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Preamplifiers — Sugden Audio MASTERCLASS LA-4

Description, images, technical data and specifications

Sugden Audio MASTERCLASS LA-4
Image source — © Sugden Audio

The MASTERCLASS LA-4 is a preamplifier from Sugden Audio, part of the MASTERCLASS lineage, built with comprehensive four-input connectivity and a strong signal-to-noise figure. The MASTERCLASS LA-4 brings Sugden's considered engineering to dedicated line-level signal control.

Key specs that matter

Four single-ended inputs are provided, with one balanced and two single-ended outputs. Input sensitivity is 100mV. Frequency response spans a wide 15Hz to 30,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds a strong 90dB unweighted, with total harmonic distortion plus noise under 0.006%. At 75 x 430 x 350mm and 7.0kg, the MASTERCLASS LA-4 maintains a manageable preamplifier chassis reflecting Sugden's considered British engineering standards.

Sound and use context

Expect the warm, considered character Sugden's broader storied Class A engineering philosophy is celebrated for, with the strong over-90dB signal-to-noise figure combined with the wide 15Hz-30kHz bandwidth.

Pairing

Sugden's own MASTERCLASS PA-4 phono stage offers a natural, brand-coherent pairing within the same broader MASTERCLASS catalogue.

Alternatives

Sugden's own SAPPHIRE DAP-800 offers a more accomplished alternative with an exceptionally wide bandwidth within the same broader preamplifier catalogue.

Specifications

  • Model name

    MASTERCLASS LA-4

  • Analog inputs (balanced)

    N/A

  • Analog inputs (single-ended)

    4

  • Analog outputs (balanced)

    1

  • Analog outputs (single-ended)

    2

  • Gain (dBu)

    N/A

  • Input sensitivity (mV)

    100

  • Output voltage (V)

    N/A

  • Input impedance (balanced) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Input impedance (single-ended) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Output impedance (balanced) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Output impedance (single-ended) (Ω)

    N/A

  • Maximum output level (balanced) (dBu)

    N/A

  • Maximum output level (single-ended) (dBu)

    N/A

  • Volume control range (dBu)

    N/A

  • Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)

    15

  • Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)

    30 000

  • Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR, unweighted) (dB)

    >90

  • Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N) (%)

    <0.006

  • Dimensions (mm)

    75 x 430 x 350

  • Weight (kg)

    7.0

  • Official link

    https://www.sugdenaudio.com/la-4-pre-amplifier

Sugden Audio SAPPHIRE DAP-800

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