Linear Tube Audio MZ2 - MicroZOTL2.0 Preamplifier/Headphone Amplifier ...

As a secondary note, I have neither tried the MZ22 as an integrated amp, nor likely will I, so I cannot comment on that. I do not own (or could likely afford) any speakers with a high enough sensitivity to try.

Someone mentioned earlier the recent review of one of the David Berning designed power amplifiers in Stereophile. I read that also, and was very surprised by the relatively poor showing it made.

JC
 
Right now, my most efficient speakers are my various Klipsch bookshelf speakers. While they claim a very high efficiency eg. 94-96dB, I think that is an optimistic number. The MZ2 wants at least a 98+dB efficient speaker as an output. I tried my Klipsch speakers and while I got sound, it was not bad (background music only) but you can definitely tell with a few more watts or a more efficient speaker, this preamp/amp and I am sure the MZ10 and MZ40 would be awesome.

I had already popped in 12AU7 tubes to lower gain, but we are still talking .5 to 1 watt per channel. I think over 100dB speakers are required for a satisfactory listening experience.

On another note, no pun intended, this MZ2 is absolutely outstanding as a preamp.

With the 12AU7, it's perfect for me and works great with my MC303, Job 250 monos. Killer pre for the money.


joeinid said:
It has speaker outputs but I have not tried them. I guess I could dig out my Klipsch speakers and try it. I am curious.
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Elberoth said:
By all means do ! I'm curious as well.
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The guys at LTA is super professional and excellent customer service! I've had the LTA MZ-2s and returned them before the trial period was over. They are very neutral/transparent and dynamic; very good preamp. But I wasn't that impressed coming from Melody preamp (which is a different class of their own).

I recently acquired a Don Sachs Model 2 preamp. Haven't spent enough time with and the system has changed a bit since I had the MZ2s. But, my subjective impression is Don Sachs preamp is more impressive and musical than MZ2s.
 
Genjamon from AudioCircle, had both MZ2 and Don Sachs around the same time I believe. He preferred and kept the Don Sachs preamp. But I won't be surprised if someone preferred MZ2 over Don S.
 
I just added Mullard 12AU7's and it really sweetens up, glorious mids and ever so slightly rounded top. Just like I like it.
 
I wish I had done that! These days one can have world class preamp like Don Sachs or LTA under $2k. Only if everyone knew, many other well known brands would struggle to sell their unit or had to up their game.
 
Is my LTA MZ2 perfect? Probably not, but I have to say that, right now, it's perfect for me.

I love this thing.
 
Interesting comments on the Don Sachs preamp. I came across that only recently and was not previously aware of it, but the way he builds them and willl add what you want for options (capacitators etc.) is unique. It's certainly something I would take a look at were I also not as happy with my MZ22s, as Joe is.

JC


Radiohead said:
The guys at LTA is super professional and excellent customer service! I've had the LTA MZ-2s and returned them before the trial period was over. They are very neutral/transparent and dynamic; very good preamp. But I wasn't that impressed coming from Melody preamp (which is a different class of their own).

I recently acquired a Don Sachs Model 2 preamp. Haven't spent enough time with and the system has changed a bit since I had the MZ2s. But, my subjective impression is Don Sachs preamp is more impressive and musical than MZ2s.
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My LTA MZ2 can be ordered with an optional remote. I have to have a remote and clicked the option. I didn’t realize until it showed up that it comes with an Apple Remote. Small, lightweight and works perfectly for adjusting volume up/down. Love this thing more everyday day.


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Interesting discussion. I was thinking about ordering an MZ2 to try. But now I am rethinking a Don Sachs. I actually talked with him last year at this time and had him price one up with Jupiter and Deulund caps. It came out to be about $3500. I was thinking about using it to replace my BAT. I am thinking about selling the BAT due to its age before something goes wrong. My issue with the DS's and MZ2 is that my system is fully balanced and they are single ended and I would lose about 6dB. I just may bite the bullet and order one.
 
If you do order Don’s preamp, please let us know how much you like it. I have been reading up on it since seeing it was talked about here. Looks great and have not seen a negative word about it.

I’m running my MZ2 with my Triodes tonight and smiling at the combo. It drives the Triodes wonderfully and has the S.E.T. 3D sound that I love. As good as solid state is now, tubes kick SS @ss.

I’m also curious about Don’s amp. I bet it really nice too.
 
To all those who preferred something else to the MZ2, did they try the linear PSU with the MZ2 ?
 
If I order the M2Z with a silver faceplate, does the power supply also come with a silver faceplate?
 
No, the PS is black. I have the silver face and absolutely love my MZ2.

I ordered the 4’ cable for the power supply so you can place it out of the way.
 
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Joe, you're killing me - I'm thinking of just using the built in volume if I get the Lumin S1 until Don's preamp comes. Am I ridiculous to spend $2100 on a preamp that I'm just going to use for a few weeks?
 
I am sure that once you hear the MZ2, broken in, you will not want/need Don's preamp :P


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Joe,

Considering I'm going to be using the X350.8, would you recommend changing the small signal tubes to 12AU7?
 
I do not think that is necessary. I went for a sweeter 12AU7 in addition to having a lower gain. I am sure they 350.8 will be perfect with the MZ2.



Heavy G said:
Joe,

Considering I'm going to be using the X350.8, would you recommend changing the small signal tubes to 12AU7?
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I ordered one. It should be here by next week about the time the X350.8 rolls in. Still have no digital front end, but we'll deal with that.

I figure I'll use it until the Don Sachs Pre 2 gets here and then I'll sell it...

...or order a pair of Avantgardes to use with it :)
 
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