OTL amps


I would like your opinions on OTL amps vs those with transformers.
merle

Showing 3 responses by thorty40

Check out the David Berning products. Just a note, the Berning ZH-270 increases power as ohm load increases, unlike other OTL's, in which it is just the opposite. Really, it has the most advanced designed layout of any OTL. Check out the Berning website for more info. This little, non obtrusive amp had the most power and drive I have ever heard period. The bass had to heard to be believed. Advanced technology and design layout are extremely fascinating, but the sound is where this amp shines. Incredible. Note : To the man that posted above about purchase of the Berning - Hurry there are only a few new units left. David Berning does not build many period. If I had the extra money I would sell my beloved little Blue Circle BC22 (solid state) and scoup one up. BTW the ZH-270 has an estimated 20 year tube life. Amazing.
We are currently using Harbeth Compact HL7ES's and Jean-Marie Reynaud Twinn MKll's with the ZH-270. The David Berning ZH-270 works extremely well with dynamic speakers such as these and I am confident that it would also mate well with various other dynamic speakers with modest power requirments. There has been no indication that the David Berning OTL is limited in any way for exclusive use with an electrostat speaker. Our dynamic speakers match perfectly with this OTL in every aspect. This amp must simply be heard to appreciate. It has impressed me more than any single piece of gear I have heard, period.
Philefreak, no I have not had the opportunity to listen to any other OTL's. A friend of mine gave me a very strong recomendation for use of the David Berning ZH-270. He had used other OTL's before and said this one is one to have period. His strong opinion of this particular OTL stems almost exlusively from the amps excellent sonics and the ability to handle various impedance loads with high current (and runs cool!!). Often times other OTL's are limited for use with speakers with a flat impedance curve and relative sensitivity. This little monster is a high current musical animal with the most controlled, taught bass I have ever heard. The ability to control and convey dynamic passages within the music are unparalleled by no other amp I have used. Seriously, this ugly little 10 pound amp will knock you silly with dynamics and musical ability. For technology information check out the David Berning website. No other OTL uses this kind of advanced technology.