How Much Push/Pull Tube Power for Maggies

i disagree with warrenh.

i own a pair of 1.6s and previously owned a pair of 2.7s. i used a vtl deluxe 120 in the triode mode--approx 40 to 45 watts.

i listened to jazz, classical, blues and new age. i had no problems getting enough spl from the speaker. my room may have been a factor, i.e., 12 x 18.

the question is what does drive mean ?

perhaps someone would say i listen at low volume levels and do not subject the speakers to overly dynamic material.

the point is it is not sufficient to say that a 40 watt tube amp will not drive a pair of magnepans. it depends upon the tube amp.

what is normal listening levels ? isn't around 80db ?

50 watts at 3 meters should have no trouble generating 80 db. for those who want to ratch up the intensity, i guess, more power is needed. is it necessary ?

my only concern with solid state is running out of the room because the upper mids and lower treble becomes a pain in the ear.

does anyone have a problem with treble response when listening with a solid state amp ?? i have been spoiled by tube "softness".

it's all about perspective. i prefer rear hall. i can achieve that with a 50 watt tube amp. you don't need a wolcott for a rear hall presentation of an orchestra. if you want front row, well, that's another matter.

gentlemen:

i will be getting roger sanders solid state stereo amp to try with my 1.6s --about 400 watts. i'll let you know what i hear.

i'm a bit skeptical, having lived with tubes for years. many posts have indicated the virtues of solid state with magnepans. i'm not convinced. we'll see when i hook up the amp.

it has arrived. it has been intrfaced. and.......

it's good solid state , but...... it doesn't sound like a tube amp.

its roger sander's ss amp designed for electrostatic speakers and other dipoles.

a noble effort it is and a product fairly priced. it avoids one of the flaws of ss designs i have noticed, namely, miniaturization.

i will give it more time.

i am not a fan of solid state, but this is certainly one of the better versions i have heard.