Audio T Verdict
The Leema Acoustics Elements Integrated Amplifier packs a remarkably complete hi-fi system hub into a beautifully made half-width chassis.
Its 56W-per-channel output may look modest on paper, but strong current delivery and substantial power into lower impedances give it considerably more speaker-driving ability than its compact dimensions suggest.
Three RCA inputs, balanced XLR, a front auxiliary connection, five digital inputs, headphone output and variable pre-out make it exceptionally flexible. The built-in 24-bit/192kHz DAC also means televisions, computers and digital sources can be connected without another box.
For customers who want serious amplification and extensive connectivity without a full-width component dominating the room, the Elements Integrated is a clever and highly capable choice.
Leema Acoustics Elements Integrated Amplifier with DAC
The Leema Acoustics Elements Integrated Amplifier combines stereo amplification, analogue pre-amplification, high-resolution digital conversion and system control within a compact half-width chassis.
Designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom, it provides:
- 56W per channel into 8 ohms
- 110W per channel into 4 ohms
- High-current output exceeding positive and negative 12 amps
- Three stereo RCA line-level inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- One front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input
- Three optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- One asynchronous USB-B computer input
- 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analogue conversion
- One front-panel 3.5mm headphone output
- A variable stereo pre-amplifier output
- Assignable AV Direct operation
- Leema Intelligent Protocol System connectivity
- Infrared remote control
- Black or silver finish options
The current Audio T version includes the digital input board, making the amplifier suitable for both analogue and digital source systems.
Compact Half-Width Design
At approximately 220mm wide, the Elements Integrated occupies around half the shelf width of a conventional hi-fi amplifier.
The compact format makes it particularly useful where:
- Equipment-rack space is limited
- A visually discreet system is preferred
- The amplifier will be partnered with other Elements components
- A bedroom, office or second-room system is being assembled
- Full-size connectivity is required without a full-width chassis
Its small footprint should not be confused with lightweight construction. At approximately 11kg, the amplifier is unusually substantial for a component of its size.
56W Per Channel into 8 Ohms
Leema specifies approximately 56W RMS per channel into an 8-ohm loudspeaker load.
Available output rises as the loudspeaker impedance falls:
- 56W RMS per channel into 8 ohms
- 110W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- 160W RMS per channel into 2 ohms under the published test conditions
The way output increases into lower impedances demonstrates that the Elements Integrated has been designed with strong current delivery rather than relying only on an impressive headline figure into an easy load.
Minimum Recommended Loudspeaker Impedance
Although Leema publishes a measured output figure into 2 ohms, its operating specification states a minimum loudspeaker load of 4 ohms.
The 2-ohm figure should therefore be treated as an indication of current capability rather than a recommendation to use loudspeakers with a 2-ohm nominal impedance.
High-Current Speaker Drive
Leema specifies output-current capability exceeding positive and negative 12 amps.
Current delivery becomes particularly important when a loudspeaker’s impedance changes across the frequency range or when demanding bass passages require firm control of the drive units.
Strong current delivery can help provide:
- Controlled bass
- Clean musical dynamics
- Stable performance with lower-impedance speakers
- Improved grip during demanding passages
- Reduced strain at normal listening levels
Room size, listening distance, loudspeaker sensitivity and preferred playback level should still be considered when choosing a suitable speaker partner.
Wide 5Hz to 80kHz Frequency Response
Leema specifies a frequency response from 5Hz to 80kHz within a +0/-3dB tolerance at 1W.
The extended bandwidth allows the amplifier to maintain a controlled response beyond the conventional audible range, helping preserve phase behaviour through the upper frequencies.
Actual system bandwidth will also depend on the connected source and loudspeakers.
Low Noise and Distortion
The Elements Integrated is designed to provide clean amplification without adding an obvious electronic character.
