✔︎ *REVIEWING: **bit.ly/33NhWEY** // NEED MORE INFO? ✔︎ THE ⬆︎DESCRIPTION⬆︎* ★ *QOTD: What piece of audio history would you like to see make a comeback?* ★ *COMMENT RULES:* - No outside URLs or UA-cam links. - Please be respectful to one another. Harassment and threats will not be tolerated.
I, personally, would like to see more throwback gear like this. Vintage gear is gaining traction these days, and I would love a comeback in vintage design. I am enamored with my Sansui 4000’s build quality.
This is a gorgeous integrated amplifier and I too shared the same lust to own it when I first saw it online months ago. I haven’t purchased it but was excited to watch your review of it. Happy you were able to get your hands on it. A lot of Yamaha’s play off the vintage aesthetic vibe nicely as well. Would like to see one of those reviewed some day.
I have the 130 and CDT with a pair of Dentons and I absolutely adore how it sounds in my room. Everything about it makes me so happy and makes me smile :)
Love the vintage look - one of the reasons I am a huge fan of Leben, Luxman, McIntosh, Accuphase, and Yamaha. Needle VU meters, very solid rotary knobs and switches, wood cases! Much classier to have toggle switches like Magnum-Dynalab versus push buttons.
Piece of audio history I want to see come back is analog VU meters, when properly incorporated have a clean and professional look and such a fascinating concept a, visual mechanical representation of the audio signal.
I purchased the Leak system with the Wharfdale Linton Heritage speakers in a package deal . I set up today & first impressions are very promising ( new equipment needs a few weeks to burn in) . Build quality is fantastic & superb at this price point. With respect to these two companies If you lust after Harbeth & Luxman but is out of ones price league then go for this. Of course Luxman/Harbeth will sound better but you are getting something not far off. For a small room highly recommended.
Received this amp today, all things aside, just the look and finish of this amp is so exquisite pictures or video don’t do justice for this amp for the looks! You have to see this beauty in person for sure.
Here in the UK some dealers are selling the Leak as a bundle with the Wharfedale Lintons plus stands at a very good price. I am so tempted.. Im sure it won't be long before I buy. I love the idea that the version with the wooden surround doesn't require an aerial. I always find amplifiers with an aerial - jarring.
I ordered both the LEAK 130 and CD transport today. I will use them with my classic 1968 LEAK Sandwich Concert Speakers I purchased in Germany in 1968.
Absolutely love the looks.! Would play to my speakers for sure. I've always been interested in the Parasound integrated 200 but have never pulled the trigger.
That is a sweet looking amp. That design is so pleasing. I would have expected it to be a lot warmer sounding based on its looks. Personally, I think I am heading more in the direction of the Musical Fidelity M5si. I think I will appreciate the flexibility more than the aesthetics. I want to see the return of quality fully automatic turntables, I dread the day my Denon stops working. I also hope we get to see the return of Sansui.
Hi Andrew. Yours was one of the reviews that made me go for the Leak. I have both the Stereo 130 and the CDT, paired with a couple of BW 607. I have to say that you were right on the money. The BW’s are a perfect pair with good recordings (be it vinyl, CD or stream), but when they’re not so good, they’re noticeably bad. Also noticed that with particularly complex rock or pop music, presentation looses some of its transparency and clarity. May go for the Linton’s soon and see if they’re pair better across more music styles. One thing I’d like your opinion on is how the leak compares to the Audiolab 6000a. They come from the same company, but considering your review on the Audiolab 6000a Play, it seems the it’s a clear step up from the Leak. Thanks for your great valuable work on the channel.
Probably the regular 6000a is a better comparison. Unless you're really not fussed, the lack of gapless playback on the play-fi software is a major no-no for me. You're better off (as you'd have to do with the Leak) getting the non streaming version and adding a more capable streamer.
Piece of audio that I would like to see come-back : Quad ESL-57 I had a pair in the early '70s, sold them when we started our family, but they were exceptional. Would buy again, now that all 4 children left on their own. Now I listen with Omega 8 full range, very good on voices. I also just bought a pair of LS3/5a by Falcon. Merci.
I love the looks. It seems the CD transport has a lot in common with the Audiolab one, also no surprise. It would have been cool to hear your thoughts on how it would pair with the Wharfedale Lintons.
Honestly, I would love to see Carver have a comeback. Bob is an awesome designer and I would love to see what he could do in the budget area. That Leak is beautiful and for that price? Man, I want one!
Love the look. My first amp was a Leak stereo 70. I loved it. It certainly sounded very different to what Andrew reported for the new model. I always thought of it as a valve amp that happend to use transistors.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews you can still find them. It was part of a system with a Garrard 301 turntable/SME Series 2 (I think) tonearm. A Goldring cartridge and JR 150 speakers. It was a 1960s sounding system and none the worse for it. Put together In the early 80s. You'd have enjoyed it very much!
Is it strange that I'm starting to enjoy your reviews for some of the same aspects that you may attribute to a loudspeaker or amplifier? If a review were done on audio review formats, I'm guessing the "Andrew Robinson" would rate highly: "While Joe Reviewer tends to attribute more of "human" inconsistent, somewhat editorial quality that some may find pleasing in terms of color and character, the Andrew Robinson articulates each point clearly and concisely with a matrix of standardized listening parameters applied to each amplifier or speaker that brings a level of scientific control to the review, that said, the Andrew Robinson still manages to give the viewer a solid level of approachable warmth and likability that isn't fatiguing when binge watching." "Added to that a level of clean, minimalist aesthetic that gives his viewers a feeling of something to aspire to without being gaudy or overly pretentious and you have a winning combination for most viewers."
Thank you so much for your review! I became chocked-up with emotion within seconds! At 16 in 1966, and just receiving my drivers license, I recall entering KLA Labs in Detroit on Woodward Avenue, just a few blocks from Motown, where earlier I witnessed the Supremes entering their limousines. I asked if I could hear their Leak system. It was a tubed amp connected to their Sandwich speakers via the Empire turntable. Boring, I thought. Didn’t sound like anything I would enjoy. Now nearly 55 years later, I relish that sound. I’ve developed a mature-seasoned taste for the real thing. Both the Stereo 130 and CDT will be a Christmas Gift to myself! Thanks again!
