AudioCircle
Other Stuff => Archived Manufacturer Circles => Vinnie Rossi => Topic started by: Vinnie R. on 20 Jul 2018, 04:54 pm
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182625&size=xlarge)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182622&size=xlarge)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182623&size=xlarge)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182624&size=xlarge)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182629&size=medium)
https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier// (https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/)
I'll be opening up this thread over the next few weeks as we get closer to production (late August) and have the website
updates completed.
Info and details coming soon! 8)
Vinnie
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*reserved*
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*reserved*
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stunning!.............
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Very, very nice Vinnie! You are tempting me again...wow!
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Have you considered adding something like uRendu to the preamp?
Given the size of the case I assume this could be done or...?
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Have you considered adding something like uRendu to the preamp?
Given the size of the case I assume this could be done or...?
I think the better solution would be the Convers Digital Hardware module. (http://www.conversdigital.com/)
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Hi mirekti,
Yes, I have considered many things, but decided that for the L2Preamp, there will only be
two options for our customers to consider adding (at time of purchase, or afterwards as they
are modules): L2 DAC, and/or L2 Phonostage (simple as that :wink:)
Hi gene9p and Stercom,
Thank you! :notworthy:
Vinnie
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Hi mirekti,
Yes, I have considered many things, but decided that for the L2Preamp, there will only be
two options for our customers to consider adding (at time of purchase, or afterwards as they
are modules): L2 DAC, and/or L2 Phonostage (simple as that ;) )
Vinnie
The Convers is a module that slides in. Simple as that. ;)
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The Convers is a module that slides in. Simple as that. ;)
jtwrace,
I understand, but I have my reasons (which some may or may not accept). I have to go with my gut feeling on this and feel good about my decisions and what I am releasing to my customers:
- I don't want the noise from a streamer (both conducted and radiated) coupling with the L2 Preamp. Keep that micro computer (streamer) external.
- I don't want to have to grow the L2 Preamp size to fit a streaming module (secondary reason). I am very pleased with the size, aesthetics, and how clean everything is inside with only L2 DAC and L2 Phonostage.
- I don't want to provide streamer support to customers (set up, networking, bug fixes, oddball issues connecting, etc.). Even if this is what another company would offer with their OEM streamer module, I decided that I do not want to get into the steamer business or partner up with a company making streamers.
Everything above also applies to LIO. If you want to use a streamer, go for it. Just not in my backyard (product)! :green:
Vinnie
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The preamp looks stunning and I am sure they sound stunning as well.
Is it a true balanced design or are the balanced input/output given for convenience ? Is it still using sladgeformer VC ?
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The preamp looks stunning and I am sure they sound stunning as well.
Is it a true balanced design or are the balanced input/output given for convenience ? Is it still using sladgeformer VC ?
Hi debjit.g,
Thank you!
Yes, the XLR inputs and outputs of the L2 Preamp are both true active balanced stages.
The volume control is not using slagleformers. It is a discrete resistor ladder attenuator volume control using
silent Pickering England reed relays (no relay "click" sounds when changing volume like the LIO RVC module).
Vinnie
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Those that go for the XLRs on the LIO also?
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Those that go for the XLRs on the LIO also?
No - the LIO XLR inputs/outputs module option are pseudo-balanced.
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Update 7/26:
Webpage is being updated and now includes the L2 Signature Preamplifier's complete feature list and the new images:
https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/ (https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/)
Here are some raw images chassis. You can see how the "bank vault" knobs work - behind the knob is a spring-loaded ball bearing and as the knob turns, the ball goes in/out of the dimples machined into the front panel. The shaft that is machined into the back side of the knob goes through a brass sleeve bearing that is inserted into the front panel. This gives a precise feel when selecting input and volume.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182794&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182791&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182793&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182792&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182790&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182789&size=small)
- L2 Preamp specifications coming next.
- Details and specs of the new L2 Phonostage and the L2 Dac will be coming soon, and they will go into production at the same time as the L2 Preamp (estimated end of August :hyper:).
Reminder: I'll have the L2 Signature Preamplifier (with L2 Phonostage and L2 DAC) and the L2 Signature Monoblocks at the RMAF show this October in two separate rooms. You don't want to miss this show and I hope many of you can make it this year! 8)
Vinnie
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That is sick, man jewelry at its best. So do we get to tweak that volume knob just for the experience :green: You may need a "dummy" chassis just for that.
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That is sick, man jewelry at its best. So do we get to tweak that volume knob just for the experience :green: You may need a "dummy" chassis just for that.
Maybe I can just make the bank vault knob on a metal plate - like a new type of fidget spinner. :green:
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Maybe I can just make the bank vault knob on a metal plate - like a new type of fidget spinner. :green:
$5 per spin. :lol:
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Update 7/26:
Webpage is being updated and now includes the L2 Signature Preamplifier's complete feature list and the new images:
https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-signature-preamplifier/ (https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-signature-preamplifier/)
Here are some raw images chassis. You can see how the "bank vault" knobs work - behind the knob is a spring-loaded ball bearing and as the knob turns, the ball goes in/out of the dimples machined into the front panel. The shaft that is machined into the back side of the knob goes through a brass sleeve bearing that is inserted into the front panel. This gives a precise feel when selecting input and volume.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182794&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182791&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182793&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182792&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182790&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=182789&size=small)
- L2 Preamp specifications coming next.
- Details and specs of the new L2 Phonostage and the L2 Dac will be coming soon, and they will go into production at the same time as the L2 Preamp (estimated end of August :hyper:).
Reminder: I'll have the L2 Signature Preamplifier (with L2 Phonostage and L2 DAC) and the L2 Signature Monoblocks at the RMAF show this October in two separate rooms. You don't want to miss this show and I hope many of you can make it this year! 8)
Vinnie
Vinnie that looks just wonderful. WOW !!!
charles
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Daaaamn!!! Even the bare chassis looks sassy :wink:
Awesome job Vinnie. I will have to rename my LIO trust fund...
BTW heard the new amps in Axpona and they were brilliant...unfortunately could not spend a lot of time due to the constant flow of eager enthusiasts
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Daaaamn!!! Even the bare chassis looks sassy :wink:
Awesome job Vinnie. I will have to rename my LIO trust fund...
BTW heard the new amps in Axpona and they were brilliant...unfortunately could not spend a lot of time due to the constant flow of eager enthusiasts
Thank you, rollo and soulforged!
Also, I posted some new details of the new L2 Phonostage option (click on the L2 Phonostage tab) on the L2 Signature Preamplifier page:
https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/ (https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/)
Vinnie
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If one buys the L2 pre does one get a discount on the L2 amps?
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If one buys the L2 pre does one get a discount on the L2 amps?
Hey jtwrace et al,
There is not a package discount with buying the L2 Pre + L2 Monos together (but I do allow for LIO trade-in's for those buying the
L2 Pre and L2 Monos together).
