Priced at $28,000 per stereo pair, the first production run of Century Monoblocks will ship in November in a brushed Quicksilver finish. A Carbon Black edition will follow later this year.
For the first time in an LTA amplifier, the Century Monoblocks incorporate a screen-driven output stage within Berning’s patented ZOTL topology. In this configuration, EL84 pentodes control the screen grids of NOS 6JN6 beam power tubes, enabling efficient pentode operation while retaining the tonal fluidity characteristic of triode designs. The result is billed as an amplifier that combines speed, clarity, and spatial realism with the dimensional warmth of tube sound.
The design is engineered for speakers that challenge conventional tube amplifiers. Complex impedance curves, capacitive loads, and low-sensitivity drivers often expose the limitations of transformer-coupled circuits. By contrast, the Century Monoblocks maintain low output impedance and wide bandwidth without an output transformer, avoiding hysteresis and phase distortion while delivering firm control and extended frequency response. The presentation remains detailed, dynamic, and uncompressed even into difficult speaker loads.
Each unit is hand-built in Maryland, reflecting the company’s emphasis on precision and craftsmanship. The dual monoblock chassis is formed from non-magnetic aluminum with full Faraday shielding to minimize interference. Internally, the signal path utilizes boutique capacitors, non-magnetic resistors, and ferrite core impedance converters specifically selected for their tonal integrity. Voicing is finalized through extended listening sessions, with musical naturalness prioritized over measurement extremes.
Modern convenience complements the circuit innovation. The amplifiers feature auto biasing, automatic voltage selection (100 to 260 VAC), and adjustable global feedback accessible through a front panel selector. Built-in protection circuits and cool-running tubes contribute to long-term reliability, while the absence of output transformers keeps the weight to 26.5 pounds (12 kilograms) per chassis.
Rated at 110 watts into 8 ohms and 144 watts into 4 ohms with stability below 2 ohms, the Century Monoblocks deliver the authority required for full range panels, planars, and electrostatics. Frequency response reaches 1.3 Hz to 90 kHz at 8 ohms in NORM, 1.14 Hz to 64 kHz in MED, and 1.3 Hz to 44 kHz in LOW. At 4 ohms it extends 1.3 Hz to 58 kHz in NORM, 1.17 Hz to 46 kHz in MED, and 1.23 Hz to 37 kHz in LOW. The amplifiers support both XLR and RCA inputs, dual binding posts for bi-wiring, and selectable feedback options for system matching.
The Linear Tube Audio Century Monoblock Power Amplifiers are available for order now through select dealers, with first deliveries beginning in November 2025.
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