Audio T Verdict
The Leema Acoustics Pyxis II is a reference-quality control centre for customers who want to bring analogue, vinyl and selected digital sources together without compromising the signal path.
Its fully balanced analogue design, balanced XLR outputs and extensive source connectivity make it a natural partner for the Leema Hydra II, while conventional RCA outputs allow it to work with a wide range of other power amplifiers.
This Audio T version includes Leema’s MM/MC phono stage, providing a high-quality route for both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges. Input gain adjustment, tone controls, phase inversion, mono operation and AV Direct also make it unusually adaptable.
For an ambitious pre-power system requiring excellent vinyl replay, flexible source management and the upgrade potential of Leema’s LIPS control system, the Pyxis II remains a formidable pre-amplifier.
Leema Acoustics Pyxis II Pre-Amplifier
The Leema Acoustics Pyxis II is a reference stereo pre-amplifier designed to control a wide range of analogue and digital sources before supplying a variable signal to a separate power amplifier.
This Audio T product includes Leema’s factory-fitted moving-magnet and moving-coil phono stage.
Its principal features include:
- A fully balanced analogue signal path
- Factory-fitted MM/MC phono stage
- Two stereo balanced XLR input pairs
- Five stereo unbalanced RCA source inputs
- Dedicated tape-loop connectivity
- Front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital input
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- USB-B computer-audio connection
- Balanced XLR pre-amplifier output
- Unbalanced RCA pre-amplifier output
- Front-panel headphone output
- Adjustable input gain
- Bass and treble adjustment with bypass
- Balance, mono and phase-inversion controls
- Assignable AV Direct operation
- Leema Intelligent Protocol System connectivity
- Infrared remote control
- Black or silver finish
What Does a Pre-Amplifier Do?
The Pyxis II sits between the source components and power amplification.
It manages:
- Source selection
- Listening volume
- Left and right balance
- Input gain
- Mute
- Optional tonal adjustment
- Headphone listening
- System-control commands
A separate power amplifier then supplies the current and voltage required to drive the loudspeakers.
Separating these functions allows the sensitive source-selection and volume-control stages to be housed away from the large transformers and high-current circuitry used for power amplification.
Fully Balanced Analogue Design
The Pyxis II uses a fully balanced analogue signal path.
In a balanced circuit, the positive and negative phases of the audio waveform are handled separately. This requires additional circuitry, but can provide:
- Improved rejection of common electrical interference
- Excellent left and right channel separation
- Low background noise
- Stable stereo imaging
- Preservation of low-level musical information
- Suitability for longer interconnects
The advantages are most fully realised when a balanced source and balanced power amplifier are connected through the Pyxis II’s XLR inputs and outputs.
Balanced XLR Inputs
Two stereo pairs of balanced XLR inputs are provided for compatible source components.
They may be used with suitable:
- CD players
- Music streamers
- Digital-to-analogue converters
- External phono stages
- Professional or studio sources
A balanced connection can be particularly useful when the source offers genuine balanced output circuitry and the interconnect must run close to mains cables or other electrically noisy equipment.
Five RCA Analogue Inputs
The Pyxis II provides five stereo unbalanced RCA source inputs for conventional line-level equipment.
Compatible sources may include:
- CD players
- Music streamers
- External DACs
- Tuners
- Cassette decks
- Reel-to-reel recorders
- Televisions with suitable analogue outputs
- Additional phono stages
The extensive input selection allows several sources to remain permanently connected without repeatedly changing cables.
Factory-Fitted MM/MC Phono Stage
The Audio T version of the Pyxis II includes Leema’s internal phono stage for moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges.
A phono stage performs two essential functions:
- It amplifies the very low output produced by a turntable cartridge
- It applies the RIAA equalisation required for accurate record playback
The Pyxis II phono stage is designed to accommodate a broad range of cartridge types while keeping the turntable signal within the main pre-amplifier chassis.
Moving-Magnet Cartridge Compatibility
Moving-magnet cartridges generally provide a higher output than moving-coil designs and are commonly fitted to turntables across a wide range of prices.
