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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
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
952 posts
 

After a failed experiment moving from tubes to a Devialet-based system, I punted a few months ago, sold the Devialet, and have painstakingly rebuilt my system. I am currently auditioning the 508ia as the final piece of the puzzle. The fit and finish of this amp are astonishing at this price point, and even with less than fifty hours on it, it is clear that this is a special amp. 

For those of you who have rolled in NOS tubes--especially the 6SN7 and 6SL7 tubes--what have you tried? As you would expect, the stock tubes--Electro Harmonix and Sovtek--are a little bit on the hard or rough side, although some of that is no doubt due to the low number of hours on it as well. I'm thinking some good old Sylvania Bad Boys or Tung Sol round plate black glass might just do wonders for this amp, but I would love to hear what others are trying and liking.


pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,212 posts
 
While I have no experience with Line Magnetic integrateds, I have tried numerous 6SN7's in several VAC amplifiers and a two different Modwright digital sources.   While I wanted to love NOS Tung Sol's, I found them a bit hot sounding on top.  The best I have found and currently use are 1940's vintage RCA VT-231's.   I bought mine from Brent Jessee Recording and Supply.  They will run you about $200 for a pair.
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
When I used to tube roll with my PP amplifier’s 6SN7 drivers the RCAs and Sylvanias from the 1940s-1950s were very good.

Waltersalas ironic your experience with amplifiers. You preferring 1930s technology (SET) to the state of the art (the future is here now) Devialet. Nonetheless I thoroughly understand your choice. I believe that the 508ia will keep you happy for many years. DHT 300b  driving DHT 805 in a minimalist pure class A circuit supported by a robust power supply.  Some things in audio are just timeless. 
Charles
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hello Walter, 
I looked at your system page and you have good taste.  I'm familiar with the VAC REN 70/70 amplifier  (a classic IMO). You have two fine amplifiers to interchange, 300b PP and 805 SET.  Nice!
Charles 
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
952 posts
 
Hi Charles,
I had and loved the VAC Ren 70/70 for several years, but sold it along with the matching preamp and then bought the Devialet, which sounded "good" but in the end just did not engage me emotionally. In short, I missed that old tube magic and just was not spending any time listening to music. At that point, convenience and technology are beside the point.

Eventually, I would like to find the VAC's little brother, the 30/30, but until then, this LIne Magnetic appears to be a real winner. Once it breaks in, it will be fun dialing it in with the right tubes. It is a powerhouse, that is for sure.

I really wanted to hear those Frankensteins of yours, but couldn't find anybody nearby who had them. Luckily for me, there is an LM dealer just a few hours down I-40.

Have a good evening.
Chris
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