Lector ZOE (Zero Ohm Energy) Tube Preamplifier, Complete Set, Tube Rollers Dream

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The ZOE is an awesome preamplifier that competes with others costing twice its price. It's a stereo tube line preamplifier with 2 x double triode tubes in a Class A configuration. 

Plus it's a tube rollers dream as you can use any of your favorite 6 volt or 12 volt 9-pin tubes with the flip of a switch!

This example comes with the cherry wood sides and is in great condition, only showing slight signs of use.

It was thoroughly tested in our lab where it received a clean bill of health.

More from Lector:
Lector proudly introduces the all new ZOE (Zero Ohm Energy) tube line preamplifier featuring an innovative power supply based on a parallel/shunt voltage regulator circuit. No active devices in series with the power supply path, just passive components as premium quality resistors provide the voltage drop while an active device - wired in parallel - sink current in order to keep a stable output voltage.

This new concept offers a virtual zero ohm energy output to the tubes without relying on huge amount of negative feedback – in fact it’s a zero feedback design. The result is remarkable performance without the typical effect on overall sound quality imposed by series or pass regulators often plagued with high impedance output and/or strong negative feedback.

Despite its simple basic operation and clear advantages over series regulators, parallel/shunt voltage regulators are totally uncommon in audio applications at any price levels. Simplicity sometime is challenging and not that easy to achieve. A shunt regulator runs hot: it requires bigger transformers and huge heat sinks as if it were a class A amplifier – and in fact it is!

The preamplifier gain stage is an all-tube, class A design equipped with a pair of renowned 6922 tubes (standard) or 6H30∏ (optional). The latter is a new Russian military rugged tube in current production designed for heavy applications and high current delivery. Thanks to SATC (Self Adjusting Tube Circuitry), the new ZOE can also use a wide range of twin triodes – such as 12AT7/12AU7/6CG7/12BH7/ECC802S to suite end users’ taste.

And swap different tubes has never been easier. A large plexiglas trim on the top can be removed simply undoing four screws allowing you to change the tubes without removing the whole lid . Another small window on front panel lets you see-trough while the internal circuitry is back-lit during operational mode.

The ZOE has five line inputs, mute/operation switch, auto-delay, remote controlled volume, two sets of main outputs, tape outputs.

Sonic performance delivers pure enjoyment: thanks to the new shunt regulator we have virtually cancelled any trace of the power supply added sound. What you listen is just the sound of your favourite tubes operating with exceptional linearity in a class A gain stage.

We can spend many words trying to describe its purity, its great dynamics, its airy soundstage, its accurate imaging, its ability to resolve the subtle details and many other outstanding qualities of this preamplifier. But we prefer to simply invite you to listen to it and to trust more what your hear.

The SkyFi Testing Process for Preamplifiers:
We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and transistors are checked for signs of stress or damage. Special attention is paid to the power supply which is the most common source of failure for preamps. We then power up the unit and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the low voltage output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise to get a baseline.

At this point we will lubricate and clean all switches and potentiometers (that are not sealed) with a high quality contact cleaner, and then re-test all functions for any signs of noise or scratching.

Final testing involves putting actual music through the preamplifier. We have learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to a familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage KEF speakers that we are super familiar with which will quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some preamps will then move into the listening room where they will be tested with our in-house reference system.

Specifications:
Stereo tube line level preamplifier with 5 inputs, 2 main outputs, passive volume out, tape out, h.t.d output

Tube active circuit:
On Series: ECC-802S
SATC Circuit: 6922 / 6H30II / 12AT7 / 12AU7 / 6CG7 / 12BH7

Frequency response:
20-50.000 Hz +/- 1 db

THD distorsion:
Less of 0.1 %

Input sensibility and gain:
200 mV / 20 db gain / 50 kohm input

Output voltage and impedance:
20 Volt @ 250 ohm

Optional:
Remote control handset, cherry wood veneer side panels

Power supply - Factory set:
100V/120V/230V ac 70 V/A

Dimensions:
15.75" x 4.33" x 11.81"
400 (L) x 110 (H) x 300 (D)

Weight:
22.04 lbs
10 kg

Please click here for detailed specifics regarding our specialized packing process that separates us from the rest.