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Would the 20.1 sound better with the socks removed?
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The 20.1 appear to have the same construction as the 3.5 and 3.6. There is actually two socks - the split front grille cloth and the standard Magnepan sock over the speaker guts but below the front/side wood trim. Removing the front grille cloth will make the speaker sound better and the internals will be protected by the inner sock. The speakes look quite presentable in this semi-nude attire. The treble is slightly higher in level and cleaner. Removing the wood trim is even better, but the speaker really does look "simple" then.
Does the wood trim vibrate?
Couldn't say if they'd sound better but I'm sure sound quality is a primary concern when Magnepan chooses fabric. Dirt which accumulates on them will have a negative impact but what gets caught in the fabric doesn't wind up on the ribbons/diaphragms. I'd say keep them clean with their clothes on.
clean or replace them - that's when you'll really hear a difference. Otherwise, the difference will usually be de minimus. I removed the socks on my 2.6Rs and there was a discernible difference, but remember 2.6Rs are 90's vintage speakers and the socks were probably never cleaned or replaced. The speaker is still covered with a bag, so removing the sock is not usually a cosmetic faux paus - in fact, with my 2.6Rs, I preferred the black bag over the tan sock. Enjoy those nifty 20.1s!
I think they would sound different. Whether better or worse is purely a matter of your listening preferences. I would rather concentrate on room placement and treatment.
........I mean, the socks don't add anything sonically (I think their goal is to not subtract much), but they do look rather nice.
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