The first review on the Linear tube Audio MicroZOTL preamplifier has gone up

Once my bank account recovers from the Jay's Audio transport, I may have to give this preamp serious consideration. That's the next-weakest link in my setup. Using an Odyssey Candela currently and while it does some things really well, the lack of I/O flexibility (like no XLR anywhere, despite the Odyssey amp having balanced inputs), and a not-so-quiet noise floor make me want for more. Thank you for posting, and thanks for the review of the Jay's, it was part of the reason I took a leap on it, and am quite happy I did so.

Todd 

I am interested in this preamp but trying to find out more info. 

1. What is S/N ratio

2. Also most of its specs are for 4 ohm speakers not the more typical 8 ohm speakers. Is there a reason for this?  

Because it is not balanced... (though one can option it).

From the LTA User Guides Section:

Inputs: There are 5 inputs to the microZOTL Preamplifier. All are single ended (not balanced). Four are RCA stereo pairs. Input 5 uses combination XLR/Phone Jack inputs. These are not true balanced inputs unless the optional True Balanced Input option has been purchased and configured at the factory. Connect your DAC, CD player, Phono Preamp or other line level device to these inputs.

Preamp Outs: There are two identical preamplifier outputs. These are also single ended (not balanced). Connect your amplifier or subwoofer to one of these outputs.

I don't get why this info isn't in LTA's main page for their Preamp. For example, a list of Inputs and Outputs.

Even worse is not including a photo of the rear panel on the same page.

Any reason why it has XLR inputs but no XLR outputs?. 

Does Berning have a website?  My search engine doesnt show one.

Hey supabayes,

The Pass Labs HPA1, used as a preamplifier, is a terrific performing linestage.  I wrote a review on it and found that it surpassed the performance in my system of the Pass Labs three box reference preamp for so much less money.  What Pass Labs learned/applied in your preamplifier was brought to the new generation of their linestages.

However, the HPA1 cannot bring to the sonic table what the Berning ZOTL circuit with the right tubes does which revolves around the purity of tonality/timbres of instruments, 3D holographic imaging and space between the players, and an overall sense of "aliveness" that SS just can't quite deliver.

very nice review teajay! for me, one of the best features about the MZ2 is the ability to remove my decware amp from the chain and hookup my very efficient omega high output speakers right into the pre amp. for a late night (sometime all night) listening session, that combo is hard to beat! 

lancelock
I asked because this is stated under specs for this preamp

" Power Supply Input: Auto-switching 100V / 120V / 220 / 240V operation or linear supply user-switchable between 110/120 and 220/240 (contact us if in need of a 100V linear supply) "

@facten,  There is no out board PS. All in one unit and by far superior to the MZ2 with linear PS. 

teajay,
Did you test the preamp with or without the Linear Power Supply?

Thanks for the great review Terry. I am currently using Pass HPA1 as preamp with XA25 as I am also a headphone user. How would you describe the difference between the HPA1 vs the MicroZOTL preamp? 

Ok thanks for Teejay! I enjoyed the read too bad no inside photos!

@teajay  Thanks for your review of a truly impressive and emotionally engaging preamplifier. 

Here is the link to Teajay's review:

https://hometheaterreview.com/linear-tube-audio-microzotl-preamplifier/

Hi kw6,

The MicroZOTL is not just a % change, but qualitatively does everything better then its less expensive sibling. If you read the review it will give you the details why this preamplifier takes the performance across the board of the MZ2 to another level.

How much better is it in % than your previous MZ2?