We have an new - open box ZOTL10 looking for a home. A truly great sounding David Berning design. Clayton

ZOTL10 MK.II AMPLIFIER

The next generation of the ZOTL10, the Mk.II, has a beefy linear power supply. Designed with ultra-low noise Belleson regulators, the transformer is in a separate enclosure in order to ensure the lowest noise floor possible. 

The next generation of the ZOTL10, the Mk.II, has a beefy linear power supply. Designed with ultra-low noise Belleson regulators, the transformer is in a separate enclosure in order to ensure the lowest noise floor possible.

The ZOTL10 Mk.II is an expression of EL84 amplification that is accurate, uncolored, and now at another level. 

A redesigned backplate features WBT binding posts, copper RCA jacks, separate inputs allowing either a direct-to-board connection or the use of a volume control. After extensive listening, we've reconfigured the output wiring to improve the sound and shortened signal paths whenever possible. 

There are two inputs, one direct and one with a volume control. The standard unit has an Alps Blue Velvet volume control for those that are skipping the preamp.  The Alps pot is a very nice, respected volume control, but for those that want a remote and zero signal degradation, we now offer an optional remote stepped attenuator utilizing Dale 1% precision resistors. 

All ZOTL10 models are upgradeable to the new power supply. Visit the amp upgrades page. If you're interested in further upgrade options, contact us.

Designed by David Berning, the ZOTL10 Mk.II uses his ZOTL technology, which allows for a highly reliable protection circuit, low output impedance, very consistent performance regardless of speaker impedance, and low heat operation with long tube life.

Tube tone + solid state detail

Traditional tube amps are known for their liquidity and linearity, but their “warmth” masks details and can sound thick. Solid state amplifiers give you that detail, but can be “clinical.” ZOTL amplifiers give you the best of both worlds: beautiful tube tone with the clarity of solid state (while being entirely tube-based).

Patented perfection

The Z10 Integrated amplifier is based on David Berning’s patented ZOTL technology, the only advance in tube technology since the 1950’s. For a technology to be patented, it must be deemed “new, useful, and non-obvious.” We think that sums up our approach quite nicely.

Never buy another set of tubes

Most tube amplifiers run through tubes every 1,000-2,000 hours. That sounds like a lot until you consider that we estimate tube life for our amps to be in the 10,000-20,000 hour range. Why? Because we use ⅓ the current through the tubes, which results in lower heat and dramatically longer tube life.

Made in the USA

Every LTA product is designed and built by hand in Takoma Park, Maryland, by a group of technicians who are also musicians, audiophiles, and music lovers. Some of whom have been with us since the company’s earliest days.

Quality assurance

The Z10 Integrated amplifier is hand built by technicians with years of experience building the complex ZOTL circuits. All our products are backed by a 2-year warranty and a 14-day no-questions-asked return policy.

SELECTED REVIEWS

Part-Time Audiophile Review May 2018:

While it’s not exactly the “classic” sounding vacuum tube amplifier in many respects, it does seem to preserve those things that tubes do really well (think open, unfettered sound with highly natural harmonics) while minimizing their perceived shortcomings. This amplifier earns my accolades for its stunning sense of clarity, transparency, and precise spaciousness of sound.

Enjoy The Music Review April 2018

I am smitten with the ZOTL10 MK II. Its brings out the best in any music you play through it. Rock, jazz, classical, pop – it doesn't matter. What made it so difficult to review this amp is the reviewer part of my brain would keep shutting off and I would just start listening to the music. I can't think of any better compliment than that.

SPECIFICATIONS

Sensitivity: 1.2V RMS for 10 watts output  
Output impedance: 1.2 ohms
Input impedance: 50k
100V / 120V / 240V operation: Auto-switching
Hum and noise: 94dB below full output (measured at 20Hz-20kHz)
Power output with 4-ohm load: 12W, 0.5% THD
Power output with 8-ohm load: 10W, 0.5% THD
Frequency response (8-ohm load): 6Hz to 60kHz, +0, -.5dB
Amplifier class: Push-pull Class AB
Voltage gain (8-ohm load): 18dB
Size: 9 inches (23 cm) wide, 8 1/2 inches (22 cm) tall, 18 inches (46 cm) deep (including connectors), 7.25" L x 4.75" W x 4.12" H
AC umbilical: 24"
Net weight: Amplifier: 14 lbs./6.4 kg, Transformer case: 5.1 lbs/2.3 kg
Finish: Aluminum case
Tube complement: two 12AT7s, two 12AU7s, and four EL-84s

Speaker Recommendations

LTA amplifier owners have found great enjoyment using their amps with a variety of speaker outside of the below ranges. The below are guidelines, not rules.

If you have questions about your specific speakers, chances are someone we know has tried them. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions about your specific setup. Also, don’t forget we have a 14-day no-questions-asked return policy.

Critical listening environments: 90db sensitivity and above

Smaller rooms / lower volume levels / non-critical listening: 88db sensitivity and above