Magnepan 3.7i Amplifiers Aesthetix or Modwright? Thoughts?

I’ve been powering my older 3.6 Maggies for 10 years with a pair of Bryston 7BSTs (a long time for me to stay with the same components). Aside from the well known, slightly weak low bass (compensated for in my system with an REL Stentor sub), the Brystons allow the Maggies to be everything they’re meant to be, with ease—a textbook example of clarity, immediacy, spacial definition, detail, end every other quality the speakers are designed for, with power to spare. My equipment predates yours by many years, but I’ve never had (nor heard) an amp/speaker combo that sounded better, certainly nothing near their price point. Some day, when I update to the 3.7 (or, in my dreams, the 20.7), I’ll stick with my trusty Brystons (though perhaps in a more modern incarnation if I win the lottery).

The current .7 Maggies have series cross-overs, consequently they can NOT be bi-amped (without serious surgery). The .6 and earlier models have parallel cross-overs, so can be. It is for that reason Maggie aficionados who prioritize bi-amping prefer the .6 models.

Still possible to biamp the 3.7i?  I'd recommend Pass Class A on the top end, and then a quality Class D for the bottom.  Sweetness for the highs and middle, tightness and power for the bottom.  But I guess that would take an active crossover, which would be a pain.

I have not heard those particular Mac models but the Bryston 7B series monoblocks would be good options. I wouldn't consider them an upgrade per se but more of a lateral move with a different sound signature, e.g., tighter bass, more balanced and not quite as warm. I personally prefer the Mac house sound. You should definitely try it in your system before making the switch.

You may want to consider Bryston,that is the amp Magnepan reps use to demo their speakers.

The higher impedance in the Atlas
monos with your Caylipso will seem more alive then either. Add to that you can also activate the variable built in high pass within the Aesthetix will help you adjust
the bass till it's just right for that room great amps
Best 
JohnnyR

@73cuttysupreme,

I was using Quicksilver V4 amps. I currently use Proac speakers. You can see my system which is posted on Audiogon.

What did you have before amplification-wise and are you currently running the 3.7i?  

I have an Aesthetix Atlas and Calypso. They are a great match together and my system has never sounded better with the addition of the Atlas. 

Great grip and control on the bottom with a sweet, but detailed and articulate top.

Up the game from a Mac 602? Differences yes, up the game... not so sure, at this level things are different not better going from 602 to a Modwright 150se??? moving backwards imo. I would look at the pre amp to tune your systems sound as well as cables...Keep the MAC!


Matt

I wish I had the room for it.

Looking for a better top end and midrange.  That 602 has an iron like grip on the lower registers, the McIntosh 'house sound' needs to get changed up.  While the mac has served me well for many years, it's time to move up the food chain.  I have a secondary system i can move that into and enjoy it there or may just put it up for sale here, not sure the existing cabinetry can handle a 180lb amp!

What do you NOT like about the Mac?  It certainly has enough power and current.  Current is over 60 amps per channel and probably closer to 90 amps.