How Much Push/Pull Tube Power for Maggies

jimmyrod you are right on the money. these are for a 2nd system and i was thinking the mmg's and i do know you can't biamp these. so, i'm hoping my 40 watts will drive them just fine, and it out the bottom end with a sub.the mmg's may be perfect for the 2nd system, and i won't even have to move up the line. we'll see. thanks

I have owned over 5 different models of Magnepan and topped out at 3.6. This is about 2 years ago. I have driven them with various tube and SS amps (Rouge, Audio Research, Conrad Johnson) and get good sounding, at least i thougth i did. Never owned a tube amp with more than 70 watt/channel so I can't comment how would tehy sound like. These highly ineffient speakers don't begin do show their potential until i drove them with a pair of DNA 500s/Audible Illusion 3A.

i disagree with warrenh.

i own a pair of 1.6s and previously owned a pair of 2.7s. i used a vtl deluxe 120 in the triode mode--approx 40 to 45 watts.

i listened to jazz, classical, blues and new age. i had no problems getting enough spl from the speaker. my room may have been a factor, i.e., 12 x 18.

the question is what does drive mean ?

perhaps someone would say i listen at low volume levels and do not subject the speakers to overly dynamic material.

the point is it is not sufficient to say that a 40 watt tube amp will not drive a pair of magnepans. it depends upon the tube amp.

the amp in question is a consonance m100 plus. maybe someone is familiar with this amp, or any other in the consonance line. these amps all can kick some pretty good butt, regardless of their power ratings. i guess i may try the mmg's, as my room is pretty small anyway and these would probably be the best size maggie for this room. if it doesn't work, i can return the mmg's. no biggie.