Hi Larry . Did you treat yourself to the Leak? I bought & set up today it in a package with Wharfdale Linton Heritage. First impressions are very good but I think the equipment needs to burn in at least 2 weeks before knowing. Its designed for a small room & I have yet to try harder edge music but Frank Sinatra sounded sublime. Good luck.
I want to see Technics bring back their more affordable amplifiers and other audio gear. Growing up that’s all my father ever had for his Hifi, apart from a Sony 5 disc changer. Yes Technics have made a comeback in recent years, but they only released a reference system and an amplifier that was a little cheaper and still not affordable for most average enthusiasts.
I'm a new subscriber. Great review with plenty of detail. Thanks for reviewing such an interesting amp. I love that companies are looking to the past to bring back looks and ideas.
Hey Mr Robinson, this is a cool review glad to see this old retro type unit , tho not familiar with Leak, glad to learn a little about another part of audio history. Good honest and articulate review, on what to expect from such a unit. Much appreciated sir 👍🏾
Was really interested in seeing what a 1k all around integrated looked like in 2020. Man it looks good hahha. Really like how this one looks. Great review as always
Man it looks great. I just put together a new home theater and after I was done and watched a few movies I remembered why I hadn't set one up since I left NY. I prefer stereo and surround sound just feels like a gimmick after awhile.
Hi Andrew. Just a quick note to say that I love your channel, especially given the variety from anything from two-channel audio to full AV equipment as well. A little while ago you reviewed the Q Acoustics Concept 500 with the Naim Uniti Atom. I already owned the 500's which I was using with a Cambridge Audio CXA60/CXU combination. The sound was very good, but I was looking for something better. Exit the CXA60 and enter the Naim Uniti Atom, and yes there was a definitely improvement. Anyway, long story short, it was recommended for me to try a valve (tube) amplifier via a couple of people who just by chance used tube amps exclusively - as for me, I've never heard a tube amplifier. With me not being too flush financially, and after much deliberation and research, I ended up buying a Willsenton R8 tube amplifier - at least I could still stream using the CXU as well, so that was great. I've now put the Naim back in the box that it came in - yes the sound of the R8 tube amp is that good and at about $770.00 imported from China (compared to around $3200 for the Atom), an absolute bargain. Highly recommended for your Concept 300's. The sound is just magic. The combination of 500's and R8 expands the sound-stage in all directions, even more detail than the Naim and a transparency that enables you to "look right through the musical presentation", so I'm sure you'll love it.
Andrew, not sure if you're taking music recommendations thru comments, but I wanted to give you some bands to listen to that I think you might like! - Ridgeway - Gleemer - Night Tapes - Men I Trust (specifically the album, Oncle Jazz) - Choir Boy - The Japanese House
Well, I didn't see that one coming! Leak...who'd have thought it! I wonder what Harold Leak would make of it? Looks amazing, I have to say. I know that the Leak factory in Acton, West London is long gone, but it is great to see the aesthetic and name live on. I wonder when we can expect to see a remake of the Stereo 20 valve amp!?! Great review as ever, Andrew...keep up the good work👍
I hope they continue to offer new products under this name. Seeing as how the parent company is the same as QUAD, tube-based designs may not be an impossibility in the future.
Hi Andrew, Very good point...I suspect you may be right🙂 I forgot to add my piece of equipment to 'revive'...I'd go for the Nakamichi TX-1000 turntable. An exercise in ludicrous complexity (but marvellous nonetheless 🙂), yet stunning to behold. Maybe I should float the idea with IAG! 😉
A beautiful review! This amp did also called my attention, a real eye-catcher and great to now have an idea what it's all about sonically. I would very much like the re-appearance of affordable reel-to-reel tape machines, not just the very few that cost a fortune (such as Ballfinger at 20k or the Thorens TM 1600 at 12k€ with playback only). But given the technical production implications, this is highly unlikely to ever happen.
I recently bought an Akai gx 4000d reel to reel. It's great fun, sounds wonderful and isn't too expensive. Buying prerecorded tapes is a bit costly though!
@@andrewwilson8273 Oh, I know that too well by draining the bank account for good tapes. And often it's taking a chance when it comes to condition. But once you get a good ones it's all too sweet to give up. :)
@@phonatic Yes. I have been lucky with tapes so far. One thing I am certain of is that the tapes I have purchased sound better than any LP of the same performance and, to my ear, in a couple of cases, better than the digital versions. The newest tape I have is from about 1967. I was blown away by one from 1959. The quality available back then, and preserved on tape is astounding. To my mind there is no point in using such a machine for recording in the home. It's all about preserving and enjoying the best of 50 or 60 years ago. Frank Sinatra on reel to reel - that's how it should be!
Most of the time I do not record as well but it's nice to have that feature. A few years ago I released the latest jazz album by Molly Ryan both on 2- and 4-track tape. It never paid off but was lots of fun to do as a kind of a re-enactment. I have come by many outstandingly sounding tapes as well from that same era. But I cannot say that for every one of them. There have been some that blasting due to poor duplication or lack of upper frequency response, and I am only talking about 7 1/2 ips. Nevertheless, even imperfection is something that brings me closer to how it was to listen to a vintage album back in the days. Also have two Akai machines (X-215D) but mostly use my three Revox A77. Frankie on tape is really unrivaled. Personally, I have an obsession with Kind Of Blue and just love these tapes. It's really a specialty format not many enjoy, so it's really great to read your comments.
Brilliant video - I’m English, I felt proud in my 20’s many years ago when I came across a Leak Stereo 20 valve amp and I say this because it all links to your early ‘romance’ comment here. I remember having a QED passive volume control too. I loved that amp!
I own a Leak Troughline tuner. Very cool and almost iconic vintage piece. Not sure how sexy a retro amp like this can be when you look behind the curtain. Love my Heresy lll which would stylistically match very well with the Leak amp.
