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Looking the HiFi Shark search engine there are only two 3.6, one 3.7, and no 3.7i speakers for sale in the US.This is on virtually every US site for used audio equipment!
Are they hard to sell or what? I remember a few years back there were always a few for sale on Audiogon.
The last 3.6 on Audiogon back in June took 60 days to sell at a reduced price of $1800.
They are hard to ship, and if you want a scarce pair you must visit the seller in person and pay cash IMO.
Edits: 09/18/18 09/18/18Follow Ups:
It is part of the general demographic waves and the waves of audio purchases coinciding with a number of years past the point of moving into new homes. The millennial generation is still in flatshares and parent's basements. If they were doing better on the job front and financially then they would be needing 2 million new homes constructed per year rather than the bit over 1/2 million a year built this last decade. I discussed some months back ago the multifamily household stats (flat shares and adult kids at home) here and noted that in the best job geographies there is often a 50% rate of home sharing arrangements. It is not reasonable that folks build music rooms in such a situation. If the industry manages to survive another decade of this then they will have a boom once the millennials manage to get into their own homes with real jobs and cover their trillion dollar student loans.
I think new home prices are an outrage.
My house, built in about '86 is worth about 5x what I paid for it.
Few people, or maybe fewer, can buy into such a market.
The few 'under 30s' in my neighborhood are ALL hard working. One in partcular worked ambulance and was 'on shift' for like 3 or 4 days at a time. for years. Now working a 12 hour shift which rotates from days to nights on a regular schedule. Nobody's getting rich.
I hope those kids are saving lots of $$$ to eventually move out of the parents house. And than the selling will begin with mom and dad now living in a 4 bedroom home on 2 floors and not really needing THAT kind of space.
Too much is never enough
Millenials are no longer all under 30. Our 30 and a bit neighbors as of last year have 3 kids including newborn twins just after moving in. Working hard shift work. There is little chance of people making it into a similar housing situation in high rent geographies like coastal CA unless both spouses were working full time in good jobs. Even in my neighbor's case the move was a last minute act of desperation and might have stretched both the couple and their parents. And this is not in a high rent high job vacancy coastal area.
Millennials got a raw deal on their education and its cost. They are paying the pensions of the boomer's teachers and professors along with the current costs of their education, which now include funding their prof's future retirements. So the cost, when including the reduced government contribution can be 4X as high as it was for boomers.
In all fairness, most college teachers are absurdly exploited adjuncts these days who get no benefits, and the tenured profs don't earn much given their qualifications, e.g., compared to a doctor or a lawyer. The increase in costs has been due to bloated college administrations, fancy buildings to compete for students, and decreased state tuition support, not to mention million dollar salaries for football coaches.
High school and elementary school teacher salaries vary tremendously from literal starvation wages in more rural areas to six figures in cities and prosperous suburbs. In many cases, absurdly, a high school or elementary school teacher earns more than an adjunct professor, despite the latter's superior qualifications.
People might be 'upgrading' less than in that past. tough economic times means people put off stuff like that.
I'm looking for some 3.5 / 3.6 with little luck in the near-edge of planet market of SanDiego.
Too much is never enough
and then there's 'hifishark' which does a world wide search on just about ANY published sale of audio gear.
Not that I'd ever buy anything from some of these countries lol..
The E-Shelves have been empty for a long time. There used to be pages of virtually anything you wanted on Audigon. It hasn't been that way for years now. I doubt we will see that type of used volume and selection again available on the used market.
Edits: 09/19/18
Now that you mention it yes there was indeed a flurry of used high end audio gear on the market about 10-12 yrs ago. I hate to think those days are behind us.It was the MG1.6qr that brought me to this forum 15 yrs ago, I paid $1750 for them brand new from a local dealer. These days on the used market they still command on avg $1600; insane when you think about it yet very accurate in reflecting what an outstanding speaker it truly is. I'll sometimes hear a song on the radio that I used to play on those and within an instant I"m immediately transported back to my old living room; wow brings goosebumps just thinking about it. That's a sign of an outstanding speaker.
Edits: 09/19/18 09/20/18
GL, I started with 1.6's as well. They were great. After a few months, put them on Audiogon and they were sold immediately. Used the proceeds and extra $$$ to move up to a pair of 3.6's. Each model of Maggies have their own special qualities.
I was able to buy and sell quite a few things on Audiogon. You could get brand new models of gear that were just a couple of months old with factory warranties for great prices. People were trying and turning a lot of gear then.