Published measurements include:
- 0.015% total harmonic distortion at 10W into 8 ohms at 1kHz
- A-weighted noise below -105dBm with the volume control at minimum
- A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio of 110dB under the stated reference conditions
- Maximum DC offset of positive or negative 15mV
Low noise is especially useful when listening close to the loudspeakers or using revealing source components and sensitive headphones.
Ten Analogue and Digital Inputs
The Elements Integrated provides ten source inputs when its front auxiliary connection and digital board are included.
These comprise:
- Three stereo RCA analogue inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- One front-panel 3.5mm analogue input
- Three optical S/PDIF digital inputs
- One coaxial S/PDIF digital input
- One USB-B computer-audio input
This allows a large collection of traditional and modern sources to remain connected simultaneously.
Three Stereo RCA Analogue Inputs
Three conventional stereo RCA inputs are provided for line-level analogue sources.
Suitable equipment may include:
- CD players
- Music streamers
- External digital-to-analogue converters
- Tuners
- Tape equipment
- Phono stages
- Televisions with a suitable analogue output
Each input can be renamed through the amplifier’s setup menu, allowing the front display to show a more useful source name.
A Phono Stage Is Not Built In
The three RCA connections are standard line-level inputs rather than dedicated moving-magnet or moving-coil phono inputs.
A conventional turntable requires a suitable external phono stage unless the turntable already provides a line-level output.
Balanced XLR Analogue Input
A balanced stereo input is provided through separate left and right XLR sockets.
This makes the amplifier a natural partner for the Leema Acoustics Elements CD Player and other sources equipped with balanced analogue outputs.
A balanced connection can be useful where:
- The source provides genuine balanced output circuitry
- Longer interconnects are required
- Signal cables must pass close to mains cables
- Resistance to common electrical interference is important
- The wider system already uses balanced connections
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections should be compared within the complete system rather than assuming that one will always sound better.
Front-Panel 3.5mm Auxiliary Input
A 3.5mm stereo auxiliary input is positioned on the front panel for temporary or portable sources.
It may be used with suitable line-level outputs from:
- Portable music players
- Phones or tablets with an appropriate audio output or adapter
- Laptop computers
- Personal recorders
- Other temporary analogue sources
Some portable devices provide a relatively low output level and may require the amplifier’s volume to be raised further than a conventional hi-fi source.
Built-In 24-Bit/192kHz DAC
The digital input board includes a low-jitter digital receiver and digital-to-analogue conversion supporting compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
This allows the Elements Integrated to convert audio from sources including:
- Televisions
- CD transports
- Music streamers
- Computers
- Games consoles
- Set-top boxes
- Compatible network transports
The internal DAC removes the need for a separate converter in many systems while retaining the amplifier’s compact footprint.
Three Optical Digital Inputs
Three Toslink optical inputs provide generous connectivity for compatible digital sources.
Optical connections are particularly useful for:
- Televisions
- Games consoles
- Satellite and terrestrial television boxes
- CD transports
- Compatible media players
The connected source should normally be configured to output two-channel PCM rather than Dolby Digital, DTS or another multichannel bitstream.
Select Stereo PCM on a Television
The Elements Integrated is a two-channel amplifier and does not decode Dolby or DTS surround formats.
Set the television or connected source to PCM, stereo or two-channel digital output where required.
Coaxial S/PDIF Digital Input
One RCA coaxial digital input is provided for compatible PCM sources.
It can be used with equipment including:
- CD transports
- Network transports
- Music servers
- Digital radio tuners
- Compatible television equipment
A correctly specified 75-ohm digital coaxial cable is recommended rather than a conventional analogue interconnect.
Asynchronous USB-B Computer Input
The USB-B input allows a compatible computer to use the Elements Integrated as an external digital-to-analogue converter.
The digital interface supports compatible PCM audio at resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz and operates asynchronously, allowing the amplifier’s precision clocking to control the timing of the data transfer.
USB playback can be used for:
- Locally stored music
- Subscription streaming applications
- Internet radio
- Music-library software
- Computer-based media playback
Operating-system support and driver requirements can change over time. Customers relying on USB computer playback should confirm compatibility with their current Windows, macOS or other computer setup before purchase.
