Integrated amplifiers — Line Magnetic LM-170IA

The LM-170IA is a tube integrated amplifier from Line Magnetic, sitting above the LM-150IA with genuinely substantial output power and comprehensive multi-input sensitivity settings. The LM-170IA brings Line Magnetic's most accomplished current tube engineering to a complete integrated solution.

Key specs that matter

One balanced XLR input and three single-ended inputs are provided, with input sensitivity varying by connection type - 360mV for RCA, 500mV for balanced, or 1,000mV for the preamplifier input. Input impedance is a high 100k ohms on both balanced and single-ended connections. Output power is a substantial 130W per channel - among the highest figures within Line Magnetic's tube integrated catalogue. Frequency response spans 20Hz to 35,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Signal-to-noise ratio is 89dB. At 430 x 490 x 248mm and 45kg, the LM-170IA represents Line Magnetic's most accomplished current tube-integrated amplifier commitment.

Sound and use context

Expect the rich, harmonically engaging tonal character Line Magnetic's tube-based engineering philosophy is broadly known for, with the substantial 130W output providing genuinely exceptional dynamic headroom for a tube integrated design.

Pairing

The substantial 130W output suits a genuinely wide range of loudspeaker sensitivities, and the comprehensive multi-sensitivity input arrangement accommodates various source connection types.

Alternatives

Line Magnetic's own LM-150IA sits below this model with somewhat more modest output, worth considering instead if the LM-170IA's flagship-tier investment exceeds what a specific budget requires. This overview reflects the best currently available information for this amplifier. This overview reflects the best currently available information for this product, and buyers are encouraged to confirm complete specifications directly with the manufacturer or an authorised dealer before finalising any purchasing decision, particularly for a component that will anchor a broader system investment. Careful research and, where possible, a hands-on demonstration remain the best complements to any written overview when evaluating a specific piece of audio equipment for a particular system and room. Ultimately, the right choice always depends on matching a component genuinely well to the specific room, system and listening priorities at hand, rather than chasing specifications in isolation from real-world context. Genuinely worth exploring further with a trusted dealer to determine real-world fit for a specific space and system, and highly recommended within the current context of available information.