2. amps-preamps
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Upgrading my integrated amplifier for my Magnepan 1.7’s

I currently have Peachtree GaN400 and preDAC which, quite honestly pairs pretty well with my Maggie’s. I’m 72 and have some money to burn so I’m currently looking at two Integrated amplifiers. One is the Hegel B600 and the other the Macintosh, MA 9500. My assumption is the refined power of either of these amps will take my listening to a higher level.

I intend to give a listen at local stereo store that sells both brands but in the meantime, I’m curious if any readers have experience with either one of these amps and Magnepan speakers.

baconboy

Showing 1 response by pinwa

pinwa
298 posts
 

I own the PeachTree GAN400 and have owned Magnepan 1.6, 1.7, 3.7 and 20.7's.  So I know a bit about what I'm talking about here.

1) The Peachtree is fine but not optimal.  It is an excellent amp, especially at the price point, but it is better suited to more efficient, less current hungry speakers.  Any Maggie will really shine with high powered Class A or AB amps.  My 3.7s didn't come into their own until I purchased the PS Audio BHK 300 monoblocks.

2) Every step up in the Magnepan line provides a significant improvement in sound quality.  The 3.7s are much better than the 1.7s and the 20.7s would be an endgame speaker for most people.

Upgrading either the amp or the speakers will be a big improvement.  If I were you I would buy used and hopefully be able to upgrade both.  

I don't know anything about the MA 9500 but Google says it costs $12K new and that isn't where I would spend my money.

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