Since its introduction in 1997, the TL-5.5 has earned a reputation for outstanding performance at an economical price. Now, VTL has significantly upgraded this preamp, using many of the technological innovations derived from the flagship TL-7.5 preamplifier. The result is a modern full-featured preamplifier that outperforms in every way, making it one of the top values of any tube preamplifier in its category.
The fundamental qualities that made the original TL-5.5 special—its all-tube design, the optional retrofittable phono stage, and its superb sonic characteristics—are unchanged. What’s new is the application of advanced audio technology sourced from VTL’s TL-7.5 Reference and TL-6.5 Signature preamplifiers. This technology uses a simple circuit topology with low negative feedback and a high current/low impedance output stage in a low-noise microprocessor-based design. Top quality parts, fully balanced operation, and precision-regulated and shielded power supplies yield a full yet neutral sound with high resolution, transparency, speed and powerful dynamics.
Much of the engineering prowess inherent in these world-class preamps has been transferred to the new TL5.5. New fully regulated power supplies are similar to those of its bigger siblings and the unit is now fully balanced, for inputs as well as outputs.
VTL has delivered on its goal of bringing advanced engineering and modern functionality to the new TL-5.5 Series II preamplifier. With the same highly intuitive user interface of the renowned TL-7.5 and 6.5, and a full-function remote, the new TL-5.5 is a pleasure to use. A rigid, well-shielded chassis yields quiet operation while bi-directional RS-232 serial interface allows for seamless integration into any audio system. A luxurious cosmetic makeover includes a sleek and visually striking precision-milled faceplate similar to those used on its much more expensive brethren. For a well-priced, high-performance all-tube preamplifier, the TL-5.5 is a truly fine addition to any system.
Functionality features
Almost half the price of the TL-6.5 Signature Preamplifier
Luxurious cosmetics to match with Reference and Signature models
Fully balanced differential linestage with increased functionality
Optional internally retrofittable phono stage, with user adjustable cartridge loading and gain options
Precision-regulated B+ and B- supplies
Tube life extender circuit with B+ delay and soft filament ramp on power on
Balanced design, low-radiation power transformer
Quiet logic: Microprocessor sleep mode, quiet non-matrixing LED display with latching shift registers
Line Stage: All-tube, with lower gain high current 12AU7 circuit and 12AT7 buffer, minimal negative feedback
Two balanced /single-ended inputs, five single-ended inputs, one tape in, one balanced out, one single-ended out, one buffered record out
Soft-touch relay input select
117-step chip-based differential volume control, with 3-digit display
Higher resolution via single higher-resolution attenuator, and software control for balance and offset
Switchable gain between normal and low gain
Mono control on front panel
Fully bi-directional RS-232 control: programmable input offset, any input programmable as pass-through, and input disable, tape monitor and Mono control on front panel
Two programmable trigger outputs
Full function aluminum metal remote
TP-6.5 chassis size with all precision machined aluminum cosmetic
Technical Specifications
Vacuum Tube Complement
2 x 12AU7, 4 x 12AT7 (line stage)
Inputs
2 pair balanced/XLR or RCA single-ended, 6 pairs single-ended/RCA
Outputs
1 pair balanced out, 1 pair single-ended RCA out, 1 pair single-ended RCA buffered Record Out
