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Which Integrated for Magnepan MG-12?

I've just replaced my Magnepan MG-1 speakers, which died after 30 years of faithful service, with the MG-12 and now want to upgrade my integrated amp (and I do want to stick with an integrated). I listen mostly to classical music, with occasional folk/bluegrass, blues, jazz, etc. thrown in. I'm looking in the price range of $1000 to $2400 (for new or demo/used)and am considering the NAD C375 (or a used M3), Bel Canto S300iU or eVo2i, Creek Evolution 5350 or Destiny, Arcam A38 or Cambridge Audio 840A v2. I done some online research but haven't yet had a chance to listen to these amps and would appreciate any comments/suggestions my fellow audiogoners might have for me. Thanks.
peter8491

Showing 2 responses by magfan

magfan
1,583 posts
 
Maggies are NOT a 'tough load'.
Low sensitivity, to be sure, partially made up for by being dipoles. Low reactance, too, which kind of means you don't need hign damping factor amps, (read TUBES).

'd' amps sound good with them. The W4S has balanced inputs which go well with a balanced CD player....like my CA 840c.

I sort of liked the 400xi Krell with panels at a listening session, but the darn thing just got so HOT I couldn't figure out where I could put it where it wouldn't cook itself.

I settled on a 'd' solution which gave very satisfying sound, had balanced inputs and is not only very nuanced, but has great pace, as well.
magfan
1,583 posts
 
I listened to the 400xi for maybe 20 to 30 minutes at the hi end of moderate levels....the Krell was sitting out in the open on its own stand...nothing near it at all, above or to the sides.
The power supply got way hot. I could put my hands on it, but it was NOT very comfortable. The amount of heat boiling off the amp I would rate as 'lots'.

If it sat with shelving over it and restrictions to the sides, I'm sure it would cook in no time.

The speakers? some Maggie 3.6s and the music was just rock....
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