Magnepan Bass Problems?

[bryanambrogio]

I had the MG12's years ago. I loved the sound however I had issues with the speakers "bottoming out" at high volume levels or even at moderate volume levels depending on the recording. When a bass note would hit there would be a "slapping" sound that would distort the entire panel and rip through the vocals as well. I have read several posts about this and others experience the same issue. What I don't understand is this due to the fact that I am over demanding of the Magnepan's or is this due from a lack of power from the amplifier? I know these speakers need power, everyone says this however, does this problem disappear or minimize with a powerful amplifier? I have hear recommendations to use a 300W or 500W Emotiva amplifier to power these.

I would like to purchase the new .7's or 1.7's but am hesitant due to this past experience.

Could anyone enlighten me on this issue?

Thank you
Bryan

 

[Bruce B]

I have never heard the "bottoming out" of my 1.7i speakers. I HAVE heard it with a pair of MMG and 1.5 speakers that I had, but they both were powered "or underpowered" by a Classe' 70 and YBA Integre'. My 1.7i's are powered by a Parasound Integrated, 270 w/p/c @ 4ohms.

Probably the best I've heard Maggie's are with big Bryston, or Pass Labs amps.

 

[Joto]

I have never heard the "bottoming out" of my 1.7i speakers. I HAVE heard it with a pair of MMG and 1.5 speakers that I had, but they both were powered "or underpowered" by a Classe' 70 and YBA Integre'. My 1.7i's are powered by a Parasound Integrated, 270 w/p/c @ 4ohms.

Probably the best I've heard Maggie's are with big Bryston, or Pass Labs amps.

 

[Joto]

Yes the Parasound Hint with 1.7 is pure magic.

 

[Gregadd]

Perhaps you are pushing to hard. I owned he Maggies and The CLS both of which are rumored to have "panel slap." I drove them pretty hard with organ and synthesizer bass. It never happened. Perhaps a "true" sub would solve your problem.