Best Cheap Amps for Magneplanar Speakers

Randy,

It would be a miracle to find a new SS amp for $1k that will outperform your Sunfire.

Dave

Well, that's what I'm afraid of...

When I had the 2Bs, a similar budget design,  I used a Hafler DH200. It was a little dry and clinical, maybe, but it seemed to suit their character. I also tried the Dynaco ST70 which didn't have enough bass, but the mids, especially strings were decent.

Positioning is everything with these types of speakers. They need to be loaded off the sidewalls, very close, and have a good 6 to 8 feet behind them. Even an inch or two this way or that can make a huge difference. 

if you want clean SS power  Class A 60w auto switchable to ClassA/B 600w   try the Emotiva monoblocks   XPA 1 gen 2   about a grand a piece  will power Maggies beautifully with excellent soundstage and detail.  You can audition them at home with a full return policy.   If Tubes are your choice try the Cary 120MkII (stereo not mono block)  which I just saw on sale from Cary at $2800

Problems I've read with the XPA -1 make it risky.  Owners complain of the heat sinks ticking as they heat up and cool down.  How Emotiva could engineer an amp and miss this is beyond me, but there you are.