After a while Audigon got hacked. Forgot if it was before or after the crash. Audiogon redid their site and it hasn't been the same since.
It looks like USAudioMart is now the place to trade. I have some used gear that is collecting dust that I should probably try and move so it finds a good home gets some use.
you usually see a surge when newer versions of any model hits the market. There's also a huge surge when the economy tanks. The latter worked out for me as I was able to land my MG20r for $2300 about 5 yrs ago; I gave him an additional $130 when he offered to deliver from L.A. to San Diego.
Edits: 09/19/18 09/19/18
Since the 3.7 and 3.7i were released there were more of those on Audiogon, than the older 3 series.
Your theory does not hold water IMO!
When times are tough, people hold on to what they have, and stop buying newer models.
There are always plenty of people that dump the "new", and switch to different types of speakers.
Over time, the older models settle into systems, and are held on to, because many people cherish the sound, and do not buy into "newer is better".
The market for the "classics" of audio equipment has dried up, since the crash of 2008.
I disagree and maintain my theory as merely being one of several. If Magneapan were to introduce a "MG4" series as a successor to the 3.7s I'm sure you'd see a ton of MG3x's hit the used market. Conversely, when a manufacturer offers a product with a 'i' designator without as much explaining what it is that you're paying extra for would (I'd suspect) a significant amount of Maggies consumers would turn gun shy in pulling the trigger on a new pair. In any event it appears the majority of R&D went into their flagship model 30.7 series anyway so a 4x series appearing may be a while.Another factor could be the downsizing in high end in general including the decline of brick and mortar high-end dealers meaning folks are as you say 'holding on to their Maggies'.
Having spent the past 15 yrs on this asylum and checking in at 'least' two or three times daily I've seen the rise and fall of used Maggies on the market. When the 1.7s came on the market many, many 1.6's and 1.5s appeared on online selling sites. The leap from 3.6 to 3.7 and then the 3.7i series I think folks were waiting for the jury to come back in regards to whether or not it was worth the extra fee into making the leap.
I'd also be willing to bet another factor as being the popularity of sites as this which offer Maggies owners the option for DIY repairs thus maintaining them longer.
This won't help you but I remember a time when you could own at least 8 or 9 different Magnepans (if you were to include pre-owned) available in the $1500-$1700 range including:
-the mini Maggie
-the 1.7
-used Gunned MMGs
-2.6's
-2.7's
-1.6's
-MG1's
-1.5s
-MG3.3'sAlthough each and every one would knock one or two out of the ball park, I predicted consumers would become over saturated with so many choices at that price point. Since I have no statistics to back ANY of my claims its pretty much pure conjecture on my part.
Sites such as USaudioMart (and their Canadian version) offer free, email alerts the day any product you choose hits their site. I see Maggies, et al, at 'least' once or twice a week appearing on the used market.
Edits: 09/19/18 09/19/18
True, larger Maggies aren't easy to ship, but they're also models owners rarely wanna sell. They probably take awhile to move on Audiogon because not every music enthusiast who'd appreciate 'em can accommodate 'em (for reasons such as room size, WAF, etc.). Just sayin'. ;0)
Cheers,
AuPh
There used to always be many Magnepans on Audiogon in years past, now there are very few.
This is also true of all classic audio components today.
Times change, audiophile are old, retired, and lack disposable income for audio.
You're correct regarding old, retired, etc users. We baby-boomers are the prime demographic for this type of product, but we will continue to shrink the customer base. This is the reason "high-end" audio, at least as we used to know it, will be dead in not too many years. It will become an exclusive club for folks that drive Ferrari's and have sailboats.
It's unfortunate, but the hobby I became interested in fifty years ago is essentially gone now.
That said, if you search USAudiomart currently, there are a decent selection of Maggies available.
Dave.
...but the hobby I became interested in fifty years ago is essentially gone now.
Every day, I'm able to deeply enjoy my music on gear I could only dream of as a teenager - and with greater convenience!
This is the golden age for me. I couldn't be happier...
If you think this hobby and business now have any relation to fifty years ago, then you don't have nearly enough background or experience.
In the old days an "audiophile" (or whatever name we might to call them) was a true connoisseur.....usually with a decent technical understanding of the equipment they utilized to enjoy their recordings.
