2. amps-preamps
  3. 182426-123790

Budget amp that will give Magnepan 3.6Rs better depth of soundstage

I have 3.6Rs and using Emotiva UMC200 pre/proc and an Outlaw Audio 7100 in a 14 by 14 foot room. So I don't need to turn the volume up to massive levels. The amp will do 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 165 watts per channel into 4 ohms. I have been thinking of getting a separate two channel amp for the 3.6Rs. I have read that it takes lots of current to get the best soundstage with instrument placement and depth. I am getting wide soundstage and good sound, but the depth is somewhat muddied enough to not get instrument placement. I am looking for a two channel amp that will give me more of the potential of the 3.6Rs, but be able to be purchased for less that $750 used.  Is there any amp that will be worth upgrading to for that kind of money or do I need a new pre/proc as well?

cdavis2260
mbmi's avatar
mbmi
561 posts
 

Peachtree GaN 400 watts @ $ 2500 run my Maggies Beautifully.

bikefi10
39 posts
 

I agree with those who suggest room treatments 1st.

If you want to try an amp less than $750 that can definately drive them, Ive got a recapped Carver M400 I would  part with. 200wpc 8ohms, over 300wpc 4ohms. It drove my 1.7i s at high spl for hours without getting warm. 

My new $2k + amp sounds only a little better in detail, but same as far as soundstage.

jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 

in my experience the most cost effective amps (used) to drive big maggies well enough in a regular size room to normal levels are

klaus’ odyssey amps (even the less expensive older ones are excellent, khartago or stratos -- caps upgrade helps)

primare i-30 integrated 100 wpc, 180 wpc into 4, stout and very musical

older musical fidelity a308 or similar

older van alstine synergy or similar (a little more sharp sounding)

older audio research 100.2 (100/200 into 4) - lovely tube like warmth, if you can find one

 

 

boomerbillone
355 posts
 

Hello Cdavis2260! As a fellow Maggie owner and amp snooper, Starke Sound's 4 channel amp will give you great performance in the stereo mode. New, thay are $1400, but go on sale now and then for as low as $1000. Maybe you can find one used. I have five of them in use. They are the best power amps I have ever used. I used to build my own amps, but not anymore! Happy Listening.

gerrie
107 posts
 

You need a powerful amp and no tube i try a lot of amps but with the cello duet it was great.

More to discover