2. amps-preamps
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Solid state amp recommendations for Maggies?

I am looking for another amp to drive my magnepan LRS, looking for a solid state amp to deliver more detail than my current tube amp, but don't want to give up (much) of the soundstage and depth.

I have a small listening room with a near field set up, so I don't need a ton of power for ear piercing volume. I listen mostly to acoustic rock, acoustic jazz and female vocalists.  I want more the guitar on Keith don't go and hotel canifornia intro from hell freezes over to  to sound... better...

at the risk of sounding stupid, I am driving these $650 speakers with many thousands of dollars of electronics.  The amp is a Primaluna HP (80wpc using 4 EL34s per channel), CJ ET7 preamp, PS Audio Direct stream DAC and a Naim digital source. All with MG audio silver interconnects and speaker wire. Even the interconnects cost more than the LRS.  

I am very happy with my current set up, but would like to grab another amp to a change of pace.

My budget is $5-8K, used or new.  My room is such that mono blocks set up well, but that is not necessary. 

thoughts/recommendations?

 

 

meiatflask
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,500 posts
 

I can think of four very good options that I think will give you great performance:

Bryston.  It is a brilliant match with Maggies and for a long time has been at the top of everyones list to pair with these speakers.  It is definitely worth considering.  Not sure bets Model 

Chord Ultima 6 - This amp is going to be tonally similar to Bryston but with monster power reserved and runs cool.  I think it is Class G or H as it has switching rails.  List is a little high at $9.2K but is worth stretching for.  The eTude at $5.8K has less power using the same tech.  

Hegel H20 - A bit warmer than the Chord or Bryston but as clean and clear as them.  This lists for $6K

These three will all deliver a big, clear and engaging sound. but it will lose a touch of the tubiness that you get with your Primaluna.  

The AVM MA30.3 monos (half width units) use MOSFETs in th output stage and have a softer sound to them than the other amps listed here.  There list for $5.3K.  

I am a dealer for Chord, Hegel and AVM.  I have no relationship with Bryston.  I do have this exact model of AVM availabe for demo in-home.  

tweak1
3,679 posts
 

Having owned Maggie 3.4Rs, I think you will be blown away with a LSA Voyager 350 GaN amp. Available now for ~ $2500 stock or modified by LSA for $500 more, including a real nice power cord

mrklas
441 posts
 

I'd strongly consider McIntosh there are new and used options at your budget.

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