Review on Linear Tube Audio Aero DAC

This DAC sounds like another winner!  I’ve bought both a Coda S5.5 amp and NSMT Clairvoyant System 2 speakers at Terry’s recommendation and all I can say is that he was spot on in all aspects with both items. These are the best two audio purchases I’ve ever made. I bought both the amp and speakers through Mike Kay at Audio Archon. Mike is really great to work with. When I’m in the market for a new digital setup I’m definitely going to look at this DAC. 

Jeff

I am a tube DAC fan (Lampizator). I listened to it quickly at THE Show and I remember that I wasn’t impressed but I think it may have been the rest of the system it was displayed with.

My own system was right down the hall so I had the advantage of a quick comparison.

And the LTA is at a different price point.

Jerry

Hi @teajay how does the LTA Dac compare to the Audio Mirror Tubadour IV? Both tube based R2R dacs. Thank you!

@teajay

I was intrigued enough by your review, and the many other positive responses from those who own or have heard this DAC, that I called LTA yesterday, had a nice conversation with Mark Schneider, the LTA CEO, and purchased the Aero DAC. I should see it in about 3 weeks as they are waiting on cases.
They clearly put a lot of thought and effort into the design, and there is innovation throughout the DAC beyond the Berning-modeled output stage. Mr. Schneider shared a lot of details and unfortunately I cannot remember them all. LTA are aware of similarities with the DACs from Mojo Audio such as the AD chips, Belleson regulators, and choke power supplies, and Mr. Schneider is interested to hear about my comparisons between the Aero and my current Mystique Evo Pro Z and Mystique X SE NCZ.
Since my system typically remains powered up all the time, I was interested in Mr. Schneider’s comments about warm up. He acknowledged the Aero DAC sounds better after a 2-hour warm-up, and the sound can continue to improve over a couple of days. He indicated turning the unit on/off is may be harder on the tubes than simply leaving it turned on. Also, the ZOTL circuit only uses about 1/3 of the tube’s power and the 12SN7 tubes they sourced are not dreadfully expensive.
I look forward to trying this new DAC.

@mitch2 

I am looking forward to your impressions on LTA.