2. amps-preamps
  3. 170259-121178

Integrated amp to go with Magnepan 3.7i

I currently have an NAD C388 powering my 3.7i's.  Originally I heard the 3.7i's paired with Parasound monoblocs and really liked them but wasn't prepared to spend that much.  A few years later I saw them with the NAD and thought the set-up offered 90% of the life like open sound I remembered.  

Like many people I really liked it but a few years out my setup feels underwhelming and almost distorted or harsh at higher volume.  So I'm looking at upgrading the amp.  I only stream Tidal through a Node 2i, mostly rock and alternative.  I just want the music to sound as real as possible - instruments and vocals.

I really like the ease of integrated vs separates.  Reading numerous threads, Pass amps seem to be ideal with Magnepan like the INT250, but to get a good DAC and less heat was thinking of others.  Seeing used listings, the Hegel H390 and NAD M33 stood out as ideal for me.

The NAD and Hegel are cheaper and easy but wondering if I would miss out on much better sound with the Pass.  
molarmasher
molarmasher OP
3 posts
 
Does anyone think the NAD or Hegel are a reasonable option or best to go with something at the level of the Pass?

There aren't any stores with any of the amps that I can find so very difficult to actually listen to them.  I'm in the Atlanta area, think there would be someone.
molarmasher OP
3 posts
 
With Pass, do you need a separate DAC?
Between the amp, preamp, DAC.. looks like close to $15k.
johnto
1,026 posts
 
Not sure if there is enough current in the NAD to drive Maggie’s with the Pass my you’ll never have a problem. In the past Magnepan recommend against class D I don’t know if that has changed
Prior to my Pass purchase I was using another brand rated at 160 watts and was underwhelmed that’s why I made the change. I know Bryson is is also used to by many of Maggie owner’s.
If you can  audition all my the better.
Maybe someone living nearby will reach out.
Good luck.
Post removed 
tweak1
3,675 posts
 
Some 10 years ago, when I had Maggie 3.5Rs my intention was to streamline my system, and bought a PS Audio GCC250 integrated. Now it's a potent amp but my room was too big. I moved it to my AV area whee it has served me well ever since. They also made a GCC 500. That should be amazing, IF you can find one

hth
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