2. amps-preamps
  3. 191819-148846

Upgrading my integrated amplifier for my Magnepan 1.7’s

I currently have Peachtree GaN400 and preDAC which, quite honestly pairs pretty well with my Maggie’s. I’m 72 and have some money to burn so I’m currently looking at two Integrated amplifiers. One is the Hegel B600 and the other the Macintosh, MA 9500. My assumption is the refined power of either of these amps will take my listening to a higher level.

I intend to give a listen at local stereo store that sells both brands but in the meantime, I’m curious if any readers have experience with either one of these amps and Magnepan speakers.

baconboy
greenngoldcheesehead
55 posts
 

I agree with @pinwa , you need to stick with class A or AB.  My 1.7s sound much better with a 1990's 150 wpc NAD class AB Amp than they did with newer 300 wpc amps.  Hegel has a very good dac and high damping factor.  I like the suggestions of  luxman, bryston, coda and Audio Research as well.  There is no shortage of good amps in your price range.

stanleylocke
238 posts
 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650105803-parasound-halo-hint-6-black/

inscrutable
313 posts
 

I listened to 1.7i in a showroom paired with a Mac (cannot recall model). To my ears, I was a little disappointed in some sound aspects, particularly the lower octaves. I’ve had a different dealer tell me that isn’t uncommon with Macs. Prefer my Plinius.

 

That said, I agree with others that - space/room allowing - upgrading to a true ribbon model will be far more impactful than an amp upgrade.

johnto
1,023 posts
 

If you're staying with the 1.7 the Parasound Hint integrated is a great match I used the paring myself before moving up to 3.7 Maggie's. Mac autoformers do not play well with Maggie's I called the factory when upgrading amps and they were the ones who told me also I know magnepan in the past recommended against class D amps. Pass makes a terrific pairing with Magnepan speakers as they have plenty of current. 

Good luck happy listening.

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