New Autobiased Signature MB-450 Power Amplifier and TP6.5 Phono Preamplifier, plus an upgrade for the Reference TL-7.5 Linestage Preamplifier.

VTL has upgraded their TL-7.5 Reference Linestage Preamplifier. Four years after introducing the TL-7.5, VTL has revised it for an even better performance. The new design, known as the TL-7.5 Series II, adapts current gain technology developed for the new TP-6.5 Signature Phono Stage. The upgrade results in a lower overall gain (20dB-balanced, 14dB single ended), as well as a lower noise floor. During the R&D of the TP-6.5 phono stage we developed a high current circuit to resolve with very low background noise the small distances that a phono cartridge travels, and we have applied this thinking to the TL-7.5 Series II, said Luke Manley, President of VTL. This circuit delivers a wider frequency response, while maintaining the neutrality that the TL-7.5 Reference Line stage is famous for. Also included in the upgrade are new parts voiced to enhance the resolution with more speed and presence in the top end and midrange, plus the addition of a fully bi-directional RS-232 control for increased compatibility with modern home theater systems. US Retail pricing of Series II is set at $15,000.

The MB-450 Signature Monoblock Amplifier has evolved steadily over many years, and is a core model in VTL’s lineup. Known for its high power, high performance and ability to drive a wide range of speakers, the MB-450 now includes the smart-tube technology derived from VTL’s flagship Siegfried amplifier, as well as a sleek new look to match the well-received VTL Reference components. Utilizing the auto bias and fault-sensing technology first developed for the Siegfrieds, the revised Signature amps are now even easier to use and maintain. Parts upgrades, including portions of the regulated power supply utilized in the Reference VTL 800W Siegfried monoblocks, contribute to an improvement in sonic performance, with improved bass punch and dynamics. The new MB-450 is priced at $13.500.

The new TP-6.5 Signature Phono Stage was designed to complement the TL-6.5 and TL7.5 Linestage Preamplifiers in sonic performance, user interface and cosmetics. The new phono stage employs hybrid JFET/tube circuitry, multiple low-noise cascaded regulators and shielded power supplies, accurate 4-corner passive RIAA equalization and 69dB of gain from the balanced outputs, all in a single chassis unit. All of the required user settings are offered, via front panel and remote control: Power on/off, MC/MM input select, cartridge load adjust, gain setting, phase reversal, IEC RIAA rumble filter, mono, and mute, with a low-noise sleep microprocessor function. The design yields a wide and deep soundstage, realistic image proportions, and startling dynamic range, with massive headroom capability. VTL has tentatively set pricing for the TP-6.5 at $7,500, and expects to release it in the 4th quarter of 2006.

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