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Magneplanar 20.1R * versus * Kharma CRM 3.2 FE

I'm in the final stages of deciding upon a Kharma CRM 3.2 FE but am still entertaining a last-ditch attempt to get an MG 20.1R instead. Although the Kharma at $21,000 costs nearly $10,000 more than a 20.1R, I can buy either at around the same price.

I have always yearned for a Magneplanar but they have always eluded me. Eight years ago, I was eyeing the 1.6QR, but the dealer had no stock so I got Harbeth M40's instead.

Four years ago, I came close to closing a deal on the 3.6R, but got cold feet due to delamination fears and got a JM Utopia BE instead.

It is my quest for the boxless sound of planars that interested me in the Kharma CRM 3.2, which renders the cabinet inaudible by internal dampening. This yields a very holographic soundstage that sounds "free from cabinets."

The Kharma would seem more hardy and durable than a Magneplanar, with no delicate ribbon or wires glued onto Mylar, although its ceramic drivers have been known to crack. The special Kharma crossover (silver/gold-wound inductors, cryogenic treatment) seems to be light years ahead of the basic Magneplanar XO. Finally, but not insignificantly, the Kharma can be partnered with lower-powered amps of greater finesse. In contrast a 20.1R requires a powerful amplifier of 500 watts and beyond, with a comcomittant compromise in sonic delicacy.

The big advantage of the Magneplanars for me is its Dipole nature, which eliminates room modes in 2 dimensions and leaves only 1 dimension to deal with. Defeating room modes is a lifelong crusade for me, so this is important. Also, the ribbon tweeter extends to ultrasonic ranges. This makes the most of SACD playback, which I listen to exclusively.

Apart from these factors, can those who have lived with 20.1R's (or other Magneplanars,)and have denied the path of top boxed speakers like the Kharma CRM 3.2 FE, share about why they have done so? Perhaps the Maggie crossover is more special than I thought? Perhaps its construction is more durable and rugged than I imagined?

I love Magneplanars and yet equally fear them! If the right assurances are in place, perhaps Magneplanars will not elude me a third time.

Thanks for all your advice and response to my last call for advice.




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Topic - Magneplanar 20.1R * versus * Kharma CRM 3.2 FE - DkB 18:18:46 05/30/06 (12)


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