Pioneer, Technics and Sansui were the players in the early 80s budget market I grew up in. Lots of debate in high school on how to pronounce Technics (long ‘e’ or short I).
I was just wondering if anyone else picked that up? In the entire video, from the first cutaway shot, I couldn't concentrate on anything but that button 🙂.
hey Andrew nice review 👍 my old system was a carver magnetic field amp 250 watts aside carver vacumm tube cd player along with carver preamp paired up with B&W dm 640 speakers towers it kicked ass would love too see u review something like that ..
Hi Andrew, I enjoyed your review of the Stereo 130. Love the looks! Regarding your comment about the forward sounding and bright audio, is It possible that it would settle down after it got broken in? I am running Yamaha and KEF Q300 speakers in my living room and I am quite happy With the sound. The Leak sure LOOKS like it should have a warmer sound! About bringing back gear, I once had a Dynaco SCA 35 tube amp driving a pair of AR4X speakers and loved the sound. I would love to see the SCA 35 back again, with a remote. Happy New Year!
I’m more of a “tube sound” kind of guy, lush and warm, with a wide soundstage. Although I do love detail, I don’t want it to sound dark...but, forward and bright just isn’t my personal forte. So this might not be the amplifier for me, although aesthetically, it’s brilliant. I wish Acoustic Research turntables would make a “come back”. 😊
Powerpickle68 Bass and treble controls can tame the high end from being fatiguing, but at the cost of detail. Usually the range that simple bass and treble controls, control are pretty wide... I suppose you could get by with a graphic equalizer, given you could find one... however nothing would really help the soundstage. “Warm” is definitely colored sound, but not lacking in detail, I would want to tame the treble, not subdue or stifle it. There’s a pleasant, polite, and laidback sound tube, and tube-like gear provides that is hard to duplicate with EQ or DSP. Long listening sessions are far less ear fatiguing, given, at the expense of some “quickness” to the sound. Brings me into the music more than slapping me in the face with it. 😀
Nice review! I would like to see a comeback of those pieces of audio history: EPOS ES12 Speakers, Creek 4140 S2 Integrated Amp, Acoustic Research A-03 HP Integrated Amp, Rotel RA-935 BX MKII Integrated Amp.
Great vintage looks aside, the Quad Vena II and Audiolab 6000a cousins are now also available in a “Play” streaming version. Thanks Andrew for another great review and particularly the advice on pairing with the right speakers!
I think because my unit is an early production sample that has made the rounds from photoshoots etc. it likely has been damaged or jostled and is not what you would get as a new customer. Just my 2 cents.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews That power button bothered me the whole video. I'd agree with your character comment if it was a vintage piece of equipment, but not on something new that costs over one thousand dollars.
My dad had a Leak, bought from a stereo dealer in NYC who received advance shipments (legitimately not "hot") of some stereo equipment from manufacturers to demo. This was either late 1959 or 1960. That tube amplifier began, and still powers, my audiophile journey after all these years. Dad loved exacting sound. Wow! Didn't know it resurfaced. Gotta give it a listen! Btw, ads are popping in at the most inconvenient times on your vids....FRUSTRATING!
@IRQ1Conflict I totally understand why folks would want to use an ad blocker like the one you've referenced, hell, I was once one of those people myself. That said, while you may benefit from not having to sit through ads or pop-ups, you're costing people who provide you with entertainment or information (often for free) an ability to earn a living. While we appreciate each and every one of our viewers and subscribers, blocking our ability to earn a little off your collective attentions makes it even more difficult to do this job at the level with which you have come to expect it. If you are a fan of what we do here, and really do want to show your support, please refrain from using any and all ad blocking software on this channel -or any UA-camr's channel honestly. Creating content is a job, same as any other. This job is very labor intensive and stressful, same as a lot of jobs, maybe even yours. We don't expect anyone to work for free, so please don't force us to. Kindly disable your ad blocking software when you watch UA-cam. Or pay for UA-cam premium, which gives you ad-free UA-cam across the board while still supporting creators and channels like ours in the process. -Andrew
It's looks cool but if they put a DAC in it then they should offer wifi music connection which is superior to Bluetooth in amount of data to stream which means higher quality streaming.
14:20 I’m hankering for a great retro style system and currently the JBL L100 Classic 75 and 750 Amp are top of my wish list with the Linton / Leek combo a close second. However, if one of the big player produced a repro 70’s/80’s style super receiver I’d be all over that! There is just something hugely satisfying with operating a large weighted micro-incremental volume control and smooth weighted tuner with a full width needled scale behind a lovely glass window. I can’t figure out the mechanics of it while I’m typing but somehow having DAB incorporated into to the tuner scale would be fantastic - even maybe a servo assisted tuning control knob with a remote control. I’d be perfectly happy for a 10 second delay while the tuner powers across the scale to fix onto a station. It would be a great visual experience. I’d pay big bucks for that……I may even build one myself!
I'm a Fisher freak. I've gone mostly modern these days. But if a company could bring back The Fisher in a wonderful way like this integrated they might get my money.
Good review! I've a pair of Lintons and hope they work well with the Leak. Like you I had to have it once I saw it! Not a way to buy hi fi but there you go! 😂
My nostalgia goes to my 78's and full standing Victrola, but not electronics. The advances made insure this, evidenced by the "improved" speakers (JBL and Klipsch) that turned me into an rounded audio person in the 60's and 70's.
It's askew, yes. Our delivery guy is really rough on packages - so it could have happened in shipping. I don't think it's indicative of the build quality but also, I'm not QC.
i love the looks ! with your Herseys and that equipment rack probably one of the nicest cleanest looking systems going, However i do kinda wish they built the Leak to a little higher price point and maybe integrated tube amp .
Really interesting. Immediately prior to watching this review, I watched the audio man revue the same amp. He thought it warm, with a rounded bass and rolled off top end. Totally the opposite conclusion to yourself! I’ve not heard the amp so, I can neither agree or disagree with either of you.
I bought the Leak amp and CDT about 6 months ago. Andrew has this right. It’s not warm at all. It’s very neutral and pairing with the right speakers is key.