The MM setting may be suitable for cartridges from manufacturers including:
- Rega
- Ortofon
- Audio-Technica
- Nagaoka
- Goldring
Compatibility should be confirmed using the cartridge manufacturer’s output and loading recommendations rather than relying on cartridge type alone.
Moving-Coil Cartridge Compatibility
Moving-coil cartridges generally provide a much lower output and require greater gain from the phono stage.
The MC setting allows the Pyxis II to be used with suitably matched low-output moving-coil cartridges.
Important matching considerations include:
- Cartridge output voltage
- Recommended load impedance
- Coil impedance
- Turntable cable capacitance
- Required system gain
- Normal listening level
Audio T can confirm compatibility and configure the phono stage for the selected cartridge.
Confirm the Phono Setting Before Playing a Record
Moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges require different gain and loading arrangements.
Using the wrong configuration can produce extremely low output, excessive volume, noise or overload. Switch the system off before changing cartridge or phono-stage settings.
Integrated Phono Stage or Separate Phono Stage?
Use the Internal Phono Stage When
- A simpler system is preferred
- The fitted stage suits the cartridge
- Reducing the number of components is important
- Shorter analogue signal paths are preferred
- Additional mains and interconnect cables are unwanted
- MM and MC flexibility is required
Consider a Separate Phono Stage When
- Specialist cartridge loading is required
- Gain must be adjusted over a wider range
- Several tonearms or cartridges will be used
- The phono stage will be upgraded independently
- A particular valve or solid-state design is preferred
- Direct comparisons identify a worthwhile improvement
Browse phono stages available from Audio T if a separate solution is being considered.
Tape-Loop Connectivity
A dedicated tape loop allows a compatible recording device to receive a fixed-level signal from the selected source.
Suitable equipment may include:
- Cassette decks
- Reel-to-reel recorders
- CD recorders
- Analogue-to-digital recorders
- Selected external processors
The record output does not normally follow the Pyxis II volume control, so the recording device receives a consistent source level.
Do Not Connect a Fixed Tape Output to a Power Amplifier
A tape or record output is not controlled by the main volume setting.
It must not be connected directly to a power amplifier or another input requiring variable level control.
Front-Panel Auxiliary Input
A 3.5mm stereo input is provided on the front panel for temporary analogue sources.
It may be used with suitable outputs from:
- Portable music players
- Phones or tablets with an appropriate adapter
- Laptop computers
- Personal recorders
- Other temporary line-level devices
The front input makes it possible to connect a visiting or occasional source without reaching behind the equipment rack.
Coaxial Digital Input
A coaxial S/PDIF input allows the Pyxis II to convert two-channel PCM audio from a compatible digital source.
Potential sources include:
- CD transports
- Network transports
- Music servers
- Digital radio tuners
- Compatible television equipment
The internal digital-to-analogue converter supports compatible PCM signals at up to 24-bit/96kHz through the published Pyxis II digital input.
A correctly specified 75-ohm coaxial digital cable is recommended.
USB-B Computer Connection
The USB-B connection allows a compatible computer to send digital audio to the Pyxis II.
The published USB interface supports 16-bit audio at common sampling rates between 32kHz and 48kHz.
It may be used for:
- Locally stored music
- Subscription streaming applications
- Internet radio
- Music-library software
- General computer audio
The USB Input Is Not a Modern High-Resolution Interface
The USB connection is limited to the published 16-bit and 48kHz maximum rather than supporting current 24-bit/192kHz computer-audio standards.
For higher-resolution computer playback, use a suitable external streamer or USB DAC connected to one of the Pyxis II analogue inputs.
Coaxial Digital Output
A coaxial S/PDIF output provides a digital signal for compatible recording, monitoring or conversion equipment.
Its use will depend on the selected source and system configuration.
Potential applications include:
- A compatible external DAC
- A digital recorder
- A monitoring device
- Another suitable digital component
Output resolution can depend on the source and operating mode.
Balanced XLR Pre-Amplifier Output
A stereo balanced output is provided through separate left and right XLR sockets.
This is the preferred connection for a compatible balanced power amplifier such as the Leema Acoustics Hydra II.
