Tekton Double Impacts

Mofojo 5-25-2017
Does the MZ2 only have one set pre outs? Can another be added if so as an option? If I was not happy with the one watt I would want to run the MZ2 as a preamp and still have an extra preout to run a JL sub.

If a second set of pre-outs is added the two sets would almost certainly be wired directly together inside the rear panel, as opposed to being driven by separate output stages. Consequently I would expect the results to be no different than using a good quality "hard y-adapter," such as this one from Audioquest, on the single set of outputs.

In both cases (two sets of pre-outs or hard-y adapters) those results may or may not be good depending on the output impedance of the pre-outs, the input impedance of the sub, and the input impedance of the power amp. And also, if the output impedance of the pre-outs is high, on the lengths and capacitances of the two sets of cables that are involved.

My belief is that the negative comments that are often seen about splitters are often and perhaps usually not due to the splitter itself, but are due to the inability of the component providing the signal to be able to drive the two sets of load impedances and the two sets of cables that are involved, with good results.

The unbalanced input impedance of some of the JL subs is 50K, which would be encouraging, while it is only 10K for some other models, which could very possibly be a problem depending on the output impedance of the pre-outs and the input impedance of the particular power amp that would be used.

I would suggest that you start by asking LTA what the output impedance of the pre-outs is, at 20 Hz as well as at the mid-range frequencies (such as 1 kHz) at which output impedances are usually specified. If the pre-outs are capacitively coupled the 20 Hz output impedance will probably be much higher than the output impedance at mid-range frequencies, and could result in roll-off of the deep bass content of the signals provided to both the sub and the main power amp.

Regards,
-- Al

mac48025

Thanks for the feedback on the MZ2.  I am going to the LA Audio show and will listen to the Tekton and will visit with Well Pleased Audio who will have the MZ2. 

Was wondering if you went for the upgraded power supply?

Thanks,

Nick

Yes Nick, I did go with the upgraded power supply. Have fun listening to the Tektons and LTA stuff. Hopefully you'll be able to hear both together as they sound great together. 

Well, I couldn't wait any longer and rolled the 40's RCA tubes in the MZ2. Wow. I as told the LTA stuff reveals a tubes true character and makes tailoring its sound quite easy. The stock RCA tubes were very nice but maybe a bit bright and forward for my tastes. The 40's RCA's are just a bit more sweet, warm and textured. I've been playing Hope Waits debut album non stop since 6 am to burn the amp in and with MZ I'm not tiring of hearing it. The deep, black background allows every nuance of the recording to reveal itself which sucks me in every time I sit down to listen for just a few minutes......and before I know it I've listened to the whole album......yet again! No listener fatigue here. 

Gentlemen,

Wanted to share that I'm into about nine hours of listening to a Triode Lab 2A3s SET amplifier I have in house for review for hometheaterreview.com.  Of course this amplifier is no were close to being fully burn in.  Yet, being driven by the Micro-ZOTL preamplifier it makes the DI's sing beautiful music.  The very inexpensive 2A3 based Opera amp is still a killer in its performance/price, however this amplifier is qualitatively better on every parameter.  The combo of the Micro-ZOTL and the Triode Lab keeps the dynamics/speed of the linestage and kicks up the color/timbres and adds more 3D imaging which I easily hear through the DI's.  I'm also impressed by the part/build quality of this companies piece of gear.

Teajay

Are you reviewing the Classic or FFX version? Both look nice but the FFX is quite a bit more expensive and probably what I’d want. I’m very happy with using just the MZ2 but after listening further I can see where a bit more texture and warmth might be nice. I have some Ken Rad and Tung Sol round plate 12SN7’s on order in hopes of obtaining a little more texture but the idea of a SET amp to add that meat on the bones you refer to is appealing. The Coincident Frankenstein 300B SET Monoblocks are on my short list and this Triode Lab 2A3 SET looks nice also. I appreciate you sharing your results and I’m in total agreement with your accessments regarding the DI’s and MZ2. The ZOTL 10 with the new power supply is very intriguing, especially with the special synergy it has with the MZ2 but from what you’re saying it sounds like a SET amp brings even more musical magic to the table.