2. speakers
  3. 1265937190

Magico Mini II vs V2 with Pass amps

I am considering new speakers and have heard both the Mini II and V2 in different systems, but not in mine or with Pass XA100.5 amps. My room is small and I value accurate timbre, transparency, a realistic soundstage and lifelike dynamics. I found the Mini II to be slightly more coherent with a slightly better soundstage, but the V2 went slightly lower and is an easier load for the amp. Both seemed very accurate, transparent and disappeared as sound sources. I listen mostly to small scale jazz (Ray Brown, Elle, Chet) and classical (Beethoven and Brahms, strings, piano and full orchestra).

I would appreciate opinions from people who have heard both speakers. Are my impressions consistent with what others have heard, which would satisfy more long term given my tastes? And what does anyone think about the Magico/Pass pairing. Thanks.
peterayer
ebm
9,311 posts
 
HI Keither. So buy another speaker instead of running down 2 GREAT speaker!!
madfloyd
411 posts
 
I think Keith is simply saying that dynamics are not these speakers' strong point; I agree with him (and I own the V2s).
mariv26
29 posts
 
I do not think you should judge what any of the Magico's can do with low power amps. Especially the Pass, which IMO, are simply less then ideal match with these speakers.
peterayer OP
1,382 posts
 
Mariv,
Yes, I agree with you about low powered amps and Magico. What do you consider appropriate power for the Magico's? I have heard better dynamics with horns and even Wilsons, but the Magicos sound great in most other areas.

The Mini II is a demanding load. I find that the Pass XA160.5 has enough power - 320 watts in class A at 4 ohms and even more power when it switches to class B. It can also deliver 36 amps of current. I have heard it with ASR, Nagra and the Pass XA30.5 and XA100.5 and I prefer the XA160.5 to the others. I'm sure there are even more powerful amps that are an even better match.

I heard the Magico V2 with a 100 watt Spectral stereo amp and it sounded fantastic and dynamic, but it is an easier load.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
My MINI 2 need over 250ch i get 400ch into 4 ohms with plenty of dynamics i have Rowland 8T.Also by adding Symosium Svelte shelf under my preamp and Silint Running custom amp stand for Rowland 8T with Symposium Roller Block JR HE Helps maintain GREAT DYNAMICS!!Symposium super shelf under my TW ACUSTIC AC turntable gives me great dynamics on LP as well!!
More to discover