And, for many, they had the means to afford much of the equipment they were interested in. MacIntosh and Marantz were a bit expensive, but not out of the realm of a guy who saved up a bit of money.
Nowadays, the "high-end" business is a hugely ego-driven hobby containing many outlandish products at outlandish prices. Much self-deception and intellectual dishonesty exist in both the manufacturers and consumers in the industry currently.
That said, I'm not saying that quality/affordable products aren't available to enjoy the hobby now. But the huge amount of ego-driven "baggage" that goes along with many products is irritating.
In the overall audio business now, it's all about home theater and car audio. This little "high-end" niche' is something that most just roll their eyes at. :)
I would agree with you about this being the "golden age" of audio though. 'Better have an extensive financial portfolio with some gold to afford some of these products. :)
Dave.
If you think this hobby and business now have any relation to fifty years ago, then you don't have nearly enough background or experience.
Now you're changing the criteria. The *business* has clearly changed in numerous ways. The hobby has not.
I would agree with you about this being the "golden age" of audio though
Cool. I don't understand those who whine about today's market.
Better have an extensive financial portfolio with some gold to afford some of these products.
As with any other technology pursuit. I'd like a 488, tourbillon and G550. :)
Once you come to the realization that my AA posts are always factual and correct, you'll be a lot better off. I don't make mistakes on analysis/conclusions on things audio.
And, if I offer my thoughts on topics that are open to opinion, I always couch said comments with a "in my opinion" disclaimer.
It's very simple.
Dave.
Perhaps many were unaffected by it, AFAIWC having two boys constantly screaming and chasing each other around the house, careful and peaceful listening to music, 'fuggedaboutit'.
A problem with that is my hearing acuity is unlike that of a "teenager". (Neither is little else.)
musical acuity across the other nine octaves is decidedly better than it was as a teenager.
(Neither is little else.)
Sorry to hear that. I'm far more active at 61 than I was at 31. I run daily and stay fit. Which improves other things as well. :)
I see some very clean looking 3.6 In Maryland, which is 2700 MILES from where I sit.
Even if they'd FIT in my 'Lament, it'd be 120 gallons of gas MIN (call it 450$) plus room stays.
I'm not going to average 25mpg for this trip. Less.
Call it 4x700 miles each way. That's maybe 9 nites of cheap-o accommodations @120$ per nite is another grand and change. Than FOOD.
I could buy the speakers a pair of plane tickets for less.
I'm giving my TIME as zero value, since I gotta be SOMEWHERE.
Too much is never enough
I didn't drive to Utah to pick up my Sound Labs. I paid to have the coffins delivered.
I did, however, make a day (round) trip to purchase used Acoustat 1+1s.
Found a pair of Accustat @ the swapmeet once. Model unknown.
Guy wanted 400$ for them. Upon further inspection? One of the electronics boxes was
plundered and needed complete rebuild. Other box had been opened, too, and I was scared to look.
I offered him 50$
Too much is never enough
there's a pair of 3.5's in Co, about a 15 hr drive from San Diego.
Up for a road trip?
Too much is never enough
I thought about it but I'm overseeing my granddaughter now who's nine and I wouldn't be able to go. If it were me I'd speak with the owner to ensure they're in good shape and ready to audition. I'd book a flight there (2 hr, $200) and rent a U-haul van on a one-way trip back ($0.60 mile $40 per day), and then either rent a hotel or sleep in the van. At 1100 miles the mileage will get you (about $500 plus tax) and of course gas. But then again the added cost of the above could exceed over well over $1000.Obviously driving your own vehicle there and back would be the most economical but of course you'd need a vehicle to accommodate their enormous size. Then you're looking at a four day round trip. And you definitely want to go before it starts snowing.
Personally I'd wait for something in L.A. to pop up.
Edits: 09/21/18
From where I live to Denver (just a guess) is a 2 day drive or 1 awful long non-stop of 1000 miles and change.
If my brother lived closer, I'd have HIM go get 'em, but he wouldn't know how to evaluate or what to listen for in a demo. He has a big diesel pickup, full size.
No, it's clear ya gotta do something like this local. Just stay on top of the ads, and be ready to LEAP if something happens.
Too much is never enough
Are you keeping your 1.6s?
I'll keep them until I can replace with a real upgrade.