For those looking to only purchase the L2 Pre, I can offer "some" LIO trade-in credit, but you need to email me directly about this.
I have also received some questions about if there is any L2 "introductory" pricing, so I need to clarify:
The current prices listed on the website for the L2 Preamp and L2 Monos *are* the introductory prices, and most likely will not change throughout 2018. After that, they are likely to increase.
Thanks,
Vinnie
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There is not a package discount with buying the L2 Pre + L2 Monos together (but I do allow for LIO trade-in's for those buying the
L2 Pre and L2 Monos together).
For those looking to only purchase the L2 Pre, I can offer "some" LIO trade-in credit, but you need to email me directly about this.
I'm confused about the above. The first sentence says you do allow for LIO trade in for the package. If one is only buying the Pre a LIO trade in isn't 100% credit like the VR model has been?
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I'm confused about the above. The first sentence says you do allow for LIO trade in for the package. If one is only buying the Pre a LIO trade in isn't 100% credit like the VR model has been?
Hi jtwrace,
Sorry for the confusion. Let's take it step-by-step:
- If you are buying the L2 Preamp + Monoblocks together, there is no discount pricing.
However, if you are buying the L2 Preamp + Monoblocks together, and you have a LIO, you can trade-in your LIO (100% trade-in credit).
- If you are only buying the L2 Preamp, there is not a 100% LIO trade-in credit. I should be able to offer partial trade-in credit on a case-by-case basis, so one needs to email or call me directly about this (not via the forum). It would be up to you if you want to take the partial trade-in offer, or sell it privately.
Vinnie
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Got it now, thanks!
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New preamp looks very interesting. Would like to have some additional info:
- what is the gain of L2S?
- can the gain be adjusted?
- does it have a polarity switch?
Thanks for answering.
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New preamp looks very interesting. Would like to have some additional info:
- what is the gain of L2S?
- can the gain be adjusted?
- does it have a polarity switch?
Thanks for answering.
Hi tbzc,
Welcome to the VR forum!
- The L2 Preamp's gain is approx. 8 - 10 dB (depending on the tube family used). I plan to take gain measurements with different tubes (but even that can vary from brand to brand), but let's just say approx. 9dB of voltage gain.
- The gain is not adjustable (initially I had a gain adjust switch in the design, but that mildly compromised the circuit so I eliminated it).
- However, you can internally bypass the DHT preamp stage all together. This runs the signal through an exceptionally clean, ultra high bandwidth Class-A JFET unity gain stage (0dB). I thought this would be a nice feature if someone wanted to listen *without* the DHT's in the signal path (to compare and contrast when using different amplifiers, speakers, etc. or just to change it up for a while), or if one is waiting on a new set of tubes and wanted to continue enjoying the L2 Preamp.
- The L2 preamplifier stage does not have a switch to swap absolute polarity of the L and R channels. The L2 DAC option for the L2 Preamp *does* have the option to swap absolute polarity on the fly via the L2 remote handset.
Best regards,
Vinnie
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=183115&size=large)
8)
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Hi Vinnie
Beautiful beautiful design! :thumb: Congratulations for making design and ultimate sound come together so well.
Can you summarise what's the difference between the L2 preamp and the LIO DHT preamp for existing users of your LIO DHT system today? How is the sound impacted and what changes can we expect to hear?
Also will the LIO platform continue to be developed?
Thanks, Kin, Thailand
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Hi Vinnie
Beautiful beautiful design! :thumb: Congratulations for making design and ultimate sound come together so well.
Can you summarise what's the difference between the L2 preamp and the LIO DHT preamp for existing users of your LIO DHT system today? How is the sound impacted and what changes can we expect to hear?
Also will the LIO platform continue to be developed?
Thanks, Kin, Thailand
Hi Kin,
Thank you!
I'll be discussing in detail the differences in sound quality, functionality, etc. in the next coming weeks (along with adding a new L2 Preamp Tube Rolling thread). The increase in performance of L2 Preamp vs. LIO DHT PRE is substantial, and just as the L2 Monoblocks are by far my best amplifier design to date, the L2 Preamp is by far my best preamplifier design (and the same is true with L2 Phonostage). They are completely new, incomparable designs from the ground up.
Right now I'm very busy getting L2 Preamp into production. We are on target to begin production of the L2 Preamp, L2 Phonostage, and L2 Dac in early September. :hyper:
Also will the LIO platform continue to be developed?
Yes, it will. 8)
Thank you,
Vinnie
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As the LIO DHT is already sounding so good in my system with your DAC2.0, I can't imagine it being taken to the next step!
Look forward to your coming discussions.
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Update: September 2nd
- I am very close to starting full production of the L2 Signature Preamplifier! The enclosures are taking the most time to complete (I am not surprised by this, and I require them to have the same flawless fit and finish as the L2 Monoblocks). I have been notified that I will not receive them until around mid-September. :banghead:
In the meantime, I am now in the process of receiving parts, hand-assembling PCBs, and doing preliminary testing of them. This way once I receive the enclosures, I'll be able to hit the ground running! :hyper: This is why I have not been posting nearly as much I want lately - I'm just way to busy right now! I anticipate actually shipping orders before the end of this month and don't foresee anything that would cause major delays.
- I'm also building L2 Dac modules and L2 Phonostages, so they will be ready mid-September.
- I have been testing a wide variety of tubes, and the tubes that had too much hum with LIO DHT PRE are much quieter
with the L2 Preamp circuit (and using the mesh tube covers that connect to the enclosure, which get tied to the AC mains ground).
- The L2 Preamp webpage will be updated with specifications in the next week or two.
- There will be two Vinnie Rossi rooms next month at RMAF (with Harbeth, and with Spatial Audio) and both rooms will have the L2 Signature Preamp and Monoblocks. RMAF will be the "official" debut of the L2 system, so I hope many of you can attend! 8)
More updates will be coming soon enough...
Vinnie
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Fun fact time!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=183979&size=small)
I forgot to share this a while back. This black metal mesh is covering a vintage Edison style light bulb on the wall of Baba Sushi in Sturbridge, MA. It is where I got the idea for the L2 Signature Preamp mesh covers on "date night" with my wife. :green:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=183983&size=small)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=183982&size=small)
Kanpai!
Vinnie
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Along with the L2 systems, will you have a LIO DHT set up in one of the rooms at RMAF? Best wishes for the launch!
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Along with the L2 systems, will you have a LIO DHT set up in one of the rooms at RMAF? Best wishes for the launch!
Thanks, Mikeg77!
At RMAF this year, I'll only have the new L2 Systems.
Hope to see you there!
Vinnie
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Just a quick update, as I'm beyond busy right now and RMAF is 2 weeks away!
8) The L2 Signature Preamplifier is now officially in production!
:hyper: I'll be shipping out a few at the end of this month, and then more soon after RMAF.
