Best Amps for Magneplanar 1.7i Speakers

Lots of ideas here, and thanks to all of you! There is something to mrskeptic’s observation that maybe I am just looking for a Christmas present for myself. Still, with that volume knob well past the halfway mark I do wonder whether the Maggies need a little more juice.

I think whatever the reason you’re not hearing what you want, and that’s the bottom line so maybe you could more fully communicate what it is you feel you’re missing and/or want to improve. It may not be as much a power thing as much as a character thing. The more you share, the better recommendations you’ll get here. Saying you think you’re underpowered just doesn’t do it in this context.  Need more please.

@kevin1956

Still, with that volume knob well past the halfway mark I do wonder whether the Maggies need a little more juice.

don’t mistake volume knob position with amplifier power available to drive speakers

could well be you have a low output voltage source (or high input impedance at the amp input), leading you to need to open up the volume control on your rogue unit

just like a corvette may have a less sensitive gas pedal, need to step on it more to go... but it doesn’t mean it is less powerful than a honda civic with a touchy gas pedal

You say the speakers are new… I’ve owned several pair of Magnepan speakers over the years, and the biggest mistake I believe some owners make is judging the sound before the speakers break in. I’ve used dozens of different amplifiers with Maggies. In my experience, with my room, my listening habits, and my music, I’ve found that these speakers can sound great with far less power than many people suggest. Your Rogue should have enough power. However, you can always get a different sound with a different amp. As someone else mentioned, the position of the volume knob means very little, unless you’re still short on volume level when it’s turned up to near the end of its rotation. Your room is not very big, so that combo should play pretty loudly. Also, try getting used to the sound without the sub for awhile. You’ll be able to hear the low frequencies grow more extended as the speakers break in as well. This is just from my experience. Others have their own. Good luck 

@krelldreams Great post! One of the many fallacies about Maggies is their need for crazy power.

Thanks for these ideas everyone. Very helpful.