Lehmann Audio Linear D MkII Headphone Amplifier Streaming Preamplifier

Lehmannaudio Linear D MKII Delivers Pristine Audio for Headphones and Active Speakers

Lehmannaudio Linear D MKII is a high-fidelity headphone amplifier and digital streaming preamplifier that transforms the act of listening into a deeply immersive experience. Designed and manufactured in Germany, this refined piece of audiophile engineering builds upon the legacy of the original Linear model, first introduced in 2004, and elevates both analogue and digital playback to breathtaking new heights.

Linear D MKII Powers High-End Headphones with Discrete Class A Amplification

Linear D MKII drives premium headphones with uncompromising power and fidelity. At its core lies a discrete class A solid-state output stage capable of delivering 400 mW at 60 ohms or 200 mW at 300 ohms. With an ultra-low 5-ohm output impedance and dual Neutrik headphone jacks featuring gold-plated contacts, it provides a rich, noise-free signal path that excels in tonal purity and sonic resolution.

The dual headphone outputs run in parallel, allowing two users to listen simultaneously without degrading performance—perfect for shared listening sessions. Internally, users can choose from gain settings of 0 dB, 10 dB, 18 dB, or 20 dB via DIP switches, ensuring perfect synergy with low- or high-sensitivity headphones.

Linear D MKII Streams with Precision Using a Sabre DAC and Automatic Input Switching

Linear D MKII functions as a precision digital streaming preamplifier, powered by the renowned ESS Sabre K2M DAC. Its dual digital inputs—TOSLINK optical and 75-ohm RCA coaxial—support resolutions up to 24-bit/192 kHz, covering every major digital sampling rate from 32 kHz to 192 kHz. Automatic input prioritisation eliminates the need for manual toggling, streamlining usability and maintaining uninterrupted playback across source devices.

A silver mica-capacitor-filtered analogue output section ensures transient detail and harmonic accuracy, while the quad-layer PCB, implemented in Low-Z Copper, minimises high-frequency interference. These design choices bring out microdynamics and enhance depth—hallmarks of high-end audio playback.

Linear D MKII Elevates Audio Setups with Preamplifier Flexibility

Linear D MKII functions equally well as a streaming preamp for active loudspeakers. With a dedicated RCA pre-out (50-ohm impedance), it can seamlessly connect to powered monitors or integrated amplifiers. Whether part of a desktop rig or a minimalist hi-fi system, it serves as a central hub for digital and analogue sources alike.

The presence of one analogue input ensures backward compatibility with traditional sources like turntables (via phono stage) or CD players, automatically taking over when no digital signal is present. This adaptive input management enables hybrid listening systems without the need for external switchers.

Linear D MKII Ensures Pristine Performance with Audiophile Build and Vibration Isolation

Linear D MKII is engineered for stability, isolation, and aesthetic restraint. Its enclosure features a choice of aluminium faceplates in silver, black or chrome to suit different acoustic environments and visual preferences. A damped, oversized volume potentiometer offers tactile control and fine volume adjustments.

Lehmannaudio’s proprietary 3S Device Feet isolate the chassis from external vibrations, reducing resonance and enhancing focus across the frequency spectrum. Combined with the internally regulated 15-watt power supply and oversized components, the result is effortless musicality, deep bass articulation, and spatial clarity—even during dynamic peaks.

Lehmannaudio Linear D MKII Wins Awards for Sound Quality and Design Excellence

Linear D MKII consistently receives accolades for its sonic integrity and understated design. Recognised by publications like stereoplay, FIDELITY, and AUDIO, it has taken multiple first-place awards in the “Goldenes Ohr” headphone amplifier category, affirming its reputation as an audiophile favourite.

From studio environments to critical listening rooms, this amplifier/preamplifier hybrid demonstrates a balanced synergy of technical precision and musical emotion. Whether revisiting analogue favourites or exploring high-resolution digital audio, the Lehmannaudio Linear D MKII reveals every detail with grace, authority, and transparency.