Audio T Verdict
The LEAK Stereo 130 combines classic styling with the connections needed for a varied modern Hi-Fi system.
Turntables, analogue sources, televisions, CD transports, computers and Bluetooth devices can all be accommodated, while the built-in DAC and dedicated headphone circuit reduce the need for additional boxes.
Its 45W-per-channel output is best suited to sensibly matched speakers in small to medium-sized rooms. The result is an engaging and refined amplifier that looks distinctly vintage but is far more versatile than its appearance suggests.
LEAK Stereo 130 Integrated Amplifier
The LEAK Stereo 130 is an integrated stereo amplifier with analogue and digital inputs, Bluetooth, a moving magnet phono stage, headphone output and pre-amplifier output.
Its design takes inspiration from classic LEAK products such as the Stereo 30, while the internal electronics accommodate contemporary digital sources alongside traditional turntables and line-level equipment.
The amplifier delivers 45W per channel into 8 ohms and 65W per channel into 4 ohms, making it suitable for a wide range of appropriately matched standmount and compact floorstanding speakers.
45W Per Channel Stereo Amplification
The Stereo 130 provides 45W per channel into an 8-ohm loudspeaker load, increasing to 65W per channel into 4 ohms.
Its power output is well suited to many conventional domestic systems, although speaker sensitivity, impedance, room size and listening distance should all be considered when choosing a match.
A moderately sensitive speaker in a small or medium-sized room will generally be easier to drive than a low-sensitivity design used across a large listening space.
Amplifier Output
- 45W per channel into 8 ohms
- 65W per channel into 4 ohms
- 20Hz–20kHz frequency response
- Less than 0.005% THD at 30W into 8 ohms
- Suitable for sensibly matched passive speakers
Source Options
- Moving magnet turntable
- Two analogue line-level sources
- Optical and coaxial digital equipment
- Mac or Windows computer through USB
- Phone, tablet or computer through Bluetooth
ESS Sabre32 Reference DAC
Digital conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9018K2M DAC.
The Stereo 130 provides two optical inputs, one coaxial input and a USB-B input for connecting a compatible computer.
Optical and coaxial sources are supported at sampling rates up to 192kHz. The USB input supports PCM files up to 384kHz as well as DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256.
This allows a television, CD transport, music streamer, computer or other compatible digital source to use the amplifier's internal DAC.
Connecting a Television
A compatible television can be connected to either optical input, allowing its sound to play through the Hi-Fi system.
The Stereo 130 does not include HDMI ARC or eARC, so television volume will normally be adjusted using the amplifier rather than passed automatically from the TV remote.
The television's digital audio output should be configured for stereo PCM rather than a multichannel surround format.
USB Audio from a Computer
The rear USB-B input allows a Mac or Windows computer to operate as a digital music source.
A compatible Windows computer requires LEAK's USB audio driver, while a Mac can normally recognise the amplifier without installing an additional driver.
The separate USB-A socket is intended for firmware updates and should not be confused with the USB-B audio connection.
Moving Magnet Phono Stage
A dedicated phono input allows a turntable fitted with a moving magnet cartridge to connect directly without a separate phono stage.
The low-noise JFET-based circuit provides standard moving magnet loading of 47 kilohms in parallel with 100pF and applies the required RIAA equalisation for record playback.
Compatible high-output moving-coil cartridges may also be used where their manufacturer recommends a conventional moving magnet input.
A low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a suitable external moving-coil phono stage connected to one of the AUX inputs.
Bluetooth with aptX
Bluetooth provides a convenient wireless connection for phones, tablets and compatible computers.
The Stereo 130 supports the A2DP profile with aptX given priority where the transmitting device also supports it. The standard SBC codec provides broader device compatibility.
Bluetooth is useful for convenient everyday listening, although a dedicated network streamer connected digitally or through an analogue input may provide additional services, control options and higher-resolution playback.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
A front-mounted 6.3mm socket is connected to a dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier circuit.
Connecting headphones automatically mutes the loudspeaker outputs, allowing the main volume control to set the listening level.
An adaptor is required for headphones fitted only with a 3.5mm plug.
Bass, Treble and Balance Controls
Traditional front-panel controls allow the bass, treble and left-to-right balance to be adjusted without using an application or on-screen menu.
The tone controls can help compensate for room acoustics, speaker placement or recordings with an uneven tonal balance.
LEAK's Direct mode bypasses the tone-control section when a simpler signal path is preferred.
Analogue Inputs and Pre-Amplifier Output
Two line-level RCA inputs accommodate sources such as a CD player, tuner, streamer, cassette deck or external DAC.
