The Magnepan MG3.6 are indeed wonderful. Two things to keep in mind. They do require quite a bit of space behind them, approximately 3 to 4 feet and they like the power.

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The Magnepan MG3.6 are indeed wonderful. Two things to keep in mind. They do require quite a bit of space behind them, approximately 3 to 4 feet and they like the power.

And they don't really have bass. Their midrange and the highs are absolutely magical though.

Don't let someone else tell you MG3.6's have no bass. Listen to a properly set up pair and decide for yourself. The bass they produce is very different in character than most boxes. For lots of owners it is more than adequate.

I think that they are both good speakers, but I think the Harbeths might be a bit more difficult to match up with as far as the associated equipment and room are concerned. I wouldn't buy them without actually trying them at home with my equipment, in my room.

Actually, I am a huge fan of my speakers, the Vandersteen 3As. I would advise you to listen to them before you spend the kind of money you are talking about. I think the current price is between $3k and $4k. They are accurate, easy to drive, and not too touchy about the room, as long as you keep them about 3 feet from the rear wall.

See the review at www.soundstage.com

And this is entry level? $4,000 speakers.

Is there a case for having a general hi-fi section rather than separate audio hardware section which might be perceived as hidden with far less traffic?

I know it feels like the analogue area is really slow....