VTL

Signature TL-5.5 S2 Preamplifier

*This product is built to order. The estimated delivery time is 3 months.

Since its introduction in 1997, the TL-5.5 has earned a reputation for outstanding performance at an economical price. Now, VTL has significantly upgraded this preamp, using many of the technological innovations derived from the flagship TL-7.5 preamplifier. The result is a modern full-featured preamplifier that outperforms in every way, making it one of the top values of any tube preamplifier in its category.

The fundamental qualities that made the original TL-5.5 special—its all-tube design, the optional retrofittable phono stage, and its superb sonic characteristics—are unchanged. What’s new is the application of advanced audio technology sourced from VTL’s TL-7.5 Reference and TL-6.5 Signature preamplifiers. This technology uses a simple circuit topology with low negative feedback and a high current/low impedance output stage in a low-noise microprocessor-based design. Top quality parts, fully balanced operation, and precision-regulated and shielded power supplies yield a full yet neutral sound with high resolution, transparency, speed and powerful dynamics.

VTL has delivered on its goal of bringing advanced engineering and modern functionality to the new TL-5.5 Series II preamplifier. With the same highly intuitive user interface of the renowned TL-7.5 and 6.5, and a full-function remote, the new TL-5.5 is a pleasure to use. A rigid, well-shielded chassis yields quiet operation while bi-directional RS-232 serial interface allows for seamless integration into any audio system. A luxurious cosmetic makeover includes a sleek and visually striking precision-milled faceplate similar to those used on its much more expensive brethren. For a well-priced, high-performance all-tube preamplifier, the TL-5.5 is a truly fine addition to any system.

Features

• Almost half the price of the TL-6.5 Signature Preamplifier
• Luxurious cosmetics to match with Reference and Signature models
• Fully balanced differential linestage with increased functionality
• Optional internally retrofittable phono stage, with user adjustable cartridge loading and gain options
• Precision-regulated B+ and B- supplies
• Tube life extender circuit with B+ delay and soft filament ramp on power on
• Balanced design, low-radiation power transformer
• Quiet logic: Microprocessor sleep mode, quiet non-matrixing LED display with latching shift registers

Line Stage: All-tube, with lower gain high current 12AU7 circuit and 12AT7 buffer, minimal negative feedback

• Two balanced /single-ended inputs, five single-ended inputs, one tape in, one balanced out, one single-ended out, one buffered record out
• Soft-touch relay input select
• 117-step chip-based differential volume control, with 3-digit display
• Higher resolution via single higher-resolution attenuator, and software control for balance and offset
• Switchable gain between normal and low gain
• Mono control on front panel
• Fully bi-directional RS-232 control: programmable input offset, any input programmable as pass-through, and input disable, tape monitor and Mono control on front panel
• Two programmable trigger outputs
• Full function aluminum metal remote
• TP-6.5 chassis size with all precision machined aluminum cosmetic

Phono stage: JFET/parallel 12AU7 design from TP-6.5: 66dB gain balanced (23dB MC, 45dB MM)

• Split-pole Passive RIAA with paralleled 12AX7 and 12AT7 gain stage
• MM / MC select via jumper
• MM Gain setting: fixed at 40 dB
• MC Gain settings via jumper: 3 steps of 6dB: 66dB, 60dB, 54dB
• Loading: MM 47k, MC: 100 ohm, 220 ohm, 470 ohm, 1K ohm, 47K ohm
• Enhanced RIAA (selectable via jumper)
• Rumble filter setting via front panel
• Selectable bal/ S/E output via jumper
• Dual-use buttons on front panel for phono-only functions
• MC and MM gain trims

"Like a lip-smacking bottle of wine that leaves you anticipating the next glass, this VTL tandem will have you excitedly pulling out record after record.

… VTL worked hard to pack a lot of price-to-performance value into the TL-5.5 Series II. In my experience it has succeeded marvelously."

- Read the full review here.

…Every kick, the stretching of the heads, the snap of the sticks – this is indeed visceral sound. VTL has delivered a package that can segue seamlessly from the sweet harmonies of a doo-woop quintet to the in-your-face slam of power rock…

…What matters is the sheer silky naturalness of the sound, matched by the authority one demands of units costing far more. Robust yet refined, well built – this is pure class.

- Read the full review by HIFi News here.