:idea: The included stock tube is the EH300B Gold Grid.
I hope to get back to posting much more on this forum soon. Realistically, it will be after RMAF.
I also haven't had time to send out a newsletter to everyone on the list (sorry), but hopefully before the show. If you have questions not already addressed in this thread, please email me.
Thank you,
Vinnie
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Wow, looks stunning for sure, hope i could give it a listen at some point.
Just, so, - there seems nowhere mention of them - the Ultracaps are out?
Still believe these were what made the difference, but what do i know?
And those Pickering Relais in the volume control - they are even quieter than theones used in the LIO?
Just curious...
.. and still super happy with the Lio as it is, so much music...
Thank you!!!
C,-wolfgang
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Hi wolfgang,
Wow, looks stunning for sure, hope i could give it a listen at some point.
Thank you!
Just, so, - there seems nowhere mention of them - the Ultracaps are out?
Still believe these were what made the difference, but what do i know?
Correct, and see:
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=158150.msg1693845#msg1693845 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=158150.msg1693845#msg1693845)
And for the L2 Preamp, the use of the linear Belleson super-regulators for every voltage rail and
stage (as well as separate ones for the L2 Phonostage and L2 Dac module options) results in an even
lower noise floor than LIO.
And those Pickering Relais in the volume control - they are even quieter than theones used in the LIO?
They are very quiet when they switch through the volume settings, just like the relays used on the LIO AVC/Tubestage module.
.. and still super happy with the Lio as it is, so much music...
Awesome! - and LIO will remain in production, and the L2 Dac and L2 Phonostage are compatible with LIO, too.
I have not had time to post much about the L2 Phonostage, but it's a significant improvement of the LIO Phonostage in every
possible way. I teamed up with Brian Lowe of Belleson for its design (and yes, it uses two Belleson SPZ super regulators).
Details can be found on the L2 Preamp webpage (then click on the L2 Phonostage tab).
L2 Dac is based on the LIO DAC 2.0, but its main voltage regulator (which feeds all the down-stream linear regulators) is a Belleson SPZ.
Cheers, and thanks again!
Vinnie
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L2 Signature Preamplifier - ready for RMAF, in 'king suites' 3018 and 4024! 8)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=185104&size=xlarge)
See you there!
Vinnie
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Some quick updates 10/15/18:
1) RMAF2018 was an overwhelming success:
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=160099.0 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=160099.0)
And it is official now that I'll be showing at New York Audio Show next month:
https://www.chestergroup.org/newyorkaudioshow/2018 (https://www.chestergroup.org/newyorkaudioshow/2018)
2) I recently began shipping L2 Signature Preamplifiers, and am finishing and shipping a couple of more this week. Thanks for all your patience!
3) Next week, I'll have the Elrog 300Bs (finally!) and can't wait to hear them with the L2, and start making detailed comparisons:
:idea: Elrog 300B
:idea: KR PX4
:idea: KR T-100
:idea: TAK 300B
I want to carefully evaluate each tube, make sure I level-match after swapping between them (they each result in slightly different gain, which ranges from around 7 to 10dB, depending on the tube)
[I also have a trade-in LIO DHT Preamp here (already accounted for) and will get moving on testing those KR T-100s with it to confirm how they work with it].
4) I will be posting some measurements of the L2 Signature Preamp (hopefull by this weekend), for both testing it with the stock 300B tubes, and testing it in "DHT Bypass" mode (just using the JFET stage).
I have already updated the Specifications section on the website.
5) I need to make time to also go into more detail about the L2 Phonostage... it is incredible sounding! :drool:
I'll get there! :hyper:
Thanks again!
Vinnie
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Pending any last minute changes , I plan to go Sunday... :popcorn:
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About 1 week into my L2 and I’m gobsmacked. I loved my LIO. Everything about it. But the L2 is a whole different beast. Out of the gates the soundstage was wider, deeper, and I was hearing nuances I haven’t ever heard before. Whether through the L2 dac or the SPECTACULAR new phono stage, there was just a lot more going on. Build quality is spectacular. I’ve been running the t-100’s virtually non-stop in the L2 for about the past 72 hours. Will try some other tubes over the next few weeks.
I can say without hesitation that this truly is a major step up and I’m thrilled to have one in my life.
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About 1 week into my L2 and I’m gobsmacked. I loved my LIO. Everything about it. But the L2 is a whole different beast. Out of the gates the soundstage was wider, deeper, and I was hearing nuances I haven’t ever heard before. Whether through the L2 dac or the SPECTACULAR new phono stage, there was just a lot more going on. Build quality is spectacular. I’ve been running the t-100’s virtually non-stop in the L2 for about the past 72 hours. Will try some other tubes over the next few weeks.
I can say without hesitation that this truly is a major step up and I’m thrilled to have one in my life.
Hi MicheladaAntelope,
You made my Monday - thank you for posting your initial impressions of your L2 Signature Preamplifier! :notworthy:
And speaking of tubes, I am going to start the "L2 Signature Preamplifier Tube Rolling Thread" shortly (maybe this evening!).
I'm going to start out with the KR T100 vs. KR PX4.
Enjoy your L2 Preamp + Monoblocks and thanks for keeping us posted! :singing:
Vinnie
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Hi MicheladaAntelope. Thank you for sharing your impressions of Vinnie’s L2 preamp. I’m a LIO owner as well. What amp are you using?
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Hi MicheladaAntelope. Thank you for sharing your impressions of Vinnie’s L2 preamp. I’m a LIO owner as well. What amp are you using?
Hi targa02,
I'm not MichelaAntelope, but I know he had a LIO DHT Preamp and a VR120 Stereo Power Amp and recently upgraded to the L2 Preamp and L2 Monoblocks.
Vinnie
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Hi guys,
Just curious about the power. It looks like this product went away from the capacitor banks. Are we now back into audiophile power cords and power cleaners or does this somehow maintain the benefits of the previous battery / capacitor products? Thanks! Jim
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Hi guys,
Just curious about the power. It looks like this product went away from the capacitor banks. Are we now back into audiophile power cords and power cleaners or does this somehow maintain the benefits of the previous battery / capacitor products? Thanks! Jim
Hi Jim,
Refer to page 2 of this thread, where I respond to Wolfgang's question.
Thanks
Vinnie
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Hi guys,
Just curious about the power. It looks like this product went away from the capacitor banks. Are we now back into audiophile power cords and power cleaners or does this somehow maintain the benefits of the previous battery / capacitor products? Thanks! Jim
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=158898.msg1707594#msg1707594 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=158898.msg1707594#msg1707594)
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Hi Jim,
Refer to page 2 of this thread, where I respond to Wolfgang's question.
Thanks
Vinnie
Oh, ok thanks. Didn't quite understand that technology conceptually as well as the switching capacitor banks...
