Just curious as to why the Maggies are so loved on this forum?
Most posts I've seen here talk about the MMGs. For many of us, they're the first speaker that really makes us say "Oh, wooowwwwww...", with their detail, imaging, and soundstage. I think they get a lot of posts primarily because they're such a tremendous value at $550 shipped.
Too narrow a sweet spot, need a good 3' or more away from the back wall, and lack HT slam. If it is strictly a 2-channel system and only one wil listen at a time they are great.
Agreed. Pretty darn small sweet spot. Jen and I listen enjoyably together in the sweet spot, but if we added a third...wouldn't work out very well. Doesn't sound bad, just not as stellar as within the sweet spot and not really sufficient for critical listening.
When anyone asks which speakers they should buy, it turns into a Maggie thread. If HT is a requirement I wouldn't even consider them to be perfectly honest. I'm not sure why they choose to make a center. So many other great speakers to listen to at every price point and delivery method (B&M, Internet, Audiogon).
I'm not very familiar with HT, but I will say I agree with your previous statement about lacking HT slam. Based on the little experience I have using my MMGs for fronts in a 5.1 surround HT setup, they
definitely lack the slam I like for HT. But my listening focuses mainly on 2-channel music. So while I'm considering adding the center and rears to my MMGs for HT so I have better matching across my HT setup, the real reason I keep the MMGs is for music. I only watch one movie, maybe two a month, tops, on my raggedly put together HT setup. When I eventually separate my HT and 2-track audio systems, I'll stick with my Maggies (hopefully upgraded!) for 2-track and pick up something new for HT.
Also, what studios use these to master movies or recordings? Unlike Revel, Eggelston, and Wilson I've yet to see any...... but would like to. Point me there.
Not a clue.
All in all, I think you bring up some good points, Scott, that anyone considering Maggie's should evaluate. It all depends on the listening needs and personal preferences of the individual. For me, for the moment, I love my MMGs. I have grand plans for changes to my playback system (don't we all), both 2-track and HT, but they'll have to wait a while as I have other priorities presently.