Maggie Fans Chime in: Need recommendation for amp to drive Maggies (MMGs and 1.7i)


Hi All,

I blew up my work horse amp (Anthem MCA 20) and need recommendations for an amplifier which will drive my 1.7i's. I listen to a lot of Jazz, Funk, some EDM, rock, and occasionally classical. My budget is < $1000. I am happy with used gear from here or other markets. Looking for something reliable and rock solid. 

Any thoughts from Y'all Maggie fans is much appreciated. 
128x128birdfan

Showing 3 responses by mcreyn

4B (there is a 4BST on hifi shark for $995) is probably your best choice as it fits your description of what you like.  Parasound edges toward warmth.  A McCormack DNA 1 would also be good for your wants.  

If you look at the odyssey, you should be looking at the Stratos, but it is $1300.  The Khatago lacks sufficient power.  Larger Maggies really wake up with 300+ watts per side.  They are very innefficient, but not a hard load to drive (nearly a resistive 4 ohm load).  
The 4B is a great amp, but they are getting old and the capacitors will fail at some point.  

For me, I would buy a used PS Audio S300.  There is one on US Audio Mart for $950 with 1 year left on the warranty.  300w/ch in to 4 ohms, which is right at the sweep spot for 1.7i.  
Flatbackground - Another site had someone who ran measurements on the CDA-250 from Class D and they were pretty ugly.   Not sure if the more expensive ones are better, but it appears to be a design issue with lack of power supply filtering.  That is why I suggested the PS Audio.  A used Wyred4sound would also be a good Class D choice.