89%
Lehmann Audio Linear II
Everything which has made the Linear headphone amplifier a legend already since 2004, has now become even better: the Linear II lifts the qualities of our reference model to a new standard.
Experience detailed lucidity when playing your music, effortless lightness even with high signal levels and the low-artefact reproduction of complex music pieces. The Linear II redefines vividness in the reproduction completely. That way you can enjoy even the longest listening sessions without fatigue and with greatest pleasure.
Powerful, spirited, sovereign
In connection with the elaborately designed pc board in Low-Z copper technology the powerful class-A output stage plays even more dynamically and takes you a big step closer to the music. Mundorf capacitors in the power supply and in the signal path deliver an impressive room imaging and transient response. 3S device feet ensure maximum mechanical quietness for the Linear II.
Not only while enjoying music with one or two headphones, but also when connected to active speakers or a power amplifier, the Linear II delivers its ultimate performance. Allow yourself to be surprised by a punchy, authentic sound which is unique for a device of this size!
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Lehmann Audio Linear II
The Lehmann Audio Linear II is a compact, purpose-built headphone amplifier and minimalist line preamp that delivers a neutral, highly revealing sound with a broad, natural soundstage. Marc Rushton for StereoNET United Kingdom found it crisply detailed without harshness: full, extended bass, a controlled top end and a precise midrange that preserves transient detail. Performance highlights include ample dynamics and headroom (400 mW/60 Ω; selectable gains) and a very low noise floor (SNR >100 dB), making it well suited for demanding headphones. Built from quality parts — toroidal transformer, Mundorf caps and Neutrik jacks — it feels robust and refined. Ideal for studio monitoring or critical desktop listening, the Linear II rewards listeners who prioritise fidelity over bells and whistles.
Pros
- Highly revealing, neutral presentation that retains transient detail and clarity.
- Strong dynamics and headroom capable of driving full-size headphones (400 mW/60 Ω) with selectable gain settings.
- Very low noise floor and silent operation, supporting critical listening and studio monitoring.
- High-quality build and components (toroidal transformer, Mundorf capacitors, Neutrik jacks) for reliable, refined operation.
&
Cons
- Lacks balanced outputs and digital inputs (basic model has no USB/DAC), limiting modern connectivity options.
- Very simple input set and no remote control, which can be a drawback if used primarily as a preamp.
- Unit can run mildly warm to the touch after extended use.
Sound Quality
90/100
The review notes strong dynamic behavior — 'more power than the Auralic' and the ability to drive AKG phones ~6 dB louder, with no softening of transients and 'great immediacy'. Comment that it can be driven to maximum without clipping indicates ample headroom and punch for most desktop headphones.
Noise Floor
87/100
Although the review does not explicitly say 'dead quiet', the published spec (SNR >100 dB at 0 dB gain) and the review's lack of hiss complaints imply a very quiet background. Solid‑state topology and the reviewer’s emphasis on cleanliness/support for detail justify a high score appropriate for IEM suitability without claiming reference-level silence.
Headphone Compatibility
86/100
Outputs deliver 400 mW/60 Ω and 200 mW/300 Ω with a phones output impedance of 5 Ω and selectable gains (0/10/18/20 dB), enabling it to drive a wide range of headphones; the reviewer specifically mentions driving AKG phones louder than a comparator. Lack of balanced outputs and a 5 Ω output impedance mean it’s excellent for most full-size headphones but not the ultimate cherrypicker for very low-impedance multi-driver IEMs or extreme planars.
Build Quality
94/100
Reviewer praises build as 'very good' with a magnetically-shielded toroidal transformer, Mundorf capacitors in the PSU and 'high-quality components throughout'. The internal/external construction receives strong commendation with no material criticisms noted.
Features Connectivity
84/100
Feature set is intentionally simple: gold-plated Neutrik headphone jacks, RCA inputs and a pre-out, two headphone outputs and DIP switches for multiple gain settings. The unit lacks a built-in DAC, digital inputs, balanced outputs and remote control, placing it above the bare minimum but short of a full-featured modern DAC/amp.
Value for Money
92/100
The reviewer explicitly calls the Linear 'beautifully made, looks good and offers excellent value for money', endorsing its price-to-performance proposition. That clear positive language supports a high value score relative to its segment.
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