Jim
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If the new L2 doesn't use ultra caps then this is a major change in philosophy and concept. I had earlier understood that the LIO was the machine to use due to the basic idea of its amazing ultra caps outperforming others by it's speed, low noise and high current (enough for welding). And then modules added to this base to take advantage of the good power supply.
I had expected the L2 to be a development of this proven idea - an improved ultra cap base and improved modules to be added on with a trade up policy.
I'm sure the actual L2 is a better machine but it's slightly disappointing to face a sudden depreciation in LIO concept (and therefore value) after investing quite a bit in modules based on the concept of upgrades with 100% money back. Although not anymore on the throne I certainly hope the LIO line will continue to be developed and new techs and updates engineered for the line. :|
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Hi flkin,
I'm sure the actual L2 is a better machine but it's slightly disappointing to face a sudden depreciation in LIO concept (and therefore value) after investing quite a bit in modules based on the concept of upgrades with 100% money back.
Thank you for your post.
The fact that the L2 Preamplifer and L2 Monoblocks have been created and are in production should not in any way invalidate or depreciate the concept of LIO and its ultracapacitor and modular concept. And more importantly, it should not reduce your enjoyment of listening to it. LIO still remains and will continue to remain a phenomenal sounding product that provides excellent value and a highly unique design approach (modular system, ultracapacitor powered banks that act like batteries detached from the AC mains, andmodules that all fit into a single enclosure) that our customers love and will hopefully continue to love listening to for many years to come. I am still building LIO orders and enjoying having new customers come on board! It has been going strong since late 2014 when I introduced it, so it has been 4 years already. :birthday:
Yes, the L2 components are in a higher class of performance, but this naturally comes at a higher price point. Not everyone can spend or even wishes to spend this much on an audio system, and I completely understand and accept this. For me personally, my passion is in creating unique design solutions that perform well above their price, and I do have high aspirations to offer new products over time that compete in higher price classes and that are less restrictive to me in terms of design/production budget. As with many other things (cars, homes, clothes, restaurants, etc.), there will be different price tiers and not all of the components introduced are going to be fit for everyone. For some, LIO is far too expensive to be considered. For others, LIO (and even L2) are too inexpensive to even be considered. :o
I had expected the L2 to be a development of this proven idea - an improved ultra cap base and improved modules to be added on with a trade up policy.
Regarding the L2 components not using the ultracapacitor banks, there are good reasons for this that I will try to make more clear:
L2 Signature Preamplifer: I wanted to take the Directly Heated Triode (DHT) linestage approach to a even higher level of performance, and fully optimize the new L2 Preamplifier design solely for a DHT linestage application (it is not "fully" modular as it only has options for L2 Dac and L2 Phonostage. It also cannot be made into an integrated amplifer). One of the things that I learned was that in order to make the DHT hum (50/60 Hz hum pick up) essentially inaudible, I needed the enclosure tied to AC ground, as well as other parts of the circuit coupled to AC ground [The LIO is a “floating” supply like a battery, as the two ultracapacitor banks are both like battery banks that are not connected to their power supply and they instead “float” with respect to AC ground]. And the shields around the tubes needed to tie to AC ground as well.
I also had to keep the power supply output paths as short as possible (so the L2's shielded power supplies are built-in and not external as in the LIO, and their shield enclosures are tied to AC ground), along with using a different voltage regulation approach that included new OEM Belleson super-regulators for heating the cathodes of each tube, and dedicated Belleson super-regulators for the plates of each tube, and for an all-new biasing approach.
If the L2 Preamp was not based on directly-heated triodes, an ultracapactor-based supply would have been highly considered!
L2 Signature Monoblocks: Compared to LIO MOSFET AMP, the L2 Siganture Monoblocks output higher power and run on a split-supply (approx. +/- 48Vdc, so nearly 100Vdc rail to rail). This would require many more ultracapacitors in series, for both voltage rails and for each bank, and this would result in higher ESR (making one of the more attractive things about using them become, well, less attractive). They do make larger, higher capacity ultracaps (nearly the size of Coke cans!) that would still allow for the very low ESR, and in theory, I could have used 40 of such caps per bank, times 2 banks = 80 of them. But this means the amplifiers would be very, very large (and I wanted to keep the L2 Monoblocks form factor not to big, but very dense and solid feeling), and significantly more expensive. So with the L2 Signature Monoblocks, I instead opted for a high current linear power supply design with a built-in AC filtering, a custom-made transformer (better load and line regulation, lower hum than most off-the-shelf types), very low ESR rails, and a wide-bandwidth amplifier circuit that has its own high power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) and common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR).
---
So in both cases above, we have different products than LIO, designed to different price-points, with different design requirements - and using a different method for the power supply. Having said this:
1) The fact that using the ultracapacitor banks was not best-suited for the new L2 components did not and should not stop me from designing them.
2) Not using ultracapacitors in the new L2 components does not and should not invalidate the use of the ultracapacitor banks in the LIO design - I believe they work very well for that application and will continue to do so! It also does not and should not invalidate LIO's all-in-one approach, which we all know is highly flexible and allows itself to be configured as essentially any and all components, including what is now becoming more common - a "super integrated amplifier" (but with limited output power in its offered enclosure size), and keeps the price lower than separate components, with fewer cables needed, etc.
- Regarding trade-up policy, I have actually already given a few LIO customers 100% trade-in credit towards an L2 Preamp + Monoblock combo. And partial trade-in credit for those who only want the L2 Preamplifier or only want the L2 Monoblocks. Both of these options are really the very best that I can do, and as with the 10-year warranty offered on LIO and L2, is something that most companies would never even consider offering or simply cannot offer and remain in business.
- I have not had much time to start a thread about it, but the all-new L2 Phonostage module design is compatible with LIO and is a completely new design from the ground-up (I collaborated withe Brian Lowe of Belleson on its design) and is a significant upgrade over the previous LIO Phonostage (at least as large as an upgrade when going from LIO DAC 1.0 to LIO DAC 2.0)... but it does require a LIO firmware update on its front panel to properly display the new remote cartridge loading values (remote cartridge loading is built-into the new L2 Phonostage). So LIO was not forgotten in all of this because I specifically had to consider things when designing the L2 Phonostage to make sure it could also work with LIO. It does! 8)
To wrap this up for now, I am (finally) learning to come to terms with the fact that for me to keep being me, and to keep doing what I love to do and continue to grow and evolve in the process, I will never be able to make everyone happy all of the time. I do hope that this post helps clear things up a bit (it sure has taken me a lot of time to write all of this - LOL!). I wish I have gone into this level of detail sooner, but I am truly busier than ever and I just don't see any down time over the next few months, and at that point, the 2019 audio show season begins!
