REVIEW: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers

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I've owned these since April of 1999 and am awaiting upgrade
to the MG-MC1s.
The portion of the audio spectrum that the SS1s reproduce is quite
clear and real -- the problem is that the top portion of frequency
response is missing (15-20 KHz). Things like the "shimmer" of cymbals
or the delicacy/air of a flute, or the "brassiness" of a trumpet are
missing. Bass response is crossed over to my Von Schweikert Tower of
Power, so I don't notice the missing reproduction below 100 Hz.
Rear channel dialog is startinly clear, and vocals on 5.1 music are
quite lifelike. Check out Steely Dan's Gaucho for a good example of
vocals from the rear effects.
For surround effects they are excellent speakers but for 5.1 music they
are lacking.
If I recall correctly, these speakers were designed and introduced during
the Dolby Pro-logic days, predating the 5 full range channel DD and DTS
era. This accounts for their substantially limited frequency response.
I can't give an absolute "you must buy these" type review -- they will require a home audition to help you decide if they're the right ones for
you.

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Topic - REVIEW: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers Review by John Kotches at Audio Asylum - John Kotches 22:26:15 02/08/00 (4)

Re: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers - Mart 13:54:00 02/09/00 (1)

Re: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers - John Kotches 21:19:36 02/09/00 (0)

Re: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers - KKM 23:13:49 02/08/00 (1)

Re: Magnepan Magneplanar SS1 Speakers - John Kotches 06:12:00 02/09/00 (0)

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