[SteveFord]

And my final question for Magnepan on the subject:

So with two mono DWM's ie. left and right,  that means only half the potential output? 

No. If you put two 100 watt amps on the Bass Panel, it would be the same as using a 200 watt amp. Both voice grids drive the same diaphragm. When you use one voice grid, the other voice grid is just going along for the ride.

[MarvinTheMartian]

"Both voice grids drive the same diaphragm.
When you use one voice grid, the other voice grid is just going along for the ride."

Gotcha:
The voice grids must be laid out parallel to each other, each covering the full diaphragm area.
I originally imagined separate, left half / right half voice grid layouts.

Now it makes sense ....Thanks Shawn

[stelo]

In fact, the experience has been so frustrating that I asked my dealer if I can return
the Minis and the DWM and "upgrade" to the 1.7

An update on my quest ... for those of you who care. 

I went back to the dealer and listened again at the 1.7 and the minis (properly
wired) with my amp (Wadia 151). I did not like the 1.7 as much, so I decided
to keep the minis and spend the difference with the 1.7 to buy a used REL T5.
The dealer called Magnepan to get me a replacement for the DWM (since it
is now 100% obvious that it is wired incorrectly inside).

The T5 arrived this morning, quickly plugged it -- I am really happy how the Mini Maggies + DWM
integrate with the T5.

For now I am an audiophile nirvana. 
(until I start thinking again what to upgrade next -- I know this could be a curse)

Stefano

[SteveFord]

That's the combo I heard and it's real good.
Maybe 3.7s for the big room?