Thank you,
Vinnie
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The LIO, if I understand correctly, is not being phased out. It is not going the way of the VR20 amp that is no longer in production. It will continue to be available and some of the new mods that are being designed have the LIO in mind/ compatibility.It will continue to be supported, built, repaired, etc and the 10 year warranty fulfilled. If Vinnie did not continue to expand and redesign/re invent his products we wouldn't even have the LIO. Every year every manufacturer delivers something new with no way to update your existing model to match the new. Has the LIO reached the end of the road for its design development and improvements? Maybe, however so as long as new mods are introduced it will continue to grow. Can't say that about others products. I have had a few of those promised to be upgrade-able to anything in the future that never happened.
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Fantastic information and explanation, Vinnie! Thank you for taking the time to do so, very helpful and reassuring for both LIO and L2.
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Fantastic information and explanation, Vinnie! Thank you for taking the time to do so, very helpful and reassuring for both LIO and L2.
Thank you, jriggy.
The LIO, if I understand correctly, is not being phased out.
It will continue to be supported, built, repaired, etc and the 10 year warranty fulfilled.
Hi gene9p,
This is correct!
Thank you,
Vinnie
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L2 Signature Preamplifier - New for 2019!
Happy New Year!
Our website now has updated pages for the L2 Signature Preamplifier (and the L2 Signature Monoblocks), which
reflects the new pricing for 2019 as well as a new 'standard feature' for L2:
L2 Isolation Base, featuring (4) patented Stillpoints ULTRA MINI feet.
The Stillpoints ULTRA MINI feature one ceramic ball bearing that acts as a vibration filter (isolator) to reduce the transfer of vibration to the audio component. It is a bidirectional isolation device that has no direct vertical path through them. The reduction of mechanical noise to the component delivers improvements such as a greater sense of space around instruments and performers, low-level detail retrieval, and microdynamic shadings.
The L2 Isolation Base is solid, CNC-machined aluminum and bolted to the bottom of the L2 component. As with the enclosure for the L2 Signature components, they were designed by the Evett Design Group & Vinnie Rossi. They really look fantastic and add a more substantial and premium look and feel:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=188606)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=188605)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=188607)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=188609)
* A few more pics coming later today *
Availability: I should have the L2 Isolation Bases in stock by the end of February 2019.
- For 2019 L2 orders that ship before this time, I will send the isolation bases separately, along with the mounting bolts and hex wrench. They are very easy to install. Simply place your L2 component upside down on a solid, clean surface (use a soft cloth to avoid scratches), remove the 4 original feet with the supplied hex wrench, align the L2 Isolation base over the mounting holes, and finally use provided mounting bolts to secure the base to the bottom of the L2 component.
- For previous L2 orders (2018) that do not have the L2 Isolation Bases, you can still purchase them if you wish. Please email or call me directly for the price and shipping.
https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/ (https://www.vinnierossi.com/l2-preamplifier/)
Thank you,
Vinnie
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Hi Vinnie
Will these Isolation Bases fit/work for the LIO as well?
Thanks
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Hi Vinnie
Will these Isolation Bases fit/work for the LIO as well?
Thanks
Hi TimS,
No, these are custom-fitted and mounted to the bottom panel of the L2 Preamp and L2 Monoblocks (they are not compatible with anything else).
Best regards,
Vinnie
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All,
Reviews are in the works!
- Michael Lavorgna of Twittering Machines has the L2 Signature Preamplifier in his barn for review, along with the L2 Signature Monoblocks (driving Devore Fidelity Gibbon X Loudspeakers):
https://twitteringmachines.com/in-barn-vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-l2-signature-monoblocks/ (https://twitteringmachines.com/in-barn-vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-l2-signature-monoblocks/)
I delivered them to Michael after the NYAS last November, and I need to update him regarding the L2 Isolation Bases that
are coming next month.
- Srajan Ebaen of 6moons has a 3-page preview of the L2 Signature Preamplifier up on his website:
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/)
It goes into much more detail behind the design than I have on my website. He sent me some more questions that I'll be working on soon. 6moons is now also mobile phone/tablet friendly! :thumb:
When the new L2 Isolation Bases come in (mid/late February), I'll build his review sample and send it on its way to beautiful Ireland.
More detailed pictures will follow, along with actual listening! :singing:
I'm very excited about both of these upcoming reviews, and soon enough I'll be posting about others that will hopefully follow in 2019!
Vinnie
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I just found out that this was posted a couple of days ago:
(https://q4n3x6h5.stackpathcdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/best-of-2018.gif)
Category: Best of 2018 - Preamplifier (Cost no Object)
- Vinnie Rossi L2 Signature Preamplifier -
https://audiobacon.net/category/best-of-2018/ (https://audiobacon.net/category/best-of-2018/)
In 2018, I’ve had the pleasure of listening to over a hundred systems... there was some gear that just stuck with me. Either from shows or in private. I’ve listed them in this section.
I clearly remember Jay and Siao visiting our room at RMAF2018 and thoroughly enjoying their listening experience, but I was not expecting this! I'm deeply honored. Thank you, gentlemen! :notworthy:
I'm really looking forward to lighting it up at the shows in 2019, starting with AXPONA.
Vinnie
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All,
The L2 Isolation Bases on still on target to being shipping mid/late February.
And along with 6moons, another L2 Signature Preamplifier will be shipping out for review at the end of this month - this
one is going to Anthony Kershaw of Audiophilia.com in Canada:
www.audiophilia.com/about/ (http://www.audiophilia.com/about/)
Looking forward to this one as well!
Vinnie
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A few updates:
- Everyone who ordered the L2 Isolation Bases should have them by now (or by the end of this week).
- 6moons has recently updated their L2 Preamp preview, and is now 5-pages of information for those who want to learn more about the L2 Preamp design (beyond what is mentioned in this thread and on the website). Srajan emailed me to confirmed that he received the L2 today and he will be digging into the actual review shortly.
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/)
- I am aiming to ship the L2 Preamp to Anthony Kershaw of Audiophilia next week, so hopefully he'll have it by the end of this month.
- I'll be in AXPONA Room 488 next month with the L2 Preamp & Monoblocks. All cabling by Triode Wire Labs. Loudspeakers for the show will be a surprise. Wink2
Vinnie
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Hey Vinnie,
Awesome! I received my isolation bases this week & they go on the L2 preamp this weekend!
Speaking of AWESOME, that is EXACTLY what your L2 preamp is... AWESOME! Simply Amazing!
Looking forward to partnering with you once again at AXPONA and really looking forward to the surprise loudspeakers! Can't wait!
Cheers,
Pete
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...And you’re BOTH awesome for going above and beyond, helping through a rocky road of a demo this winter.
Jason
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...And you’re BOTH awesome for going above and beyond, helping through a rocky road of a demo this winter.
Jason
Our pleasure, jriggy! This is why I love working with Pete - he is super-response and takes care of my customers. And
his cables all deliver the goods!
Speaking of AWESOME, that is EXACTLY what your L2 preamp is... AWESOME! Simply Amazing!
