The Line Magnetic LM-210IA is an integrated vacuum tube amplifier designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction. It features a single-ended, pure Class A stereo amplifier design, delivering 8 watts per channel, and utilizes 300B output power tubes.
Function Description:
The LM-210IA serves as the central hub for an audio system, integrating pre-amplification and power amplification into a single unit. Its primary function is to amplify audio signals from various sources and drive loudspeakers with a rich, warm, and detailed sound characteristic of vacuum tube amplifiers.
The amplifier's front panel provides intuitive controls and indicators. An "Input Selector" allows users to switch between multiple audio sources (LINE1, LINE2, LINE3, and PRE-IN). An "Output Level Meter" with two pointers, centrally located on the faceplate, enables real-time monitoring of the power output for each channel. A "Remote Receiver" facilitates convenient control from a distance. The "Power Switch" and "Power LED" indicate the unit's operational status. Additionally, there are "Holes for restoring the Meter pointer to Zero" for calibration.
On the front panel, "Function Switches" offer further control. A "Backlight Switch" toggles the meter backlight ON/OFF. An "NFB Switch" (Negative Feedback) allows users to select between MAX/MIN settings, potentially altering the amplifier's sonic characteristics. An "Integrated/PRE-IN Switch" determines whether the unit operates as an integrated amplifier or in pre-amplifier input mode. A "Volume Knob" controls the overall output level, and a "Mute Indicator" shows when the audio output is silenced.
The rear panel provides comprehensive connectivity. "Signal Inputs" include LINE1, LINE2, LINE3, and PRE-IN for connecting various audio sources. "Speaker Terminals" are provided for both right and left channels, offering options for 4, 8, or 16 ohm speakers. A "Power Socket with main fuse" is located on the rear, just below the power cord socket, requiring replacement with the same type and value fuse if needed. A "Voltage Selection" switch allows users to adapt the amplifier to different local voltage levels (115V, 230V, 240V), emphasizing the need to unplug the power cord before making any changes.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Output: 8W+8W (Class A Single Ended)
- Frequency Response: 15Hz~35kHz (-1.5dB)
- THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): 1% (1kHz)
- S/N Ratio: 87dB
- Input Sensitivity: 400mV (Integrated), 1000mV (Pre-IN)
- Input Impedance: 100kΩ
- Output Impedance: 4Ω, 8Ω, 16Ω
- Tube Complement:
- Input Tubes: 12AX7 × 2
- Driver Tubes: 310A × 2
- Power Tubes: 300B × 2
- Rectifier Tubes: 5U4G × 2
- Dimension (W×D×H): 380mm x 405mm x 345mm
- Net Weight: 30 kg
- Power Requirements: ~120V/230V/240V±5% (50Hz/60Hz)
- Power Consumption: 190W
- Working Condition: Temperature: 0℃~40℃, Moisture: 20%~80%
- Storage Condition: Temperature: -20℃~70℃, Moisture: 20%~90%
Usage Features:
- All-tube Integrated Design: The amplifier is fully tube-integrated, utilizing 12AX7 input tubes, 310A driver tubes, and 300B output tubes, along with 5U4G rectifier tubes, for a classic vacuum tube sound.
- Flexible Speaker Connectivity: It offers 4 pairs of input and speaker terminals, supporting 4, 8, or 16 ohm speakers, allowing compatibility with a wide range of loudspeakers. For 6 ohm speakers, users can experiment with 4, 8, or 16 ohm positive terminals to find the best match.
- Power Output Monitoring: The front-mounted meter with two pointers provides visual feedback on the power output of each channel, allowing users to monitor the amplifier's performance.
- High-Quality Components: The LM-210IA incorporates a specially designed big power EI transformer for power supply and two pieces of Single-ended EI output transformers with wide bandwidth. A Japanese Audio grade ALPS volume potentiometer is used for precise volume control.
- Remote Control: A standard remote control is included for convenient volume adjustment and muting operations. The remote uses two AAA batteries.
- Hand-made Construction: The amplifier features hand-made construction with point-to-point wiring, a testament to its artisanal quality.
- Tube Protection: An easily installed tube cover is provided for better protection of the vacuum tubes.
- Hum Adjustment: Two "Hum Adjustment" controls (V1 and V2) are located on the top panel, allowing for fine-tuning to minimize hum.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning: The amplifier should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. Chemical cleaners should not be used.
- Tube Replacement: The manual provides a "Tube Basics" table listing the original tube types (12AX7, 310A, 300B, 5U4G) and common replacements. When replacing tubes, it's crucial that input tubes, driver tubes, and power tubes are matched for optimal results.
- Fuse Replacement: The main fuse is located on the rear panel, just below the power cord socket. If it blows, it must be replaced with a fuse of the same type and value.
- Battery Replacement: The remote control requires two AAA batteries. When replacing, use new, high-quality batteries and avoid mixing new and old ones to prevent electrolyte leakage.
- Ventilation: To prevent overheating, the unit's ventilation must be kept open, and the amplifier should be installed in a well-ventilated area, at least 15CM from surrounding walls.
- Power Cord Disconnection: The power cord should be unplugged if the amplifier will not be used for an extended period or during thunderstorms.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a troubleshooting section to help users identify and resolve common issues such as no output, power LED off/on, sound distortion, noise output, poor stereo image, and remote control unresponsiveness. It advises checking connections, replacing fuses/batteries, and contacting a qualified service technician or the manufacturer for more complex problems.
- Warranty: The LM-210IA comes with a one-year limited warranty from the date of purchase, with vacuum tubes warranted for six months. The warranty is limited to the original purchaser and is void if the product is misused, abused, damaged, or serviced by unauthorized personnel.