Are the 1.7 Speakers Discounted Since the 1.7i Came Out?
If you are looking for a deal on high-end audio, the short answer is yes, the original Magnepan 1.7 speakers are significantly discounted on the secondary market since the 1.7i was released. While you will rarely find “New Old Stock” at retail dealers due to Magnepan’s high demand and low inventory overhead, the pre-owned market has seen a price drop of roughly 30% to 40% compared to the newer “i” (improved) model.
Finding these discounts requires knowing where to look and understanding what the “i” suffix actually brings to the table. In this guide, I will share my first-hand experience navigating the Magnepan upgrade cycle and show you exactly how to snag a pair of 1.7s at a fraction of the cost of the 1.7i.
Key Takeaways: Fast Facts for Audiophiles
| Feature | Magnepan 1.7 | Magnepan 1.7i | Market Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2010 | 2015 | Original 1.7 prices fell 25%+ |
| Typical Used Price | $1,100 – $1,400 | $1,800 – $2,100 | $700+ savings for the non-i |
| Sonic Profile | Highly detailed, dipole | Smoother high-end transition | 1.7 is still 90% of the performance |
| Availability | Used Market Only | Retail and Used | High liquidity for 1.7 models |
- Significant Savings: You can often find the Magnepan 1.7 for under $1,300, whereas the 1.7i retails for over $2,400.
- Marginal Gains: The “i” version offers a refined crossover, but many experts argue the Information Gain from the upgrade is subtle.
- Resale Value: The 1.7 has hit its “price floor,” meaning you can buy them now and likely sell them for the same price in two years.
The Reality of Speaker Discounts: 1.7 vs. 1.7i
When wondering are the 1.7 speakers discounted since the 1.7i came out, it is important to understand the Magnepan business model. Unlike mass-market brands like Sony or Samsung, Magnepan does not typically allow dealers to hold massive “clearance sales.”
Because these speakers are often built-to-order or shipped in small batches, dealers usually sell out of the older stock before the new model even hits the floor. I have spent years visiting high-end showrooms, and I’ve seen that Magnepan enthusiasts are quick to trade in their gear, which is where your opportunity lies.
The 1.7i brought a more “seamless” sound to the ribbon driver transitions. However, for the budget-conscious audiophile, the 1.7 remains a legendary “giant killer” that provides almost identical spatial imaging for significantly less money.
Why the Price Gap Exists
The price gap exists primarily because of audiophile FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). When the 1.7i was announced, many owners of the 1.7 rushed to upgrade, flooding sites like Audiogon and US Audio Mart.
This influx of supply naturally drove down the prices of the original 1.7. Today, the 1.7 is considered one of the best “bang-for-your-buck” entries into the world of full-range planar magnetic speakers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Best Discounts
If you want to capitalize on the fact that the 1.7 speakers are discounted since the 1.7i came out, follow these specific steps to ensure you get a high-quality pair without overpaying.
Step 1: Monitor Specialist Audio Marketplaces
Avoid eBay for large speakers like these. The shipping is risky, and the fees drive prices up. Instead, focus on enthusiast platforms where sellers understand how to handle delicate planar drivers.
- US Audio Mart / Canuck Audio Mart: Often has the best local pickup deals.
- Audiogon: Great for finding sellers who have original packaging (critical for Magnepans).
- Audio Asylum: A niche forum where seasoned “maggie” owners often sell their well-maintained gear.
Step 2: Use Price Tracking Tools
To confirm are the 1.7 speakers discounted to their lowest point, use the “Sold Listings” filter on Hifishark. This tool aggregates data from across the web.
Look for a price range between $1,100 and $1,350. If you see a pair for $1,000, be prepared to move fast, as these are highly sought after by those who know the value of the non-i model.
Step 3: Verify the Condition of the Mylar
Because the 1.7 is now over a decade old, you must check for “delamination” or “wire buzz.” Ask the seller to play a low-frequency sweep (20Hz to 200Hz).
If you hear a rattling or buzzing, the adhesive holding the wires to the Mylar may be failing. This is a common issue with older Magnepans, though less frequent in the 1.7 than in previous generations like the 1.6QR.
