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 jjss49

jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

talking sound quality here, not features, or $ value

upper hegel = pass labs class ab integrated - pass pure class a slightly different kettle of fish (on maggie 3.7i -- which demands mucho current capability from amp)

either is significantly superior to nad -- m33, m10... pick your model

musical fidelity has been all over the map, older nuvista/a308 series quite good, haven’t heard their latest since the most recent rebirth

krell integrateds such as s550i or k300i also excellent (stay away from older k-av series), as is ayre lyngdorf gamut and devialet

more powerful integrated units from modwright and accuphase can also be considered, superb sound

then you’re into megabuck territory with boulder, gryphon, towards dag audionet etc...

 

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