integrated amp question

There are a lot of suggestions in the range you are asking about. Maggies like power, so I would start with the Plinius 8200. I would think that would be the best for your system. There is always Creek 5350 SE, but I don't think that would be quite enough power.

As far as advantages with integrateds: Value, you don't have two boxes, saves on materials, the unit shares a power supply, again saving on materials. You get a pre amp section that was specifically designed to be mated with the amplifier section. It's simple, and for the most part, they are easy to use. You don't have to buy an extra interconnect to go between the amp and pre amp.

There are very large differences in tubed and solid state integrateds. It all depends on what type of sound you are looking for.

Maggies love power, the more the better. Heard repeatedly being said on these forums. The Arcam might not be the best choice to use w/those spks., especially if you like to listen to your music loud or intend to use them in a large room. (Owned the Alpha 10 a few yrs. back and it felt very weak in relation to its stated power.)So, you may want to consider buying something with more ompppppp/zoomzoomzoom.

the smaller Maggies can be a touch bass shy...so mating them with a solid state amp known for deep bass emphasis...such as a bryston b-60 intergrated...is a nice combo...also...avoid the remote control option...this adds an extra $300 or so to the amp...good luck....for the el cheapo route...the Nad c370 is a nice entry level intergrated that has legendary NAD power and soundstaging....

First, a disclaimer: I'm the President of Portal Audio.

Suggest you check out the Portal Panache intergrated amp. Please read Sam Tellig's review in the February 2003 Stereophile and/or go to portalaudio.com/panache.html

Maggies not only like solid state power; they like lotsa current and a hefty power supply. End-users tell me that the Panache out-performs even $3000-$4000 integrateds on Maggies. From time-to-time, I get demo units which we sell @$1295. These have the 60-day try-it-at-home program and the 3-yr factory warranty. Happy listening!
Joe Abrams

I have my Maggie 1.6QR's paired with a Classe CAP-151 and am very pleased with the results. There is usually one or two listed here on Audiogon and the prices tend to be in the $1200 range.