OTL Tube Amps-- are they superior to everything?


A recent conversation I had with an Audiogon member got me interested in OTLs. His opinion is that nothing compares to them for clarity, naturalness and superiority in just about every area. The Atmaspheres are the amps he has, and they are purportedly very stable, unlike most other OTL designs, which many can tell you were a living nightmare.

This is ironic, because some mfrs., like McIntosh, actually put output transformers on their better solid state pieces, claiming they provide superior sonics.

What is the truth here?
saxo
Yeah Brulee, I also love the passion and feel it very keenly for this product.

The thing that many philes will overlook with the zotl amps is that they are as small and lightweight as they are and will never be in the running in the beauty queen sweepstakes. There really isn't any marketing so they are word of mouth products. The one thing indisputable regardless of who will attempt to dispute it with me is that this is a cutting edge design sonically and technically, a real tour de force product. I would love to do a blind test with this amp and anything within its power range for a head to head and leave the bs at the door and THEN see what the results might be without visual, price, and other prejudicial impressions muddying up the waters.

I have read comments from others that it was a good performer in its price range, I say balderdash, it is a great performer in any price range within the limits of its power and the requirements of the speakers it might be used with. I just want to set the record straight on that and tell all what I REALLY think. This is not to disparage any other amplifier out there including Atmas-phere, Joule, Tenor, Lamms etc. but to say the Berning in the right system is in this league of component if not the best choice in a particular application.

Yes, I have heard all the above products I mention although admittedly not in a familiar system, I can only use my own as a benchmark.

PS and Romy, if there is any thing of importance that you would add you are welcome but if you just want to disparage (Atmas-phere and others) who have only been in business for over 20 years making great products, just check it at the door and tell us what you DO like, no one gives a damn what you don't.
I guess I have to apologize, too. I am not so regular here as I don't have as much experience or knowledge as many of you. But I can say that Berning is a terrific amp, regardless of the definition of "OTL", with respect to cost, performance, reliability and sound. Then again, YMMV, and this is just a different animal from other brands. Different people has different taste.
Saxo, or anyone else, if you live in NY city, I am enjohing my system with Italian speakers which Allan just mentioned, and would be more than happy to bring my Berning with HAND (not with car nor cart!) to your place. That I could contribute to those with passion for this wonderful hobby.

Enjoy and happy hunting! Ken
Saxo, if you're in Chicago, I know someone that can drop over with a ZH-270 for you to hear?? How about that, would that be cool with you :)
Just so that you can hear one, I would be very interested in seeing what you think.
Ya gotta lotta class Saxo. Please don't feel alone. i have been there many times and i suppose i will be there many more times. I have no problem when i make an apology when one is due. I have no problem not to apologize just for the sake of an apology. Twl IMO, deserved your apology (like i should talk) I would take my hat off to you Saxo if i owned one. Hope to see you around more often.
allanbhaganinfo, what a warm gesture. It's people like you that show with action rather than words, a man who deserves respect. You sure got mine!