LEAK Stereo 130 Integrated Amplifier

Retro Looks, Thoroughly Modern Circuitry

LEAK built some of Britain's most beloved amplifiers back in the 1950s and 60s. The Stereo 130 revives that name. The period styling is genuine, and it wraps a fully current feature set.

The Stereo 130 is rated at 45 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Into 4 ohms it makes 65. Current-feedback circuitry runs throughout, including in the headphone amplifier. That makes for fast, controlled sound. Total harmonic distortion stays under 0.005% at 30 watts.

Every Source You Own, Already Covered

An ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9018K2M DAC handles digital conversion. Optical and coaxial inputs take up to 24-bit/192kHz each. USB goes up to 384kHz PCM, plus DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256. Bluetooth with aptX priority covers wireless streaming from a phone or laptop.

A built-in moving-magnet phono stage with a JFET circuit welcomes a turntable straight into the system. No outboard preamp is required. Two RCA auxiliary inputs round out the analog side.

Tone Controls When You Want Them, Bypass When You Don't

A preamp output is there too. It can feed a separate power amp or a subwoofer down the road. Tone controls and a direct switch give you the choice. Shape the sound to your room, or route straight through for the purest possible signal path.

Built to Be Lived With

The Stereo 130 ships in a choice of Walnut or Silver finishes. Each has genuine wood or brushed metal detailing. It nods to LEAK's mid-century originals without feeling like a costume.

The Walnut version weighs just over 18 pounds. Silver comes in a touch smaller and lighter, at just over 15. A dedicated remote handles volume and source switching from the listening chair. It is also sold separately as a replacement.

What Reviewers Are Saying