@@Habitual_Liar I’ve paired it with the B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, mostly because my music room is really small. About 12 square meters. But the combination is great. Even though the 607 are a bit difficult to drive, the Leak goes down to 4 ohms, which is key for these speakers. It’s a great combination,
Hi Andrew thanks for the awesome reviews! Would you say that the leak 130 would be a good fit with the jbl l52 ? I’m debating between this the audiolab 7000a & the new technics you reviewed. I like the leak form factor… thanks !
Prefer the retro look of the Yamaha A-S1200 series. The needle volume windows brings back the seventies when I was a young buck listening to Cerwin Vegas’.
Great review. Lots of pertinant information and insights. Although I would have like to see an Network Player in the mix for Tidal versus Bluetooth. I do both (Call it laziness when I am on the computer it is just more convenient to use.) always found the Tidal stream more open and natural comming from Net Audio player than from my Macbook and Audio Engine DAC.
Another good review Andrew. I would certainly be looking at other brands to compare putting styling to one side. I noticed the power button looks askew.
Wondering - have you covered Peachtree Nova? I think that would be my pick, esp for looks. This is a leeetle bit too hipstery for me. QOTD answer - cassettes. Maybe DAT for the clarity but actually I just miss the format - rugged, easy to carry around, easy to record on and personalise and with the right gear can sound pretty darn good.
This has virtually the same back layout as the Quad Vena 2. Appears to have a similar DAC chip too. I wonder if any of the internals (caps, transistors, power supply) are different? Absolute Sound did a nice review of pairing the Quad Vena 2 and Linton heritage in March.
Looks great very retro! I wrongly when I first saw it assumed it would be a tube amp or at the very least a hybrid so was disappointed to find out it was solid state. For that reason its off my list but will be interested to see what other new kit Leak release in the future!
Hi Andrew, I've just watched your review and am thinking of upgrading my Hi-Fi system with the LEAK 130, as my amp is showing its age and I've repaired it a few times already, so time to retire this workhorse of many years. I've got a NAD3155 Integrated Amp that I'm running as a Pre-Amp, into a Vincent SP-330 Power Amp, and then Bi-wiring into a pair of RUARK Equinox speakers. These speakers are a bit forward sounding, I'd appreciate your thoughts on the pairing of the LEAK with these RUARK speakers. My source components are the Vincent CD-S10 CD Player and Kenwood KD-650 Turntable(with MC Cart: AT-OC9) I was thinking to expand the source options with media streaming via a Bluetooth device for Spotify, or perhaps just connecting my laptop to it. Cheers, Jeff
Andrew - would love to hear what integrated or amps in this range - give or take $500 or so - you would consider using to drive a pair of vintage but recapped and restored KLH Model 6s that I originally purchased in 1976? Decent digital inputs a plus...
![If you can't hear this then you're not an audiophile [See description for link to followup video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/48PxwspDvrE/mqdefault.jpg)
✔︎ *REVIEWING: **bit.ly/33NhWEY** // NEED MORE INFO? ✔︎ THE ⬆︎DESCRIPTION⬆︎*
★ *QOTD: What piece of audio history would you like to see make a comeback?*
★ *COMMENT RULES:*
- No outside URLs or UA-cam links.
- Please be respectful to one another. Harassment and threats will not be tolerated.
Heathkit's audio kits. I think it would help to foster people into electronics and hifi at an affordable price
@@command8783 I like that suggestion. Even if they're not kits, the name and original model would likely do well in today's market.
My parents use to have fisher receiver circa 1989 to 1992
Velodyne. My goodness those servo subs were incredible back in the day. It'll be interesting to see how the new ownership pans out.
I, personally, would like to see more throwback gear like this. Vintage gear is gaining traction these days, and I would love a comeback in vintage design. I am enamored with my Sansui 4000’s build quality.
One month from buying the Leak/Wharfdale system I am really enjoying it. Its great for low level listening & does not get hung up recording quality.
Thanks for the review, how about reviewing the more powerful Leak 230 next?
This is a gorgeous integrated amplifier and I too shared the same lust to own it when I first saw it online months ago. I haven’t purchased it but was excited to watch your review of it. Happy you were able to get your hands on it.
A lot of Yamaha’s play off the vintage aesthetic vibe nicely as well. Would like to see one of those reviewed some day.
I have the 130 and CDT with a pair of Dentons and I absolutely adore how it sounds in my room. Everything about it makes me so happy and makes me smile :)
Well done Jay.
Love the vintage look - one of the reasons I am a huge fan of Leben, Luxman, McIntosh, Accuphase, and Yamaha. Needle VU meters, very solid rotary knobs and switches, wood cases! Much classier to have toggle switches like Magnum-Dynalab versus push buttons.
Such a nice piece of kit. Such clean simple design. Less is more. No gaudy shiny plastic in sight, perfecto 👌🏼
Piece of audio history I want to see come back is analog VU meters, when properly incorporated have a clean and professional look and such a fascinating concept a, visual mechanical representation of the audio signal.
I purchased the Leak system with the Wharfdale Linton Heritage speakers in a package deal . I set up today & first impressions are very promising ( new equipment needs a few weeks to burn in) . Build quality is fantastic & superb at this price point. With respect to these two companies If you lust after Harbeth & Luxman but is out of ones price league then go for this. Of course Luxman/Harbeth will sound better but you are getting something not far off. For a small room highly recommended.
Are you still loving the combination? And where did you bought these?
Received this amp today, all things aside, just the look and finish of this amp is so exquisite pictures or video don’t do justice for this amp for the looks! You have to see this beauty in person for sure.
Rock on!
Agreed.
Here in the UK some dealers are selling the Leak as a bundle with the Wharfedale Lintons plus stands at a very good price. I am so tempted.. Im sure it won't be long before I buy. I love the idea that the version with the wooden surround doesn't require an aerial. I always find amplifiers with an aerial - jarring.
I ordered both the LEAK 130 and CD transport today. I will use them with my classic 1968 LEAK Sandwich Concert Speakers I purchased in Germany in 1968.
