Linear Tube Audio Velo preamp

Its taken a while to get the Velo in due to parts availability issues but mine is finally here. I’ve mostly used a Microzotl 2 as  preamp since 2015, but comparing it with a Topping Pre90 was a trade off where instruments sounded right through the MZ2 but clearly rounded transients and compressed dynamics compared to the Topping unit. The Velo is designed as a full featured preamp that includes improvements from the  MZ3 series but at a lower cost point by eliminating the 1watt amplifier components. Some pictures below, will share observations in about a week after I’ve had some time with the unit. Note that the additional cable in the picture was special order to allow powering the Velo with an Uptone Audio JS-2

I thought this was a head amp first, and a pre-amp second?

1 hour ago, AudioDoctor said:

I thought this was a head amp first, and a pre-amp second?

The LTA line does both well. I originally bought a MZ2 as head amp then found it bettered my pre amp options. I may occasionally use the Velo for headphones but the pre function is more attractive/useful.

Liking the tonality, neutrality and nuance of the Velo so far, it’s a much more sophisticated presentation than the MZ2. But hitting a system synergy issue where the combined dynamic compression of the Velo, a Gustard R26 and Magnepan 1.7’s has robbed too much slam. Shopping around for a used Chord Qutest as inserting a Chord Mojo restored slam at the cost of increased graininess. Did find the included JJ12AT7 tubes to be unpleasant, substituted Telefunkens and Siemens, issue resolved. Also had to boost gain on the Apollon amp, at minimum setting  volume had to be set to max at normal listening level, increased amp gain by 12.5db to get acceptable headroom.