Amp Upgrade Advice


Recently decided to move up to Magnepan 3.7i's from my 1.7i's. Thinking about upgrading amp to go along with them.

I'm currently using a Threshold S/200. Relatively happy with it, but curious what else is out there. I've read enough about the benefits of getting north of 400 or 500 watts/channel into Maggies that I'd like to try that.

Budget would be around $6,500 (used or new).

If going new, I'm thinking:
  • Sanders Magtech
  • Bryston 4b3
If going used, I'm thinking:
  • Bryston 7b3 (or 14b3, seems like they perform pretty identically)
  • Pass Labs X250.8
  • Parasound JC1s

Any thoughts? I like the idea of getting a used 7b3 for approx the same price as a new 4b3, and still having 15+ years under warranty... Also curious about pass labs. Unfortunately it's a little harder to get a hold of used stuff to audition...

TIA

ps
the rest of my system:
  • Michell Orbe w/ SME V
  • Benz Micro Wood (low output)
  • Spectral DMC 10 preamp/phono
  • Threshold S/200
  • Magnepan 3.7i's

slazechko
Sanders !

 Best warranty, great sound, reliable, and is a beast!

 Buy 1 and done amp!
Hey slazechko,

I have been totally impressed as a professional reviewer regarding the latest generation of Coda Technologies amplifiers. Take a look at my review on the #8 amp on hometheaterreview.com and the threads here on AudioGon buy members who have bought the # 8 and # 16.0 who love what it does in their system. The number # 8 has tons of current and will easily drive your 3.7's to their maximum performance.
Thanks all. @teajay , do you know if it's possible to demo a Coda? Their website isn't very informative, but looks like they don't have any dealers, only online distributors. I don't see a way to demo their amp before purchase, which isn't ideal.
Give a call to Mike Kay at Audio Archon and I'm sure he will work out something with you regarding a possible demo. Tell him I say hi. He's a great guy and one of the best in the business, along with being a Coda dealer.