2. amps-preamps
  3. 127029-88704

Line Magnetic 219ia vs Mc225

I am currently changing things up my system. I am looking to purchase a tube amp and have narrowed down quite a bit. I am unsure however, whether it would be more wise to go with a SET design or a push-pull design. The two amps in particular that I have in mind are either a Line Magnetic 210ia or 219ia SET 845/300B amplifier, or a vintage mc225 push pull amp with 7591 tubes of course. I waved the idea of a primaluna around but am pretty set on the two amps I’ve mentioned.. More will be familiar with the mc225 than will be with the line magnetic, but they get stupendous reviews and feedback, placing them as some of the best out there, next to shindo etc., in the tube amp world. The 225 obviously has its cult following as well, and is renowned and said by many to be maybe the best Mac amp of all time. (doesn’t matter)... anyway..

I am predominantly a record listener, but also listen to some digital and CD. My source pieces consist of a VPI Classic 2 turntable with a Soundsmith Zephyr 2 cartridge, an OPPO 105, and a Marantz 7701 preamp/ phono stage.

I have sold my previous speakers, and will be picking up a pair of 60’s vertical cornwalls this week. 102db obviously means that i do not have to consider wattage as a factor at all. I listen at low to moderate levels generally. Even 2 watts will have the cornwalls blaring. At this point the consideration is quality of wattage and current. The current will be responsible on the power to drive the 15" bass drivers in the cornwalls way more so than the wattage. The line magnetic SET amps will have no issues driving my speakers as they have large quality made transformers and move tons of current.

Here is the thing. I listen to jazz, classical cello and bass arco works, etc etc. I like soft rock as well. I also listen to very aggressive forms of rock. Hardcore, metal, thrash/speed metal, power violence, sludge, crust punk, etc etc. Those familiar, know what i mean. I am unsure on whether to go with a SET amp or PUSH PULL. Will one suit me better, or does it not necessarily matter, and either should do just fine? I know that the mc225 is known for being tubey, however natural, tight low end etc. The 219ia is known for being extremely transparent, refined, with a bold tight low end, beautiful 300B midrange, etc. Read Steve Huff’s review of this amp if you are unfamiliar. He calls it just about the best amp he has ever heard..... However will it does for the heavier stuff i listen to? This music is listened to on LP form more than less, and is recorded well and many are analog recordings.

Any input by those familiar with these two amps OR with push pull/SET amp comparisons in their own setups, please chime it with advice. I do appreciate it!

jkull

Showing 3 responses by mechans

mechans
3,048 posts
 
I have tried a large number of  various 6SN7S in a several different circuits and have found the GT compatible.  I have a great deal of respect for Almarg and his engineering approach to system compatibility but my experience differs.  That said I happen to agree with his choice of Sylvania GTBs (green  lettering ) and the performance and bargain price of GE GTBs.  The truly NOS GEs,can be bought  for less than current production. If you have a bigger budget there are many depending on the sound you want.  It's very subjective, for instance Almarg didn't like CBS, there are two distinct periods of that tube the Hytron, and the CBS Hytron/CBS.  The sound is very clean and probably the fastest/quickest 6SN7 I tried.  I favor Sylvania and use the 6SN7W often.  A short bottle version can be had for $50.  Other types are less in most cases. The Ked Rad is the bass king buy the clear glass sounds the same and you'll save money. You'll hear a lot of recommedations for Tung Sol round plates , yes they are excellent but good examples wildly expensive. 
12AX7s are getting very scarce as old stock tubes and seem to be coming as worn and used despite NOS test.. I would approach with caution  Best bet for an old stock tube that will perform is Telefunken.  Fortunately there are some very good current production.  Tung Sol, Mullard, and Gold Lion as well as JJ etc.
What are you considering?
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Did you get the Mullards?   The sound is distinctly different from the Telefunkens.  Usually described as warm.
Western Electric tubes are imbued with some c kind of tube magic,or at least that is the common belief. I own  a special variant of the 6AS7G the WE 421A. It is indeed a really great tube.  The only downside I ran into were  worn out tubes. I will not knowingly pass them on to another, as is sometimes the custom with WE I fear.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
Keep both if you can. They won't get any cheaper or less scarce in the future. 
More to discover