Balanced output can provide:
- Excellent resistance to common electrical interference
- Secure professional-style connectors
- Suitability for longer cable runs
- A balanced signal path through compatible equipment
- Low-noise connection to suitable power amplifiers
Unbalanced RCA Pre-Amplifier Output
A stereo RCA pre-amplifier output allows the Pyxis II to connect to conventional unbalanced power amplifiers.
It may also be used with suitably configured:
- Active loudspeakers
- Active subwoofers
- External crossover systems
- Power amplifiers from another manufacturer
The output follows the Pyxis II volume control.
Connecting an Active Subwoofer
A compatible active subwoofer can be connected to the variable RCA pre-output where the wider system arrangement permits.
The subwoofer should provide suitable controls for:
- Low-pass crossover frequency
- Output level
- Phase
- Automatic or triggered operation where required
The subwoofer and main loudspeakers should be adjusted to provide a smooth transition without excessive overlap or an audible gap.
Front-Panel Headphone Amplifier
A dedicated headphone socket is positioned on the front panel for private listening.
It allows the selected analogue or digital source to be enjoyed without requiring a separate headphone amplifier.
Headphone performance will depend on:
- Headphone impedance
- Sensitivity
- Required listening level
- Cable termination
- The electrical demands of the headphone design
Particularly insensitive or specialist headphones should be checked for compatibility before purchase.
Adjustable Input Gain
Individual source gain can be adjusted over a published range of approximately plus or minus 10dB.
This is useful because different sources can produce significantly different output levels.
Correct gain adjustment can help:
- Reduce large volume changes between inputs
- Make comparisons between sources easier
- Improve the usable range of the volume control
- Prevent a high-output source sounding artificially impressive
- Provide more consistent everyday operation
The settings can be stored independently for individual inputs.
Bass and Treble Controls
The Pyxis II includes adjustable bass and treble controls.
Leema specifies an adjustment range of approximately plus or minus 6dB, centred around:
- 50Hz for bass
- 15kHz for treble
Subtle adjustment can help compensate for:
- Room acoustics
- Speaker placement
- Older or unusually balanced recordings
- Low-volume listening
- Personal hearing preferences
The tone controls should normally be adjusted conservatively rather than used to create large permanent changes.
EQ Bypass
The tone-control circuitry can be bypassed when adjustment is not required.
This allows the Pyxis II to operate with a direct tonal balance while retaining bass and treble correction for recordings or situations where it is useful.
Tone-control settings can be remembered independently for different source inputs.
Balance Control
Balance adjustment allows the relative level of the left and right channels to be changed.
This can be useful where:
- The listening position is not centred
- The room is acoustically asymmetrical
- One loudspeaker is closer to a wall
- A recording has an off-centre image
- Small hearing differences need to be accommodated
The control should not normally be used to compensate for a faulty source, cable or loudspeaker.
Mono Operation
A mono function combines the left and right channels.
It can be useful for:
- Playing mono records
- Checking channel balance
- Identifying phase problems
- Assessing central image stability
- Reducing some forms of surface noise on mono recordings
Phase Inversion
The phase-inversion control reverses the absolute polarity of both audio channels.
Some recordings are produced with inverted absolute polarity, although the audible difference can vary considerably according to the recording and system.
The control allows both settings to be compared from the listening position without changing loudspeaker cables.
Mute Control
Mute provides a quick way to silence the variable outputs without switching off the complete system.
It is useful when:
- Changing records
- Answering a telephone call
- Temporarily leaving the room
- Checking cables or connected equipment
The amplifier and sources should still be switched off before any physical connections are changed.
Assignable AV Direct Operation
AV Direct allows a compatible home cinema receiver or surround processor to control the level of the front left and right channels while the Pyxis II and connected power amplifier drive the main stereo loudspeakers.
This allows one pair of front speakers to be shared between:
- A high-quality two-channel music system
- A multichannel home cinema system
The surround processor’s front pre-amplifier outputs are connected to the assigned Pyxis II input.
AV Direct Must Only Be Used with a Variable Source
Only connect an AV receiver or processor that provides safe and reliable volume control.
