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Amplifier for Magnepan 20.1s

I currently have Magnepan 20.1 speakers driven by Pass Labs X250.5 amp with Audio Research Ref 3 Preamp and Ref 8 CD player. Pass Xono phonostage, VPI ref superscoutmaster/Dynavector xv1s cart. My room is 16'W X 26'L X 10'H. I have a dedicated 30amp circuit breaker for this room only. I am considering changing my amplifier. Should I upgrade to the Pass Labs X350.5, X600.5, or should I go with the Audio Research Ref 210s (since I love the sound that was created since adding my other Audio Research products but the Ref 610Ts are out of my range and also would probably draw too much power for my circuit to handle). My only concern: is there enough power to produce a dynamic sound that wont go mushy in the bass? What should I do?
powerdoctor
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Tubes are not glamourous or for show in my systems. I was a reluctant convert to tubes for my main rig. Once I did change over to tubes my system was a whole new animal and I loved it.
Finally at last... tubes at last, thank G almighty, tubes at last!
djcxxx
105 posts
 
I enjoy my tube gear but it's not an act a faith or religion for me. Happy for you.
powerdoctor OP
21 posts
 
Well, I'm going to demo the Pass Labs X600.5s and see what they do. After that, I'm probably going to get an Audio Research Ref 2 Phonostage (on the wish list). I want to thank you all for the discussion. If there is anything else to add, please let me know. Happy Holidays all.
dev's avatar
dev
832 posts
 
Powerdocter, those will be an upgrade over what you currently have but will not compare to the XA-100.5's mono's.

Ref2 suppose to be a great phono and paired up with your Ref3 is a no brainer.

Enjoy!
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,794 posts
 
The 20.1 is fairly easy to drive. The main thing is you will need power, but phase angles are well-controlled. Wendell Diller has made a point of expressing to me on several occasions that the best he has ever heard the 20.1 has been with tube amps.
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