Integrated amp comparison/recommendation


Hey all,

Yet another Simao post asking for recommendations. I feel like almost all the post I start do that, so thank you for indulging me yet again.

I’m window shopping / pursuing one of these three integrated:

1. Line Magnetic 845ia
2. Decware Torii Mk4
3. LFD LE MkV

I am running a Lyngdorf 2170 at the moment and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that except I’m looking for a different sound. Before the ling dorf, I had an LFD LE Mark 4 which I really, really enjoyed. I would jump at the chance to get a Mark V if one came up for sale here or on the other audio site.

However, I’m also really interested in line magnetic. I’ve heard them before and I would love to go back to tubes with that brand. And I’ve always been fascinated with Decware. Steve Deckert makes really really good stuff.

My speakers are spatial M3 turbos at 94dB; my sources are VPI HW19 Mark 4 turntable with a Hana ML cartridge and an LFD LE phono stage; and an Oppo 105. When I play vinyl, I tend to listen to jazz and more nuanced, well produced music. When I stream or play CD, I tend to listen to more bass heavy rock or hip hop.
128x128simao
I've had my eye on a Raven for a while now. All indications are superb. Decware however is right up there, although you may not like the wait time. I heard it is 5 or 6 months?
@millercarbon. Yes, I've been talking with Steve (who's right up the road) and just asked him the lead time. 
Does Steve have a demo unit you can try in your system? Would be great to support a local guy if you like how the amp sounds in your system.

I've heard great things about the LFD, but haven't heard it. I believe it does not have remote. Correct? If so, that would disqualify it for me.

Good luck in your hunt.
Oh man, drive on over and listen! Really keen to know how they sound. All the comments are extremely positive, just lacking in details. But glowing. Same for Raven. One guy here, willgolf, seems he can afford anything and has been all over the world and the one amp he's most smitten with is the Raven Reflection MkII. My hunch is both are so good it will come down to individual taste where one is excellent the other magical.
i am using a newly acquired linear tube audio zotl40 reference with my spatial m3 sapphires and the s.q. is really excellent

strongly suggest you consider it

clayton shaw uses the LTA amps at shows for a reason... real synergy here