LEAK STEREO 130 Integrated Amplifier User Manual

Important Safety Information

CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

AVIS: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR

WARNING: SHOCK HAZARD-DO NOT OPEN

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol [⚡️] within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of non-insulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock.

Warning: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the cover (or back) as there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

The exclamation point symbol [❗] within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being stepped on or pinched, particularly at the plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

CAUTION: These servicing instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operating instructions unless you are qualified to do so.

Do not install this equipment in a confined or built-in space such as a bookcase or similar unit, and keep well ventilated in open space. The ventilation should not be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items such as newspaper, table-cloths, curtains etc.

WARNING: Only use attachments/accessories specified or provided by the manufacturer (such as the exclusive supply adapter, battery etc).

WARNING: Please refer to the information on the exterior panel of the enclosure for electrical and safety information before installing or operating the apparatus.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall not be placed on apparatus.

WARNING: For the terminals marked with the symbol [⚡️] may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock. The external wiring connected to the terminals requires installation by an instructed person or the use of ready-made leads or cords.

Protective earthing terminal: The apparatus should be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.

The product is designed for use in moderate/tropical climates.

WARNING: No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.

WARNING: Attention should be drawn to environmental aspects of battery disposal.

WARNING: Use of the apparatus in tropical climates.

FUSE VALUES:

• 220-240V (UK, China, etc.): T2.0AL 250V Slow Blow
• 100-120V (USA, Japan, etc.): T4.0AL 250V Slow Blow

Getting Started

Introduction

The LEAK STEREO 130 is a high-performance, high-fidelity integrated amplifier designed for the audio enthusiast. It is designed to perfectly match a wide variety of sources and provides the necessary amplification to realize the highest quality of your stored music through your loudspeakers and headphones.

The LEAK STEREO 130 can be connected to both analogue and digital sources, thanks to its diversity of inputs. A built-in Moving Magnet (MM) phono pre-amplifier allows for direct connection to turntable record players.

The LEAK STEREO 130 operates as a high-fidelity Digital Audio Converter (DAC). You can also stream music to the LEAK STEREO 130 from any Bluetooth device such as portable music players and smartphones. The LEAK STEREO 130 is designed with the innovative built-in aptX codec, allowing you to hear CD quality audio over the Bluetooth wireless connection.

To ensure proper operation, please read this owner's manual carefully before using the product. Keep this manual for future reference.

Features

• 2 x 65W RMS (4 ohm) / 2 x 45W RMS (8 ohm) amplifier
• ESS Sabre32 Reference ES9018K2M D/A converter
• Bluetooth 4.2 aptX receiver
• 2 x Optical TOSlink inputs
• 1 x RCA coax input
• 1 x Optical TOSlink output
• 1 x RCA coax output
• 2 x RCA aux inputs
• 1 x RCA MM phono input
• 1 x 6.3mm (1/4") jack headphone output

Unpacking the Equipment

The carton should contain:

• The LEAK STEREO 130 amplifier
• One IEC power cord suitable for your area
• One remote handset
• One antenna (for metal enclosure version only; LEAK STEREO 130 with wooden chassis does not have an antenna)
• The LEAK STEREO 130 user manual

USB Drivers (and Firmware Updates)

To download Windows Drivers, please see the separate manual. Any firmware updates will also be available from www.leak-hifi.co.uk.

Placement

The unit must be mounted on a solid, level, and stable surface.

Before connecting the LEAK STEREO 130 to the AC mains power, ensure your AC mains voltage corresponds to the rating on the rear panel of the product. If in doubt, consult your dealer. If you move to an area with a different AC mains voltage, seek advice from a LEAK appointed dealer or a competent service technician.

Controls and Connectors

Front Panel Controls

The front panel features:

• Input Selector: Rotary knob to select sources (OPT 2, OPT 1, USB, COAX, AUX 1, AUX 2, PHONO).
• Bass Control: Rotary knob for bass adjustment.
• Direct Button/LED: Engages or disengages the Direct mode.
• Treble Control: Rotary knob for treble adjustment.
• Balance Control: Rotary knob for adjusting the sound output balance between left and right speakers.
• Volume Control: Rotary knob for volume adjustment.
• Headphone Output: 6.3mm (1/4") jack socket.
• Power Button/LED: Controls power and indicates standby status.