Digital Input Resolution
The digital board supports common PCM sampling rates between 32kHz and 192kHz at 16-bit and 24-bit resolution.
Maximum practical resolution can depend on:
- The connected source
- The selected input
- The optical or coaxial cable
- The computer operating system
- Installed drivers
- Playback-software configuration
High-resolution compatibility should not be treated as a guarantee that every file format or software application will operate without configuration.
Front-Panel Headphone Amplifier
A dedicated 3.5mm headphone socket is provided on the front panel, separate from the adjacent auxiliary input.
Leema recommends headphones with a minimum impedance of 32 ohms.
When headphones are connected:
- The loudspeaker outputs are muted
- Listening volume remains controlled by the main volume control
- The selected analogue or digital source remains available
Leema recommends unplugging headphones before switching the amplifier off.
Variable Pre-Amplifier Output
A stereo RCA pre-out follows the selected source and the amplifier’s volume control.
It may be used for:
- Connecting an active subwoofer
- Adding an external power amplifier
- Bi-amping compatible loudspeakers
- Feeding a second-room amplifier
- Connecting compatible recording or measurement equipment where variable level is appropriate
The output level changes with the Elements Integrated volume setting, allowing connected equipment to track the main listening level.
Connecting an Active Subwoofer
The variable pre-out can provide a suitable line-level signal for an active subwoofer.
The subwoofer should offer appropriate controls for:
- Low-pass crossover frequency
- Output level
- Phase
- Automatic or triggered power operation where required
Begin with a conservative subwoofer level and adjust the crossover so that the main speakers and subwoofer combine without excessive overlap or an obvious gap.
Bi-Amping Compatible Loudspeakers
The pre-out can feed a separate power amplifier for bi-amping a loudspeaker equipped with divided crossover terminals.
A typical arrangement uses:
- The Elements Integrated to drive one section of each speaker
- An external stereo power amplifier to drive the other section
- The variable pre-out to supply the second amplifier
Remove the Loudspeaker Terminal Links
When passive bi-amping, the metal links between the loudspeaker’s high-frequency and low-frequency terminals must be removed.
Leaving the links fitted can connect the outputs of two amplifiers together and cause serious damage. Seek advice from Audio T before attempting a bi-amped installation.
Assignable AV Direct Input
One analogue input can be assigned for AV Direct operation when the amplifier is used to power the front left and right speakers in a home cinema system.
The selectable AV Direct inputs are:
- Balanced XLR
- Analogue Input 1
- Analogue Input 2
- Analogue Input 3
The selected input receives the front-channel pre-amplifier output from a compatible AV receiver or surround processor.
When selected, the Elements Integrated raises its level towards a predetermined unity-gain point while retaining an active volume control as an additional safety measure.
AV Direct Requires an Externally Controlled Source
Only use AV Direct with a source or surround processor that provides its own reliable volume control.
Never assign a fixed-output CD player, streamer or other conventional source to AV Direct, as unexpectedly high playback levels could result.
Leema Intelligent Protocol System
LIPS stands for Leema Intelligent Protocol System.
It allows compatible Leema components to exchange control information and operate as a coordinated system.
Depending on the connected products, LIPS can support:
- Coordinated power control
- Automatic source selection
- Shared remote-control commands
- Volume information
- Communication with compatible power amplifiers
- Home-automation integration
The Elements Integrated can operate as either a LIPS master or slave according to the system configuration.
Automatic Operation with Matching Sources
When linked to a compatible Leema source, selecting the relevant amplifier input can power the source and prepare it for playback.
This allows a system of separate components to provide some of the convenience associated with an all-in-one product while retaining independent source and amplification sections.
Customisable Input Names
Individual inputs can be renamed through the setup menu.
This allows labels such as:
- CD
- STREAM
- TV
- PHONO
- GAME
- TUNER
The selected name is then shown on the front display, making a system with many connected sources easier to operate.
