Linear Tube Audio Z40+ Integrated Amplifier

Clipdat

Picked one of these up a few weeks ago used and have been really digging what it brings to the sonic table:
https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/products/z40-integrated-amplifier

It's a distinctly different presentation than traditional tube amps (which I own and love) that use output transformers.

It sounds like a powerful DC coupled solid state amplifier, but with the lovely tone and texture of tubes. It excels at effortless dynamic swings and has a robust and full bass performance. It's fast and rhythmic, with plenty of forward momentum and fluidity. The midrange is three dimensional and expansive. It has excellent grip and control over the speakers. I noticed that like traditional tube amps it takes a minimum of 1.5hr of play time before it starts sounding it's best and letting you hear it's magic.

I've had a lot of different amps in my system, and this is one of the best - at least for my musical/listening tastes. Simply put, it's a keeper!

I've already started tube rolling with it as well, each change I've made of 12au/ax7 has been obvious and apparent. It has Gold Lion KT77 in it currently, but I have a NOS quad of RFT and XF2 Mullard EL34s waiting to swap in. But with as spectacular as the KT77s are sounding, there's no rush.

Anyone else heard any gear from LTA or experienced an OTL tube amp in their system?

maxward

I have heard that at the Pacific Audio Fest. Very nice! How does it compare to your Luxman, if you still have it?

Clipdat

I traded the Luxman CL-38uC and MQ-88uSE for a Line Magnetic LM845 Premium, so I can't make a head to head comparison.

From memory, the MQ-88uSe was smoother and more laid back and not quite as dynamic. It was a very enjoyable amp in it's own right, but it was a more polished and easy going sound. The LTA Z40+ beats it in regards to dynamics and separation.

However, they're both just very different amps/flavors. System synergy and listening preferences would come into play big time with the Luxman. The gentleman I traded it to ended up selling it a month or two later. I thought it sounded excellent on his speakers though when I heard it, even though it wasn't fully warmed up. I think it was too smooth for him and he preferred more clarity and detail.

PSOVLSK

Will interesting to hear what you think of the different tubes you roll. I’ve already mentioned this to you, but I really like the looks of it. It seems to a combination of simplistic design (which I love), with a bit of style with the gold buttons and digital volume display.

One thing is certain, you’ve had enough gear through your place that you know what you like and what you don’t. I’m big enough to admit to some jealousy😁

displayname

These have caught my eye recently. I'd want to hear one before I dove in, but hoping to get to spend a little time with LTA at SWAF next month.