
( Brand: Magnavox ), ( Model: 138AA 140 ), ( Type: Power Amplifier ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Bundle Listing: No )
The Amp-138BB MagnaVox 6V6 Monoamp and the Phono Pre-Amp 140 are a pair of vintage audio components that offer a unique blend of vintage style and high-quality sound.
The Amp-138BB Monoamp is a monophonic amplifier that uses 6V6 tubes to deliver a warm, rich, and powerful sound. With a power output of 12 watts per channel, this amplifier is capable of driving a wide range of speakers with ease. The Amp-138BB features a simple yet elegant design with a metal chassis, knobs for volume and tone control, and a pair of speaker outputs. The amplifier also has a protective grid leak resistor to prevent tube failure due to high voltage.
The Phono Pre-Amp 140 is a companion component to the Amp-138BB. It allows you to connect a turntable to the amplifier and enjoy vinyl records with superior sound quality. The 140 Phono Pre-amp features a RIAA equalization curve for accurate playback of vinyl records, and it has adjustable gain and impedance settings to match the output of your turntable. The 140 Phono Pre-amp is built into a metal chassis and has a simple control panel with a power switch and gain and impedance knobs.
Both the Amp-138BB Monoamp and the Phono Pre-Amp 140 come with manuals, specifically the 138AA manual for the Amp-138BB and the 140 manual for the Phono Pre-Amp 140. These manuals provide detailed instructions on how to install, operate, and maintain the components to ensure optimal performance and longevity. They cover topics such as power requirements, speaker connections, and troubleshooting tips.
In summary, the Amp-138BB Monoamp and Phono Pre-Amp 140 are a pair of vintage audio components that offer a warm, rich, and powerful sound. They are easy to use and maintain, and the manuals provide detailed instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting. With their simple yet elegant design, these components are a great addition to any vintage audio system.
Pros of buying a AMP-138BB Magnavox 6V6 monoamp and the 140 phono pre-amp with manuals 138AA 138BB:1. Vintage appeal: The Magnavox amp and phono pre-amp have a classic, retro look that can add a unique aesthetic to any audio setup.
2. Warm, tube sound: The 6V6 tubes used in the AMP-138BB are known for producing a warm, rich sound that can be particularly well-suited for vinyl playback.
3. High-quality construction: The Magnavox amp and phono pre-amp are built with high-quality components and materials, which can result in a durable and long-lasting product.
4. Manuals included: The manuals 138AA and 138BB can provide valuable information on how to properly set up and maintain the amp and pre-amp, as well as troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Cons of buying a AMP-138BB Magnavox 6V6 monoamp and the 140 phono pre-amp with manuals 138AA 138BB:1. Limited power output: The AMP-138BB has a relatively low power output of 10 watts per channel, which may not be sufficient for driving more powerful speakers.
2. Tube maintenance required: Tube amplifiers require regular maintenance, such as replacing tubes and cleaning the chassis, to ensure proper operation and longevity.
3. Limited compatibility: The AMP-138BB is a monoamp, which means it can only be used to power one speaker. Additionally, the 140 phono pre-amp may not be compatible with all turntables or audio sources.
4. Higher cost: While the Magnavox amp and phono pre-amp may be less expensive than modern equivalents, the cost of purchasing both the amp and pre-amp, as well as the additional cost of maintaining tubes, can add up over time.
Conclusion: The AMP-138BB Magnavox 6V6 monoamp and the 140 phono pre-amp are a great option for audiophiles who appreciate the warm, rich sound of tube amplification and the vintage aesthetic of vintage audio equipment. However, the limited power output, maintenance requirements, and compatibility issues may be a drawback for some users. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the AMP-138BB and 140 phono pre-amp should be based on the user's personal preferences and audio needs.
Recommendation: If you are a vinyl enthusiast who values the unique sound and aesthetic of vintage audio equipment, the AMP-138BB Magnavox 6V6 monoamp and the 140 phono pre-amp are a worthwhile investment. However, if you are looking for a more powerful amp or one that is compatible with a wider range of audio sources, you may want to consider other options.
These units make for a great restoration or modification project.
The plate shows bends as it is quite flimsy.
I'll leave that up to you or your technician of choice, giving the ability recap restore modify as see fit utilizing caps, resistors and measurements choosing. The amps were evaluated by a knowledgeable audio technician with 35 years of tube build repair experience who has worked on many Magnavox among others and no repairs needed.