LSA Statement Amplifier versus John Tucker Upgraded "Super Statement"?


Hello, Everyone,

I'm shopping around for a solid-state amplifier, hopefully an integrated model if possible. A friend of mine was nice enough to lend me his LSA Statement integrated amp. Although these amplifiers haven't been manufactured in, I think, seven or eight years, they got ecstatic reviews on Positive Feedback and Stereo Mojo when they came out. These were gigantic and quite heavy (around 70 pounds) integrated amps. Although they were sourced from China, John Tucker of Exemplar Audio modified them to LSA specifications so that there were three models available: Standard, Signature and Statement. The Statement is a true dual-mono design, with two power transformers and a specially designed cathode follower circuit added to the tube preamplifier section.

The amplifier that my friend lent to me sounds extraordinary. But unlike any other LSA Statement amp that I've ever seen (in photos), this one has a gold Exemplar badge on the front of the amp. I checked with Walter Liederman of Underwood Hi-Fi (who purchased LSA and took a factory direct a few years ago). He confirmed that the Statement model could be upgraded by John Tucker to a Super Statement, hence, the Exemplar branding. Apparently, that's what I've been listening to.

I know this is a long shot, but I'm curious whether any of you have ever heard these two versions of the amp side-by-side, and can speak to how they compare, sonically.

Heck, if any of you currently own or have owned one of these amps in any of its iterations, I’d be interested in your feedback.

Thanks in advance!


rebbi