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Upgrading to Totem Mani 2's

I’m considering upgrading from the Model 1’s to Mani 2’s. I’ve read most of the forums here on A’gon regarding the Mani’s and the one thing that they all pretty much have in common is that you need a lot of power (and current) to drive them. I’m currently running a Plinius 9100 for my Model 1’s which is rated at 120 W per side (around 200 W @ 4ohms). I’m also running the Plinius on 220v which has opened it up considerably and gives the bass a lot more punch (something I know I'll need for the Mani's). My room size is approx. 15 x 22 and my listening position is about 16 feet from the speakers. I normally listen at a moderate volume (10 o’clock is loud for me and 12 o’clock pretty much drives me out of the room). I know the old adage that you can always get a bigger amp, but if I’m going to spend several thousand on a speaker upgrade I’d rather not turn around and spend several thousand more on upgrading the amplifier as well (at least not right away). In addition I'm very pleased with the 9100 and like the Plinius sound very much. So what do you think Mani 2 owners? Am I living in a bubble thinking that the 9100 has the juice or based on my room size and listening habits will the 9100 do the job for me?
jaffeassc
baroque_lover
102 posts
 
I sold Totem for a couple years. The Mani-2 truly needs a bare minimum of 250-300 watts per channel. To extract maximum performence I reccomend 400-500 watts. The only integrated amplifier that I have experience with that drove the Mani's "OK" was the Krell KAV-400Xxi but even then it was not adequate IMO. The Mani's are a demanding speaker with amplification, placement, and cavles but the reward is worth it. I beleive with the power you have the Model-1 is a better fit.

Sorry about the grammer, on public computer and had to type fast.
telemarc
13 posts
 
The stands are made by a local guy in town and are solid black marble. To accomodate the open side and the sliding glass door I toed the Glass door side in a little more than the open side which removed some of the reflective properties and centered the soundstage more.
jaffeassc OP
166 posts
 
Ah ha, a naysayer. Baroque lover, I mean that in a very positive way. I really don’t want to make a $4k mistake or have to buy a new amp. Actually I wouldn’t mind a new 9200 or for that matter trying some Plinius separates, but alas back to reality. All you Mani owners please keep those comments coming, either positive or negative.
baroque_lover
102 posts
 
Plinius seperates would be a nice match. Pass Labs & Mani-2 are MMIH - absolutely awesome. The Forest with you're current integrated would be a nice dynamic match.
jaffeassc OP
166 posts
 
Well I've listened to the Forests, and while they’re very good speakers, they don't measure up to the Mani's IMO. Ever since I first listened to the Mani's over a year ago I've had "Mani on the mind". It is just an exceptional speaker, again IMO. I also owned Threshold gear many moons ago, back when Nelson Pass was designing/making it. Also very good gear, but I’ve really come to like the warm, fluid, and sweet sound that seems to be characteristic of the Plinius gear. So the request for opinions goes on. Come on Mani owners. I know you’re out there!
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