LTA’s flagship tube electronics. Hand-built in Maryland, sold through select dealers.
Century Monoblock
To mark our tenth anniversary, Linear Tube Audio (LTA) is pleased to announce the release of the Century Monoblocks, flagship high-powered ZOTL (Zero-Hysteresis Output Transformerless) amplifiers developed in collaboration with renowned audio designer David Berning. The Century Monoblocks are available for order through select dealers, in brushed Quicksilver or Carbon Black finish.
The Century Monoblocks represent the culmination of a decade of innovation, inspired by the precision and endurance of the century ride—a cycling milestone of 100 miles—and designed for audiophiles seeking both power and finesse. By integrating LTA’s latest advancements with Berning’s celebrated ZOTL architecture, the Century amplifiers offer compelling performance for listeners with demanding speakers, including electrostatics, planars, and low-sensitivity designs.
“Once experienced, nothing else will do.”
“I know of no other monoblock amplifier in this price range—whether tube or solid-state—that has given me such a pleasurable listening experience.”
“They remain one of the most exciting amplifiers we’ve experienced.”
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For the first time in LTA’s lineup, the Century Monoblocks utilize a screen-driven output stage within the ZOTL topology. EL84 pentodes steer the screen grids of NOS 6JN6 beam power tubes, enabling efficient pentode operation while maintaining the linearity and fluidity associated with triodes. This arrangement results in fast, detailed reproduction with outstanding depth—uncolored and effortless.
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Conventional tube amplifiers can struggle with complex impedance or capacitive speaker loads, often leading to shifts in frequency response and diminished control. The Century Monoblocks overcome these limitations with inherently low output impedance and wide bandwidth. Their transformerless architecture eliminates the hysteresis, phase shifts, and frequency-dependent distortions typical of transformer-coupled designs, delivering the speed and grip of transistor electronics while preserving the dimensionality and holographic soundstage that define great tube amplification. The result is effortless authority and control, even with demanding crossovers and full-range panels.
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Each Century amplifier is hand-built in Maryland, using components selected for sonic purity and musicality. Non-magnetic resistors, custom ferrite-core impedance converters, and a minimalist signal path contribute to a stunningly realistic presentation. Voicing is refined through extensive listening sessions, and casings utilize non-magnetic aluminum with comprehensive Faraday shielding for optimal noise rejection.
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The Century Monoblocks build upon Berning’s Quadrature Z heritage, delivering lower noise, enhanced stability, and modern convenience. Features include auto-biasing, global voltage compatibility (100-260 VAC), built-in protection circuits, adjustable global feedback, and cool-running tubes for long-term reliability. The amplifiers are notably light due to the absence of output transformers.
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Inputs: XLR and RCA, with all amplification stages balanced
Power Output: 110W into 8 Ω / 144W into 4 Ω @ 1% THD
Burst Output: 178W (4 Ω) @ 1% THD, 196W (4 Ω) @ 2% THD
Topology: Fully differential, ZOTL Push Pull Class AB with new Screen Drive and Pentode driver control system
Tubes: 4 × NOS 6JN6 Compactron beam power pentodes per channel, 2 × EL84 pentode drivers, 2 × 7062/E180CC and 1 × 12AU7 input and gain stage
Construction: Dual monoblock chassis, non-magnetic aluminum casework, full Faraday cage shielding
Adjustable Feedback: Front-panel selector for LOW/MED/NORM settings
Components: Non-magnetic resistors, boutique capacitors, advanced ferrite impedance cores, dual binding post outputs to support bi-wiring, and rear panel GND post
Features: Auto-biasing, automatic voltage selection, built-in current and DC offset protection, low heat output, 3400V peak-to-peak power tube voltage swing, ~ 1 Farad storage capacitance, 3 times tube life
Frequency Response: 8 Ω: LOW: 1.2Hz to 50kHz (+0/-3dB), 3Hz to 20kHz(+0/-0.5dB); MED: 1.3Hz to 89kHz (+0/-3dB), 4Hz to 60kHz(+0/-0.5 dB) ; NORM: 1.3Hz to 90kHz (+0/-3dB), 4.5Hz to 90kHz( +0/-0.5 dB)
Input Impedance: RCA: 20k (LOW), 26k (MED), 47k (NORM); XLR: 28k (LOW), 36k (MED), 94k (NORM)
Output impedance: 0.85 Ω (NORM), 2.1 Ω (MED), 5.6 Ω (LOW)
Power Requirements: 100-260 VAC, 50-60 Hz, power factor corrected
Size: 18.5” Wide, 5.5 inch Tall, 19” Deep
Weight: 26.5 lbs (12 kg) each
“The performance exceeded that of any subwoofer I have heard.”
With these latest designs, Linear Tube Audio transcends expectations for what is possible with tube amplification—ushering in a new generation of products that redefine realism, precision, and musical connection.
The Century products stand as a testament to LTA’s pursuit of musical engagement through thoughtful engineering and artisanal craftsmanship. Listeners are invited to discover music with both palpable authority and immersive transparency, where the amplifier disappears and the performance truly comes alive.
Please contact us for dealer inquiries or for more information.