Amp recommendation for Magnepan 3.7's?

What about the Pass XA amps?

Dsper, in order to get the attributes you mentioned, it will require more than just an amp.

No matter what amp you use with a resolving speaker like Maggie's (and many others), you need to have a good source to deliver those attributes. Any source with a cheap opamp output stage will sabotage even the most optimal amp/speaker combo.

I haven't heard any Dacs under $2k that I think are worth pairing with a 3.7. I'm sure there are some out there, but the lowest I would go (and actually one of the best) is the NAD M51. Cost no object, I would go with the Wadia 321 or any ARC DAC model 3 or greater. They give the perfect combination of detail, warmth, and analog flavor.

Also, if you want a "warm" and more dynamic sound, I recommend using subwoofers with Maggies. Yes...I used plural because I never recommend just getting 1 sub and sticking it in the corner. You could buy 2 small REL subs for less than $2k total. I guarantee it will have 100 times greater impact on your system than wasting $2k on cables.

As for amp recommendations, you have countless options if you use autoformers like I mentioned in my previous post. McIntosh is a surprisingly good match because autoformers come with their SS amps and they are very reliable/powerful amps that can easily drive the Maggie's properly.

On a budget, I'm a big fan of the used McCormack amps. I usually get them modified to cost-no-object SOTA performance, but even in stock form, they will give you a liquid yet dynamic sound from the Maggies (assuming a good source). BTW, if you get the small used McCormacks, I think it is worthwhile to at least get the Plitron transformer upgrade from Steve McCormack if you're going to use them with Maggies.

Magtech's are fine, but they are a niche type amp and wouldn't be something I'd recommend in general.

If you're on a super tight budget, don't let all the Emotiva haters sway you from their products. I've tried several of their amps and they are definitely capable products for the money. I would stick to the bigger ones though with Maggie's.

Parasound is another tier in the budget range that produces quality amps that work well with Maggies.

If you ever want tube sound and cost-no-object, I would get ARC reference level amps.

That's about all I can recommend based on personal experience.

Hi all,

Not sure if there is a continued interest in this thread but I have a couple of more comments to make about my Maggie 3.6s.

I purchased a Maggie DWM woofer on Audiogon and it took the sound up a notch by making the sound fuller and a bit warmer. It also improved the treble - sounds cleaner. Well worth the money IMHO.

Also, I had a chance to audition a pair of old Classe CAM 200's. They were more warm sounding than the W4S ST1000 but not better - just different...and when you want to play it loud you need more than 400 watts into 4 ohms!

~
Dsper --

Feel free to PM me for more information. I've been auditioning new amps in
my home, and have some interesting results. I had another thread on this, but
haven't updated it lately. I've got Magnepan 3.7 and 2x Vandersteen 2wq
subs.

Started with a Spectron Musician III mk2 w/upgrades, stereo (~$5K)

Sander Magtech went down pretty quickly. Stereo (~$5.2K)

Merrill VERITAS monos is the current leader. Fantastic kit. ($12K)

Now listening to Bel Canto REF600M monos. Not bad, not bad. (??)

This week, Rowland Continuum S2 will likely go up against the Merrills and Bel
Cantos. Integrated. (~$9K)

Don't underestimate the resources needed to drive these speakers to their full
potential.

Rob

Rob, very interesting comments on a nice variety of amps! I've heard so many raves about the Sanders Magtech driving Maggies that I'm a bit surprised about your reaction, but have read that they have an analytical perspective. Am very interested in hearing more about the new REF600Ms as you get some time with them, not many out there yet. I run the Rowland 625 with my 3.7i speakers and find the combination superb along with a suitable quality preamp. I understand that the new 625 II is even more costly though. Good listening and please continue to share your thoughts with us, it is most appreciated!