Rear Panel Connectors

The rear panel includes:

• Bluetooth Antenna: For Bluetooth connectivity.
• Ground Terminal: For connecting a ground lead to reduce noise.
• Analog Inputs:
  • PHONO (for MM or high output MC cartridges)
  • AUX1
  • AUX2
• Pre Output: RCA outputs (LEFT, RIGHT) for connecting to a power amplifier.
• Loudspeaker Outputs: Terminals for connecting left and right speakers (marked with + and -).
• 12V TRIG Outputs: For trigger control of other equipment.
• Digital Inputs:
  • COAX (SPDIF)
  • OPT2 (Optical TOSlink)
  • OPT1 (Optical TOSlink)
  • USB UPDATE (Type A port for firmware updates)
• FUSE: Fuse holder.
• AC Mains Input: IEC power connector.
• Power Switch: Main power on/off switch.

Safety markings include CAUTION, RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, CE, and RoHS.

Remote Handset

The remote handset controls the LEAK STEREO 130. Note: some buttons are for other LEAK units and are not functional with this model.

Key Functions:

• 1. STANDBY: Brings the unit in/out of standby mode.
• 2. MUTE: Mutes/unmutes the sound. The source indicator flashes when muted.
• 3. VOL+: Increases the volume.
• 4. Next Track: Moves to the next track (Bluetooth play mode).
• 5. VOL-: Decreases the volume.
• 6. A: Selects the LEAK STEREO 130 remote mode.
• 7. INPUT: Selects the source input.
• 8. DIRECT: Selects the direct mode.
• 9. Play/Pause: Plays or pauses music (Bluetooth play mode). Press and hold for 3 seconds to disconnect Bluetooth.
• 10. Previous Track: Moves to the previous track (Bluetooth play mode).

Battery Notes:

Always use AAA batteries and replace them in sets. Do not mix old and new batteries. Very weak batteries can leak and damage the handset. Replace them in good time. There is a risk of fire and burns if a battery is handled improperly. Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short the contacts, or dispose of batteries in fire or water. Do not attempt to open or service a battery. Discard used batteries in full accordance with recycling regulations.

Connection

Installation

Before making any connections, ensure all system units are switched off and unplugged at the mains.

AC Power Connection

The Power On/Off switch is on the rear panel. Before connecting to the AC mains supply, check that the voltage marked on the back matches your supply voltage.

Digital Signal Output Connections

• Coaxial Output: Connect an RCA digital interconnect between the digital coaxial out of the LEAK STEREO 130 and the required input of your equipment.
• Optical Outputs: Connect an optical (TOSlink) interconnect between the digital optical out of the LEAK STEREO 130 and the required input of your associated equipment.

Analog Signal Output Connections

• Preamplifier Output: One pair of unbalanced RCA outputs. Connect an RCA cable between the unbalanced pre-output of the LEAK STEREO 130 and the unbalanced input of a power amplifier or associated equipment. Interconnections should be of low-noise construction and fully screened to minimize hum and noise transmission.
• Loudspeaker Outputs: Two sets of loudspeaker outputs (independent for right and left). Connect the Positive (+) RED terminals of the amplifier to the Positive (+) RED terminals of the loudspeakers. Connect the Negative (-) BLACK terminals similarly. If the speaker polarity is incorrect, the sound may become unnatural or lack bass. Tighten terminals securely by hand. Ensure no loose strands of wire cause short circuits.
• Headphone Output: A stereo 6.3mm (1/4") jack on the front panel. Connecting headphones mutes the audio signal to the loudspeakers. The output level can be adjusted up to 4.5V. Select a comfortable output level.

Warning: Listening to music at high volume levels and for extended durations can damage hearing. Lower the volume to a safe level and reduce listening time at high levels. Headsets should comply with EN 50332-2 requirements.

Input Connections

Analog Signal Input Connections

The LEAK STEREO 130 has two sets of unbalanced RCA inputs (AUX1, AUX2) for connection to units without balanced outputs. Connect an RCA cable between the unbalanced input of the LEAK STEREO 130 and the unbalanced output of a source unit like a CD player or DAC. Interconnections should be of low-noise construction and fully screened to minimize hum and noise transmission.

