The LEAK Stereo 230 at a glance
The LEAK Stereo 230 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC, which means it is the heart of a system. Connect a pair of passive loudspeakers and one or more sources and you have a complete setup, no separate preamp or outboard converter required. It carries the retro styling that defines the revived LEAK range, a look drawn straight from the brand's mid-century classics, now built as part of IAG alongside sister brands Wharfedale, Quad, Mission and Audiolab.
Where it stands apart in the current lineup is power and refinement. The Stereo 230 delivers 2 x 75W into 8 ohms and 2 x 115W into 4 ohms in Class AB, fed by a larger toroidal transformer than its sibling. Digital duties are handled by the higher grade ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC.
LEAK design and technology
The Stereo 230 revives LEAK's heritage in a modern package. Its front panel, illuminated dial and choice of Walnut, Grey and Black finishes reference the look of vintage LEAK components while the internals are thoroughly contemporary.
The DAC
At the center sits the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M 32-bit converter. This is the more capable DAC in the LEAK Stereo range and it feeds a generous set of digital inputs: USB-B for a computer, two optical, one coaxial, and an HDMI ARC input so you can route your television's audio straight through the amplifier and enjoy it over proper loudspeakers.
Connectivity
On the analog side you get two RCA line inputs plus a dedicated MM phono stage, so a moving magnet turntable connects directly with no separate phono box. Bluetooth with aptX handles casual wireless streaming from a phone or tablet. There is also an RCA pre-out for adding a power amplifier or subwoofer down the line, and a headphone output for private listening.
Sound and performance character
With 75W per channel into 8 ohms and 115W into 4 ohms, the Stereo 230 has real reserves of power and current, which lets it stay composed with demanding loudspeakers and at higher volumes. The larger toroidal transformer supports that headroom and gives the presentation a sense of ease and grip. The Class AB output stage and the ES9038Q2M DAC together aim for a clean, detailed and full-bodied sound that suits both digital sources and vinyl. Think of it as a design goal centered on flexibility and effortless drive in a single tidy chassis.
Where it sits in the LEAK range
The natural comparison is the LEAK Stereo 130. Both share the same styling, the same MM phono stage, HDMI ARC, Bluetooth and headphone output, so the family character is consistent. The Stereo 230 is the step up within that range: it offers more power at 2 x 75W versus the 130's 2 x 45W, the higher grade ES9038Q2M DAC rather than the 130's ES9018K2M, and a larger toroidal transformer. If you have larger rooms, more demanding speakers, or you simply want extra headroom, the Stereo 230 is the more capable choice. If your room is compact and your speakers are easy to drive, the Stereo 130 covers the essentials in the same style.
Building a system around the Stereo 230
Loudspeakers
The Stereo 230 needs passive loudspeakers, and it partners beautifully within its own family. The LEAK Sandwich 150 Bookshelf Loudspeakers revive LEAK's aluminum foamcore Sandwich cone in a two-way bookshelf, an ideal match for smaller and medium rooms. For a fuller three-way presentation, the LEAK Sandwich 250 Standmount Loudspeakers take fuller advantage of the amplifier's extra power. If you want a more compact partner from within the group, the Mission 750 Bookshelf Loudspeakers are a characterful option to audition. Connect any of these with quality cable such as the Audioquest Rocket 44 BiWire.
Sources
For CD lovers, the LEAK CDT CD Transport is a matching partner. Note that the CDT has no built-in DAC of its own; it relies on a converter, and the Stereo 230's ES9038Q2M DAC is exactly what it needs when connected to a digital input. For network audio, the LEAK TruStream Network Streamer adds Roon Ready playback, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect and AirPlay 2, and connects to the Stereo 230 through its line input. Add a turntable to the MM phono input and you have a versatile three source system.
Other integrated amplifiers to consider
If you are weighing your options, AEA carries several integrated amplifiers with different design priorities. The Audiolab 7000A comes from a LEAK sister brand and offers its own take on the digital ready integrated. The TEAC AX-505 leans toward a compact separates aesthetic, the Cambridge Audio EXA100 is another well featured integrated, and the Yamaha R-N1000A is a network receiver for those who want streaming built into the amplifier itself. Each suits a different set of preferences, so the right one comes down to how you want to source and connect your music. If retro British styling, generous digital inputs, HDMI ARC and a built-in phono stage in one box appeal to you, the Stereo 230 makes a strong case.
For an all-in-one alternative in a different category entirely, the Klipsch The Fives II Powered Speakers combine amplification and speakers in one pair, though that is a self-contained solution rather than an integrated amplifier plus passive speakers.
Come and listen
All Elite Audio is an authorized LEAK dealer with a showroom in Timonium, Maryland. Demo units rotate and not every model is always set up, so please contact us to arrange a listen and we will make sure the Stereo 230 and its potential partners are ready for you.