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Please explain the relationship between the MicroZOTL2.0, MZ2, and MZ2-S

Our first product was a re-introduction of David Berning's MicroZOTL amplifier, which we named the MicroZOTL2.0.

Since then we've made many small and several larger changes to the case and components we use, but we have always used and continue to use Berning's original circuit. When we added an improved power supply, that product eventually took on the name "MicroZOTL2.0 Deluxe".

When we decided to use NOS 12SN7 tubes and manually alter the circuit to allow this, we created the "MZ2-S" around this, with a further upgraded power supply and some other improvements.

Eventually we replaced the manually altered circuit boards with jumpered boards, which negated the need for completely separate products, and we decided to discontinue certain aspects of the MicroZOTL2.0, like the locking headphone jack and the color scheme, while making other features that the MZ2-S had introduced available as options for any order. The "S" went from denoting these upgrades to essentially meaning the same thing that "Deluxe" had before it; an amp with an upgraded power supply.

The "MZ2" therefore took the place of the "MicroZOTL2.0", as our amps were now markedly changed from what the MicroZOTL2.0 had until then been.

To make all of this more confusing, many people still refer to any model as a MicroZOTL. The most important thing is that we'll make sure you get the features you want regardless of what it's called in the process. 

Today, we simply refer to the all of the above as the MZ2. The newer model upgrade is called the MZ3.


Related Products

microZOTL MZ3 Headphone Amp / Preamp / Integrated Amp

Small and mighty. The highest expression of the patented microZOTL technology as a headphone amplifier, a preamplifier, and integrated amplifier in a desktop-sized package.


Related FAQs

What’s the difference between the MZ2 and the MZ3?

The MZ2 is the amp that put us on the map. It is much-loved by customers and reviewers alike, garnering many rewards at audio shows worldwide. The MZ2 remains a fantastic choice for its price point. That’s why we continue to manufacture and sell the MZ2.

That said, the MZ3 is significantly better than the MZ2, as you would expect given its higher price. The MZ3 is an end-game headphone amp, reference-level preamplifier, and an integrated amp that will drive sensitive speakers to thundering levels in critical listening environments.

The MZ3 comes wrapped in a new low-resonance milled aluminum chassis, designed and made by award-winning industrial design firm, Fern & Roby.

Inside its new case, the MZ3 contains new circuit board material, new volume control technology, upgrades in wire, capacitors, and a set of curated, premium tubes. It also ships with our top of the line linear power supply, the LPS+.

Sonically, the MZ3 is the clearest, cleanest sounding microZOTL yet. It has a lower noise floor, which will be hard for some to believe given the pitch-black backgrounds of the MZ2, and it’s and more musical. A lot more.


Related Products

microZOTL MZ3 Headphone Amp / Preamp / Integrated Amp

Small and mighty. The highest expression of the patented microZOTL technology as a headphone amplifier, a preamplifier, and integrated amplifier in a desktop-sized package.


Related FAQs