2. amps-preamps
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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
johnto
1,010 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
3,642 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
mrklas
441 posts
 
I've heard Maggies powered by a McIntosh MC 462 and NAD C275BEE

I enjoyed the sound stage - it's really amazing.

I've listened to different types of music including hard rock, jazz (with brass) and opera as well as string orchestra.  I don't know if there's is a better speaker to replicate the size and space of the string orchestra or opera. 

However, I'd also consider adding a subwoofer if you listen rock music.

NAD integrated amplifiers are very powerful in comparison to other amplifiers.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
I just want the music to sound as real as possible

The devil is in the expectations. : )

Your Magnepan 3.7i's are excellent...but the Node 2i, NAD integrated, and Mogami/Monster cabling are not equals (of your speaker).

Between the amp, preamp, DAC.. looks like close to $15k.

Likely. Make sure you address power and cabling as well.

The best presentation I've heard with Maggies has been a McIntosh stack. ARC is another pairing commonly seen. Mentioning both, in case you are open to options other than PASS.
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