@thriftyaudio What have you chosen as the best tube combination for the LTA preamp?
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
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- 42 posts total
@sls883 Thanks for following up. The folks at LTA are correct with the Ray Reserve and the Gold Lion tubes being a step up, or three, over the stock tubes. The RR tubes were a huge upgrade and I was already pleased with the improved listening fun of the MicroZOTL Level 2 over the LA4 (which is a great SS amp). The Gold Lion tubes just added a bit of detail and a bit more 'smoothness' to the experience. I asked LTA about the Ray Select tubes that are the same size as the Gold Lion. It sounds like the RS tubes MAY become an option at some point. I am tempted to get a pair, but will wait. The next step on my audio journey is adding a Network Switch. I was considering an Innuos Phoenix NET, and during my research found the Network Acoustics Tempus. I reached out to them and asked what kind of improvements would my particular system experience. The response was the typical 'background blackness, detail, soundstage improvement, etc'. They did suggest I try something first to confirm the benefits of a network switch. we recommend trying a d-link dgs 105 with an ifi power 5v psu. It was an interesting suggestion since they suggested it would be around $70 US. It ended up costing just under $100, but still a lot less than a used Phoenix USB or used Tempus. I will be installing the switch this week. The hobby is definitely fun, and not always uber expensive. |
@thriftyaudio I'd like to try the Ray Reserve, but I think I have decent tubes, so I can't bring myself to spend $480. My tubes aren't the tubes that came from the factory with the preamp. I tried those and they weren't as good. Did you have to buy a top with the bigger holes? I looked at those, but LTA is sold out, so I don't think the Ray Reserve would work unless I left the top off. |
@sls883 LTA sent the Ray Reserve and the Gold Lion. They were part of the holiday special pricing. The RR tubes are big, but fit in my system. They poke out the top. The holes are quite large on mine. Ask LTA. I am sure they would help.
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@thriftyaudio The Ray Reserve are 6SN7, correct? Did you try 12SN7? Mine are 12SN7GT. I haven't tried 6SN7. |
- 42 posts total