I have a LTA MicroZOTL preamp. I had two different conrad-johnson preamps before that. I'm using it with single ended interconnects to a Coda solid state amplifier. I'm very happy with it. I thought I'd miss the warmth of the cj preamps, but I really don't. I feel that it's better than the cj.
Looking at these specific preamps give me your opinions
I'm building a system and I have an SMC Audio DNA.5 power amp that was built about a year ago so it's up to date on technology although it is still single ended. I have NX-otica and OB subwoofers from GR Research. I am looking for a good preamp. I have a few in mind and would like some opinions. I have listed them below.
TLC-2 GT24 built by SMC Audio
VRE-1c made by SMC Audio
Revelation Raven tube preamp by Spatial Audio
LTA tube preamp
The TLC-2 and Revelation would need to be purchased new the others I might catch them online used.
Showing 4 responses by sls883
@cbrez I bought my MicroZOTL preamp lightly used and a little over a year old. The previous owner said it came with Trigon 12AT7 tubes. I tried them and didn't like them. He had purchased some Telefunken tubes {not cheap} and I bought them with the preamp. I've also tried Philips, Siemens, and Brimar Yellow T. Siemens came in a close second to the Telefunken. These are all 12AT7 type tubes. |
@gregjacob I'm using the same Telefunken ECC801S. They are the most detailed and best sounding in my system. A friend thought they were too bright in his system. The Siemens ECC801S are very good, but a hair less detailed. A fair bit less expensive, though. The Brimar Yellow T are nice and warmer sounding if your system is already on the bright side. |