We've used our Magnolia for the last two years. Concerning removing the bricks, it would seam that nearly all heat would pass directly up the stack. When I had draft issues, the company (USS) said to place the bricks as far apart as possible,which creates two small gaps for air flow. The welded-in baffle plate is an issue. It will collect ash and does block the draft. Nothing a mid-season cleaning won't take care of.
In reply to the poster looking at an APS1100. My BIL has one, bought second hand. It works fine but it only likes a 14" log length and can only be placed east-west (or left -right). OK stove for back-up but not one I'd depend on for sole source heat.