@thriftyaudio - Out of curiousity, what are the alternate tubes you’ll roll with the LTA preamp? I’d love to hear your impressions as I’ve only heard the stock NOS tubes it shipped with.
Benchmark LA4 vs Linear Audio Tube microZOTL Preamplifier (Level 2)
I have enjoyed my LA4 preamp, but I want to see if a quality tube preamp would be more to my liking. I have ordered a LTA MicroZOTL Level 2 and it should be here in a few weeks.
My current set up:
Acoustat 1+1 with a SPL Crossover and dual Rhythmik F12SE subs
Innuos Pulse paired with an Innuos Phoenix USB
Bricasti M1S2 DAC
Marantz 8003 SACD (rarely used)
Technics SL1500 turntable with AT VM540ML cart upgraded with a RigB body
Pass Labs XA 25 power amp
Upgraded, but not excessive, cable
I have a month to compare the two preamplifiers and decide if I should make the move to the dark side (tubes). Everything I have read suggests the MicroZOTL L2 should improve stage presence, separation, and depth without significant detail loss. I do 95% of my listening through Qobuz and Sense with the rest from vinyl. The SACD player is only used for the occasional SACD not offered as HD through Qobuz.
Prior to settling on the LTA I listened to a used Electrocompaniet EC 4.8 Mk2 (had not settled on trying tubes yet.) (poor detail when compared with LA4 and narrower soundstage). I also wanted to try a Pass Labs XP 22, but could not find a used one to try at home (also prior to the tube exploration). I auditioned a used ARC 5SE (decent soundstage, but suppressed high end and the bass was underwhelming).
I am looking for any guidance or suggestions the Agon community might have for me.
Thanks in advance!
Ralph
Showing 5 responses by bluethinker
@thriftyaudio - I own the LTA Microzotl preamp level 2. I think you are going to love it. When I first plugged it in, I was shocked what an improvement it delivered compared to my older tube preamp. Let us know what you think once it arrives! |
@thriftyaudio - I’m happy you are enjoying the LTA preamp. I really enjoy mine. The company is always a pleasure to interact with when I have questions, which is a nice bonus. Let us know how the preamp continues to burn-in and how the new tubes sound. I have not done any tube rolling myself, so I’m eager to hear how different tubes sound in the LTA preamp. |
@thriftyaudio - It is fantastic you are enjoying the LTA preamp so much. I also love mine. The company is always such a pleasure to communicate with. It’s obvious they love music and that passion comes through in their products. |
@thriftyaudio - Same! I have other amps and a DAC I’m very happy with. But I’d consider an LTA power amp to pair with their preamp at some point in the future. They are just one of those companies you want to support based on quality of product, superior support, and their friendly attitude towards customers. It’s a nice American-made hi-fi story. |