Lehmann Audio Black Cube SE II Phono Preamplifier

Black Cube SE II Elevates Phono Playback

Black Cube SE II phono preamplifier is a high-fidelity analogue stage designed to extract unparalleled detail, dynamics and emotional impact from vinyl recordings. As the refined evolution of the acclaimed Black Cube SE, the SE II builds on an award-winning foundation with meticulously upgraded components and audiophile-grade engineering, achieving extraordinary transparency and tonal nuance that appeals to vinyl purists and enthusiasts of bespoke analogue systems.

Black Cube SE II Delivers Precision RIAA Equalisation

Black Cube SE II is a low-noise phono stage with ultra-precise passive RIAA equalisation designed to preserve transient accuracy and channel balance. Its filter network, implemented between two linear gain stages, uses high-grade, low-tolerance MKP capacitors to ensure exceptionally clean signal processing with accurate stereo imaging and spatial localisation. This configuration delivers rhythmic authority and tonal fidelity that captures the expressive depth of every recording.

With selectable gain settings ranging from 36 dB to 66 dB, the Black Cube SE II caters to both high-output MM cartridges and low-output MC designs. A custom impedance slot and hardwired load socket provide extensive matching flexibility for exotic and sensitive pickups, giving users granular control over input behaviour to fine-tune playback characteristics to suit a wide range of cartridges.

Black Cube SE II Features High-End Power Supply Integration

Black Cube SE II features the PWX external power supply for superior dynamics and sonic stability. Lehmannaudio engineers have paired the SE II with an oversized toroidal transformer and static shielding to deliver a consistently clean and robust power foundation. This enables more effortless reproduction, especially in passages demanding both delicacy and impact — from the sweeping nuances of classical symphonies to the visceral drive of rock and big band jazz.

The PWX power unit also operates with low electromagnetic interference and enhanced isolation, supporting a relaxed and immersive listening experience even at high volumes. A shielded power cable ensures integrity between the supply and the phono stage, mitigating signal degradation in sensitive analogue paths.

Black Cube SE II Enhances Flexibility with Custom Bass Filtering

Black Cube SE II includes a 16-setting soft bass roll-off filter to fine-tune low-end performance. This thoughtful feature allows precision management of subsonic content and room-mode compensation, especially in systems without external rumble filters. Whether managing vintage warped records or optimising for full-range loudspeakers or subwoofers, the filter settings—adjustable between 7 Hz and approximately 90 Hz—let users craft a tailored low-frequency response without compromising musical integrity.

This depth of customisation reflects Lehmannaudio’s commitment to providing not just transparency, but control — empowering users to shape how their system interacts with the physical and acoustic environment.

Black Cube SE II Embodies Mechanical and Electrical Integrity

Black Cube SE II is engineered with non-magnetic aluminium housing and a mechanically dampened top cover to resist microphonic artefacts and resonance-induced coloration. Gold-plated RCA connectors ensure robust contact with interconnects, and the compact form factor offers space-efficient integration into rack systems or minimalist setups. The architecture ensures not just sonic purity, but mechanical reliability — a feature often overlooked but essential in achieving true reference-level analogue reproduction.

The housing is available with optional faceplates in silver, black or chrome finishes, allowing visual harmony with both contemporary and classic hi-fi components.

Black Cube SE II Wins Industry Praise and Audiophile Loyalty

Black Cube SE II is widely acknowledged as a true audiophile phono stage by reviewers and publications across the audio spectrum. Garnering first-place recognition in multiple reader-based and editorial awards—including the Goldenes Ohr, Hi-Fi News Editor’s Choice, and Analog Planet Gruvy Award—the SE II continues to set a high standard for its class. Its ability to reveal previously unheard details in familiar recordings makes it a compelling upgrade for vinyl lovers seeking genuine emotional connection and clarity from their analogue library.

The synergy between its discrete gain architecture, versatile filtering, and external PWX supply places it in a rare category: a phono stage that doesn’t just amplify, but transforms the listening experience.