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SS Amp Upgrade Thoughts (from Simaudio) with Magicos

Current System: Simaudio 330a amp, Simaudio 390 Pre/DAC/Streamer, Magico A3 speakers, Cardas Clear XLR, SC, Clear Beyond PCs.  Streaming only (Tidal, Apple Airplay and TV).  AI indicates amp is weakest part of chain.

Listening: Apartment, nearfield listening (6-8 feet), volume 50-75 decibels so not too loud, Rock, Alternative, Electronic Dance Music and TV running through it (2 channel only).   

Placement Constraints: Speakers about 18 inches from wall and can’t go any further.  Electronics in a console (open when using for ventilation) and depth is 18 inches but allowing for connections, amp depth would need to be less.  The current amp is about 14-15 deep.   The wife/designer approved console needs to stay.

Goals:  Current system is very good, detailed and wide soundstage (depth limited with close to wall speaker placement), voices sound natural.  Thinking that might be able to get more out of the Magicos?.  Interested in thoughts on stepping up to the next level within existing constraints (budget range $5-8k, used works).   Solid State only.  If the view is that minimal improvement would be achieved within constraints and relatively low volume levels, open to that as well.

Some Potentials: Benchmark AHB2, Coda S5.5 or 8, reconfigure to Boulder 866 with DAC and get relatively inexpensive streamer.  This list is based on internet research and have not heard these.  Others? Was interest in the higher level Simaudio Amps but they are unfortunately too deep to work. 

Would appreciate other members views on this. Tbanks!

dokosan
kofibaffour
713 posts
 

if Magico's spec'ing is robust which it should be, the A3 has a sensitivity of [email protected]/1m which is moderately sensitive and since you already don't crank, you're already in good area. Get the Benchmark @dokosan and get a Onkyo Icon P80 - in black or silver

 

or get two of this Purifi Eigentakt Monoblock from Apollon and get the Onkyo Icon P80 - in black or silver

For the monoblock, choose these options:

Mains Voltage - Choose to match your location
-
OP Amplifier Selection - OPA 1656
-
Output Connection - Apollon Pure OFC Binding posts
-
Extended warranty - Extend your 2 year warranty to 5 years

Subtotal for the two monoblocks should be €2,618.00

soix
11,232 posts
 

What specific improvements are you looking for?

dokosan OP
92 posts
 

@soix  Not being that experienced, I find this a challenging question but will give it a shot.  Perhaps a bit more slam, transient speed. While the base is tight and precise, could possibly be a bit fuller.  (No room to have a sub.)

soix
11,232 posts
 

Well, you’ve got a bit of a tough combo here.  Your speakers are a sealed design that offer quick, tight bass, which is probably what you’re hearing and to get more you likely need a bigger, beefier amp that may exceed your depth limitations.  I would’ve recommended something like a used Plinius SA103 Class A amp, but alas it’s 18” deep so likely won’t work.  Another potential option would be to buy this McCormack DNA-1 and have it sent directly to SMcAudio for full upgrades and for under $4k total you’d have one helluva amp, and these amps tend to have a fuller, meatier sounding bass and mids that may work well for what you’re looking for and at 15” deep should fit in your cabinet.  Just one option to ponder FWIW, and best of luck.

https://tmraudio.com/components/power-amplifiers/mccormack-audio-power-drive-dna-1-power-amplifier/

fiesta75
1,535 posts
 

I personally like Simaudio equipment a lot. Have you heard any of the First Watt SIT amplifiers? They have a very high slew rate which translates into very fast transient response. I would think that a new SIT-5 model would have more than enough power for your listening level. They will deliver enough current to make those Magico's really sing.  If you have enough real estate for a pair of these amplifiers, you should give them a try. You might be able to find them used if you are patient. Very quiet and will not give you any listening fatigue, ever!

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