2. amps-preamps
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Best Amps for Magneplanar 1.7i Speakers

I have a new pair of Magneplanar 1.7i speakers. Source material is CDs played on an  OPPO 105D disc player, and Qobuz streamed through the OPPO. Current amplification is Rogue Audio Sphinx (version 1). I have an old B&W powered subwoofer (ASW2000)  connected to the subwoofer outputs on the Sphinx. Listening room is about 15’x14’, ceiling height 9’. The sound quality is reasonably good but at times it feels a little underpowered. I’d welcome thoughts  on whether the Sphinx is enough amplifier for the speakers and what other amplifiers (integrated or pre- and power-amp combinations) might work well? Especially interested in views regarding tubes versus solid state. Budget for the amp or amp combo is $4,000 to $8,000. Thanks in advance!

kevin1956
bikefi10
36 posts
 

This may have nothing to do with OPs situation, but made a big difference for me.. When I started streaming with Bluesound Node 2i and Qobuz, the volume was much lower than my stand alone cd player and turntable.

After I added an external J2 DAC by Geshelli the volume increased alot. J2 has volume adjust and is too loud on high setting.

My 40 year old 200wpc Carver m400 puts out a good medium/loud spl at 10:00 volume position. For what thats worth.

Just unboxed my new Odyssey amp yesterday. Now for the long burn in period.

bikefi10
36 posts
 

Oh, same speakers here Magnepan 1.7i s.

simao's avatar
simao
1,750 posts
 

Yes, +1 on Bryston and Hegel. I had Maggie 3,6r for several years and drove them with a beautiful ARC VS-110. Plenty of tube power for those big beasts. 

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