Input-Change Volume Protection
By default, the amplifier reduces its volume when the input is changed.
This helps protect the loudspeakers and listener from unexpectedly large differences between source levels.
The function can be disabled through the setup menu, although retaining the protective volume drop will be appropriate for most systems.
Front Display and Controls
The front panel provides direct access to the main amplifier functions.
Controls include:
- Power
- Source selection
- Volume
- Mute
- Setup-menu access
The central display shows information including the selected input, volume level and setup-menu options.
An automatic display-off time can be selected for customers who prefer reduced front-panel illumination while listening.
Infrared Remote Control
The amplifier can be operated from the listening position using the supplied infrared remote control.
Remote functions include:
- Power
- Input selection
- Volume adjustment
- Mute
- Direct numeric input selection
- Control of compatible LIPS-connected Leema components
Single Set of Loudspeaker Outputs
One pair of positive and negative outputs is provided for each stereo channel.
The amplifier supports one conventional stereo loudspeaker pair rather than independently switched A and B speaker zones.
The red terminals are positive and the black terminals are negative.
The Black Speaker Terminals Are Not Grounded
The amplifier uses a circuit arrangement in which neither negative loudspeaker terminal is connected to earth.
Do not join the negative terminals together, connect them to ground or use accessories that require a common speaker return without first obtaining technical confirmation from Audio T or Leema Acoustics.
4mm Banana-Plug Connections
The low-profile loudspeaker terminals are designed for industry-standard 4mm banana plugs.
They are not designed for direct bare-wire connection.
Before switching on:
- Confirm every banana plug is fully inserted
- Check positive and negative polarity
- Ensure no exposed conductor can touch another terminal
- Confirm the left and right channels are connected correctly
- Keep the amplifier disconnected from mains power while making changes
Speaker-Cable Selection
Use good-quality speaker cable fitted with secure 4mm banana plugs.
Cable selection should consider:
- The length of each run
- Conductor area
- Amplifier compatibility
- Connector quality
- The requirements of the connected speakers
- The balance of the complete system
The left and right cable runs should normally be approximately equal in length.
Browse speaker cables available from Audio T to compare suitable options.
Speaker Matching
The Elements Integrated is suitable for a broad range of compact standmount and medium-sized floorstanding loudspeakers.
Good matches will normally combine:
- A nominal impedance of 4 ohms or higher
- Sensitivity appropriate to the room and listening distance
- Power requirements within the amplifier’s capability
- A tonal balance that complements the source and room
Large rooms, low-sensitivity speakers or consistently high playback levels may justify a more powerful amplifier.
Matching Elements CD Player
The Leema Acoustics Elements CD Player is the natural disc source for the amplifier.
The two components provide:
- Matching half-width dimensions
- Coordinated black or silver finishes
- Balanced XLR connectivity
- LIPS system communication
- Shared remote-control operation
- A complete compact CD-based system
Adding the Elements Streamer
The Leema Acoustics Elements Streamer adds network music playback and compatible streaming services within a matching compact chassis.
It can connect through analogue outputs or through a compatible digital connection to the amplifier’s internal DAC.
Using separate source components allows the CD player, streamer and amplifier to be upgraded independently.
Pairing with the Stream IV
The Leema Acoustics Stream IV combines CD and network streaming within one full-width digital source.
It can connect to the Elements Integrated through:
- A stereo RCA analogue connection
- Coaxial digital S/PDIF
- Optical digital S/PDIF
The analogue connection uses the Stream IV’s internal DAC, while a digital connection uses the DAC inside the Elements Integrated.
Elements Integrated or Tucana II Anniversary?
