Aric Audio Super 6sn7 Linestage

Seems to be the same ~$4k tube preamp short list I’ve been looking at if you add in LTA.  I’ve read a lot on each, but haven’t had much luck on finding many head to head comparisons of tone or soundstage. Each has its advocates. I’m pretty sure any of them would be great with the minor differences (that make the magic) due to synergy with the rest of your system. You might list your other components to help people chime in with anecdotes.

@mdrone 

Last year I had narrowed it down to Aric or LTA, and read everything I could find. After comparing some DACs, I realized my personal preferences leaned a little more toward detail and speed which, based on my reading, I figured the ZOTL circuit would have the edge on a more traditional tube pre. The MZ3 is also a headphone amp and an integrated which was a bonus. This got me started down the headphone rabbit hole, but I've decided I like it much better as a pre than an integrated. And if I'm being honest, having more functions on the remote (even if it is a cheesy Apple remote), was a plus as well. With the right tubes I think either can be incredible, but my gut tells me I gave up a little of what you're looking for to get what I valued more.

Search reviews by Terry London for the Motherlode and the LTA preamp. I used those and a bunch of others to come up with a general characterization of what the next level down models that were in my budget would do. If I ever need another preamp I'll start my search with Aric because I'm always going to wonder what I missed out on no matter how happy I am with the MZ3 right now. I'll probably be looking at one of his SET amps first though. Send him an email if you have questions.