Headphones amplifiers — Lehmann Audio Linear

The Linear is a headphone amplifier from Lehmann Audio, a German manufacturer known for accomplished, considered electronics engineering, built with comprehensive multi-step gain adjustment. The Linear brings Lehmann Audio's considered engineering to dedicated headphone amplification.

Key specs that matter

Maximum power reaches 400mW into 60 ohms or 200mW into 300 ohms. Frequency response spans 10Hz to 35,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Gain offers four steps - 0, 10, 18 or 20dBu - a comprehensive range accommodating a wide variety of headphone sensitivities. Total harmonic distortion is under an exceptionally low 0.001% at 1V RMS into 300 ohms, with signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 70dB. Output impedance is 50 ohms at the pre-out or 5 ohms at the headphone output. At 110 x 280 x 50mm and 1.5kg, the Linear maintains a manageable headphone amplifier chassis.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean, detailed amplification reflecting the near-immeasurable 0.001% distortion figure, combined with comprehensive four-step gain adjustment accommodating headphones from high-sensitivity in-ear monitors through demanding full-size designs.

Pairing

The four-step gain adjustment and low 5-ohm headphone output impedance suit a wide variety of headphone impedances and sensitivities.

Alternatives

Lehmann Audio's own Linear II offers an updated version with a somewhat improved signal-to-noise figure within the same broader catalogue.