Siemens MRI Machine Models and Reviews

If you're on the hunt for a Siemens 1.5T MRI, you already know there are a number of models available on the secondary market. While it's great to have options, it can also make the decision more complicated.

Which MRI scanner is best for you? If you prefer Siemens equipment, take a look at the 1.5T MRI models below for more information to help you reach your answer:

Siemens Amira, Sola, Altea 1.5T

Newest to the market from Siemens are the Sola (2018), Altea (2018), and Amira (2015). We're grouping these three together because of their rareness. If you're shopping the secondary market, you're unlikely to see them for a few more years. Still, they are models to watch out for in future buying cycles.

The Sola and Altea both feature a 70cm bore and Siemens new BioMatrix technology. BioMatrix uses sensors in the bore to adjust the scan to a patient's anatomical features, movement, and even breathing patterns. Sola and Altea could be considered successors of the Aera 1.5T (below) as they have similar gradient and RF packages. 

The Amira 1.5T is the next generation of Essenza (below). The bore size is the standard 60cm and it comes with either 16-channel or 24-channel RF setup.

Siemens Aera 1.5T

The Aera is the latest Siemens 1.5T MRI to begin emerging on the secondary market. Aera introduces a redesigned total imaging matrix (TIM) platform known as “TIM 4G”. In this case, 4G refers to the added coil elements and exceptional SNR that results from DirectRF technology (cable-less coils). Combine TIM 4G with daytime optimization throughput (DOT) and you can reduce scan times by up to 50% with customizable scans for every patient. From wide-bore to the XQ gradient package, this MRI has it all. The bad news? These are still somewhat rare, but supply should trend slowly upward over the next year or two.

Siemens Espree 1.5T

The Espree has reached the point of regular availability on the secondary market. With a 70cm bore and TIM technology, these are great, high-performance systems. Unique to the Espree is a very short bore length (125cm vs. the typical 145cm), enabling head-out or feet-first for most exams (CT-like comfort). TIM allows for multiple coils to be connected at the same time (multiple simultaneous studies). This model also features an efficient zero boil-off magnet with a cryogen refill interval of approximately 10 years. 

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Siemens Avanto 1.5T

The Avanto hits the sweet spot of affordability, availability, and capability. It features the TIM advancements in a 60cm bore system and is becoming more and more common on the secondary market. Combined with Syngo, this is a system that allows you to break even on your purchase price quicker by minimizing upfront costs while  providing the functionality of a higher-end system. This is a model worth paying some attention if you’re looking for an upgrade.

Siemens Essenza 1.5T

This system is unique to Siemens because of its ultra-short, lightweight design (this is the Siemens version of GE’s 1.5T HDe). TIM technology and an efficient magnet mean great technology at an economical price point, while keeping operating costs significantly lower than larger models/competitors. Unfortunately, these are not easily spotted on the secondary market. If this is the model you’re after, it might take some time to find!

Siemens Symphony 1.5T

This 4-channel system is very common on the secondary market as they’ve been around a while.  It is also available in an 8-channel version (typically just the 8-channel head though). Because of age and market availability, upfront costs are minimal while still maintaining low cryogen consumption, which reduces maintenance costs. This system also introduced the OR70 magnet design, which provides better functionality and performance over the older Harmony magnet. If this is what you’re looking for, there’s a good chance we will have a Symphony that works for you!

Siemens Harmony 1.0T

These systems are dated and are close equivalents to the GE Horizon. Important to note is that this system is only available in 1.0T field strength, but usually has similar specs to that of the Symphony. Most people that have a Harmony might want to consider the advantages of a more standard and more powerful 1.5T system. If you still have a Harmony, it’s time to upgrade!

Click to enlarge the table below for a quick comparison of technical spec across these 1.5T MRI models:

(Click to enlarge)

Between all of these options, Siemens has a 1.5T model suitable for almost any application. If you have questions about any of the systems above, contact us- we're happy to help. One easy way to request MRI prices is via this online request form. If you're also considering models from other manufacturers, check out our GE MRI Machine Models and Reviews.