Phono Signal Input Connections

The LEAK STEREO 130 has a PHONO signal input. This input should only be connected to turntables fitted with MM or high output MC cartridges.

Digital Signal Input Connections

The LEAK STEREO 130 offers various digital inputs for connecting to popular digital sources like CD/DVD players, DACs, or PCs.

• Coaxial Inputs: Connect an RCA digital interconnect between the digital coaxial output of the source unit and the COAX input of the LEAK STEREO 130.
• Optical Inputs: Connect an optical (TOSlink) interconnection between the digital optical output of the source unit and the OPT1 or OPT2 input on the LEAK STEREO 130.
• Bluetooth Input: A built-in Bluetooth signal processor module allows audio file playback from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Refer to page 12 for enabling this function.
• USB Input: A B-type USB input allows connection to a Mac or PC for playing audio files stored on the computer.

Update

The LEAK STEREO 130 provides a Type A USB port for firmware upgrades. To upgrade: Place the upgrade file onto a USB disk, plug it into the UPDATE USB interface, press and hold the STANDBY button on the front panel while switching on the power using the rear panel POWER switch. The LEAK STEREO 130 will upgrade automatically. After upgrading, unplug the USB disk and power on the amplifier for normal use.

Ground Terminal

The grounding terminal is used to reduce noise when connecting with other equipment fitted with a separate ground lead. It is required when the turntable amplifier and turntable player are both double insulated. In this case, the metal housing of the machine is grounded to eliminate residual hum. The ground terminal cannot be used as safety for other equipment. Consult the distributor if you have questions.

Operation

Standby Mode

The LEAK STEREO 130 is in standby mode when powered on (Power LED indicator shows dark red). Press the Standby button on the front panel or the corresponding button on the remote handset to bring the unit out of standby.

You can activate the 'auto standby' function by pressing and holding the Standby button on the front panel until the LED blinks. A short press then selects the Auto-Standby function:

• 20 min Auto-Standby: Power LED flashes twice. The unit enters standby mode if there is no signal input or operation for 20 minutes.
• 1 Hour Auto-Standby: Power LED flashes thrice. The unit enters standby mode if there is no signal input or operation for 1 hour.
• Never Auto-Standby (Default): Power LED flashes once. The unit will not go into standby mode automatically.

Volume Control

Before turning on the LEAK STEREO 130, check the volume level. The volume control retains its last setting when the unit was put into standby. Adjust the volume using the front panel knob or the remote control's volume buttons. Press the MUTE button on the remote to enter MUTE mode (the selected input indicator will flash).

Playing Music via Analog Inputs

Connect the analog signal of a source unit to the LEAK STEREO 130's AUX1 or AUX2 input. Rotate the INPUT selector on the front panel or use the INPUT select key on the remote control to select the desired input. The corresponding input indicator will light, and music will start playing.

Playing Music via Digital Inputs

Connect the coaxial SPDIF signal of source units to the COAX jack or the optical (TOSlink) signal to the OPT1 or OPT2 jack on the rear panel. Rotate the INPUT selector or use the INPUT select key on the remote control to select the COAX, OPT1, or OPT2 input. The selected input indicator will light, and music will start playing.

Playing Music via USB Inputs

When connecting to a Windows computer for the first time, install the USB driver. Connect a Mac or PC via the Type-B USB interface on the rear panel. Select the USB input using the front panel selector or remote. Select the unit as the playback output device on your computer and start playing music.

Playing Music via Bluetooth

Wirelessly connect the LEAK STEREO 130 to a music source via Bluetooth. The Bluetooth input indicator light flashes when not connected and glows steadily when connected. On your mobile phone or tablet, open Bluetooth search and connect to "LEAK STEREO 130 BT". Enter "0000" if prompted for a password. Music playback begins upon successful connection. Switching to another input during Bluetooth playback will disconnect after 1 minute. Switching back to Bluetooth input allows automatic reconnection.

To disconnect Bluetooth:

• Move the Bluetooth source beyond the communication area.
• Turn off the connected device or its Bluetooth function.
• Press and hold the Play/Pause [▶️⏸] button on the remote control for 3 seconds to force disconnection.

Bass Control

Turn the bass adjusting knob clockwise to increase or counterclockwise to decrease the low-frequency response. Control range: -6dB to +6dB.

