Schiit Magni 3+ Vs Magni
What To Know
- The Magni 3+ sports a compact and sleek aluminum chassis, while the Magni features a slightly larger and more traditional design with a steel casing.
- The Magni 3+ provides a more advanced feature set and a slightly more refined sound, while the Magni remains an excellent budget-friendly option for those who value simplicity and warmth.
- If you prefer a warmer and more forgiving sound, or if you’re on a tighter budget, the Magni is an excellent option.
The Schiit Magni series is a revered line of headphone amplifiers, known for their exceptional performance and affordable price tags. Two of the most popular models are the Magni 3+ and the Magni. In this in-depth comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each amplifier, exploring their features, sound quality, and suitability for various audio setups.
Design and Features
The Magni 3+ sports a compact and sleek aluminum chassis, while the Magni features a slightly larger and more traditional design with a steel casing. Both amplifiers offer a 3.5mm input and RCA inputs, allowing for easy connectivity to a wide range of audio sources.
The Magni 3+ introduces several notable upgrades over its predecessor, including a higher gain range and a more advanced amplifier circuit. It also boasts a dedicated gain switch, making it suitable for a wider range of headphones. The Magni, on the other hand, maintains a simpler design with a fixed gain setting.
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, both the Magni 3+ and Magni deliver an impressive performance. However, there are some subtle differences that may appeal to specific preferences.
The Magni 3+ exhibits a slightly brighter and more detailed sound signature, with a well-extended treble range. This makes it ideal for headphones that benefit from added clarity, such as analytical or critical listening.
The Magni, on the other hand, offers a warmer and more forgiving sound, with a slightly rolled-off treble. This makes it a great choice for headphones that tend to sound harsh or sibilant, or for those who prefer a more relaxed listening experience.
Power Output and Headphone Compatibility
The Magni 3+ delivers a maximum power output of 2.5 watts per channel into 32 ohms, while the Magni provides 2 watts per channel into the same impedance. This means that both amplifiers are capable of driving most headphones with ease, even power-hungry models.
However, the Magni 3+ offers a wider range of gain settings, making it better suited for low-impedance headphones that require more power. The Magni is more suited for higher-impedance headphones that are more sensitive to gain.
Connectivity and Features
Both the Magni 3+ and Magni offer a standard set of connectivity options, including 3.5mm and RCA inputs. However, the Magni 3+ also includes a pre-out jack, which allows you to connect it to a powered subwoofer or another amplifier.
Price and Value
The Magni 3+ is priced at $99, while the Magni retails for $49. Both amplifiers offer exceptional value for their respective price points. The Magni 3+ provides a more advanced feature set and a slightly more refined sound, while the Magni remains an excellent budget-friendly option for those who value simplicity and warmth.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Schiit Magni 3+ and Magni depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a versatile and detailed-sounding amplifier with a wide range of features, the Magni 3+ is the better choice. If you prefer a warmer and more forgiving sound, or if you’re on a tighter budget, the Magni is an excellent option.
Verdict: The Ultimate Audiophile’s Choice
Both the Schiit Magni 3+ and Magni are exceptional headphone amplifiers that cater to a wide range of audio enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just starting your journey into the world of high-quality audio, these amplifiers offer a compelling combination of performance and value.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which amplifier is better for driving high-impedance headphones?
A: The Magni is better suited for high-impedance headphones due to its lower gain settings.
Q: Does the Magni 3+ have a better soundstage than the Magni?
A: Both amplifiers offer a spacious and well-defined soundstage, but the Magni 3+ may have a slightly wider and more holographic sound due to its higher gain settings.
Q: Which amplifier is more versatile for different headphones?
A: The Magni 3+ offers a wider range of gain settings, making it more versatile for driving different types of headphones.
