Magnepan LRS+ and WiiM Amp
I currently run my Qualio IQ (89 dB, 4 Ohm) speakers with a WiiM Amp both for music and it is also connected to the TV via HDMI. The WiiM amp runs them very well. Recently listened to the Magnepan LRS+ at a friend's house and was really surprised witht the clarity of sound. Since then have been thinking of getting a pair. The only place I think where I can keep the Magnepans is in the TV room to provide space both sides and I am limited to using the WiiM Amp due to the HDMI feature. Looking for advice/experience on pairing the LRS+ with the WiiM Amp.
thanks
Manu
The WiiM has low-level outputs that you can use with any amplifier. WiiM Manual If you’re looking for suggestion for a class D amp, look at the NAD M23 200 WPC, and it is fairly reasonably priced. I think you'll be hard pressed to find a non A/V receiver or amplifier with HDMI in, although it is an interesting idea. |
The Benchmark amp is not going to drive the Maggies well. A stereo BM amp drives it better than mono BM amps. I have tried both with the LRS+. I would have loved to make that work but it is not the best pairing. The CODA is better than anything I had on Maggies but I would try the Schiit Wotan at $2k before spending more $$. This is my old KRELL Duo XD amp and that is almost CODA like in greatness with the Maggies. Krell Duo 175 XD Stereo Power Amplifier Black EXCELLENT | eBay |
The WiiM Amp is not a good match for the LRS+ because the LRS+ requires an amp with high current capability, that’s stable down to 2 Ω and large power supply reserves. The Wiim will work for temporary, low‑volume, or nearfield use, but it cannot provide the current, headroom, or control required for the LRS+ to perform properly. Planar magnetics requires high current, not just wattage. The LRS+ presents a wicked load, has low‑sensitivity, and is power‑hungry in a way that exposes weak amplifiers immediately. The Wiim amp with its limited current and a small power supply is ill-equipped to maximize the LRS+’s capabilities and is exactly opposite what the LRS+ needs--there’s a good chance that it will shut down when pushed. This is probably true for any planar magnetic or electrostatic speaker. I’ve owned the Martin Logan CLS for almost 40 years and it also presents a difficult load (albeit for different reasons that the LRS+) and a hair-raising mid-range. My brother owns the LRS+ and it delivers a beautiful, sparkling midrange with the right equipment. If you get the right amp, then you may never return to conventional speakers. |
thanks @patrickalston . What is the right amp which is not crazy expensive and not crazy big in size? Which one does your brother use? |
