2. amps-preamps
  3. 170259-121178

Integrated amp to go with Magnepan 3.7i

I currently have an NAD C388 powering my 3.7i's.  Originally I heard the 3.7i's paired with Parasound monoblocs and really liked them but wasn't prepared to spend that much.  A few years later I saw them with the NAD and thought the set-up offered 90% of the life like open sound I remembered.  

Like many people I really liked it but a few years out my setup feels underwhelming and almost distorted or harsh at higher volume.  So I'm looking at upgrading the amp.  I only stream Tidal through a Node 2i, mostly rock and alternative.  I just want the music to sound as real as possible - instruments and vocals.

I really like the ease of integrated vs separates.  Reading numerous threads, Pass amps seem to be ideal with Magnepan like the INT250, but to get a good DAC and less heat was thinking of others.  Seeing used listings, the Hegel H390 and NAD M33 stood out as ideal for me.

The NAD and Hegel are cheaper and easy but wondering if I would miss out on much better sound with the Pass.  
molarmasher

Showing 1 response by david_ten

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
I just want the music to sound as real as possible

The devil is in the expectations. : )

Your Magnepan 3.7i's are excellent...but the Node 2i, NAD integrated, and Mogami/Monster cabling are not equals (of your speaker).

Between the amp, preamp, DAC.. looks like close to $15k.

Likely. Make sure you address power and cabling as well.

The best presentation I've heard with Maggies has been a McIntosh stack. ARC is another pairing commonly seen. Mentioning both, in case you are open to options other than PASS.
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