PC & Servers — Lucas Audio Labs MiniMax

The MiniMax is the middle music server of the three LDMS models from Lucas Audio Labs, the maker founded in 2017 by Lucas Domansky, whose initials give the LDMS name. Priced at GBP 9,450, it sits between the Maximus at GBP 16,500 and the compact Pico endpoint, and Lucas aims it at dedicated listening rooms and main systems. An earlier version used a narrower 276 mm chassis derived from the Mini, and the current MiniMax has grown to full width.

Key specs that matter

The server is an all-in-one box measuring 430 mm wide, 420 mm deep and 115 mm high. It has a programmable linear power supply, which can be mounted inside the case or supplied as an external unit. Storage uses SSDs, two drives of 4 TB each for a maximum of 8 TB. The digital output is S/PDIF Level 2 on a BNC socket, and USB reclocking and reclocked S/PDIF and I2S are included. Roon Core, UPnP, a flexible front end and video streaming are part of the software package, and custom internal wiring is fitted.

Engineering and use context

Lucas applies the same list of measures as on its top model, covering shielding against EMI and RFI, galvanic isolation, mechanical damping of the chassis, heat management and software tuning. Galvanic isolation breaks the electrical connection between the computer ground and the audio output, so noise from the processor and drives does not travel along the cable to the DAC. Solid-state drives have no moving parts, which removes the mechanical noise and vibration of a hard disk. Reclocking regenerates the timing of the outputs before they leave the unit. The choice of an internal or external linear supply lets the owner trade a single box against extra distance between the transformer and the computer. Compared with the Maximus, the MiniMax has a lower case and a smaller maximum storage, lists no AES/EBU output and comes with two free software updates rather than four. The customisation options match those of the larger model, with a choice of top cover colours, logo inserts, front panels, LED colours and engraving, while the bottom is black only. Owners also join the LDMS Family Club.

Pairing

The BNC output connects to DACs with a coaxial input, the USB output to converters with a USB receiver, and Roon Core lets the server feed other Roon endpoints on the network.

Alternatives

The Lucas Audio Labs Maximus is the top server with a 430 W linear supply, AES/EBU output and storage up to 16 TB.