2. amps-preamps
  3. 168579-1998

LTA Ultralinear vs SET amps

Linear Tube Audio has compared its amps to SET amps, saying they have all the benefits while also adding thumping dynamics, which is exactly what I am looking for. Yet combing through all the reviews and testimonials, I have trouble finding anybody who has specifically compared their amps directly to an SET, be it a 300B, a 2A3, or an 845, 45, etc. Is there anybody who has done exactly this and give some impressions? I currently have 300B monoblocks and love everything about them -- the big, magical, lifelike soundstage, the air, the detail, etc.. -- except for the slightly anemic dynamics and lack of that toe-tapping factor to really suck me into the music. Is there somebody who can enlighten me as to whether the Ultralinear Integrated might be just what the doctor ordered with my 99dB speakers, or not?
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mglik
897 posts
 
I have owned two Berning amps. Have recently replaced my Berning MicroZOTL with a Bakoon HP-1. LTA makes its version of the MZ and licensed the ZOTL circuit for all their amps.
A SET is much richer than an LTA. The latter may have more detail and punch but a SET is a very different animal. 
mglik
897 posts
 
The SET sound is magical-the lower the power the more magic.
larryi
3,798 posts
 
mglik,

I agree with you that, generally speaking, SET amps are much richer than the LTA amp I heard and that SET amps are particularly magical at lower power.  That is not to say that all SET amps are warmer than all OTL amps (assuming that the LTA really qualifies as an OTL amp).  Some OTL amps are fairly rich sounding, such as some older Joule amps.  I've heard a non-commercial OTL amp that I would take over any other amp I've heard.
lancelock
1,087 posts
 
I agree with the lean assessment of the UL before the recent mods. My ZOTL40 is a different amp now and nothing lean about it. I believe they’re doing the same mods on the UL. This latest iteration must be heard.
speakermaster
738 posts
 
The right ultralinear amp will, try a sonic frontiers amp, they will light up your 99db at a watt speakers like a christmas tree. You will not believe what your sensitive speakers have to offer until you hear a sonic frontiers amp with vintage nos tubes in it.
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