Do not connect a conventional fixed-output CD player, streamer or DAC to an input while AV Direct is enabled, as unexpectedly high playback levels could result.
Leema Intelligent Protocol System
LIPS stands for Leema Intelligent Protocol System.
It allows compatible Leema products to exchange control information and operate as a coordinated system.
Depending on the connected equipment and configuration, LIPS can communicate:
- Power commands
- Source selection
- Volume information
- Balance information
- Input addressing
- System-status information
The Pyxis II can operate as a LIPS system master or slave.
High-Level LIPS Signal Operation
With a compatible Leema power amplifier, LIPS can allow the analogue interconnect to carry a strong, substantially unattenuated signal while listening level is adjusted within the power amplifier.
This arrangement is designed to maximise the signal level passing through the interconnect and maintain a strong signal-to-noise ratio.
The feature requires compatible Leema equipment and correct LIPS configuration.
Automatic Source and Power Control
Linked Leema components can respond together to system commands.
Selecting a compatible source on the Pyxis II may:
- Switch on the required source component
- Select the appropriate input
- Prepare the connected power amplifier
- Allow several components to respond to one remote control
This retains the flexibility of separate components while simplifying everyday operation.
Matching Leema Hydra II Power Amplifier
The Leema Acoustics Hydra II is the natural power-amplifier partner for the Pyxis II.
Together they provide:
- A fully balanced pre-power signal path
- 148W per channel into 8 ohms
- Substantial current delivery
- LIPS system communication
- Flexible fixed-gain or variable-gain operation
- Future bridged monoblock or bi-amplified configurations
The pairing is suitable for ambitious systems using high-quality standmount or floorstanding loudspeakers.
Using the Pyxis II with Other Power Amplifiers
The Pyxis II is not restricted to a complete Leema system.
It can connect to a compatible power amplifier from another manufacturer through:
- Balanced XLR outputs
- Unbalanced RCA outputs
The power amplifier must be electrically compatible with the Pyxis II output level and should provide suitable gain for the connected loudspeakers and room.
Pyxis II and Hydra II or Tucana II Anniversary?
Choose Pyxis II and Hydra II When
- A separate pre-power system is preferred
- The built-in MM/MC phono stage is required
- Balanced pre-amplifier outputs are important
- Power amplification may be upgraded independently
- Bridged monoblocks or bi-amplification may follow
- Extensive pre-amplifier configuration is useful
Choose the Tucana II Anniversary When
- One integrated amplifier is preferred
- A simpler installation is important
- A separate phono stage can be used
- 150W per channel provides sufficient power
- Fewer mains and signal cables are preferred
- Rack space is more limited
The Leema Tucana II Anniversary combines pre-amplification and high-current power amplification within one full-width component.
Connecting Digital Sources
The Pyxis II’s coaxial and USB inputs provide useful digital connectivity, but the internal digital section is less extensive than that of a modern dedicated DAC.
A separate DAC may be preferable when:
- Several optical or coaxial inputs are required
- 24-bit/192kHz USB playback is important
- DSD or DXD files must be supported
- HDMI or television connectivity is required
- Bluetooth or network streaming is wanted
- Digital conversion will be upgraded independently
The external DAC can then be connected to one of the Pyxis II RCA or balanced XLR analogue inputs.
Connecting a Music Streamer
A network music streamer can be connected through an analogue or compatible coaxial digital connection.
Suitable Leema options include:
An analogue connection uses the DAC within the streamer, while a compatible digital connection uses the Pyxis II conversion stage.
Connecting a CD Player
A CD player can be connected through RCA, balanced XLR or compatible coaxial digital output.
The Leema Acoustics Elements CD Player provides balanced and unbalanced analogue outputs as well as digital outputs.
Comparing the available connections can help determine whether the CD player’s internal DAC or the Pyxis II digital conversion better suits the complete system.
Front-Panel Controls and Display
The front panel provides direct access to the main pre-amplifier functions.
Controls include:
- Power and standby
- Input selection
- Volume
- Mute
- AV Direct
- EQ bypass
- Phase inversion
- Mono
- Setup functions
The display and indicator system shows the selected source and relevant adjustment functions.