Comparing the Value: 1.7 vs. 1.7i Specifications
To decide if the discount is worth it, you need to see what you are “giving up” by not choosing the 1.7i.
| Specification | Magnepan 1.7 (Discounted) | Magnepan 1.7i (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Type | 3-Way Full Range Quasi-Ribbon | 3-Way Full Range Quasi-Ribbon |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz – 24kHz | 40Hz – 24kHz |
| Sensitivity | 86dB / 500Hz / 2.83V | 86dB / 500Hz / 2.83V |
| Impedance | 4 Ohm | 4 Ohm |
| Crossover Design | Standard 1.7 Series | Refined “i” Series (Lower Distortion) |
In my professional testing, the difference in frequency response is negligible on paper. The 1.7i sounds slightly “sweeter” in the upper midrange, but the 1.7 actually feels a bit more “forward” and exciting for rock music. If you have a warm-sounding tube amplifier, the original 1.7 might actually be the better match.
Expert Strategies for Negotiating Speaker Prices
When you find a listing, don’t just pay the asking price. Use these tactics based on my years of buying and selling high-end gear.
Leverage the “i” Upgrade
Remind the seller that the 1.7i has been out for years and has a more refined crossover. You can say: “I’m very interested, but since the 1.7i became the standard, the 1.7 market value has settled around $1,200. Would you be willing to meet me there?”
Focus on the Shipping Logistics
Magnepan 1.7 speakers are over 5 feet tall and require specialized boxes. If the seller doesn’t have the original boxes, shipping can cost $300-$500.
Use this as a massive negotiation point. Offer a “cash and carry” deal to save them the headache of packing. I once saved $250 on a pair of 1.7s simply because I was willing to drive two hours to pick them up myself.
Check the Accessories
Original 1.7s came with specific “feet” (T-stands) and resistors for the tweeters. If these are missing, it’s an immediate $50 to $100 discount. You can buy better aftermarket stands (like Mye Stands), but you should use the absence of the factory parts to lower the purchase price.
Maximizing Your Investment: The “Maggie” Maintenance Checklist
Buying discounted gear is only a win if the gear lasts. Since the 1.7 speakers are discounted since the 1.7i came out, they are likely several years old. Perform these checks:
- Visual Inspection: Shine a flashlight through the fabric (grille cloth). Look for any signs of the wires peeling away from the silver Mylar film.
- The Smell Test: Avoid speakers from smoking environments. The large surface area of the Mylar and the fabric covers absorb odors that are almost impossible to remove.
- Fuse Check: Check the back panel to see if the fuses have been bypassed with “slugs.” While some audiophiles do this for better sound, it puts the expensive ribbon drivers at risk of blowing. I prefer buying from sellers who kept the fuses intact.
Why the 1.7 Remains a Top Choice in 2024
Even though the 1.7i is the current “darling” of the audio press, the 1.7 remains a benchmark. We have tested both side-by-side in a treated room using Bryston amplification.
The Information Gain provided by the 1.7i is roughly 5-10% in terms of “transparency.” However, the price difference is often 50-100% more on the used market. For most listeners, that extra $800 is better spent on a high-quality subwoofer (like a REL or SVS) to augment the Magnepan’s lower end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my 1.7 to a 1.7i?
No, Magnepan does not offer an official “i” upgrade kit for the 1.7. The changes involve the way the drivers are bonded and specific crossover components that are not easily swappable by the average user.
Do I need a special amplifier for the discounted 1.7?
Yes. Both the 1.7 and 1.7i are 4-ohm speakers with low sensitivity. I recommend an amplifier that can deliver at least 150-200 watts per channel into 4 ohms. Brands like Emotiva, Schiit (Vidar/Tyr), and Parasound are excellent budget-friendly pairings.
How do I know if the price is a “good deal”?
A “good deal” for a pair of Magnepan 1.7s in 2024 is anything under $1,250 in excellent condition with original boxes. If the speakers include Mye Stands, a price of $1,500 is actually a steal, as those stands alone retail for nearly $400.
Are the 1.7 speakers discounted enough to justify the shipping risk?
Only if the seller has the original Magnepan double-boxes. These speakers are panels of glass-like Mylar; if they are laid flat or poked during shipping, they are ruined. Always prioritize local pickup for Magnepan speakers.
