Magico’s entry-level speakers can still cast a spell
The A1’s brutalist black appearance implies a no-nonsense approach to engineering – one that strongly suggests performance is more of a priority than any cosmetic considerations.
This is not a conventional design; the enclosure is made of 9.5mm-thick 6061-grade aluminium panels, further reinforced by strategic aluminium bracing. The result is a dense, solid 22kg speaker.
The Magico A1 are a two-way design. Their 28mm beryllium-dome tweeter shares much with the high-frequency unit used in the company’s more upmarket M-Series but does without the ultra-expensive diamond coating. The carefully developed neodymium motor system is claimed to offer low distortion coupled with wide-ranging dynamics. High power handling is also said to be a strength.
The A1’s 16.5cm mid/bass is also a distinctive unit, with a carbon fibre cone laced with a layer of XG Nanographene that is claimed to offer the optimal amount of damping and stiffness. Care has been taken with the chassis to allow a free flow of air, so maximising dynamics. Elsewhere, the motor system has a relatively large 39mm titanium voice coil and a carefully honed design, with ‘extra-large’ magnets resulting in greater accuracy and good power handling.
Unlike most rivals, the A1 are a sealed box design. There is no reflex port or any other mechanism to augment the mid/bass unit’s low-frequency output. Given the Magico’s sub-40cm tall stature and modestly sized mid/bass unit, it’s fair to assume that they are not going to be the first choice for someone who prioritises bass extension and power above all else.
On paper, there is invariably a hit on sensitivity by not going for a ported design. The A are rated at 84dB/W/m, which is on the low side and, coupled to an impedance of 4 ohms, suggests that you will need an amplifier with a bit of grunt. Power in itself is not enough of a talent to make these speakers sing. They are highly revealing, so if you want to hear the Magicos in full flow you will need a suitably talented system.
It also pays to take time positioning the A1. We end up with them almost a metre into the room and angled in so that they cross a little behind our listening position. This way we get a huge, expansive soundstage and a pleasing tonal balance.
TAUT, TUNEFUL BASS
The laws of physics are pretty unyielding, so it’s impressive that Magico’s engineers have managed to make these speakers sound impressively solid and authoritative – all the more so because