Absolutely love the looks.! Would play to my speakers for sure. I've always been interested in the Parasound integrated 200 but have never pulled the trigger.
Great, honest review that helps us make an informed purchasing decision.
Thank you so much! We appreciate you watching.
I would love to see you review the new Leak 230. Thank you, Andrew.
Thank you Andrew for another honest review! I’ll keep looking to pair my Heresy 4s.
Thank you so much! We appreciate you watching.
That is a sweet looking amp. That design is so pleasing. I would have expected it to be a lot warmer sounding based on its looks. Personally, I think I am heading more in the direction of the Musical Fidelity M5si. I think I will appreciate the flexibility more than the aesthetics.
I want to see the return of quality fully automatic turntables, I dread the day my Denon stops working. I also hope we get to see the return of Sansui.
+1 on fully auto turntables and Sansui. Don't sleep on the MF's looks. It's stunning and so well made just a totally different vibe.
Hi Andrew. Yours was one of the reviews that made me go for the Leak. I have both the Stereo 130 and the CDT, paired with a couple of BW 607. I have to say that you were right on the money. The BW’s are a perfect pair with good recordings (be it vinyl, CD or stream), but when they’re not so good, they’re noticeably bad. Also noticed that with particularly complex rock or pop music, presentation looses some of its transparency and clarity. May go for the Linton’s soon and see if they’re pair better across more music styles. One thing I’d like your opinion on is how the leak compares to the Audiolab 6000a. They come from the same company, but considering your review on the Audiolab 6000a Play, it seems the it’s a clear step up from the Leak. Thanks for your great valuable work on the channel.
Probably the regular 6000a is a better comparison. Unless you're really not fussed, the lack of gapless playback on the play-fi software is a major no-no for me. You're better off (as you'd have to do with the Leak) getting the non streaming version and adding a more capable streamer.
Piece of audio that I would like to see come-back :
Quad ESL-57
I had a pair in the early '70s, sold them when we started our family, but they were exceptional. Would buy again, now that all 4 children left on their own. Now I listen with Omega 8 full range, very good on voices. I also just bought a pair of LS3/5a by Falcon. Merci.
I love the looks. It seems the CD transport has a lot in common with the Audiolab one, also no surprise. It would have been cool to hear your thoughts on how it would pair with the Wharfedale Lintons.
Nice! Both components have the look that most new units lack.
what a stylin' setup with the turntable and speakers.
Thank you! Appreciate you watching and commenting!
Honestly, I would love to see Carver have a comeback. Bob is an awesome designer and I would love to see what he could do in the budget area. That Leak is beautiful and for that price? Man, I want one!
Carver would be a welcomed name/brand to have back in the hifi conversation.
Love the look. My first amp was a Leak stereo 70. I loved it. It certainly sounded very different to what Andrew reported for the new model. I always thought of it as a valve amp that happend to use transistors.
Thanks for sharing! Would love to have heard the original.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews you can still find them. It was part of a system with a Garrard 301 turntable/SME Series 2 (I think) tonearm. A Goldring cartridge and JR 150 speakers. It was a 1960s sounding system and none the worse for it. Put together In the early 80s. You'd have enjoyed it very much!
That background image on your tv looks stunning!
Why thank you!
Is it strange that I'm starting to enjoy your reviews for some of the same aspects that you may attribute to a loudspeaker or amplifier? If a review were done on audio review formats, I'm guessing the "Andrew Robinson" would rate highly: "While Joe Reviewer tends to attribute more of "human" inconsistent, somewhat editorial quality that some may find pleasing in terms of color and character, the Andrew Robinson articulates each point clearly and concisely with a matrix of standardized listening parameters applied to each amplifier or speaker that brings a level of scientific control to the review, that said, the Andrew Robinson still manages to give the viewer a solid level of approachable warmth and likability that isn't fatiguing when binge watching." "Added to that a level of clean, minimalist aesthetic that gives his viewers a feeling of something to aspire to without being gaudy or overly pretentious and you have a winning combination for most viewers."
Thank you so much for your review! I became chocked-up with emotion within seconds!
At 16 in 1966, and just receiving my drivers license, I recall entering KLA Labs in Detroit on Woodward Avenue, just a few blocks from Motown, where earlier I witnessed the Supremes entering their limousines.
I asked if I could hear their Leak system. It was a tubed amp connected to their Sandwich speakers via the Empire turntable. Boring, I thought. Didn’t sound like anything I would enjoy. Now nearly 55 years later, I relish that sound. I’ve developed a mature-seasoned taste for the real thing. Both the Stereo 130 and CDT will be a Christmas Gift to myself! Thanks again!
Hi Larry . Did you treat yourself to the Leak? I bought & set up today it in a package with Wharfdale Linton Heritage. First impressions are very good but I think the equipment needs to burn in at least 2 weeks before knowing. Its designed for a small room & I have yet to try harder edge music but Frank Sinatra sounded sublime. Good luck.
It bring back memories of my late father
CONGRATS ON 100K!!!!! Keep up the amazing job. Our music sounds a little sweeter thanks to you. Here's to the next 100K!
Thank you so much!!
I ordered a pair of Klipsch Hersy because of you, so I'll give you a thumbs up.
I want to see Technics bring back their more affordable amplifiers and other audio gear. Growing up that’s all my father ever had for his Hifi, apart from a Sony 5 disc changer. Yes Technics have made a comeback in recent years, but they only released a reference system and an amplifier that was a little cheaper and still not affordable for most average enthusiasts.
A legend that never returns
I'm a new subscriber. Great review with plenty of detail. Thanks for reviewing such an interesting amp. I love that companies are looking to the past to bring back looks and ideas.
It's incredible how 99% of what we call "vintage" is actually BEAUTIFUL and what we call "modern" is actually UGLY
Hey Mr Robinson, this is a cool review glad to see this old retro type unit , tho not familiar with Leak, glad to learn a little about another part of audio history. Good honest and articulate review, on what to expect from such a unit. Much appreciated sir 👍🏾
Thanks for watching.
