2. amps-preamps
  3. 168579-1998

LTA Ultralinear vs SET amps

Linear Tube Audio has compared its amps to SET amps, saying they have all the benefits while also adding thumping dynamics, which is exactly what I am looking for. Yet combing through all the reviews and testimonials, I have trouble finding anybody who has specifically compared their amps directly to an SET, be it a 300B, a 2A3, or an 845, 45, etc. Is there anybody who has done exactly this and give some impressions? I currently have 300B monoblocks and love everything about them -- the big, magical, lifelike soundstage, the air, the detail, etc.. -- except for the slightly anemic dynamics and lack of that toe-tapping factor to really suck me into the music. Is there somebody who can enlighten me as to whether the Ultralinear Integrated might be just what the doctor ordered with my 99dB speakers, or not?
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larryi
3,755 posts
 
mglik,

I agree with you that, generally speaking, SET amps are much richer than the LTA amp I heard and that SET amps are particularly magical at lower power.  That is not to say that all SET amps are warmer than all OTL amps (assuming that the LTA really qualifies as an OTL amp).  Some OTL amps are fairly rich sounding, such as some older Joule amps.  I've heard a non-commercial OTL amp that I would take over any other amp I've heard.
lancelock
1,085 posts
 
I agree with the lean assessment of the UL before the recent mods. My ZOTL40 is a different amp now and nothing lean about it. I believe they’re doing the same mods on the UL. This latest iteration must be heard.
speakermaster
738 posts
 
The right ultralinear amp will, try a sonic frontiers amp, they will light up your 99db at a watt speakers like a christmas tree. You will not believe what your sensitive speakers have to offer until you hear a sonic frontiers amp with vintage nos tubes in it.
dwytopx
10 posts
 
You might try Whammerdyne...
rickallen81
65 posts
 
I’m listening to my LTA Ultralinear right now. Compared to my previous tube amps, not SET admittedly, the LTA has much more clarity, stronger and more articulate bass, and only the slightest touch less midrange magic which is a fair trade to get the other dynamics. 
I would expect the trade would be similar to a SET but man, it really combines the best of both worlds for my ears. 
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