Remote Control
An infrared remote control is included for operation from the listening position.
It provides access to functions including:
- Volume
- Input selection
- Mute
- Balance
- Bass and treble adjustment
- Compatible LIPS-connected Leema products
Designed and Manufactured in Wales
Leema Acoustics was founded by former BBC engineers Lee Taylor and Mallory Nicholls.
The company designs and manufactures its audio equipment in Welshpool, bringing its engineering and production teams together in Wales.
The Pyxis II forms part of Leema’s full-width Constellation range and is designed for use in high-performance pre-power systems.
Black and Silver Finishes
Audio T currently lists the Pyxis II with phono stage in:
Both finishes use the same internal specification.
The finish can be matched with the Hydra II and other full-width Leema components.
Placement and Ventilation
Install the Pyxis II on a rigid, level equipment shelf with suitable space around the chassis.
Avoid positioning it:
- Directly above a power amplifier
- Beside a large mains transformer
- Inside a sealed cabinet without ventilation
- Where cables place strain on the rear sockets
- In direct sunlight
- Near a radiator or other strong heat source
- Where liquids may reach the equipment
Separating the sensitive phono circuitry from power supplies and mains adapters can help maintain the lowest possible background noise.
Reducing Turntable Hum
When connecting a turntable:
- Attach the turntable earth lead where required
- Keep the phono cable away from mains transformers
- Avoid tightly coiling excess phono cable
- Confirm the cartridge leads are secure
- Keep mains adapters away from the pre-amplifier
- Use the correct MM or MC configuration
If hum remains audible, switch the system off before checking any connection.
Care and Cleaning
Switch the Pyxis II off and disconnect it from the mains before cleaning or changing system connections.
Use a clean, soft and dry or very slightly damp cloth.
Do not use:
- Abrasive cleaning products
- Furniture polish
- Solvents
- Aerosol cleaners
- Excessive water
Do not open the chassis. Internal phono-stage configuration and servicing should be completed by an authorised technician.
Key Features
- Reference stereo pre-amplifier
- Factory-fitted MM and MC phono stage
- Designed and manufactured in Wales
- Fully balanced analogue signal path
- Two stereo balanced XLR input pairs
- Five stereo unbalanced RCA source inputs
- Dedicated tape-loop connectivity
- Front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital input
- Digital input support up to 24-bit/96kHz
- USB-B computer-audio connection
- USB support up to 16-bit/48kHz
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Balanced stereo XLR pre-output
- Unbalanced stereo RCA pre-output
- Front-panel headphone output
- Wide 5Hz to 100kHz frequency response
- Low-noise analogue design
- Adjustable input gain
- Approximately plus or minus 10dB gain range
- Gain matching between sources
- Adjustable bass control
- Adjustable treble control
- EQ bypass
- Balance adjustment
- Mono operation
- Absolute-phase inversion
- Mute
- Assignable AV Direct operation
- Leema Intelligent Protocol System
- LIPS master or slave operation
- LIPS Type 1 and Type 2 connectivity
- Compatible high-level LIPS signal operation
- Infrared remote control
- Full-width aluminium chassis
- Black finish
- Silver finish
- 440mm width
- 110mm height
- 320mm depth
- Approximately 10kg weight
- Five-year manufacturer warranty as listed by Audio T
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leema Acoustics Pyxis II?
It is a reference stereo pre-amplifier that provides source selection, volume control, phono amplification, digital conversion, headphone listening and system control for a separate power amplifier.
Does this version include the phono stage?
Yes. The Audio T product includes Leema’s MM and MC phono-stage option.
Can it be used with a moving-magnet cartridge?
Yes. The fitted phono stage supports suitably matched moving-magnet cartridges.
Can it be used with a moving-coil cartridge?
Yes. It also supports suitably matched moving-coil cartridges.
Can the phono stage work with every cartridge?
Compatibility depends on cartridge output, impedance, loading and required gain. Check the exact cartridge specification before purchase.
Does it include power amplification?
No. A separate stereo power amplifier, pair of monoblocks or compatible active speaker system is required.