Glad you are enjoying your fully-loaded L2 Preamp, Pete! With a name like Triode Pete / Triode Wire Labs, I had a feeling that you would! :green:
See you at Axpona!
Vinnie
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A few updates:
- Everyone who ordered the L2 Isolation Bases should have them by now (or by the end of this week).
- 6moons has recently updated their L2 Preamp preview, and is now 5-pages of information for those who want to learn more about the L2 Preamp design (beyond what is mentioned in this thread and on the website). Srajan emailed me to confirmed that he received the L2 today and he will be digging into the actual review shortly.
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/)
- I am aiming to ship the L2 Preamp to Anthony Kershaw of Audiophilia next week, so hopefully he'll have it by the end of this month.
- I'll be in AXPONA Room 488 next month with the L2 Preamp & Monoblocks. All cabling by Triode Wire Labs. Loudspeakers for the show will be a surprise. Wink2
Vinnie
Wow, Vinnie! Head bottle washer & cook Srajan Ebaen from 6Moons gave you an 8-page pre-Review! That's cool!
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HOW DO YOU ACCESS THE TRADING POST NOW ? Sorry caps lock was on . Am I blind ? can't see how to look at more than the dozen on the home page
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Hiya.
Working up my review on Vinnie's L2 DHT linestage, I would like to invite those who already have theirs to share their experiences relative to tube brand and tube type rolling. I'm only listening to the stock ElectroHarmonix GOld 300B and Vinnie's personal pair of Takatsuki 300B. I'd like to provide our readers with additional data points since that's part of the appeal of this component.
So... if you'd like to become part of my review by contributing some sonic observations on what your various tubes do by comparison (also list the rest of your system), have at it. I'll check here or you can email me directly at 6moons. Your comments will list by either your handle or your real name, whatever you decide to provide.
Cheers. :popcorn:
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Hey Vinnie,
I noticed that Srajan's review is complete and you earned 6Moon's "Lunar Eclipse Award"!!! Well deserved!!!
Here's the 11 page review!... https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/)
The L2 is a fantastic product and I'm just loving my fully-loaded version! Srajan's tube-rolling experiences is spot-on!... yes, my overall favorite is the Takasuki 300B's... but some vintage 2A3 triodes aren't too shabby in the L2... and I prefer them over some vintage 45's... more meat on the bones with the 2A3's!
Congratulations again,
Pete
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Hi Pete,
Thank you for posting about this!
My sincere appreciation goes out to Srajan @ 6moons.com for all his time and effort in reviewing the L2 Signature Preamplifier. It's an 11-page tour de force that covers all the facets of this unique design, and I just finished reading the wrap-up and I am deeply honored to see the L2 received the very rare Lunar Eclipse Award! :notworthy:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=192772&size=tiny)
For those interested in reading about the L2 design approach, how it teams up with various amplifiers and speakers, and how it left its impression on the man who has literally reviewed several hundreds of components since 2002, at all starts here:
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/)
Here are just a few highlights from the review that I am still processing - very powerful stuff! :weights:
We'll skip variation #4 as well because it too would have meant kicking a man whilst down. The 12AU7 in Nagra's Classic just couldn't compete against the [L2 equipped with] Takatsuki 300B...
This underscored at least in my private appointment calender how today's L2 truly was a class apart to justify its tariff in full. There was no sense comparing it to other preamps... Hifi reviews aren't blood sports...
Vinnie's L2 now allowed one to clone advanced SET attributes from properly spec'd transistor amps. De facto it meant, 1/ hitching that type sound to SET-unfriendly 'normal' speakers and 2/, doing so with no impact on musical choices.
A solution as elegantly simple as Vinnie Rossi's L2 preamp we might have expected from one of the big established tube houses like Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, VTL... yet none of them—not one!—managed. The global market has nothing at all like it. L2 is the first and only one of its kind...
L2 stands alone. It also does in offering that very practical alternate tube-less path of Jfet buffer for when your glass may be down awaiting replacement, or for when you need a bypass. It does so with its 2.5V, 4V and 5V toggles which take tube specimens from all three voltage families. It does so with its optional DAC and phono boards, with its special-order headphone amp module. To anyone who's been in hifi long enough to know that invariably, you can find something very similar behind a different face plate, the Vinnie Rossi L2 is a major stumper. With it, there just isn't, period...
With the Vinnie Rossi L2 line stage, that well-trodden claim—of direct-heated triodes being the most linear low-distortion audio gain devices ever made—has finally grown legs to stand on and not just walk but sprint like a racer... As now truly themselves without the traditional crutches or interpreters, they finally step into the bright light of day with genuine purity and speed. And that equals bandwidth, noise and resolution figures which are on par with the best of transistors. The resultant sonics are very special!
Also - if you are interested what is coming next (late summer 2019), don't forget to read page 10. :wink:
With much gratitude,
Vinnie
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Also - if you are interested what is coming next (late summer 2019), don't forget to read page 10. ;)
Vinnie
There might be some mad people over that. :lol:
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There might be some mad people over that. :lol:
Mad in love! :green:
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Hi Vinnie,
An L2 integrated - a perfect product in my opinion and a natural evolvment from the separates. Many people including myself finds
the superintegrated amp ( with DAC or phonostage) to be the ultimate. I am still enjoying my LIO with AVC/tubestage but I guess this
new L2 will be quite a bit superior. Hopefully pricing will be competitive as well.
A more powerful LIO was for obvious reasons not possible but the L2 platform makes it possible.
Congrats Vinnie and hopefully you can explain more about them in detail soon.
Regards Magnus
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Hi Vinnie,
An L2 integrated - a perfect product in my opinion and a natural evolvment from the separates. Many people including myself finds
the superintegrated amp ( with DAC or phonostage) to be the ultimate. I am still enjoying my LIO with AVC/tubestage but I guess this
new L2 will be quite a bit superior. Hopefully pricing will be competitive as well.
A more powerful LIO was for obvious reasons not possible but the L2 platform makes it possible.
Congrats Vinnie and hopefully you can explain more about them in detail soon.
Regards Magnus
Hi Magnus,
Thank you for your post!
I will be posting more about the L2i (L2 Integrated) and L2i-SE (L2 Integrated Signature Edition) in a new thread. L2i pricing will most definitely be higher than LIO (but its performance will be substantially higher). I will also be working out a LIO trade-in program for LIO customers who might be interested in upgrading.
I still need time to figure out final pricing. Before I can do all of that, I need to get ready for the AXPONA show that starts next week. :hyper:
Vinnie
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Vinnie,
Looking forward to the next update on the L2i ! 8) ....and also the details of the LIO trade in!
Going to be one of the first in line for the L2i . Will the dimensions of the integrated be same as LIO--or fit into the same box?
(Meanwhile my LIO is sounding better than ever with my new Triode Wire cables. I really need to write up a review but not sure what circle to put it in.)
Cheers!
