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 1 response by dsper

I owned Maggie 1.2's that I listened to with a McIntosh integrated at 160wpc into 4 ohms.

I then did an in house test with a Krell S300I at 300 wpc into 4 ohms. I heard amazing improvement as the Maggie 1.2's came alive. They needed the watts to bring out their dynamic potential.

I traded in the 1.2's (I had them for about nine months) for new Maggie 1.7's and am still liking the Krell. For roughly $2000 new it is hard to beat. The problem is now justifying even more watts to obtain the last bit of dynamics out of the 1.7's (Or should I just upgrade to Maggie 3.7's and start over again!).

The amp will get warm and needs to be ventilated. The manufacturer wants at least two inches of clearance over the top of the amp and and at least one inch on each side. I also allow an inch underneath.

I was able to prove that the protective circuitry will shut the amp down at volume settings of 90 or higher if there is insufficient top and side side clearance.