2. amps-preamps
  3. 152449-5880

Benchmark LA4 Preamp?

I’m seriously considering buying this $2,500 solid-state preamp and looking for input from anyone who owns or has heard this preamp.  The LA4 is identical to their HPA4 unit just without the headphone amp.

From all the reviews and Benchmark’s site that I’ve read, this seems like an extremely low noise and neutral preamp that may be a very good match for my extremely low noise, neutral and high powered class D D-Sonic M3-600-M monoblock amps that I use to drive a pair of Magnepan 2.7QR 4 ohm speakers.
My main source for 2-ch music is a Lumin D2 dac/streamer for music files and Tidal streaming. For HT, I’ll be using a yet to be determined 4K Bluray player as I’m also transforming from an Oppo 105 1080p player and 1080p hdtv to 4K. The LA4 has caught my attention since it has dual balanced XLR inputs to accommodate the XLR outputs of the Lumin D2 and whatever new Bluray player I choose. I plan on ordering the optional remote for the LA4 which would allow easy selection between music or HT as well as being a low noise, low distortion and neutral conduit for both.

I really appreciate any input on the LA4, or even options for a high quality Bluray player with balanced outputs, that you’re able to offer.

Thanks,
Tim
128x128noble100

Showing 1 response by dr_joe

dr_joe
160 posts
 
Have to say the ML 326S looks interesting. However, I could never use it, as my DACs all output much higher voltages than the 326S can handle unless I were to use the 0 dB gain setting. To me, at least, that seems a serious design flaw.

Currently waiting for the LA4 ordered from a local dealer, but word is that due to demand, I'll have to wait at least three weeks, maybe up to six as I'm not in the USA.

Whatever preamp one uses, I thought Benchmark's discussion of the benefits of balanced analogue connections was the most comprehensive piece on the subject I've yet seen.
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