Budget amp that will give Magnepan 3.6Rs better depth of soundstage


I have 3.6Rs and using Emotiva UMC200 pre/proc and an Outlaw Audio 7100 in a 14 by 14 foot room. So I don't need to turn the volume up to massive levels. The amp will do 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 165 watts per channel into 4 ohms. I have been thinking of getting a separate two channel amp for the 3.6Rs. I have read that it takes lots of current to get the best soundstage with instrument placement and depth. I am getting wide soundstage and good sound, but the depth is somewhat muddied enough to not get instrument placement. I am looking for a two channel amp that will give me more of the potential of the 3.6Rs, but be able to be purchased for less that $750 used.  Is there any amp that will be worth upgrading to for that kind of money or do I need a new pre/proc as well?

cdavis2260

I’ve owned numerous Magnepan models spanning 40 years time, and currently use MG 20.7’s.

 

in this order:

6’ from rear wall (put them on casters with locking wheels if need be)

experiment with toe in-mms matter

cheap but great amps? Crown Pro series, carver sunfire, parasouund. Adcom

 

good listening!!!

I am currently running Magnepan 1.7i in an 11' x 14' room with two REL subs.

Speakers need to be 4'-5' from the front wall.  

I have used as little as 25 watts to 50 watts from a good tube amp.  Only bass was improved with big SS power.

For $750 or less, you are looking at older amps.  I had an ATI 1502 (225 watts @ 4 ohms) that did fine.  Look for high-current more than just a watt rating.  

Unfortunately, a lot of these older amps are due for service.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

I agree with those who suggest room treatments 1st.

If you want to try an amp less than $750 that can definately drive them, Ive got a recapped Carver M400 I would  part with. 200wpc 8ohms, over 300wpc 4ohms. It drove my 1.7i s at high spl for hours without getting warm. 

My new $2k + amp sounds only a little better in detail, but same as far as soundstage.

in my experience the most cost effective amps (used) to drive big maggies well enough in a regular size room to normal levels are

klaus’ odyssey amps (even the less expensive older ones are excellent, khartago or stratos -- caps upgrade helps)

primare i-30 integrated 100 wpc, 180 wpc into 4, stout and very musical

older musical fidelity a308 or similar

older van alstine synergy or similar (a little more sharp sounding)

older audio research 100.2 (100/200 into 4) - lovely tube like warmth, if you can find one