Audio Research Ref 250s for Magnepan 20.1s?

If it were me, I would sell the 20.1's and buy a new pair of 20.7's. Then I would pick up a really good used powerful SS amp, something like a set of Cary 500 monoblocks or a pair of Magtechs...

Hello
I have Ref3, Ref8, Ref210's with Magnepan 20.1's.
These are in a dedicated Listening Room which is 20' x 24' x 9'.
I mostly play orchestral music full orchestra and small groups. I also listened to Patricia Barber, Diana Krall type stuff.
The Ref 210's drive the Magnepan very well, they produce a very musical sound which is a replication to a degree of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra which I hear often. Playing a Mercury Living Presence CD or LP my setup seems easily powerful enough.
I can play Patricia Barber at any level I need with no compression.
While I have a ARC D400 solid state AMP (though 18 years old) it sounds more powerful, BUT it doesn't sound nearly as good and musical. The bass is tighter, but IMHO too tight and not real.
The 20.1's with the ARC equipment can transport you to the musical event.
I will say I think I am limited in power if I am plying solo piano, something like Sheffield drum and track but does not bother me too much. I suspect that the Ref 250 will be far more powerful sounding than the 210 and still retain the ARC tube musicality.
I have never tried the larger Mac's or Bryston.
I suspect I am giving you only 50 - 75% of the answer.

I want to thank all for your responses. I think my future plans will include getting the Ref 250s and eventually upgrading to the Maggie 20.7s. If I decide to keep my Pass 600.5s, I may pick up a used Pass XVR crossover and try bi-amping and just take my double bi wire configured audioquest speaker cables and make them singles again to make it work. These are the dreams. 1 step at a time while enjoying the music. That is why we do all of this crazy stuff in the first place. It is safer than getting into motorcycles.

If you try bi-amping, I'm sure you'll like the incredible flexibilty of the XVR-1 not to mention it's minimal sonic signature. You might consider sticking with the 20.1s, bi-amped with the Ref150s as an alternative to the Ref250s and the 20.7s.

I think Barrysandy's suggestion is a good one. That has potential to sound incredible, stunning. And save you money on both the speaker upgrade and the cost differential between Ref250 and Ref150. Good luck. Good choices!