For Magnepan speakers, the amplifier has to hold its power when the load drops to 4 ohms. In our store, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II (€1,199, 120 W at 4 ohms) is the right entry point for the Magnepan LRS+ (€1,690). In the middle of the range we recommend the Heed Obelisk Super Integrated (€3,490, 100 W at 4 ohms) and the Cambridge Audio Evo 300 (€3,999, 550 W at 4 ohms). At the top, the MOON 340i X (€4,900) delivers 200 W at 4 ohms.
Why do Magnepans need a different kind of amplifier?
Magnepans are planar magnetic panels. Instead of a cone in a box, they use a thin membrane that moves as a whole, which is what gives them the open, weightless sound you hear in the LRS+. The trade-off is on the electronics side. The LRS+ is rated at 4 ohms impedance and 86 dB sensitivity, figures our product page publishes, and the load is essentially resistive, without the impedance peaks and dips of a boxed speaker.
In practice that means two things. First, 86 dB sensitivity takes a lot of power to play with headroom. The number that matters is watts at 4 ohms, which is not always the one highlighted on spec sheets. Second, because the load is simple, an amplifier with a good power supply and plenty of current drives it comfortably, even if it is not a sophisticated model. A 30 W (at 8 ohms) integrated, however well built, will run out of steam at the first crescendo.
As a starting point, in our listening room we begin at around 100 W at 4 ohms for the LRS+ and go up from there depending on the room and listening level. The brand's larger models, such as the Magneplanar 1.7i (€4,490), ask for even more. You can see the whole range in the Magnepan collection.
The selection at a glance
| Model | Price | Power at 4 ohms | Who it is for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II | €1,199 | 120 W | Entry level, first Magnepans |
| Dayens Custom (pre + 2 monos) | €2,290 | 100 W per mono | Separate pre and power without a big budget |
| Heed Obelisk Super Integrated | €3,490 | 100 W | Organic sound and stability into low loads |
| Cambridge Audio Evo 300 | €3,999 | 550 W | Power to spare with built-in streaming |
| MOON 340i X | €4,900 | 200 W | Top integrated, for the larger Magnepans |
| MOON 400M (each) | €4,700 | 650 W per mono | Reference pre + power |
Entry level, up to €1,500
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Mk II (€1,199)
This is the entry point we recommend for the LRS+. The product page lists 80 W per channel at 8 ohms and 120 W at 4 ohms, Class AB, with a toroidal transformer and a balanced input. It has a built-in ESS DAC and Bluetooth, and drives two pairs of speakers. The price leaves room for a good streamer, and our Cambridge Audio guide helps you understand the range.
Mid range, €1,500 to €4,000
Dayens Custom, preamp and two monoblocks (€2,290)
A set made up of an Ampino preamplifier and two Ampino Mono power amplifiers, with upgraded components (Mundorf capacitors and WBT terminals). Each mono delivers 100 W at 4 ohms and 50 W at 8 ohms, according to the spec sheet. Splitting pre and power suits panels well, because each mono works for one speaker only. There is no DAC or convenience features, just direct amplification.
Heed Obelisk Super Integrated (€3,490)
Heed quotes 2 x 100 W at 4 ohms and stability below 2 ohms. It uses the brand's Transcap technology, with output capacitors that give a smooth, natural sound. It accepts optional DAC and streaming cards. It also has an MM phono input, Bluetooth and a headphone output.
Cambridge Audio Evo 300 (€3,999)
That is 300 W at 8 ohms and 550 W at 4 ohms in Class D, according to the product page. It offers the most power of any integrated in this selection, with StreamMagic streaming, HDMI eARC, MM phono and a subwoofer output. For listening loud in a large room with the bigger Magnepans, it is a very sensible option.
Top of the range
MOON 340i X (€4,900)
100 W per channel at 8 ohms and 200 W at 4 ohms, with the first 5 W in Class A and an oversized power supply built around a toroidal transformer. It has six line inputs, one of them balanced, and a headphone output.
MOON 400M (€4,700 each)
For those who prefer the separate pre and power route. The 400M is a monoblock with 400 W at 8 ohms and 650 W at 4 ohms, sold individually, so you need two (€9,400). MOON recommends it with its 350P preamplifier. In our store you can pair it with the MOON 390 (€6,200), which combines preamp, streamer and DAC. It is the natural path when the Magnepans are the 20.7i or larger.
What to consider before buying
- Compare power at 4 ohms between models, because the 8 ohm figure can mislead. Not every manufacturer publishes the 4 ohm value.
- Panels need room behind them. The distance to the wall matters as much as the amplifier.
- Magnepans have no boxed bass. A subwoofer with its own amplifier is a common complement, so it is worth budgeting for it from the start.
- Listen before you buy. Book a session in our listening room in Lisbon and bring your own music.
Frequently asked questions
How many watts do I need for the Magnepan LRS+?
In our experience, from 100 W at 4 ohms you get comfortable headroom in most rooms. The LRS+ has 86 dB sensitivity, so it welcomes spare power. A large room or a high volume calls for more.
Can I use a tube amplifier with Magnepans?
Generally only with plenty of power and a good 4 ohm output, because low-power tubes have no headroom for this load. A hybrid or a solid-state design with good current is the safer choice.
Do I need a separate preamp and power amp?
It is not mandatory. A good integrated suits many rooms. Separates make sense when you want to upgrade step by step later. We explain the difference in our guide to integrated amplifier or pre + power.
Does Class D work well with panels?
Yes, as long as the amplifier has real power at 4 ohms. The Evo 300 is a good example, with 550 W at 4 ohms in Class D.
Also read Magnepan LRS+, the review and integrated amplifier or pre + power. See also the integrated amplifiers collection.