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
almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Jkull, like the majority of phono stages the ZP3 appears to not provide a volume control. Therefore to be able to control the volume you would connect it to one of the 219ia’s inputs that does NOT bypass its preamp section (i.e., to one of the inputs other than "pre-in"). And therefore a 12AX7 upgrade is likely to be worthwhile.

A follow-up regarding your earlier question about hooking up your sub. If you are willing to invest $207 (plus cabling) for that purpose, here you go:

http://www.cs1.net/products/jensen_transformers/SP-2SX.htm

And here is a link to the manufacturer’s datasheet:

http://www.jensen-transformers.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/SP-2SX.pdf

Many other devices claiming to perform the same function are available for much lower prices, but in contrast to most or all of them the products of the Jensen Transformers company are frequently used and are well respected by high end audiophiles.

Good luck. Regards,
-- Al

almarg's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
almarg
9,670 posts
 
If Al happens to be still following this thread I hope he’ll correct me if I’m mistaken.
I was already composing my answer above when you posted this, Charles :-) And no, as usual you’re not mistaken.

Best regards,
-- Al


jkull OP
95 posts
 
Charles, Al, thank you guys.

Al, thank you for the link to this product.. While listening to a few digital file sharing yesterday without the sub on, I have to say, the cornwalls provided me with more than satisfactory bass on their own. Integrating the sub just allows the bass 'punch' and feel to fill the room out more.  Without it, I get just as much punch from the 15"s in the cornwalls alone, but you have to be around the sweet spot, which is really all that matters, but $207 isn't bad.. 
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hi Al,
I happily defer to you in regards to all that is technical in nature. I am limited to the realm of the philosophical and subjective listening experiences.
High quality 12AX7s will likely make a very noticeable difference in the critical preamplifier section of the 219ia in my opinion.
Charles
jkull OP
95 posts
 
Charles, Al-

I think the wise move at this point would be to focus my funds towards the Decware ZP3 first and foremost. This buy will restrain tube funds, so what I will do is replace the 12AX7’s for the time being, followed by the 310A’s shortly after as what Ive collected thus far relays them to be second most effective tube roll beings they are preamp stage along with the 12AX7’s.

Hey Al and Charles.. NOS mullards, teles, or RCA’s you think? I want the stage to open, and the more ’smooth’ the better... RCA’s can be found for the cheapest from what Im seeing.

Also. Can either of you clarify the difference in the silver plate NOS Western Electric 310A’s and the all gold ones??? Thanks for all of the help guys
More to discover