Joule Electra LA150 MkII or Lamm LL2 Deluxe?


Hi all, I am looking at a new tube preamp in the $2,500 to $4,000 used range, and I could use your help. I have tried many over the past couple of years, and my current short list includes the Joule and the Lamm. I have a wanted ad posted for the Lamm but no response yet. I have read all the stuff on both, and I am not asking for anyone to tell me what to buy, but I am interested in hearing from users about the characteristics of these two preamps, and certainly from any who have compared them directly or owned both. What to you stands out either in a positive or negative way about either of these units and, if you owned one previously, what made you switch to something else. Important to me are quietness, clarity, dynamics, midrange warmth (at least some), and bass depth, texture, and accuracy. Also, regarding the Joule, are the tubes used in that unit available anywhere else other than from Joule, and are they known for being rugged and quiet? My virtual system is accurately posted, except I am using a Zoe preamp and Cary 500MB monos, instead of the Vibe&Pulse and DNA500 shown. Thanks - Tim
mitch2

Showing 2 responses by goldeneraguy

I am now on my thirteenth preamp.I have changed more preamps then any other component in my system.I do think the Lamm LL2 Deluxe is something special though.But everyones tastes are slightly different.I guess thats why Howard Johnson made so many different flavors
Mitch2,the recommendations listed above are certainly valid.
The posters have excellent systems and I am sure able to hear differences between the line stages.
I sold my Joule 100 MK3 when I heard a Shindo L.
I eventually sold the Shindo and have been searching for a line stage.The other day I made my choice.The Lamm LL2.
In almost every way it is the best i have heard in my system.
It does lack a bit of the Shindo's magical mid's,but surpass'it in tonal accuracy,bass definition,soundstage depth and width etc.
This is in my room with my components and bias'
Try to listen to a Joule or Lamm.You may be surprised
Good luck in your quest