The new Lamm Industries monaural line level preamplifier model LL1.1 Signature ($45,390 per pair) is a direct replacement of the LL1 Signature which has been the ultimate statement of perfection among the line level LAMM preamplifiers since its introduction in 2010. The LL1.1 proudly continues this tradition.
Although the LL1 Signature integrated everything its designer had at his disposal to make it the best sounding preamplifier, a true creator never rests on his laurels. There is always a yearning to do better even though it seems unrealistic at the time. The LL1.1 Signature is an end result of this yearning. In a nutshell, the LL1.1 Signature includes the following upgrades and modifications as compared to the LL1 Signature:
• Increased immunity to unwanted radio frequency interferences propagated via both radiation and conduction over signal lines & AC power systems
• Increased amount of energy storage in the power supply
• Certain modifications in protection and time delay circuitries
• Improved signal/noise ratio
• Replacement of a number of critical components with newly available types of better quality
• Utilization of a technologically new type of pc-boards of superior quality, with gold-plated traces and thru-holes.
Considering that the LL1 Signature was practically a flawless design, it was difficult to make that next step to the near perfection. When all technical issues for proper reproduction of the entire frequency range have been solved, the potential improvements shift to a different sphere – the one where the measuring criteria of the sound quality is its degree of approximation to the sound of live concert and the depth of its effect on the listener.
The modifications catapulted the LL1.1 Signature precisely into that sphere — with this preamplifier in the all-Signature Lamm system the discerning listener can’t help but get pulled right into the essence of music. The experience is almost shockingly involving and it is also an incredible chance to experience a different reality which may otherwise be nearly out of our reach.
While the LL1.1 Signature had been designed to complement the ML3 Signature amplifier to show what a sonic “match made in heaven” is like, the LL1.1 Signature will perform magic with any other appropriate power amplifier. The LL1.1 Signature features a topology that brings out the most natural sound performance in the audio path. In principle, it is a single-stage unit that basically represents the shortest possible signal path. The preamplifier contains four very linear low impedance triodes paralleled into a single inverting gain stage.
The LL1.1 Signature employs a pure single-ended class A operation, with no overall feedback applied. Also featured are specially selected high-transconductance dual triodes 6N30P-EB/ 6Н30П-EB in the signal path and TKD stepped potentiometers for volume control — the best available on today’s market. A choke-containing filter and special power supply allows to practically get rid of the hum and buzz and, in the end, to ensure the verity of dynamic range without coloration. Two solid-state analog voltage regulators supply dc voltage to the tube filaments (heaters). Other features include three inputs, one tape / HT processor loop, attenuator (-12dB) switch, Output 1 and Output 2 switches, protection circuitry designed to enable manual muting of the output signal, and built-in remote on/off for Lamm Industries power amplifiers. The LL1.1 Signature features a custom-designed super-low noise power transformer. The LL1.1 Signature works on all world AC line voltages (100/120/220/230/240V).
The main distinction of the LL1.1 Signature from any other comparable type of preamplifiers is its practically inaudible sonic signature. When connected to an appropriate type of power amplifiers, especially Lamm Industries power amplifiers, it assures the extraordinary transparency of perceived sound and recreation of a three-dimensional soundstage in the home, recording studio, etc., without boundaries and limitations.
Each preamplifier is handcrafted of the finest materials and top quality parts like military-grade DALE metal-film resistors, RCD wire-wound resistors, Bourns multi-turn potentiometers, Vishay electrolytic capacitors, Electrocube, Elcon and Kemet / Rifa film capacitors; Hammond chokes, gold-plated Neutric connectors, and military-grade low-noise long-life vacuum tubes. A custom-designed massive damping panel installed in the preamplifier unit significantly reduces all types of mechanical vibrations which, in turn, leads to a more extended, coherent and natural bass reproduction. Other features include:
Pure class A, single-stage zero feedback design, providing the shortest signal path possible. Four low internal impedance (about 800 Ohms per triode!) very linear medium-mu duo triodes are connected in parallel, thus minimizing the internal noise of the preamplifier and ensuring the unprecedented low output impedance for this type of topology.
High-current drive capability, in combination with unique single-ended Class A circuitry, assure the preamplifier’s capability to drive any cable and any real world load while maintaining its practically inaudible sonic signature.
Specially designed damping panel installed in the LL1.1 Signature preamplifier effectively isolates all sensitive electronic components from any induced resonances.
Absolutely outstanding signal-to-noise ratio makes the LL1.1 Signature one of the quietest line-stage preamplifiers available on the market.
Source: Press Release