Choose the Elements Integrated When
- A compact half-width amplifier is preferred
- Built-in digital inputs are important
- USB computer audio is required
- 56W per channel suits the speakers and room
- A complete system must fit into limited space
- The Elements CD Player or Streamer is being used
Choose the Tucana II Anniversary When
- Substantially greater power is required
- More demanding loudspeakers are being used
- A full-width amplifier suits the system
- A larger analogue input selection is required
- Dual-mono construction is a priority
- The partnering source and speakers justify the additional investment
The Leema Tucana II Anniversary is a considerably larger and more powerful analogue integrated amplifier.
External Power-Amplifier Upgrade
The variable pre-out allows the Elements Integrated to be used as a pre-amplifier with a compatible external power amplifier.
This may be considered where:
- More power is required
- A larger room is being used
- The loudspeakers have demanding impedance characteristics
- Passive bi-amping is planned
- The system will be upgraded in stages
The compact Elements chassis can therefore remain useful even if the amplification system expands later.
Black and Silver Finishes
Audio T currently lists the Elements Integrated Amplifier in:
Both finishes use the same internal specification.
The colour can be matched with the Elements CD Player and Elements Streamer to create a coordinated compact system.
Placement and Ventilation
Install the amplifier on a rigid, level shelf with adequate ventilation around the chassis.
Do not position it:
- Inside a sealed cupboard
- Directly above or below another hot-running component
- In direct sunlight
- Beside a radiator or other strong heat source
- Where liquids may reach it
- On unstable or resonant furniture
Leema specifically advises against stacking its components directly on top of one another.
Protection Systems
The amplifier incorporates protection against conditions including short circuits and excessive operating temperature.
Protection should not be treated as a substitute for correct installation.
Before switching on, always check:
- Speaker-cable polarity
- Banana-plug security
- Minimum loudspeaker impedance
- Ventilation
- Mains-voltage suitability
- AV Direct configuration
Warm-Up and Everyday Operation
The Elements Integrated is designed to achieve its normal operating specification and sound quality within a few minutes of being switched on.
It does not need to remain powered continuously.
Normal practice is to switch the amplifier off when it will not be used for an extended period and disconnect it from the mains during an electrical storm.
Care and Cleaning
Switch the amplifier 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. There are no user-serviceable components inside.
Key Features
- Compact stereo integrated amplifier
- Designed and manufactured in the United Kingdom
- Part of the Leema Elements range
- Half-width 220mm chassis
- 56W RMS per channel into 8 ohms
- 110W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- 160W RMS per channel into 2 ohms under published test conditions
- Minimum recommended loudspeaker load of 4 ohms
- Output-current capability exceeding positive and negative 12 amps
- 5Hz to 80kHz frequency response
- 0.015% published total harmonic distortion
- A-weighted noise below -105dBm
- 110dB published signal-to-noise ratio
- Three stereo RCA line inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- Front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input
- Three optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- One asynchronous USB-B input
- PCM compatibility up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Built-in low-jitter digital-to-analogue converter
- Front-panel 3.5mm headphone output
- Minimum recommended headphone impedance of 32 ohms
- Automatic loudspeaker muting with headphones connected
- Variable stereo RCA pre-out
- Active subwoofer connectivity
- External power-amplifier connectivity
- Passive bi-amping capability
- Assignable AV Direct input
- Balanced or RCA AV Direct selection
- Leema Intelligent Protocol System
- LIPS master or slave operation
- Home-automation compatibility through LIPS
- Customisable input names
- Protective volume reduction when changing inputs
- Adjustable front-display timeout
- Infrared remote control
- One stereo loudspeaker output set
- 4mm banana-plug speaker connections
- Short-circuit protection
- Thermal protection
- Black finish
- Silver finish
- 220mm width
- 88mm height
- 340mm depth
- Approximately 11kg weight
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Leema Elements Integrated Amplifier?
Audio T lists 56W per channel into 8 ohms. Leema also publishes 110W per channel into 4 ohms and 160W per channel into 2 ohms under its stated test conditions.
Can it drive 2-ohm speakers?
Leema publishes a 2-ohm output measurement, but the amplifier’s stated minimum loudspeaker load is 4 ohms. The 2-ohm figure should be treated as evidence of current capability rather than a recommended nominal load.