Was really interested in seeing what a 1k all around integrated looked like in 2020. Man it looks good hahha. Really like how this one looks. Great review as always
I love the old school look of it, has a great looking face and case, but i have to agree that power button looks a little crooked.
Had same reaction to the retro looking Leben CS600. Got one and have never looked back.
Man it looks great. I just put together a new home theater and after I was done and watched a few movies I remembered why I hadn't set one up since I left NY. I prefer stereo and surround sound just feels like a gimmick after awhile.
Hi Andrew. Just a quick note to say that I love your channel, especially given the variety from anything from two-channel audio to full AV equipment as well.
A little while ago you reviewed the Q Acoustics Concept 500 with the Naim Uniti Atom. I already owned the 500's which I was using with a Cambridge Audio CXA60/CXU combination. The sound was very good, but I was looking for something better. Exit the CXA60 and enter the Naim Uniti Atom, and yes there was a definitely improvement. Anyway, long story short, it was recommended for me to try a valve (tube) amplifier via a couple of people who just by chance used tube amps exclusively - as for me, I've never heard a tube amplifier. With me not being too flush financially, and after much deliberation and research, I ended up buying a Willsenton R8 tube amplifier - at least I could still stream using the CXU as well, so that was great. I've now put the Naim back in the box that it came in - yes the sound of the R8 tube amp is that good and at about $770.00 imported from China (compared to around $3200 for the Atom), an absolute bargain. Highly recommended for your Concept 300's. The sound is just magic. The combination of 500's and R8 expands the sound-stage in all directions, even more detail than the Naim and a transparency that enables you to "look right through the musical presentation", so I'm sure you'll love it.
Andrew, not sure if you're taking music recommendations thru comments, but I wanted to give you some bands to listen to that I think you might like!
- Ridgeway
- Gleemer
- Night Tapes
- Men I Trust (specifically the album, Oncle Jazz)
- Choir Boy
- The Japanese House
Happy to have them. Thanks for sharing. I'll give these a listen!
Well, I didn't see that one coming! Leak...who'd have thought it! I wonder what Harold Leak would make of it? Looks amazing, I have to say. I know that the Leak factory in Acton, West London is long gone, but it is great to see the aesthetic and name live on. I wonder when we can expect to see a remake of the Stereo 20 valve amp!?! Great review as ever, Andrew...keep up the good work👍
I hope they continue to offer new products under this name. Seeing as how the parent company is the same as QUAD, tube-based designs may not be an impossibility in the future.
Hi Andrew,
Very good point...I suspect you may be right🙂
I forgot to add my piece of equipment to 'revive'...I'd go for the Nakamichi TX-1000 turntable. An exercise in ludicrous complexity (but marvellous nonetheless 🙂), yet stunning to behold. Maybe I should float the idea with IAG! 😉
A beautiful review! This amp did also called my attention, a real eye-catcher and great to now have an idea what it's all about sonically.
I would very much like the re-appearance of affordable reel-to-reel tape machines, not just the very few that cost a fortune (such as Ballfinger at 20k or the Thorens TM 1600 at 12k€ with playback only). But given the technical production implications, this is highly unlikely to ever happen.
I recently bought an Akai gx 4000d reel to reel. It's great fun, sounds wonderful and isn't too expensive. Buying prerecorded tapes is a bit costly though!
Probably not likely but they would be fun to have as a statement piece.
@@andrewwilson8273 Oh, I know that too well by draining the bank account for good tapes. And often it's taking a chance when it comes to condition. But once you get a good ones it's all too sweet to give up. :)
@@phonatic Yes. I have been lucky with tapes so far. One thing I am certain of is that the tapes I have purchased sound better than any LP of the same performance and, to my ear, in a couple of cases, better than the digital versions. The newest tape I have is from about 1967. I was blown away by one from 1959. The quality available back then, and preserved on tape is astounding.
To my mind there is no point in using such a machine for recording in the home. It's all about preserving and enjoying the best of 50 or 60 years ago.
Frank Sinatra on reel to reel - that's how it should be!
Most of the time I do not record as well but it's nice to have that feature. A few years ago I released the latest jazz album by Molly Ryan both on 2- and 4-track tape. It never paid off but was lots of fun to do as a kind of a re-enactment.
I have come by many outstandingly sounding tapes as well from that same era. But I cannot say that for every one of them. There have been some that blasting due to poor duplication or lack of upper frequency response, and I am only talking about 7 1/2 ips. Nevertheless, even imperfection is something that brings me closer to how it was to listen to a vintage album back in the days. Also have two Akai machines (X-215D) but mostly use my three Revox A77. Frankie on tape is really unrivaled. Personally, I have an obsession with Kind Of Blue and just love these tapes. It's really a specialty format not many enjoy, so it's really great to read your comments.
Brilliant video - I’m English, I felt proud in my 20’s many years ago when I came across a Leak Stereo 20 valve amp and I say this because it all links to your early ‘romance’ comment here. I remember having a QED passive volume control too. I loved that amp!
Very cool!
I own a Leak Troughline tuner. Very cool and almost iconic vintage piece. Not sure how sexy a retro amp like this can be when you look behind the curtain.
Love my Heresy lll which would stylistically match very well with the Leak amp.
A Pioneer SM 83 integrated tube amplifier driving a pair of Rogers Studio 1 loudspeakers. No words can describe the sound i heard.
Pioneer, Technics and Sansui were the players in the early 80s budget market I grew up in. Lots of debate in high school on how to pronounce Technics (long ‘e’ or short I).
What bothers me is that they didn't get the power button square on the panel.
That stood out for me. Was this perhaps a pre-production version?
I know that I would reject the amp if it had that obvious fault when I unboxed it.
No excuse for that off kilter button.
First thing I noticed too.
why is the power button not fitted precisely? couldn't stop looking at that
I was just wondering if anyone else picked that up? In the entire video, from the first cutaway shot, I couldn't concentrate on anything but that button 🙂.
Noticed it too.
