Wow - this has gotten to be a nice thread.
Yeah - placement is def. crucial. I have been playing w/ them for a few months now, and making sure your rear wall is 2' away from the back of your speakers or you must dampen the wall (i.e. sound absorbtion).
I have yet to hear that the cone doesn't keep up with the panels. How is that even possible if they are both driven together?
As for the amp that drives these, I orig. used my Nak RE-10 and wasn't too happy w/ the sound. I upgraded to the NAD C370 (@200W) and am just now getting used to it. If I had the extra cash, I'd prolly look for something in the tube range, like the McCormacks or Blue Circle to add warmth.
Seriously, it took me 3 years + Phish being off tour to afford these panels, and I plan on owning them for years to come.
For me, living in a townhome doesn't afford me the opportunity to play music loud (except during daylight hrs.), but the clarity is there even at lower levels. Thats the sign of a good playback system.
Whew....
Thanks
Ron