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

thriftyaudio
thriftyaudio OP
46 posts
 

@robshaw Hi Robert.  My Acoustats are inefficient speakers (83 db) and do not generate exceptional bass.  When I first purchased the speakers I added a Vandersteen 2W subwoofer that supplemented the bass and that was a good solution for many years.  A few years ago I wondered how the Acoustats would do if they did not receive any (or essentially a minimal amount) of the bass signal. 

I replaced the Vandersteen with the dual Rythmiks and inserted an active Crossover which limits the signal to the Accoustats (currently at 70 Hz) and the Rythmiks (same 70 Hz).  This helped the main speakers substantially.  The folks at Pass Labs suggested this changed the Accoustats efficientcy from an 83 db to 89 db which allows the XA-25 to effectively drive these power thirsty speakers.

The crossover I utilize is an excellent unit from Germany.  The SPL Crossover allows me to adjust the crossover on the fly, adjust the signal slope, and many other fun tidbits.  Another one I considered was the JL CR-1.  I believe I would have been happy with either (similar concept with a few different options).  The SPL I purchased was a demo unit and I got a great price.  

Sorry I can't help with the LA-4 solution.  An active crossover may be your best option.  There are less expensive active crossovers available, and a few significantly more expensive.  My research suggested the JL or the SPL units would be ideal for my system.  An active crossover might help relieve some of the bass demand from your speakers resulting in a clearer mid-range.

Best of Luck.

Ralph

robshaw
258 posts
 

Thanks so much Ralph. I'm glad you've met with such success in this never ending journey. As I grow older and have many hobbies (time requirements) status quo in the audio arena is not so bad. However, when I hear your system improvements it makes me pause and consider alternatives, thank you, I think!  Robert  Good luck, I'm a little jealous. Robert

 

robshaw
258 posts
 

Thanks so much Ralph. I'm glad you've met with such success in this never ending journey. As I grow older and have many hobbies (time requirements) status quo in the audio arena is not so bad. However, when I hear your system improvements it makes me pause and consider alternatives, thank you, I think!  Robert  Good luck, I'm a little jealous. Robert

 

thriftyaudio OP
46 posts
 

@robshaw I truly understand.  While I am retired, I am active in two groups (one Board), plus creative writing, woodworking, and honey-doos.  It keeps me busy.

The addition of the SPL Crossover is perhaps the single biggest improvement for my system.  The bass extended and the total sound improved significantly.  I occasionally make bass adjustments depending on what I am listening too.  There is nothing like listening to the 19812 Overture with canon and having the bass turned up and over emphasized!

If you could swing it you might want to look at this JL CR-1.  I did not see any SPL Crossovers available used in the US.  I highly recommend an active crossover if you have dual subs (or more).  

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650175851-jl-audio-cr-1-crossover-free-shipping-in-conusa/

robshaw
258 posts
 

Thanks so much. I will explore that avenue and do some research. Much appreciated. Robert

More to discover