This Apogee produce more detailed sound and better bass than the Magnepans. I decided to sell my current ESS Heil AMT speakers and keep this Apogee. The ESS also produce wonderful sound, but I prefer the design of the Apogee. I think this speaker is especially good to hear folk and classical music. An excellent speaker in every aspects.
High resolution requires high quality components to go with it.
I use a subwoofer, but they sound good without it. I put the ribbons on the outside even though Apogee recommends putting them on the inside. This gives tighter bass. I have never had any problems with reliability in all the time I've had these. If you can find them, buy them.