Line Magnetic LM-216IA Tube Integrated Amplifier

The Line Magnetic LM-216IA is a push-pull tube integrated amplifier with four KT88 output tubes and 2×38 watts of output power. Line Magnetic builds it by hand in Nanjing, point-to-point wired, with components you'd otherwise expect only in reference-class gear: ALPS potentiometers, Realcap coupling capacitors, a custom-wound toroidal transformer.

Why the LM-216IA?

The LM-216IA is the entry point into this craft – and still no compromise device. If you've always thought "tube" inevitably meant expensive and fussy, this will change your mind.

What you hear

Four KT88s in push-pull deliver a solid 38 watts per channel – enough for most bookshelf speakers and many floorstanders in a living room. The sound is typically tube: warm in the midrange, with a soundstage that renders instruments more like musicians than measurement figures. A bias control with a genuine ammeter on top lets you adjust the tubes yourself – tools included.

Who is the LM-216IA for? (and who it isn't)

For listeners looking to get into tube technology for the first time, without putting down several thousand francs right away. Straight talk: if you run highly efficient full-range or horn speakers and want an especially quiet noise floor, take a look at the single-ended models in the range instead – the LM-216IA's push-pull circuit is tuned for power rather than ultimate tube purity.

Our verdict

An honest entry into genuine tube technology, not a tube dummy with transistor innards. If you've been toying with the idea of trying tube sound for a while, this offers a fair entry price with visible craftsmanship.

Technical specifications

• Circuit design: tube integrated amplifier, push-pull
• Output power: 2× 38 W (ultralinear), 2× 22 W (triode)
• Tube complement: 4× KT88, 2× 12AX7, 2× 12BH7
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 50 kHz (-1.5 dB)
• THD: 1% (1 kHz)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 87 dB (A-weighted)
• Input sensitivity: 220 mV
• Input impedance: 100 kΩ
• Speaker outputs: 4 Ω / 8 Ω
• Inputs: 4× RCA (line)
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 376 × 192 × 345 mm
• Weight: 19.6 kg

Frequently asked questions

Does the LM-216IA need a break-in period?

Yes, like any tube amplifier it benefits from a few hours of operation – the sound and soundstage settle in over the first few days. This is normal and not a sign of a fault.

Can I connect headphones to the LM-216IA?

No, the LM-216IA has no headphone output. For tube sound over headphones, the more compact LM-MINI 84IA from the same range is the better choice.

Do I have to adjust the tubes myself?

The bias can be readjusted by hand via the built-in ammeters on top – a short, one-off task after a tube change, not an ongoing chore.

Which speakers suit the LM-216IA?

Speakers with a sensitivity of around 88 dB or higher pair best with the 38 watts of output power. We're happy to advise you on your specific speakers.

Why buy the LM-216IA at HD Zürisee?

We know tube amplifiers from our everyday work on the shop floor and help you choose the right speakers, with setup and break-in. Call us, write to us, or drop by with your question – we'll advise you even if you're not (yet) buying.

Pairs well with

A tube amplifier lives or dies by the right speakers – take a look at our speaker collection, we'll advise you on the right sensitivity class.