The variable RCA pre-amplifier output can feed a compatible power amplifier, active subwoofer or other equipment requiring a volume-controlled line signal.
The Stereo 130 does not provide a fixed-level recording output, balanced XLR connections or a dedicated subwoofer crossover.
Digital Outputs
Coaxial and optical digital outputs are also provided for connecting suitable external digital equipment.
These should not be confused with the variable analogue pre-amplifier output, which follows the amplifier's volume setting.
Remote Control
The supplied remote provides control over standby, input selection, volume, mute and Direct mode.
Bluetooth playback controls are also available for compatible connected devices, and the handset includes controls for the matching LEAK CDT.
Matching LEAK CDT CD Transport
The
LEAK CDT CD Transport
is the natural visual and functional partner for the Stereo 130.
As a transport, the CDT sends a digital signal through its coaxial or optical output and uses the Stereo 130's internal ESS DAC for conversion.
The two components share matching Silver and Walnut styling and can be operated from the LEAK system remote.
Speaker Matching
The Stereo 130 can be partnered with a wide range of passive standmount and compact floorstanding speakers.
Speaker sensitivity and impedance are particularly important. A more efficient speaker will generally produce greater volume from the available amplifier power than a less sensitive alternative.
LEAK's
Sandwich 150
provides a visually matching standmount option, while the larger
Sandwich 250
offers greater scale and bass extension.
Silver or Walnut Finish
The Stereo 130 is available with a conventional Silver metal enclosure or a Walnut real wood veneer sleeve.
The wooden sleeve increases the amplifier's overall width, height, depth and weight, so the selected version should be considered when planning shelf space.
Both versions retain the same front-panel layout, rotary controls and classic LEAK styling.
Installation and Ventilation
Position the amplifier on a solid, level and stable shelf with enough open space around it for heat to escape.
Avoid enclosing it tightly inside furniture, placing it directly on thick carpet or covering the ventilation openings.
Switch the system off before connecting speakers or changing cables, and check that no loose wire strands can bridge the amplifier terminals.
Key Features
- Integrated stereo amplifier
- 45W per channel into 8 ohms
- 65W per channel into 4 ohms
- ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9018K2M DAC
- USB-B computer audio input
- PCM playback up to 384kHz through USB
- DSD64, DSD128 and DSD256 support through USB
- Two optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- Optical and coaxial digital outputs
- Moving magnet phono input
- Two line-level RCA inputs
- Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX and SBC
- Dedicated 6.3mm headphone output
- Variable RCA pre-amplifier output
- Bass, treble and balance controls
- Direct mode
- Remote control included
- Available in Silver or Walnut
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the LEAK Stereo 130?
It delivers 45W per channel into 8 ohms and 65W per channel into 4 ohms.
Does it have a built-in phono stage?
Yes. The dedicated phono input is suitable for moving magnet cartridges and compatible high-output moving-coil cartridges.
Can I use a low-output moving-coil cartridge?
A low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a suitable external MC phono stage connected to an AUX input.
Does the Stereo 130 contain a DAC?
Yes. It uses an ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9018K2M DAC for its optical, coaxial and USB inputs.
Can I connect my television?
Yes. A compatible television can be connected through an optical digital input and should be configured to output stereo PCM.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
No. The Stereo 130 does not provide an HDMI input, ARC or eARC.
Does it have built-in music streaming?
It provides Bluetooth but does not contain a network music-streaming platform. A separate streamer can be connected through an analogue or digital input.
What does the USB-B input do?
It connects a Mac or Windows computer for digital audio playback up to 384kHz PCM and DSD256.
What is the USB-A socket for?
The USB-A socket is intended for firmware updates rather than ordinary music playback.
Can I connect headphones?
Yes. A dedicated 6.3mm headphone output is fitted to the front panel, and connecting headphones mutes the loudspeakers.
Can I add a power amplifier or subwoofer?
The variable RCA pre output can feed a compatible power amplifier or active subwoofer. It does not provide a dedicated filtered subwoofer output.
What is the difference between Silver and Walnut?
The electronics and connections are the same. The Walnut version adds a real wood veneer sleeve and is larger and heavier than the Silver model.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced LEAK and Hi-Fi system specialists
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Turntable and cartridge compatibility advice
- Speaker matching for room size and listening level
- Digital source and television connection guidance
- Streamer and CD transport matching
- Speaker cable and interconnect recommendations
- Home demonstration options where suitable
- Ongoing setup and system support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss suitable speakers and sources for the LEAK Stereo 130.