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The MicroZOTL Preamplifier Level 2 is a Class A tube preamplifier and headphone amplifier using Linear Tube Audio's patented ZOTL (Zero-hysteresis Output Transformer-Less) topology. It is based on the original microZOTL preamp/headamp circuit (1 Wpc into speakers) but incorporates the Level 2 upgrade package focused on higher-grade parts and refinements rather than a change of core architecture. The chassis is the full-width Fern & Roby-designed enclosure, approximately 17" W x 12.4" D x 4.2" H, with a black aluminum casework style shared with the Level 3 preamp. It functions as a line-stage preamplifier, headphone amplifier, and low-power speaker amplifier (via its 1 Wpc ZOTL output stage), and includes multiple stereo RCA inputs plus an additional balanced XLR input that is transformer-coupled using Lundahl transformers. Core circuit characteristics include push-pull Class A, no global feedback, about 1 W into 4 ohms / 0.5 W into 8 ohms, 0.6 V sensitivity, 2 ohm headphone output impedance, and approximately 50 ohm preamp output impedance. It uses a ceramic main circuit board with 2 oz copper traces to reduce parasitic capacitance and dielectric losses, improving transparency and presence. The Level 2 upgrade focuses on the signal-path capacitors and power supply: the preamp output capacitor is upgraded to a premium Clarity CMR capacitor (with headphone and preamp outputs separated and optimized independently), and stock power-supply and storage capacitors on the audio board are replaced by Mundorf Mlytic AG capacitors, increasing total power-supply storage by about 22,000µF. Control and usability improvements include remote-controllable volume, input selection, and channel balance, a digitally controlled analog volume system with 100 steps and a "Hi-Res" mode with up to 199 steps for finer adjustment, and per-channel gain options of 0 dB, -15 dB, and -30 dB. The tube complement is 2x 12AT7 input/phase-splitter tubes and 2x 6SN7 (or compatible 12SN7) output tubes, with a switch on the ceramic board to select between them. Overall, the MicroZOTL Preamplifier Level 2 is a reference-grade, full-function tube line stage and headphone amplifier for demanding audiophile systems, praised for its very low noise floor, strong dynamics, and high transparency.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Velo's thd is 0.190% against the MicroZOTL Level 2's 0.200% and its weight 2.95 kg (7 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share output impedance (50Ω) and class (A).
The RP3's thd is 0.100% against the MicroZOTL Level 2's 0.200%, its output impedance 10Ω against 50Ω, and its weight 13.6 kg (30 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share class (A).
The V20's thd is 0.500% against the MicroZOTL Level 2's 0.200%, its output impedance 0.47Ω against 50Ω, and its weight 22 kg (49 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs). Both share class (A).
The RP5 v2's thd is 0.100% against the MicroZOTL Level 2's 0.200%, its output impedance 100Ω against 50Ω, its weight 13.6 kg (30 lbs) against 6.35 kg (14 lbs), and its height 114 mm against 106.68 mm.
Atma-Sphere M60 Mk3.1
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