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Vinnie,
Looking forward to the next update on the L2i ! 8) ....and also the details of the LIO trade in!
Going to be one of the first in line for the L2i . Will the dimensions of the integrated be same as LIO--or fit into the same box?
Hi WillyL,
I should have all the details of the L2i and L2i-SE in about a month, and will start a new thread about it.
The dimensions (and appearance) will be similar to the L2 Preamplifier, but it will be around 2 inches wider (1 inch of
added heatsinking on both side panels). And it will be at least 10 lbs heavier.
In the meantime, feel free to email me and I'll provide all the info that I can at the moment. But I don't wish to post them online
quite yet until more things are finalized.
I am still on target to be in production this September! :hyper:
(Meanwhile my LIO is sounding better than ever with my new Triode Wire cables. I really need to write up a review but not sure what circle to put it in.)
Awesome - and I'm sure Triode Pete would love to hear from you on his forum:
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?board=200
Best regards,
Vinnie
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Anthony Kershaw's (Audiophilia.com) Part 1 review of the L2 Signature Preamplifier is live! :dance:
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier)
[Parts 2 and 3 are to follow and will focus on the L2 DAC and L2 Phonostage options]
..As Rossi suggests, the preamplifier is dead silent. No tube rush, nothing. A black background for the musicians to paint their sounds. During the break in, I had become enamoured with its sound during my standard sneak peeks. Warm, rich and refined, yet with incredible detail. All instruments shone with the most beautiful halo of vibrant sound. Vocals, too. Deep, rich, throaty. But with a harmonic ‘completeness’ to their presentation. Almost tactile. And definitely goosebump time. I could imagine the artists smiling and nodding with pride if they heard this type of playback.
..The L2 enhanced my very fine digital setup, and considering the preamplifier section of the Continuum S2 (basically, a Jeff Rowland Capri II preamplifier) is outstanding and an obvious match for its connected amplifier section, it couldn’t better the gorgeous sounds the 300Bs were portraying. For sure, a completely different topology, but the way Rossi has his tubes singing is very persuasive.
..Adding this fantastic bit of kit will elevate your musical experience into regions you have yet imagined.
..It could live in my system happily. Forever. Very highly recommended.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195322&size=tiny)
Thank you, Anthony! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Vinnie
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Anthony Kershaw's (Audiophilia.com) Part 1 review of the L2 Signature Preamplifier is live! :dance:
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier)
[Parts 2 and 3 are to follow and will focus on the L2 DAC and L2 Phonostage options]
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195322&size=tiny)
Thank you, Anthony! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
Vinnie
Congrats, Vinnie! I totally concur with Anthony's assessment! My L2 preamp is incredibly dead silent on my 104 dB sensitive Volti horns!
Cheers,
Pete
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Hi Pete,
Thank you!
It was definitely not easy to make the L2 Signature Preamp (using directly heated triodes in the linestage) so dead silent, but it was well-worth the quest. With the mesh tube covers, there is ZERO hum!
I explained in more detail how I was able to make it happen on Page 3 of the 6moons review that came out last April:
https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/3/ (https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/vinnierossi/3/)
You'll also see an impeccable dual-mono layout of the 4-layer motherboard as well as two large black metal covers for shielding sensitive parts of the DHT and Jfet stages as well as the balanced i/o stages. Going with a 4-layer PCB meticulously routed by a true layout guru whom I commissioned for this was absolutely critical in getting the noise floor this low. It allows us to route sensitive traces between ground planes and allowed for different ground planes inside the layers.
For example, the power feed for all control circuitry—relays used for input select, volume control, DHT filament voltage selection as well as the front panel display, push buttons, IR etc.—is sourced from a dedicated 5V linear regulated feed and its own isolated ground called DGND. There are multiple isolated grounds within the 4-layer PCB: analog ground left/right, digital ground for the control circuits, DHT ground for the left/right filament power feeds and AC ground aka chassis ground which ties to the safety ground of the AC cable and mains outlet.
How I taught myself to 'reference' these various grounds against each other so to speak—except for digital ground which has nothing to do with any of the analog circuitry—was another essential piece of the puzzle in getting such remarkably low hum and noise. I didn't figure it out overnight. It happened gradually over the course of experimenting for many months well after LIO DHT PRE had gone into production. This really was the hardest part of the whole L2 Preamplifier design. Many nights damn near led me to insanity!
Another thing I learnt is that a floating filament supply like a battery or isolated ultracap bank is not the best solution against hum pickup. While the power itself is very clean, things are a lot more complicated in terms of picking up radiated noise fields with the filament-driven triodes. Certain tubes I gave up on with LIO like the Psvane WE205-D Western Electric replica due to excessive hum are quiet in the L2 preamp.
And coming later this month are SILVER L2 Preamp & Monoblock enclosures (These pics below are low res, but I'll have high res pics on my website soon enough):
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195356)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195359)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195358)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195357)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195360)
:drool: :inlove:
Vinnie
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Damn that's sexy!
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Damn that's sexy!
Thank you, Tyson!
---
Anthony Kershaw's (Audiophilia.com) Part 2 (of 3) review of the L2 Signature Preamplifier is live - this time he
reviews the L2 Phonostage option:
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-2the-phonostage-module (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-2the-phonostage-module)
...performance among the very best phonostages at this price (or higher), serious triode love, and that remote with loading from your listening chair.
You want the full Rossi experience? An excellent phono stage? A no brainer, then.
Anthony's Part 3/3 review (the L2 Dac Module) is coming early next month! :hyper:
[BTW - the L2 Phonostage is compatible with LIO, but it requires that you send in your LIO for a firmware upgrade for the new, remote cartridge MC loading settings that are used with the L2 Phonostage to display properly on the LIO front panel.]
Vinnie
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Has anyone tried the Psvane 300b ACME tubes in the L2? Curious if they will fit with their shape. I have a set of 300b and 845's in my LM 219i and enjoy their sound.
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Has anyone tried the Psvane 300b ACME tubes in the L2? Curious if they will fit with their shape. I have a set of 300b and 845's in my LM 219i and enjoy their sound.
Hi dishrag,
The Psvane 300B ACME has quite the large diameter at the top of its "balloon" shape (66mm max). It is also a tall tube at 157mm max,
so without having it on hand, my guess is that it will fit in the L2. The part that sticks out of the L2 will actually be larger in diameter
than the opening on the top panel, but it *should* clear it.
(http://www.psvaneaudio.com/image/data/psvane%20acme/300b/acme300b2a.jpg)
However, the mesh tube cover would need to be customized in length so it covers the tube (up to the opening of the top cover), but not above the opening as the diameter of that tube gets too big!
