2. amps-preamps
  3. 192332-179657

Benchmark LA4 vs Linear Audio Tube microZOTL Preamplifier (Level 2)

I have enjoyed my LA4 preamp, but I want to see if a quality tube preamp would be more to my liking. I have ordered a LTA MicroZOTL Level 2 and it should be here in a few weeks.

My current set up:

Acoustat 1+1 with a SPL Crossover and dual Rhythmik F12SE subs

Innuos Pulse paired with an Innuos Phoenix USB

Bricasti M1S2 DAC

Marantz 8003 SACD (rarely used)

Technics SL1500 turntable with AT VM540ML cart upgraded with a RigB body

Pass Labs XA 25 power amp

Upgraded, but not excessive, cable

I have a month to compare the two preamplifiers and decide if I should make the move to the dark side (tubes). Everything I have read suggests the MicroZOTL L2 should improve stage presence, separation, and depth without significant detail loss. I do 95% of my listening through Qobuz and Sense with the rest from vinyl. The SACD player is only used for the occasional SACD not offered as HD through Qobuz.

Prior to settling on the LTA I listened to a used Electrocompaniet EC 4.8 Mk2 (had not settled on trying tubes yet.) (poor detail when compared with LA4 and narrower soundstage).   I also wanted to try a Pass Labs XP 22, but could not find a used one to try at home (also prior to the tube exploration).  I auditioned a used ARC 5SE (decent soundstage, but suppressed high end and the bass was underwhelming). 

I am looking for any guidance or suggestions the Agon community might have for me.

Thanks in advance!

Ralph

128x128thriftyaudio
soix
9,882 posts
 

I let the MZ run for a few hours with me out of the room and when I returned the music was cheerful and enjoyable.  That is when I started the critical listening.

That’s not nearly enough time for the preamp to burn in unless LTA did considerable burn in before it was sent.  I’d give it at least 100 - 150 hours before making any firm conclusions as it’s likely to sound even better with more hours, but that you still preferred it to the Benchmark after so little playing time is very encouraging (but not all that surprising IMO).  Hope the better tubes bring you even more goodness.  Enjoy!

thriftyaudio's avatar
thriftyaudio OP
70 posts
 

@soix Thank you for the note.  LTA does some burn in prior to shipping, but also recommends 50 to 75 hours of additional time.  They also have a 30 day at home trial period, with the caveat of keeping the unit for a minimum of 14 days to insure the proper burn in is achieved (my guess).

I have just over fifty hours with the MZ so far.  If there is improvement over the current results, then "Yippee!"  

sls883
628 posts
 

@thriftyaudio I will be interested in your thoughts on the upgraded tubes.  What tubes are in it now?

I've tried a number of 12AT7 tubes and there are big differences in sound quality between the different tubes. 

bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker
232 posts
 

@thriftyaudio - I’m happy you are enjoying the LTA preamp. I really enjoy mine. The company is always a pleasure to interact with when I have questions, which is a nice bonus. 
 

Let us know how the preamp continues to burn-in and how the new tubes sound. I have not done any tube rolling myself, so I’m eager to hear how different tubes sound in the LTA preamp. 

robshaw
264 posts
 

to Thirftyaudio: I am very pleased to hear your so happy with the new tube pre amp. Let me know if you would be so kind, as to further improvements, etc. in sound as it burns in. I have never gone down the tube route. (enough rabbit holes exist)  Was always curious about the tube route though.

Just curious about your dual sub hook up to the MZ. Mine is currently split through a mono balanced choice of the LA-4. Not familiar with the rear layout of the MZ. Thanks, Robert

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