LEAK Stereo 230 integrated amplifier
Best integrated amplifier for audiophiles seeking vintage style with modern connectivity.
Experience exceptional audio with the LEAK Stereo 230 integrated amplifier, blending classic design with modern performance. It delivers robust Class AB amplification for dynamic sound and features a high-quality ES9038Q2M DAC for pristine digital playback. Seamlessly integrate with your home theater using HDMI ARC, or connect your turntable to its dedicated MM phono stage. With comprehensive connectivity and a refined aesthetic, the Stereo 230 is the perfect centerpiece for any discerning audio system, offering both power and clarity.
$1995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
934
/ 1719
#934 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-76%
Below average
Amplifier Class
Class AB
/ Class AB
Who it's for
- Listeners requiring powerful amplification for demanding speaker setups
- Design-conscious audiophiles seeking a vintage-inspired centerpiece
- Vinyl enthusiasts and digital listeners needing versatile connectivity
Who should skip it
- Users with limited shelf space or compact furniture
- Modern listeners who prefer all-in-one network streaming solutions
- Premium buyers expecting a high-end tactile remote experience
Performance breakdown
Amplification Power
Class AB circuitry provides robust, dynamic drive for most bookshelf speakers.
Digital Precision
The ES9038Q2M DAC delivers exceptional clarity for high-resolution digital audio files.
Connectivity Versatility
HDMI ARC and USB-B inputs bridge the gap between modern and legacy.
Phono Stage Quality
Dedicated MM input offers a warm, authentic experience for vinyl enthusiasts.
Build Aesthetic
Classic vintage styling meets modern industrial precision in a substantial chassis.
Headphone Performance
Dedicated circuitry ensures a clean, detailed signal for private listening sessions.
Key Specs
Amplifier Class
Class AB
Power Output
2 x 75W (8Ω) / 2 x 115W (4Ω)
D/A Converter
ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.003% (1kHz @30W/8Ω)
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz (+/-0.3dB)
Digital Input Support
Up to DSD512 via USB-B
Dimensions
12.83" x 5.74" x 16.2"
Weight
28 lbs
Features
- Audiophile-grade Class AB amplification
- Integrated MM phono pre-amplifier
- Reference-grade ES9038Q2M DAC
- HDMI ARC for home theater integration
- Dedicated headphone amplifier
- High-resolution Bluetooth streaming
- Versatile analog and digital inputs
What customers say
The LEAK Stereo 230 earns high praise for successfully merging nostalgic design with modern performance. Reviewers consistently highlight the stunning retro aesthetic, especially the real wood veneer, which stands out in today's market. Sonically, the amplifier delivers a warm, rich, and highly musical sound signature that maintains detail. A key strength is its modern versatility, featuring a high-quality built-in DAC and a practical HDMI ARC input for easy integration with home entertainment systems. While positioned in the premium mid-range, customers feel the exceptional build quality and unique visual appeal justify the investment. It expertly bridges vintage charm and contemporary functionality.
Know before you buy
Yes, the amplifier features a dedicated moving magnet (MM) phono stage, allowing you to plug your turntable directly into the unit without needing an external pre-amplifier.
The HDMI ARC port allows you to connect your TV directly to the amplifier, enabling you to control the volume of your audio system using your existing TV remote while routing high-quality sound through your speakers.
The integrated ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC is a reference-grade component that ensures high-fidelity digital-to-analog conversion. It supports high-resolution audio formats, including DSD512 via the USB-B input, providing clean and detailed playback for your digital music library.
The Stereo 230 includes a dedicated headphone amplifier designed to drive a wide range of headphones effectively. It provides a high-quality listening experience that maintains the clarity and dynamic range of the main speaker output.
With a power output of 75W per channel at 8Ω and 115W at 4Ω, this amplifier is capable of driving most bookshelf and floor-standing speakers comfortably. Its Class AB design offers a balanced, dynamic sound profile that pairs well with a variety of speaker sensitivities.
Yes, the unit supports high-resolution Bluetooth streaming, allowing you to wirelessly play music from your smartphone or tablet while maintaining excellent audio fidelity.
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