Which power amplifier is the natural partner?
The Leema Hydra II is designed to partner the Pyxis II and supports balanced connections and LIPS system operation.
Can it work with another brand of power amplifier?
Yes. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA pre-amplifier outputs are provided.
How many balanced inputs are provided?
Audio T lists two balanced XLR input options.
How many RCA source inputs are provided?
Five unbalanced RCA source inputs are listed, along with tape-loop and front auxiliary connectivity.
Does it have a tape loop?
Yes. A tape input and fixed record-output path are provided for compatible recording equipment.
Does it have a front auxiliary input?
Yes. A 3.5mm stereo input is fitted to the front panel.
Does it have digital inputs?
Yes. One coaxial S/PDIF input and one USB-B computer-audio connection are provided.
What is the maximum coaxial digital resolution?
The Audio T product information lists digital conversion at up to 24-bit/96kHz.
What is the maximum USB resolution?
The published USB interface supports up to 16-bit/48kHz.
Can it play 24-bit/192kHz files through USB?
No. A modern external USB DAC or network streamer should be used for higher-resolution computer playback.
Does it have an optical input?
No optical digital input is listed.
Does it have HDMI?
No HDMI connection is fitted.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No Bluetooth receiver is included in the published specification.
Does it stream music directly?
No network streamer is built in. A separate streamer can be connected through an analogue or compatible digital input.
Does it have a digital output?
Yes. One coaxial S/PDIF digital output is listed.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. A stereo balanced XLR pre-amplifier output is provided.
Does it also have RCA outputs?
Yes. A variable stereo RCA pre-amplifier output is provided.
Can an active subwoofer be connected?
A compatible active subwoofer may be connected using the variable RCA pre-output, subject to the requirements of the wider system.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A headphone socket is fitted to the front panel.
Can input levels be matched?
Yes. Individual input gain can be adjusted over a published range of approximately plus or minus 10dB.
Does it have tone controls?
Yes. Bass and treble adjustment are provided, with an EQ bypass option.
Can the tone controls be switched out?
Yes. The EQ function can be bypassed when tonal adjustment is not required.
Does it have a mono setting?
Yes. The left and right channels can be combined for mono playback or system checks.
What does phase inversion do?
It reverses the absolute polarity of both channels, allowing the two settings to be compared without changing speaker cables.
What is AV Direct?
It allows a compatible AV receiver or processor to control the front left and right channel level while the Pyxis II and connected power amplifier drive the main speakers.
What is LIPS?
LIPS is the Leema Intelligent Protocol System, which allows compatible Leema components to exchange power, source, volume and system-control information.
Can it control the volume within a compatible Leema power amplifier?
Yes. A compatible LIPS configuration can carry a high-level signal to the power amplifier while the listening level is adjusted within the power-amplifier input stage.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. Audio T lists remote-control operation.
What is the frequency response?
Audio T lists an overall response extending from 5Hz to 100kHz.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 440 x 110 x 320mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 10kg.
Which finishes are available?
Audio T currently lists black and silver versions, subject to availability.
Where is it made?
Leema Acoustics designs and manufactures its products in Wales.
What warranty is included?
Audio T currently lists a five-year manufacturer warranty, subject to Leema Acoustics’ full terms and proof of purchase.
Related Leema Acoustics Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Leema Pyxis II demonstrations
- Pyxis II and Hydra II system demonstrations
- Moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridge matching
- Internal phono-stage configuration
- Turntable earthing and hum diagnosis
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA comparisons
- Power-amplifier compatibility checks
- LIPS fixed-gain and variable-gain configuration
- Digital-source compatibility advice
- External DAC and music-streamer selection
- Input-gain and tone-control setup
- Headphone matching
- Active subwoofer integration
- AV Direct configuration
- Analogue, digital and phono-cable selection
- Equipment support and placement guidance
- Black and silver finish selection
- Home demonstrations may be available by arrangement
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Leema manufacturer-warranty guidance
- Ongoing system and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss cartridge matching, power amplification, balanced connections, digital sources and LIPS setup for the Leema Acoustics Pyxis II.