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Musical Fidelity A300 or VTL IT 85 for Mag 1.6QR

Ok, another Maggie question. I scanned the threads for the 1.6, but wanted to get some comments regarding a couple of specific integrateds with the 1.6QR. Specifically the MF A300 (solid state 150wpc) or VTL IT 85 (tube 85 wpc). I lean towards tubes, but don't know if 85 tube watts into the Maggies 4 ohms will drive them well, and price IS a consideration for considering more power from tubes.

Comments, suggestions? I do listen to most everything - Classical (both chamber and orchestral), jazz (acoustic to contemporary electronic), pop/rock (well, just a little).

Thanks!!!!

Rush
seldenr

Showing 2 responses by philjolet

philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
to clarify my first message, My CD source was a Rega 2000 and turntable was LP12 with K9 cartridge, wire was Kimber 8TC and interconnects were older Tara (I forget which but has been smooth on other items)
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
I tried the A300 with my 1.6's and it did sound very nice but had a forward sound. Coronets sounded like you could crawl into it the sound was so big, I do not want to sound negative because the TONE was very sweet on that same Coronet. Piano had a full sound that was nice also. Hi Hats sounded 4 feet in diameter and 2 feet in front of the speaker. In some ways I miss that amp, it was super detailed (something that worked nice with the Magnepans). I have also tried Rogue 88 amp with 70 watts which was enough for a small room but you could not rock out by any means. I did prefer the sound of the Rogue with the 99 pre amp to the MS A300, At more than twice the price as well. Bottom line, if you get the MS you will want a well dampened room and smooth source and wire. I bet you would be happy (it has an airy sound as well). I have not heard the VTL but it would probably be my choice, but I like tubes. good luck I hope this helps
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