Hello Triodeotl,
I did not have a chance to compare to the 3 way Magnepan 3 series in my home yet, but so far the bass is so super punchy and rock solid compare to the old 2.6r with regular x-over, and more well better than the old 2.7, 1.6 and new 1.7. The true ribbon is more sweet and smooth compare to the QR ribbon on the 1.6 and 1.7 series.
Cheers.