BTW, I experimented w/ woofers in or out and in my room woofers out definitely sound better with speakers slightly pointed at the listening position. Setting up the Mahlers' woofers requires quite a bit of experimentation -but the reward!
I drive my Mahlers with Jeff Rowland Model 201s amps and Synergy IIi pre. I don't find the bass loose at all. The 201s with its high current output really control the very demanding Mahler woofers. I also listen to music quite loud (90 - 100db with peaks up to 110db). The 201s and Mahlers never fatigue and bass always sounds taut and detailed.