Feel free to send me a pair to test out and I'll confirm if they fit and how they sound. :green:
Vinnie
PS: I scored a pair of new-in-box Western Electric 300Bs on a trade (these were made in 2006). Looking forward to listening to them
soon!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195922)
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Michael Lavorgna of Twittering Machines has posted a spectacular review of the L2 Signature Preamplifier & Monoblocks combo!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195978&size=small)
https://twitteringmachines.com/review-vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifer-and-l2-signature-monoblock-amplifiers-part-1/ (https://twitteringmachines.com/review-vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifer-and-l2-signature-monoblock-amplifiers-part-1/)
[This is Part 1/2, and the upcoming Part 2/2 will go into more depth about the L2 Dac and L2 Phonostage modules]
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195976&size=small)
Photo Credit: Michael Lavorgna / TwitteringMachines.com
“The Vinnie Rossi L2 Signature system goes deep. Way, way deep into the music. The overall presentation is rock solid, super stable, squeaky clean and precise coupled with a full boded and rich but not over-ripe sound.
The L2 system made my DeVore’s sound like new speakers, capable of things hereto only imagined. Bass response in particular was better than I’ve heard from the Xs and by “better” I mean in every meaningful way which includes tone, body, weight, and impact. The sound image completely decoupled from the speakers, filling the barn with stereo-defying presence in every dimension. Sounds picked, plucked, strummed, and sung sprung from all over the damned place like a sonic fireworks display. At the same time there was a tactile sense of the subtle, a caressing of micro-detail and nuance, allowing time and timing to create tension and release, the stuff that turns hifi into a moving musical experience. Balancing and delivering all of these traits is, in my experience, something special.
I’ve been following Vinnie Rossi’s hifi products going on 15 years and I am happy to see, hear, and report that he has arrived at the deep end of the pool with a truly satisfying splash. Coupled with my source and speakers, the Vinnie Rossi L2 Signature components offered some of the most musically satisfying sound I’ve heard in the Barn. Bravo!”
-Michael Lavorgna, TwitteringMachines.com
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195977)
Photo Credit: Michael Lavorgna / TwitteringMachines.com
Many thanks to Michael for all the time and effort with reviewing the entire L2 Signature System, and I am very much looking forward to Part 2! :notworthy: 8)
-Vinnie
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Congrats, Vinnie, for another well deserved —and glowing— review! Nothing I don’t know :wink:
But I was actually returning here to agree with how freakin’ sharp and sexy the silver version looks. Wow!
For the L2’s design, I like the silver even better than the black. It fits it so well for some reason.
If the rest of my components weren’t black, I’d be tempted to ask if possible to swap my guts into a silver chassis! But naw, I’m happy, just saying how nice that silver looks.
Jason
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Congrats, Vinnie, for another well deserved —and glowing— review! Nothing I don’t know :wink:
But I was actually returning here to agree with how freakin’ sharp and sexy the silver version looks. Wow!
For the L2’s design, I like the silver even better than the black. It fits it so well for some reason.
If the rest of my components weren’t black, I’d be tempted to ask if possible to swap my guts into a silver chassis! But naw, I’m happy, just saying how nice that silver looks.
Jason
Hi Jason,
Thank you! I'm really pleased with the silver version of the L2 Pre and Monos as well! :drool:
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This has been such a great week - Anthony Kershaw of Audiophilia.com just finished his review of the L2 Dac module today and posted it!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=196037&size=small)
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-3the-dac-module (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-3the-dac-module)
...the [L2]DAC module delivered an unfatiguing sound with superb bass control and an enviable timbral array of percussion instruments. Marimbas, so difficult to record and replicate, sounded precise with solid wood, leading transients and a beautifully smooth decay.
...Voices of all styles and ranges sounded as expected from such a well designed digital device. So many rob the musicality; the essence of the voice. And when the module’s sound is being projected through its spectacular linestage mainframe, it’s an artistic brotherhood of the first rank.
...Much like the [L2]Phono module, the [L2]DAC module plays well above its cost in today’s price/quality ratio. It can win your heart on sound alone, but the fewer cables and lighter footprint may tip the scales in its favour. Highly recommended.
-Anthony Kershaw / Audiophilia.com
Much thanks again to Anthony for all his time and effort conducting the L2 Signature Preamplifier 'trilogy review!' :notworthy: :singing:
Part 1: The L2 Signature Preamplifier
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/3/29/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier)
Part 2: The L2 Phonostage module
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-2the-phonostage-module (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-2the-phonostage-module)
Part 3: The L2 Dac module
http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-3the-dac-module (http://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2019/6/4/vinnie-rossi-l2-signature-preamplifier-part-3the-dac-module)
- Vinnie
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I do have a LIO, is the Dac 2.0 same as L2, or can it be installed in L2 ?
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I do have a LIO, is the Dac 2.0 same as L2, or can it be installed in L2 ?
Hi Mitch751,
Yes, when the LIO DAC 2.0 goes into the L2, it gets the Belleson super-regulator and becomes L2 DAC (and I change the rear plate
so it says "L2 DAC"). For those who are trading-in their LIO (with DAC 2.0) for L2 Preamp or L2 Integrated, I install for you.
Best regards,
Vinnie
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Thank you for the reply. I am thinking to purchase the L2 and no sure whether I should use the LIO's Dac 2 for L2.
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Hi dishrag,
The Psvane 300B ACME has quite the large diameter at the top of its "balloon" shape (66mm max). It is also a tall tube at 157mm max,
so without having it on hand, my guess is that it will fit in the L2. The part that sticks out of the L2 will actually be larger in diameter
than the opening on the top panel, but it *should* clear it.
(http://www.psvaneaudio.com/image/data/psvane%20acme/300b/acme300b2a.jpg)
However, the mesh tube cover would need to be customized in length so it covers the tube (up to the opening of the top cover), but not above the opening as the diameter of that tube gets too big!
Feel free to send me a pair to test out and I'll confirm if they fit and how they sound. :green:
Vinnie
PS: I scored a pair of new-in-box Western Electric 300Bs on a trade (these were made in 2006). Looking forward to listening to them
soon!
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=195922)
FWIW, I replaced my Takatsuki 300B's with some older, used Western Electric 300B's on my fully-loaded L2 preamp...The Tak's were great but I prefer the more relaxed, more natural musical sound of the Western Electrics...
My $0.02,
Pete
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FWIW, I replaced my Takatsuki 300B's with some older, used Western Electric 300B's on my fully-loaded L2 preamp...The Tak's were great but I prefer the more relaxed, more natural musical sound of the Western Electrics...
My $0.02,
Pete
Hi Pete,
I've been using the Western Electric 300B (new-in-box pair from 2006) in the L2i-SE and comparing to the Takatsuki.
I agree the WE-300B is a touch warmer and more relaxed, but the inner detail and top-end extension and 'air' is not quite
quite at the same level as the TA-300B. But they are more similar than different... just splitting hairs :green:
Not sure how the new production WE-300Bs that will be coming from the Rossville, GA plant will compare? Nobody seems
to know for sure when they are shipping :scratch:
Thanks for posting!
Vinnie