Headphones amplifiers — Lehmann Audio Linear II

The Linear II is a headphone amplifier from Lehmann Audio, an updated version of the Linear sharing power and bandwidth specifications while offering a considerably improved signal-to-noise ratio. The Linear II brings Lehmann Audio's more accomplished current engineering to dedicated headphone amplification.

Key specs that matter

Maximum power reaches 400mW into 60 ohms or 200mW into 300 ohms, matching the original Linear. Frequency response spans 10Hz to 35,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Gain offers the same four steps - 0, 10, 18 or 20dBu. Total harmonic distortion is under an exceptionally low 0.001%, with signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 100dB - considerably improved over the original Linear's 70dB. Output impedance is 60 ohms at the pre-out or 5 ohms at the headphone output. At 110 x 280 x 50mm and 1.5kg, the Linear II shares identical chassis dimensions and weight with the original Linear.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean, detailed amplification reflecting the considerably improved over-100dB signal-to-noise figure, combined with comprehensive four-step gain adjustment matching the original Linear's flexibility.

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 original Linear offers the predecessor model within the same broader catalogue, while the Linear Pro sits within a related more accomplished series.