Headphone amp face-off: schiit magni vs magni+
What To Know
- The Schiit Magni and Magni+ share a similar compact and minimalist design, featuring a sleek aluminum enclosure that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
- Both amplifiers feature a simple and intuitive control layout, with a single volume knob and a pair of RCA inputs on the rear panel.
- The Magni+ has a higher output power, a dedicated power switch, and a slightly warmer sound signature compared to the Magni.
The world of audiophiles and music enthusiasts is constantly evolving, with new and innovative products emerging all the time. Among these, the Schiit Magni and Magni+ stand out as two of the most popular headphone amplifiers on the market. Both devices offer exceptional sound quality and versatility, but they also have their unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the intricacies of each amplifier, exploring their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for your audio setup.
Design and Build Quality
The Schiit Magni and Magni+ share a similar compact and minimalist design, featuring a sleek aluminum enclosure that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. However, the Magni+ has a slightly larger footprint due to the addition of a dedicated power switch. Both amplifiers feature a simple and intuitive control layout, with a single volume knob and a pair of RCA inputs on the rear panel.
Audio Performance
Frequency Response
Both the Magni and Magni+ offer a wide frequency response that extends from 20Hz to 20kHz, ensuring accurate and detailed reproduction of the entire audible spectrum.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
The Magni and Magni+ both have exceptionally low THD levels, typically below 0.005%, resulting in minimal distortion and a pristine listening experience.
Output Power
The Magni+ has a slightly higher output power than the Magni, with 2W per channel into 32 ohms compared to 1.5W per channel for the Magni. This additional power gives the Magni+ more headroom, allowing it to drive more demanding headphones with ease.
Sound Signature
The Magni and Magni+ have a neutral and transparent sound signature that faithfully reproduces the original audio source without any noticeable coloration. However, the Magni+ has a slightly warmer and more laid-back sound character compared to the Magni, which may be preferred by some listeners.
Features and Functionality
Input Options
Both the Magni and Magni+ have two pairs of RCA inputs, allowing you to connect multiple audio sources simultaneously.
Headphone Output
The Magni and Magni+ both feature a single 1/4-inch headphone output jack.
Power Supply
The Magni uses a standard 12V DC power supply, while the Magni+ uses a more powerful 15V DC power supply. This extra voltage gives the Magni+ a slight edge in terms of output power and headroom.
Value and Pricing
The Schiit Magni is priced at $99, while the Magni+ is priced at $149. The Magni+ offers slightly better performance and features, but the Magni provides excellent value for its price point.
Pros and Cons
Schiit Magni
Pros:
- Compact and affordable
- Neutral and transparent sound signature
- Low THD and wide frequency response
Cons:
- Lower output power compared to Magni+
- No dedicated power switch
Schiit Magni+
Pros:
- Higher output power
- Slightly warmer and more laid-back sound signature
- Dedicated power switch
Cons:
- Slightly larger footprint
- More expensive than Magni
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Schiit Magni and Magni+ ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable headphone amplifier with excellent sound quality, the Magni is a solid choice. However, if you need more power to drive demanding headphones or prefer a slightly warmer sound signature, the Magni+ is worth the extra investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Schiit Magni and Magni+?
A: The Magni+ has a higher output power, a dedicated power switch, and a slightly warmer sound signature compared to the Magni.
Q: Which amplifier is better for driving high-impedance headphones?
A: The Magni+ has a higher output power, making it better suited for driving high-impedance headphones.
Q: Can I use the Schiit Magni with a turntable?
A: Yes, but you will need to use a phono preamplifier to connect the turntable to the Magni.
Q: Is the Magni+ worth the extra cost over the Magni?
A: It depends on your needs. If you need more power or prefer a warmer sound signature, the Magni+ is worth the extra investment.
Q: What are the dimensions of the Schiit Magni and Magni+?
A: The Magni measures 4.5″ x 2.25″ x 1.25″, while the Magni+ measures 5.25″ x 2.25″ x 1.25″.