What is the output-current capability?
Leema specifies output current exceeding positive and negative 12 amps.
How many analogue inputs are provided?
There are three stereo RCA inputs, one stereo balanced XLR input and one front-panel 3.5mm auxiliary input.
Does it have a phono stage?
No. A conventional turntable requires an external phono stage unless it already provides a suitable line-level output.
Does it have balanced inputs?
Yes. One stereo balanced input is provided through separate left and right XLR sockets.
How many digital inputs are provided?
There are three optical inputs, one coaxial S/PDIF input and one USB-B computer input.
What is the maximum digital resolution?
The digital board supports compatible PCM signals at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Can it decode Dolby Digital or DTS?
No. A television or other source should be configured to output two-channel PCM.
Can a television be connected?
Yes. Optical digital is normally the simplest connection, provided the television is set to stereo PCM output.
Can a computer be connected?
Yes. A USB-B input is provided for compatible computer-audio playback up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Will the USB input work with every current computer?
Operating-system and driver support can change, so current compatibility should be confirmed when USB playback is essential.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No Bluetooth receiver is included in the current published specification.
Does it stream music?
No network streamer is built in. Streaming can be added through the Leema Elements Streamer, Stream IV or another suitable source.
Does it have HDMI?
No HDMI input is fitted.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A dedicated 3.5mm headphone socket is provided on the front panel.
Are the loudspeakers muted when headphones are connected?
Yes. Connecting headphones automatically mutes the loudspeaker outputs.
Which headphone impedance is recommended?
Leema recommends headphones with an impedance of at least 32 ohms.
Can an active subwoofer be connected?
Yes. The variable stereo RCA pre-out can supply a compatible active subwoofer.
Can an external power amplifier be connected?
Yes. The variable pre-out can feed a compatible stereo power amplifier.
Can the amplifier be used for bi-amping?
Yes, with suitable loudspeakers and an external power amplifier. The loudspeaker terminal links must be removed before passive bi-amping.
What is AV Direct?
It allows one analogue input to accept the front-channel output from an AV receiver or processor with its own volume control.
Can a CD player be connected to an AV Direct input?
A fixed-level source must not be used while AV Direct is enabled because unexpectedly high playback levels could result.
What is LIPS?
LIPS is the Leema Intelligent Protocol System, which allows compatible Leema components to exchange control information and operate together.
Can the inputs be renamed?
Yes. Input names can be edited through the amplifier’s setup menu.
Does it support two pairs of speakers?
No. It provides one conventional stereo loudspeaker output set.
Which speaker connectors are required?
The low-profile speaker terminals are designed for 4mm banana plugs and are not intended for direct bare-wire connection.
Can the negative speaker terminals be connected together?
No. Neither black terminal is grounded, so they must not be joined together or connected to earth.
Does it include short-circuit protection?
Yes, although speaker-cable short circuits should still be avoided.
Does it require ventilation?
Yes. Install it on an open, rigid shelf and do not stack another component directly on top.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 220 x 88 x 340mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Audio T lists a weight of approximately 11kg.
Which finishes are available?
Audio T currently lists black and silver versions, subject to availability.
Where is it made?
Leema designs and manufactures its electronics in the United Kingdom.
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 Elements Integrated Amplifier demonstrations
- Loudspeaker sensitivity and impedance matching
- Comparisons with larger integrated amplifiers
- Analogue and digital source setup
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA comparisons
- Television optical-output configuration
- USB computer-audio compatibility guidance
- External phono-stage selection
- Headphone matching
- Active subwoofer setup
- External power-amplifier and bi-amping advice
- AV Direct configuration
- Leema LIPS system setup
- Elements CD Player and Streamer comparisons
- Speaker-cable selection and banana-plug termination
- Compact equipment-rack planning
- 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 loudspeaker matching, digital sources, turntable connectivity, subwoofers and system setup for the Leema Acoustics Elements Integrated Amplifier.