Integrated amplifiers — Line Magnetic LM-845IA

The LM-845IA is a powerful single-ended triode integrated amplifier from Line Magnetic, built around the substantial 845 output tube referenced in the model naming. The LM-845IA brings Line Magnetic's more accomplished current engineering to a serious single-ended triode integrated format.

Key specs that matter

Three single-ended inputs are provided. Input sensitivity is 300mV for line inputs or 1,000mV for the preamp input, with input impedance at 100,000 ohms. Output power is 22W plus 22W into 8 ohms - considerably more than the smaller-tubed LM-300IA PLUS's 3W, reflecting the substantial 845 output tube's greater power capability. Frequency response spans 20Hz to 50,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Signal-to-noise ratio is 87dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise at 1%. At 430 x 365 x 255mm and 33kg, the LM-845IA's considerable weight reflects serious internal transformer engineering consistent with the substantial 845 output tube topology.

Sound and use context

Expect the exceptionally rich, harmonically textured character large-tube single-ended triode amplification is broadly celebrated for among tube enthusiasts, with the considerably greater 22W-per-channel output than smaller-tubed designs providing genuine additional dynamic headroom.

Pairing

The substantial 22W-per-channel output pairs well with notably efficient loudspeakers for satisfying dynamic headroom, though still benefits from higher-sensitivity partners than typical solid-state amplification.

Alternatives

Line Magnetic's own LM-300IA PLUS offers a more traditional, lower-power 300B-tubed alternative within the same broader catalogue.