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ICON AUDIO LA5 TX PRE-AMPLIFIER
Line preamp.
4 inputs + tape monitor
Pure triode
2 x 6SN7
Gain x 3, 7dB
Motorised Blue ALPS potentiometer
Solen capacitors (Jensen option)
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Icon Audio LA5tx: High-Fidelity Preamplifier with Custom Output Transformers
Well-designed audio transformers are key to achieving perfect coupling in high-fidelity systems. Unlike solid-state designs, which can produce a "mechanical" sound, or capacitor-coupled outputs, which may introduce sonic deficiencies, a properly implemented transformer provides a more dynamic and precise reproduction.
At the heart of the LA5tx are two internally designed and developed line-level output transformers, refined over several years to deliver optimal tonal balance and the purest musical reproduction.
Superior Design for More Accurate Reproduction
While a passive transformer can be implemented, its performance heavily depends on the impedance of the preceding stage. If the impedance is too weak, the coupling will be inadequate, affecting the sound quality.
To eliminate this issue, the LA5tx employs a 6SN7 tube buffer, isolating the input impedance from the source. This ensures that the previous stage always encounters a high, stable impedance, preventing dependence on signal source strength.
The 6SN7 output provides a strong enough signal to drive our custom output transformers, enabling perfect balanced output, in addition to RCA connections.
With its low output impedance of just 250 Ω, the LA5tx can handle long interconnect cables without signal loss or degradation.
Ultimately, this combination of tubes and transformers provides superior performance compared to using a passive transformer alone.
High-Performance Power Supply
A high-end preamplifier requires an optimized power supply. The LA5tx features:
Dual-choke Pi-filtered power supply, ensuring clean and stable power delivery.
GZ34 rectifier tube, providing smoother sonic response compared to silicon diodes, enhancing texture and tonal fluidity.
DC heater supply, minimizing noise and ensuring thermal stability of the tubes.
This design results in an extremely quiet background, allowing music to flow with maximum transparency and detail.
Designed for High-End Power Amplifiers
The LA5tx is the perfect match for high-quality tube and solid-state power amplifiers, prioritizing musical purity over an overly analytical or sterile presentation.
The preamplifier features the iconic 6SN7 tube, one of the most highly regarded tubes since its introduction in 1940. Its larger size provides greater thermal stability and durability, while delivering a smoother, more natural sonic presentation.
Users can experiment with modern and vintage tube variants to further customize the sonic signature of the LA5tx.
Technical Specifications
Custom-designed Icon Audio output transformers
Hand-wired, point-to-point construction
Motorized ALPS Blue volume potentiometer
Optional stepped attenuator upgrade
All-triode design
Tube Configuration
2 x 6SN7 (amplification section)
1 x GZ34 (rectification) (compatible with 274B/5AR4)
Power Supply
High-voltage supply with dual chokes
DC heater supply for low noise
Sound Quality
Signal-to-noise ratio: -90 dB
Frequency Response:
20 Hz – 15 kHz (+0 / -0.5 dB)
13 Hz – 20 kHz (+0 / -1 dB)
7 Hz – 28 kHz (+0 / -3 dB)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.18% (0.5V output)
Gain: 3x (7 dB)
Maximum Output Level: 20V with 6.66V input
Output Impedance: 250 Ω (ultra-low, ideal for long interconnects)
Compatibility
Ideal for power amplifiers with sensitivity between 100mV and 2V
Premium Components
2W metal film and wire-wound resistors
Solen/SCR audio capacitors, upgradeable to Jensen
PTFE-insulated silver-plated copper internal wiring
Connectivity
Four line-level inputs
Balanced and RCA outputs
Tape loop (recording output)
Power Supply & Consumption
Voltage: 220/240V
Power Consumption: 75W
Dimensions & Weight
Width: 34.5 cm
Depth: 32 cm
Height:
19.5 cm (with 274B tube)
17 cm (with GZ34 tube)
Weight: 18 kg (packaged)
CE-certified
Customization and Upgrade Options
For discerning audiophiles, the LA5tx offers a wide range of tube and capacitor upgrades, allowing for further sonic refinement tailored to individual preferences.
For more details on available options, contact us to explore custom upgrade possibilities.
A Preamp Engineered for Pure Musicality
The Icon Audio LA5tx is a low-gain preamplifier, meticulously designed to provide optimal signal conversion through custom high-quality output transformers. Its 6SN7 buffer circuit ensures perfect impedance matching, resulting in a fluid, highly detailed reproduction without signal loss.
Designed for the most demanding power amplifiers, the LA5tx delivers an exceptional solution for those who seek maximum musicality and sonic purity.
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