably thanked me half a dozen times for elevating his home theater sound and performance. I certainly don't regret doing that, but as always, timing is everything.

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 25 Jul 2019, 06:37 am
This older Harman Kardon would probably work well, but is a bit too pricey for the purpose I would be using it for. Time to hit the pawn shops I guess.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649534347-harman-kardon-avr-8000-71-channel-550-watt-receiver-in-excellent-condition/

JC
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: rollo on 25 Jul 2019, 01:44 pm
I have to say I'm very touched at now having received two incredibly considerate offers from people who would loan me an amp to help me through this process. Just another reminder of what great people you come across in the audio world. You guys are immensely kind to make such offers. Thank you, very much.

Through his assistant back in the office, the owner of the company who manufacturers the integrated in question, has already been in touch with me about ensuring a very quick resolution to the problem. And he took the time to do so while on vacation in Europe with his family, no less. He believes he has an idea of what must have been compromised by the rough handling the unit received during shipping from the brick and mortar in Nova Scotia to me, in Michigan. And to his credit, he is still clearly disappointed that a product he made failed to stand up to such treatment.

JC

   My pleasure. A Man must have His music.

charles
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 15 Sep 2019, 05:37 am
Wanted to stop back here to update everyone on things, as requested. The integrated amp is back after being repaired from its shipping mishandling. I cannot tell you how much I am enjoying this system now. The .7's are each 24 inches out from the wall, five feet from the listening position, and not quite three feet apart (inside edge to inside edge - a room/furniture limitation).

The .7's, along with this exceptional integrated amp are everything I could hope for in this space. And an incredible value to boot, granted, I stole the integrated amp that was on consignment to a brick and mortar audio store. Thank for everyone who supported my intended purchase of the .7's and encouraged it. I cannot imagine a system I would enjoy more (or even as much) in this small room, with all it's limitations.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: SteveFord on 15 Sep 2019, 08:20 am
A happy ending!
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: timind on 15 Sep 2019, 03:37 pm
Congrats Slapshot, almost seems like a very large pair of headphones. I'll bet it sounds fantastic.

Thanks for the update.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Letitroll98 on 15 Sep 2019, 04:22 pm
Congrats!  Here's some more stuff to play with:


Two things I do that are a little different: 1) rather than point each of my Maggie's at my ears, I angle them so they point about 6" out from my shoulders.  This gives me a slightly differant sound which you might like also. Especially if your chair is close to your Back wall.   Try a few different angles.  You may find a surprisingly nice  placement you like better than having your speakers pointing right at your ears.
2). I like my Maggie's to be tilted forward 1 degree towards my listening position rather than tilted back.  You might try few different angles (forward leaning, straight up or backward leaning) to see which one of them produces the sound stage you enjoy the most.  You might try some different size pieces of wood to help provide an angle and don't forget, you can always mount the Maggie supplied feet reversed which will give you a forward lean - if you like that sound.  No matter what you use to stand your Maggies up - the regular issue Maggie feet, Mye Stands, or Sound Anchors, I would suggest going to your local Big Box Hardware store and buying a couple of those large, concrete patio blocks. The ones that are about 15"x 15"  or maybe 18" x 18" and are 2" thick.  One or two of those on top of your speaker feet will anchor your Maggies as good as anything.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 16 Sep 2019, 05:08 am
Congrats!  Here's some more stuff to play with:

Thanks for the tips, will try them out! Listening as we speak and it's just wonderful sound.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: rollo on 16 Sep 2019, 05:37 pm
  GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAL !!!

charles
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: AvsFan on 16 Sep 2019, 08:59 pm
Thanks for the tips, will try them out! Listening as we speak and it's just wonderful sound.

My LRS's sound great in my small 12x10 room.

I might have missed it but what amp are you using?
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: Slapshot on 17 Sep 2019, 04:38 am
My LRS's sound great in my small 12x10 room.

I might have missed it but what amp are you using?

The Modwright KWI200 integrated. It's noted for great performance matched with Maggies.
Title: Re: Can Maggie .7's Be Used Somewhat Nearfield In A Small Room? - Need Your Expertis
Post by: AvsFan on 25 Sep 2019, 09:30 pm
The Modwright KWI200 integrated. It's noted for great performance matched with Maggies.

Wow, that's quite the integrated amp, I'll never be able to afford anything like that. My max budget on an amp is like $2000.
But I bet that amp really brings the Maggie's to life!