Lehmann Audio Linear SE II Headphone Amplifier Preamplifier

Lehmannaudio Linear SE Headphone Amplifier Delivers Ultra Reference-Class Performance

Lehmannaudio Linear SE is a high-end headphone amplifier and preamplifier engineered to elevate the sonic experience for discerning audiophiles. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the Linear SE mk II version integrates precision analogue engineering, premium components, and modular aesthetic options to satisfy even the most exacting listening standards.

Linear SE Features Premium Signal Purity with Low-Z Copper Architecture

The Linear SE mk II features a thoroughly revised analogue board constructed with Low-Z Copper, optimised to maintain signal integrity and reduce resistance across the signal path. This advanced board supports an ultra reference-class amplification stage tailored for all dynamic headphones, delivering open, natural, and uncoloured sound. An oversized internal power supply, incorporating Mundorf capacitors in both the signal path and power stage, enhances headroom, dynamic stability, and tonal clarity.

The discrete Class A output stage ensures linear performance without crossover distortion, offering a wide frequency response from 10 Hz to 35 kHz and exceptionally low total harmonic distortion (<0.001% at 6 mW/300 ohms). The result is a clean, nuanced playback that reveals microdetails in the audio source, reproducing music as originally intended.

Linear SE Offers Adjustable Gain and Robust Preamp Capability

This headphone amplifier provides selectable gain levels (0 dB, 10 dB, 18 dB, 20 dB), configurable via DIP switches to accommodate a wide range of headphone sensitivities and source outputs. With a maximum output of 400 mW into 60 ohms or 200 mW into 300 ohms, the Linear SE can confidently drive high-impedance headphones while preserving soundstage and precision.

Two headphone outputs, fitted with gold-plated Neutrik jacks, allow simultaneous listening or easy switching between headphone models. A pre-out with 60-ohm output impedance enables the Linear SE to function as a single-source preamplifier, comfortably driving long cable runs in desktop or rack-mounted hi-fi configurations.

Linear SE Combines Acoustic Excellence with Customisable Industrial Design

The housing of the Linear SE is a minimalist yet luxurious chassis created by designer Guido Gutenstein. Available in silver or black semi-gloss aluminium, the case exudes understated elegance. Customisation extends to the front panel finish—offered in aluminium silver, black, or chrome—as well as to the potentiometer knob and LED colour options (blue, red, green, yellow, white, orange).

The vibration-damping 3S Device Feet, available in black or silver, are standard and contribute to mechanical isolation, reducing microphonic interference from surfaces and preserving tonal accuracy. Each unit integrates internal Mogami cabling—known for its low capacitance and reliability—ensuring signal fidelity from input to output.

Linear SE Integrates USB and TOSLINK DAC Options for Digital Source Compatibility

Digital configurations for the Linear SE expand its utility as a hybrid amplifier and DAC. The USB-DAC module supports resolutions up to 384 kHz / 32-bit, prioritising USB input over line-level analogue input. The TOSLINK/SPDIF DAC variation supports up to 192 kHz / 24-bit playback, with automatic prioritisation across TOSLINK, RCA digital, and analogue inputs.

This flexible digital topology allows the Linear SE to serve as the heart of both traditional hi-fi and modern digital audio setups, accommodating streamers, CD transports, and computer audio sources with ease.

Lehmannaudio Linear SE Combines Award-Winning Legacy with Reference-Grade Performance

Recognised by i-fidelity.net and stereoplay, the Linear SE continues to be an industry benchmark in headphone amplification. With its exceptional signal-to-noise ratio (>100 dB at 0 dB gain), channel separation (>70 dB at 10 kHz), and premium construction, it stands as a definitive choice for audiophiles who demand uncompromised musical immersion.

Whether as a dedicated headphone amplifier or as a precision preamp in a minimalist high-fidelity system, the Lehmannaudio Linear SE mk II represents an extraordinary convergence of engineering precision, acoustic purity, and aesthetic refinement.