I have to agree on the looks, fantastic looking bit of gear! I've not heard it but it's gotten some good reviews.
hey Andrew nice review 👍 my old system was a carver magnetic field amp 250 watts aside carver vacumm tube cd player along with carver preamp paired up with B&W dm 640 speakers towers it kicked ass would love too see u review something like that ..
Hi Andrew,
I enjoyed your review of the Stereo 130. Love the looks! Regarding your comment about the forward sounding and bright audio, is
It possible that it would settle down after it got broken in? I am running Yamaha and KEF Q300 speakers in my living room and I am quite happy
With the sound. The Leak sure LOOKS like it should have a warmer sound!
About bringing back gear, I once had a Dynaco SCA 35 tube amp driving a pair of AR4X speakers and loved the sound. I would love to see the
SCA 35 back again, with a remote.
Happy New Year!
I’m more of a “tube sound” kind of guy, lush and warm, with a wide soundstage. Although I do love detail, I don’t want it to sound dark...but, forward and bright just isn’t my personal forte. So this might not be the amplifier for me, although aesthetically, it’s brilliant.
I wish Acoustic Research turntables would make a “come back”. 😊
Oooh AR turntables would be very nice! Thanks for watching!
Wouldn't the bass and treble controls be used for that as opposed to many amps not having any ?
Powerpickle68 Bass and treble controls can tame the high end from being fatiguing, but at the cost of detail. Usually the range that simple bass and treble controls, control are pretty wide... I suppose you could get by with a graphic equalizer, given you could find one... however nothing would really help the soundstage. “Warm” is definitely colored sound, but not lacking in detail, I would want to tame the treble, not subdue or stifle it.
There’s a pleasant, polite, and laidback sound tube, and tube-like gear provides that is hard to duplicate with EQ or DSP.
Long listening sessions are far less ear fatiguing, given, at the expense of some “quickness” to the sound. Brings me into the music more than slapping me in the face with it. 😀
Nice review! I would like to see a comeback of those pieces of audio history: EPOS ES12 Speakers, Creek 4140 S2 Integrated Amp, Acoustic Research A-03 HP Integrated Amp, Rotel RA-935 BX MKII Integrated Amp.
Great vintage looks aside, the Quad Vena II and Audiolab 6000a cousins are now also available in a “Play” streaming version. Thanks Andrew for another great review and particularly the advice on pairing with the right speakers!
Appreciate you watching!
2:12 power button is crooked. Not the quality I expect.
well spotted. True, at this price range this not acceptable.
I thought it was my eye. But you kept seeing it in different shots
That power button leaning towards left would drive me mad.
I think because my unit is an early production sample that has made the rounds from photoshoots etc. it likely has been damaged or jostled and is not what you would get as a new customer. Just my 2 cents.
Power button is not fully horizontal. 13:19
It is not. Gives it character.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews That power button bothered me the whole video. I'd agree with your character comment if it was a vintage piece of equipment, but not on something new that costs over one thousand dollars.
Loved the album section.
I would love a video about the vinyl albums you love.
I wish pioneer would style their amps like they did in the 70s
Had a 2000 many moons ago, enjoyed it for many years, with 2030 speakers,
My dad had a Leak, bought from a stereo dealer in NYC who received advance shipments (legitimately not "hot") of some stereo equipment from manufacturers to demo. This was either late 1959 or 1960. That tube amplifier began, and still powers, my audiophile journey after all these years. Dad loved exacting sound. Wow! Didn't know it resurfaced. Gotta give it a listen! Btw, ads are popping in at the most inconvenient times on your vids....FRUSTRATING!
Get adblock plus.
@IRQ1Conflict
I totally understand why folks would want to use an ad blocker like the one you've referenced, hell, I was once one of those people myself. That said, while you may benefit from not having to sit through ads or pop-ups, you're costing people who provide you with entertainment or information (often for free) an ability to earn a living. While we appreciate each and every one of our viewers and subscribers, blocking our ability to earn a little off your collective attentions makes it even more difficult to do this job at the level with which you have come to expect it. If you are a fan of what we do here, and really do want to show your support, please refrain from using any and all ad blocking software on this channel -or any UA-camr's channel honestly. Creating content is a job, same as any other. This job is very labor intensive and stressful, same as a lot of jobs, maybe even yours. We don't expect anyone to work for free, so please don't force us to. Kindly disable your ad blocking software when you watch UA-cam. Or pay for UA-cam premium, which gives you ad-free UA-cam across the board while still supporting creators and channels like ours in the process.
-Andrew
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I HATE POP UPS ON TV, a popup fucked movie instantly wins the stop-delete treatment on the PVR
Super beo i like ur explanation so much
It's looks cool but if they put a DAC in it then they should offer wifi music connection which is superior to Bluetooth in amount of data to stream which means higher quality streaming.
14:20 I’m hankering for a great retro style system and currently the JBL L100 Classic 75 and 750 Amp are top of my wish list with the Linton / Leek combo a close second. However, if one of the big player produced a repro 70’s/80’s style super receiver I’d be all over that! There is just something hugely satisfying with operating a large weighted micro-incremental volume control and smooth weighted tuner with a full width needled scale behind a lovely glass window. I can’t figure out the mechanics of it while I’m typing but somehow having DAB incorporated into to the tuner scale would be fantastic - even maybe a servo assisted tuning control knob with a remote control. I’d be perfectly happy for a 10 second delay while the tuner powers across the scale to fix onto a station. It would be a great visual experience. I’d pay big bucks for that……I may even build one myself!
Omg its so beautiful ❤️
It really is!
I'm a Fisher freak. I've gone mostly modern these days. But if a company could bring back The Fisher in a wonderful way like this integrated they might get my money.
Aesthetically, that gear looks very appropriate to your domicile.
It did seem to be right at home in our home. But I think it would work for a lot of living spaces honestly.
Jimi Hendrix had a leak amp in his Brook St flat
Good review! I've a pair of Lintons and hope they work well with the Leak. Like you I had to have it once I saw it! Not a way to buy hi fi but there you go! 😂
I did the same thing too, such a cool design
My nostalgia goes to my 78's and full standing Victrola, but not electronics. The advances made insure this, evidenced by the "improved" speakers (JBL and Klipsch) that turned me into an rounded audio person in the 60's and 70's.
