Joule Electra is introducing it newest version of the well known LA-150. The original version was introduced in 2001 and has since become one of the most sought after Preamps in Hi End Audio. The original version using Russian Military tubes has a slightly analytical character when compared to the LA-100 although many purist audiophiles have been delighted with it’s overall sonic signature. An example of this is Steve Hoffman of “Digital Compact Classics” who uses the original version as his standard for evaluating his reissues of music treasures from the 60's and 70's. In developing the Mark II version of the 150 our quest was for a more fleshed out and musical sonic signature while retaining the robust nature of the original. We are delighted that we achieved this goal and the result is a remarkable preamp possessing all the virtues that most audiophiles desire in a line amplifier.

The new version, dubbed LA-150 MII, uses the same topology as the original design but both the Mu Follower and Gain Stages now use the NOS 6350. This tube has long been out of production but we have several thousand of these tubes on hand. We have been using this tube for over 12 years in the LA-100 and our OTL's so it was only natural for us to try it in our newest preamp. Needless to say, we have been gratified with the success of this refinement. The original circuit is available on special order and is still one of the most revealing and accurate preamp available to the audiophile. The newest version possesses all the best characteristics of the original while having improved ambience and timbral recovery providing a more musical presentation and satisfying spectral balance.

The output signal can still be taken from either the plate of the Gain Stage or from the Mu Follower depending on system drive requirements. Most systems will sound best with the “Plate Follower” drive which is implemented with only a single vacuum step in the signal path. The preamp is very dynamic, completely free of glare or edginess, and boasts a 3 db down point at 5 and 100,000 cycles respectively. The 10,000 cycle square wave response is essentially perfect and hum and noise are extremely low. The bass performance of the preamp is very strong and solid and the treble is open and airy with great extension.

Older versions of the LA-150 can be upgraded to the MKII by returning them to Joule Electra. The cost of the upgrade is $500 plus return shipping. This upgrade is restricted to four tube versions of the signal board. The small number of LA-100's that were upgraded to 150's cannot be upgraded to the MKII. If you return your 150 for the upgrade please ship in the original box and include a check for $575 to cover the modifications and the return freight. If you do not have the original carton, then include and additional $50 for a new shipping container for the return shipment.