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
Also:  I will need a phono amp. I have not started researching them yet. I have a VPI classic 2 with sound smith zephyr 2 cartridge. It is a moving iron (MM). I would appreciate advice for phono amps!   I dont need out of this world diminishing gains, snake oil special lol. I need a decent phono at a decent price. Thank you
The Leben 30EQ may be a nice choice, as it's often paired with LM Integrated amps. Another thought would be the smallerAllnic unit.  Not sure if the Zephyr has enough output for the Leben mm.... I just heard the SS Aida in to a HEED phono. Very nice! I find the Heed Quasar to be VERY good for the price. 

Fjn-
ill take a look. The zephyr is 'labeled' as a high output moving iron cartridge but I am not extremely well versed in cartridges, so I can't say myself, in regards to how much gain I may need. 
Jkull,
After reading your listening impressions of the Cornwall I realize that your sonic/musical priorities are very similar to mine. If the Cornwall is more natural sounding than the B&W it’s the superior quality speaker. Natural is what you strive for otherwise you just have canned hifi reproduction.

If the Cornwall impresses you driven by Emotiva then you’re in for a genuine treat. I’d be near astonished if the LM 219ia isn’t a significant upgrade, every aspect of your sound should improve.

I’d strongly recommend that you at some point upgrade the internal wiring and crossover. From all I’ve read the Klipsch speakers really respond to this type of modification. Your amplifier deserves a high caliber speaker to reveal all of its potential,  so these upgrades to the Cornwall are justified.

You are well on your way towards serious improvement in your audio system and listening enjoyment. For what you’re seeking to accomplish, the 219ia will be a better fit than the Emotiva amplifier.
Charles

Charles-. Thank you for the hopeful and encouraging words. I am really looking forward to getting this thing. I will upgrade the cornwalls for sure. Mine happen to be Cornwall 1’s will the fully removable back, which makes them very easy to access.

I did not think I would like these as much as I am. Now that I think about it, the midrange is simply better as well. It is more present, while being smooth and unobtrusive. The cm10’s midrange driver can be shrill. The 'low' and substance of midrange frequencies was lacking for me with the cm10's.