Leben Phono Stage

What cartridge will you be using?  This phono stage is for moving magnet cartridges and will require a step up transformer if you choose to run a moving coil.

I had a friend who owned the Leben along with a few other phono stages. For me it was disappointing, lacking transparency and low level detail. Given the Octave is not a budget unit I would be weary of upgrading to the Leben - you might find it is simply a sideways move - different sound but less detail. You may be disappointed.

I strongly recommend you try before you buy if possible, or spend more.