How much more power does the Magenpan 1.6 require over the MMG?

default -- Thu, 02/05/2009 - 15:42

I have a Cambridge 740A integrated amp and in my room (11x12) they are driven well. I am curious if their 150 watts into 4 ohms would be enough for the 1.6 too? My dealer currently has a pair of 1.6s running on a Denon home theater receiver so I have never heard the 1.6s on a good amp.
Thanks,
Formerly Anonymous

Barry Diament -- Fri, 02/06/2009 - 13:46

I believe most folks confuse Maggies' desire for current, with a desire for power.

Your Cambridge should be enough to drive 1.6s. I've driven a pair with an old Hafler DH200 --but perhaps the Hafler, delivered more current (?).
That said, if you like to pump up the volume on occasion, I'd seek out an amp with something like double that power (keeping in mind the need for strong current drive).
In my experience, Maggies like an amp with a beefy power supply. I've not heard an instance where I felt they were being driven by "too much" amp.

Best regards,
Barry
www.soundkeeperrecordings.com
www.barrydiamentaudio.com

Formerly Anonymous (not verified) -- Fri, 02/06/2009 - 15:25

Thanks Barry

Steve A -- Fri, 02/27/2009 - 19:46

I’m using a Vincent SP-331 (300 watts/channel into 4 ohms) power amp and an Audio Research SP-16L preamp with my 1.6s. I’ve found the Vincent to have the power and finesse to work very well.

JohnS (not verified) -- Fri, 02/27/2009 - 21:45

FWIW.
I've been using a Bryston 4BST (400WPC @ 4Ohms) with a Bryston BP25 to drive my 1.6's for the last 3 years. My room is larger than yours though, 16 x 22, and very dead. I've previously used them with a Yamaha HT receiver, then a 300 WPC Parasound. The receiver was barely adequate. The Bryston is by far an improvement over the Parasound and definitely not too much amplifier. I am really pleased with the sound of the 1.6's BTW. I have also used MMG's and much prefer the 1.6's.

I think the other comments on current availability are right on. Though many amplifiers that accurately claim high current also provide substantial power as well. One indicator that an amplifier won't have a problem delivering current is to compare the 8 Ohm power rating with the 4 Ohm rating. A higher ratio often means more current will be available.

All the best...
JohnS