Even IF the 1.7i is 'better', I don't think it's more than 1/2 or 3/4 step up from the 1.6, especially when you toss in the ability to biamp of the 1.6
Of course, REAL biamp for the 1.7i turns into a TRIamp, since it's a 3-way speaker. And for both the 1.6 and 1.7, to really do it you must gut the crossover and connect directly to the amp(s)
Nope, for my 0.05$, I'll go with the 3.6, which to me is an 'endgame' speaker since I simply don't have room for multiple systems or even a dedicated room as you do. It can be biamped and you leave the mid/tweet crossover in-place.
Too much is never enough
This ended about an hour ago; I should've grabbed them while I could; this is the lowest I've ever seen them sold for.
The same dealer sold a pair of MG3.5s at the exact same time for $880.But hell I've still have Gunned MMGs I never have time to listen to; that's the only thing that kept me from the 1.6s.
Edits: 09/23/18
If I ever find some 3.6, I'll CALL you before doing anything with my 1.6's
Perfect shape and Never been messed with inside.
you get first dibs.........
Too much is never enough
Hey appreciate that big guy but I'm in no rush; I'm only in the market if a pair were to come in under $500 and only then for strictly sentimental reasons.
Heck I already have my
MG20s,
Gunned MMGs,
KEF LS50s,
Triangle Comete's
and last but not least a pair of Andrew Jones pioneers!IF I were to spring for another pair of speakers it would most likely be another pair of these . I hate the fact I got rid of mine almost 5 yrs ago. He's had these on USaudiomart the past year or so and I've been on him tooth and nail -even offered to have a mover pick them up, but he will not ship under any circumstances.
Edits: 09/23/18
Let me help with some Audio asylum logic
Buy new. Here's why. We save our money to retire. You then live off the interest of your investments. So 6k @6% gives you 360 per year of income or 30 dollars per month. Now consider the gas discount / lodging discount / and food discount plus cost of speakers and what have you gained? Nothing really other than some new 3.7s and a hell of a lot of fun. :).
Plus full warranty!! Just sign right here!
You like that??
6%? That is a dream return on interest.
Even a better deal then to go new!!! This keeps getting better and better. :)
There have been a few Maggies posted on Audiogon lately.
Joto
Yes, I think that's why my skewed numbers showed. New makes MUCH more sense then buying an unknown from 2500 miles away.
If we had a nearby dealer with some 'pre-loved' stock? That might help tip it back towards used.
Trouble with the x.7 series is NO ability to biamp. That pesky series crossover worries me.
I'd really like an 'end game' set of 3.6 with active crossover and a stereo amp PER speaker.
Too much is never enough
My opinion is the 3.6 has noticeable lower bass output than the 3.7 also!
I am also leary of the "shrunk down" crossover.
The 3.6 is my "end of life"Magnepan.
The x.7 revision ALL use a Series Crossover.
I don't know any advantages, but one thing for sure? Passive biamp is OUT. If you want to go active, you'll go thru the entire process just like other maggies, where you disconnect drivers from the crossover and directly to the amp.
Another exception? You can't do a biamp on a 3-way system without leaving either mid low/mid or mid/high crosssover in place. NO CAN DO on the x.7 models. All the way or NOTHING.
That's one of the best reasons for getting the 3.5 or 3.6 panels.
Too much is never enough
It's a specialized product dude. Whining about the logistics of acquiring them isn't going to do any good.
If you want a pair, you'll have to step up.
Dave.
Just noting the facts:
I hope you'll agree that Maggies are a 'hear before purchase' decision. So that means either travel and risk disappointment from cosmetics or perhaps delam.
OR buy local with the same limits of cosmetics or delam. At least local doesn't mean a cross-country trip with unknown outcome.
And for models with the ribbon? Make sure the ribbon cover is included. I don't know you could move a pair cross-town, let alone cross-country without such protection and end up with functional tweeters. I underestand they are fairly fragile.
One ad said they were 9:10 and had ONE stripped insert in the stand. 9:10? sure.
I've owned Maggies for 35 years or so. I sort of wish I still had my MG-1s, which I had rebuilt by Magnepan, changing to a more modern sock finish and color in the process.
The real problem, or maybe observation would be more correct, is that the USED market is not quite what it was. I think whoever floated the idea that people were hanging onto stuff was on the right track. The largest demographic of hi-end audio is aging and entering the 'fixed income' phase of retirement.
Too much is never enough
this popped up just today.
While not listed, my 3.6's are for sale. So if you live near northern Indiana and you want them drop me a line $1,700 for the pair.
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