What do I need to run my maggies?


This is what I have:

2 x Magneplanar MG 1.6 Front
1 x Magneplanar MG CC2 Center
2 x Magneplanar MG MC1 Rear

I need the rest. I understand the 'rest' to be a 5 channel power amp good for about 300 watts @ 4 ohms AND a separate 5 channel AV receiver to handle all the ins and outs? Is that correct?

If so, what do I get? I have a budget of just under $2,000 USD and I need all the latest types of connection (HDMI and USB) but I don't need multiple zone capability.

Thanks - rev
revnice

Showing 4 responses by internetmin

I'm not the electrician but I believe it is a circuit with a 12 gauge wire for a 20 amp plus the appropriate breaker and also a 20amp receptacle/plug. A 15 amp circuit will have a thinner wire like a 14 gauge.

When I did my house I had new wiring pulled and a new breaker just for the 20amp circuit and I installed shunyata outlets rated for 20 amp circuits.

In terms of the explanation, google 20 amp circuit and see what you get.
Double check the specs on your particular model of Maggie's. Last I recall seeing, some models dipped to 2ohms and you may need an amp that explicitly states that it is stable into 2ohm loads. I'm not sure in your case so double check so that you don't have unforeseen issues.

You will likely not find any receiver that handles a load like that. When I was looking into Maggie's several years ago, I was told by my dealer that my Marantz 80wpc receiver could handle it but it wouldn't be great. However everything I read indicated that receivers were not good to use and go separates. Specific models that I know of off hand that may work well are Bryston, Lexicon, and Proceed. If an Emotiva amp will carry the load then that may be your best bet in your budget for both the power amp and the preamp. So I suggest that you start with www.emotiva.com as your first starting point.
Oh, Marty is also right. Try looking at the Anthem receivers. Can't say enough good things about them. They may be "under powered" by specs but from a performance standpoint they are fantastic! I believe that they may support the load of a magnepan speaker setup.
No, it's not the funky socket. I have all my equipment on a 20 amp circuit. Most home outlets are 15 and your electrician will need to upgrade that circuit to 20.

Good luck!
Theo