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Amplifier for Magnepan MMG

Hi all,

I just today picked up a lightly used pair of Magnepan MMGs. I'm absolutely FLOORED by these speakers. I have on issue though. My current amplifier, the Onix SP3 MKII, is fabulous but I fear clipping if I drive these to high volumes (I've not experienced this yet at my low volumes, but I want to avoid it all together). At any rate, I'm considering a new integrated amplifier to replace this one. All tube isn't an option at my price point (<$550 used) but hybrid may be. So far I'm considering the Jolida 1501RC, Cambridge 640A v3, and the Rotel RA-1062. All are highly reviewed, but would have historically been a good match for the MMGs? I can find a lot of info for amps for these, but most are currently out of my price range (give me a break, I'm in college!). I've got no problem with an amp/preamp combo, but it would still need to fall into my price category.
uncledavid218
soulbrass
246 posts
 
Hi,

First...welcome to a hobby that promises a lifetime of enjoyment!

As you've already discovered, MMGs need some juice to sound their best; I'd look for an NAD C370 - should be able to find one for less that your stated budget. Many of us started with NAD gear and many of us still use NAD gear! See online reviews. The sound is not exactly "tube-like" but very enjoyable nonetheless.

Pros: plenty of power to drive the MMGs, pre-out/amp-in to enable future incremental upgrades, built-in headphone amp, remote, quality construction, good value and...it sounds great!

Good luck!

JJ
lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
4,544 posts
 
Consider picking yourself up a used integrated Wyred 4 Sound.
Lot's of bang for the buck and it sounds some what tube like and will do a great job of driving your speakers.
I use the Wyred 4 Sound SX-1000 monoblocks on my 1.6's and am very happy. I have used other good amps such as (different models) Plinius and Krell but I prefer the Wyred 4 Sound.
55dok
162 posts
 
I've used a luxman R117 receiver(160w/ch and stable at 2ohms) with my 1.6 maggies. It should cost $250-325 on Ebay etc. and will be more than enough for MMG's. The luxman M117 amp ($350-450) is probably overkill at 200w/ch. A used Classe CAP151 integrated would also work well ($1000). I suspect all you really need for MMG's is a luxman R115 receiver (75w/ch at 8 ohms and stable to 2 ohms) and it will only cost $150-200 (as much as a good pair of interconnects) to try out. These luxman receivers have excellent tuners and a CD bypass switch for more direct sound. I had to spend 5-10 times as much to get better sound with my lector zoe pre-amp and innersound esl amp for my larger speakers.
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