And that, is how you do a review.
Thanks! Any other really warm sounding speakers you would recommend pairing with this amp?
Hello Andrew. I'd like to see Bang & Olufsen come back with new "affordable" line of products which would be more in line with their 70's products
I've got some of the originals. They were built to last!
Where did you get the fuzzy sweater? It's looks 10/10 on the comfy scale.
10/10 it is. It's from bit.ly/3nu7Il3.
Uniqlo! Thought it looked familiar. Love that mustard color.
You mention the build quality. Am I wrong or is the power button of tilted slightly, it does not look like it was straight
It's askew, yes. Our delivery guy is really rough on packages - so it could have happened in shipping. I don't think it's indicative of the build quality but also, I'm not QC.
Hi - I just took delivery and the power button on my unit is perfectly straight. It's a well-built, heavy unit.
i love the looks ! with your Herseys and that equipment rack probably one of the nicest cleanest looking systems going, However i do kinda wish they built the Leak to a little higher price point and maybe integrated tube amp .
Love to see Realistic back..lol just for giggles ..
That could be fun.
Loved the video Man! Has their ever been a product you reviewed that you enjoyed to a point that you bought it afterwards? If so, what was it?
expectation \ perception \ style \the guts and electronics design kick butt.
Really interesting. Immediately prior to watching this review, I watched the audio man revue the same amp. He thought it warm, with a rounded bass and rolled off top end. Totally the opposite conclusion to yourself! I’ve not heard the amp so, I can neither agree or disagree with either of you.
I bought the Leak amp and CDT about 6 months ago. Andrew has this right. It’s not warm at all. It’s very neutral and pairing with the right speakers is key.
@@pmpgonzalez what speakers did you pair with the 130? Thanks.
@@Habitual_Liar I’ve paired it with the B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, mostly because my music room is really small. About 12 square meters. But the combination is great. Even though the 607 are a bit difficult to drive, the Leak goes down to 4 ohms, which is key for these speakers. It’s a great combination,
It’s exactly a Quad Vena II in different clothing. The same power, same number of inputs, everything but the fascia.
same toroidal transformer of 200va ,same capasitors [2x 15000 μf] same dac[ES 9018 K2M].I wonder how much its sound resembles the Vena 2 's one .
Sorry, you may have already answered this: how do display that amazing edge-to-edge TV art?
We make them in house and access them through an SD card /USB drive connected to the TV.
It's so so so pretty!
Not as pretty as you.
Andrew Robinson ☺️🥰
@@andrewrobinsonreviews. Get a room. Lol 😃
My old man had Leak and Rogers and Kef back in 1969s
Hi Andrew thanks for the awesome reviews! Would you say that the leak 130 would be a good fit with the jbl l52 ? I’m debating between this the audiolab 7000a & the new technics you reviewed. I like the leak form factor… thanks !
I'm having the same thought - JBL52 or the KLH Model 3.
@maximeealet did you go with the Leak 130 x L52 combo? I’m considering the same pairing!
Prefer the retro look of the Yamaha A-S1200 series. The needle volume windows brings back the seventies when I was a young buck listening to Cerwin Vegas’.
Great review. Lots of pertinant information and insights. Although I would have like to see an Network Player in the mix for Tidal versus Bluetooth. I do both (Call it laziness when I am on the computer it is just more convenient to use.) always found the Tidal stream more open and natural comming from Net Audio player than from my Macbook and Audio Engine DAC.
Another good review Andrew. I would certainly be looking at other brands to compare putting styling to one side. I noticed the power button looks askew.
Wondering - have you covered Peachtree Nova? I think that would be my pick, esp for looks. This is a leeetle bit too hipstery for me.
QOTD answer - cassettes. Maybe DAT for the clarity but actually I just miss the format - rugged, easy to carry around, easy to record on and personalise and with the right gear can sound pretty darn good.
This has virtually the same back layout as the Quad Vena 2. Appears to have a similar DAC chip too. I wonder if any of the internals (caps, transistors, power supply) are different? Absolute Sound did a nice review of pairing the Quad Vena 2 and Linton heritage in March.
As stated in the review, the Stereo 130 and the Vena II are (basically) the same.
What do you think Leak 130 + LS3/5a ( Leaks Mofi version lets say ) pairing ??? Great vid btw ...
Looks great very retro! I wrongly when I first saw it assumed it would be a tube amp or at the very least a hybrid so was disappointed to find out it was solid state. For that reason its off my list but will be interested to see what other new kit Leak release in the future!
Hi Andrew, I've just watched your review and am thinking of upgrading my Hi-Fi system with the LEAK 130, as my amp is showing its age and I've repaired it a few times already, so time to retire this workhorse of many years.
I've got a NAD3155 Integrated Amp that I'm running as a Pre-Amp, into a Vincent SP-330 Power Amp, and then Bi-wiring into a pair of RUARK Equinox speakers. These speakers are a bit forward sounding, I'd appreciate your thoughts on the pairing of the LEAK with these RUARK speakers. My source components are the Vincent CD-S10 CD Player and Kenwood KD-650 Turntable(with MC Cart: AT-OC9)
I was thinking to expand the source options with media streaming via a Bluetooth device for Spotify, or perhaps just connecting my laptop to it.
Cheers, Jeff
What's wrong with the power button? Somebody hit it?
Brash, forward and dynamic. It sounds like you are describing a 1960s transistor amp. Sound that fits the design?
the power button is not square its tilted to the left is that right?
The power button is wonky 😂love it
It's a little askew. Gives it character. Thanks for watching!
British / Goes with the territory
When are you going review the Rega Brio?
Andrew - would love to hear what integrated or amps in this range - give or take $500 or so - you would consider using to drive a pair of vintage but recapped and restored KLH Model 6s that I originally purchased in 1976? Decent digital inputs a plus...
Peachtree. Please please please. 150 or 300, real-world. I wouldn't go as far as the 500, seems silly and maybe overkill.