Treble Control

Turn the treble adjusting knob clockwise to increase or counterclockwise to decrease the high-frequency response. Control range: -6dB to 6dB.

Note on RIAA: The RIAA playback characteristic is incorporated as an internationally agreed standard. This characteristic does not account for studio acoustics, microphone placement, your pickup, loudspeaker systems, room acoustics, or your hearing. It serves as an approximation, and adjustments may be necessary using the Bass and Treble controls. For LP records made before 1955, Bass and Treble controls can correct recording characteristic differences. For European 78 records, the 'TREBLE' control may theoretically be set to '2 O'Clock'. Consumer preference for bass boost may lead to a distortion of the original music. While bass boost is provided, it should not be necessary with moderately good pickups and loudspeakers. True bass cannot be obtained from small loudspeaker systems by maximizing the 'BASS' control, though an intermediate setting may be helpful, especially at low listening levels.

Balance Control

The balance knob adjusts the sound output balance of the left and right speakers to compensate for an unbalanced sound. If the balance control is turned fully left or right, the other channel will be silent.

Direct Mode

Press the Direct button on the front panel to activate this function (indicator lights up). Press again to turn it off. This mode bypasses certain amplifier circuits by stopping their power supply, reducing noise and electronic interference for purer sound reproduction. Note: Bass, Treble, and Balance controls are not available when Direct mode is activated.

Protection Mode

The LEAK STEREO 130 is protected by a thermal switch that interrupts the AC power supply if the amplifier is grossly overloaded for a period. To restore operation, press the Standby button on the front panel. The unit is protected against gross overload and short-circuited output, but not necessarily against inadequate ventilation.

Warranty

LEAK warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship, subject to the terms and conditions below. During the warranty period, LEAK will repair or replace (at LEAK's option) this product, or any defective part, if found to be defective due to faulty materials, workmanship, or function. The statutory warranty period may vary by country.

Terms and Conditions

• The warranty starts on the date of purchase as per the proof of purchase (or the date of delivery if later).
• Proof of purchase/delivery is required before work can be carried out. Without proof, work will be subject to charge.
• All work will be carried out by LEAK or its authorized agents or distributors.
• Any unauthorized repair or modification will void this warranty.
• If any part is no longer available, it will be replaced with a functional replacement part.
• Any replaced parts become the property of LEAK.
• Repair or replacement under this warranty does not extend the original warranty period.
• This warranty is valid only in the country of purchase, applies only to the first purchaser, and is not transferable.

The Following Are Not Covered:

1. Products where the serial number has been removed, altered, or made illegible.
2. Normal wear, tear, and cosmetic damage.
3. Transportation or installation of the product.
4. Accidental damage, fault caused by commercial use, acts of God, incorrect installation, connection or packing, misuse, neglect, or careless operation or handling not in accordance with LEAK's user instructions.
5. Repairs or alterations carried out by parties other than LEAK or its authorized agents or distributors.
6. Products not purchased from an LEAK authorized dealer.
7. Products that were not new at the time of original purchase.
8. Products sold 'as is', 'as seen', or 'with all faults'.

Repairs or replacements provided under this warranty are the exclusive remedy of the consumer. LEAK shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages for breach of any express or implied warranty in this product. Except to the extent prohibited by law, this warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties whatsoever, both express and implied, including, but not limited to, the warranty of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.

This warranty provides benefits additional to, and does not affect, your statutory consumer rights. Some countries and U.S. states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or implied warranties, so the exclusions in the preceding paragraph may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other statutory rights, which vary from state to state or county to county.

How to Claim:

To obtain warranty service, contact the LEAK authorized dealer from which you purchased this product. Do not dispatch goods without prior agreement from the dealer, LEAK, or their authorized distributors. If asked to return products for inspection and/or repair, pack carefully, preferably in the original cartons or packing affording an equal degree of protection, and return prepaid. If unsuitable packaging is used, LEAK may charge for new packaging. Insurance is recommended, and goods are returned at the owner's risk. LEAK or their authorized distributors cannot be held liable for loss or damage in transit.

Specifications

Measurement made with 230V power supply:

Environmental Disposal: This marking indicates that this product should not be disposed of with other household wastes throughout the EU. To prevent possible harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of material resources. To return your used device, please use the return and collection systems or contact the retailer where the product was purchased. They can take this product for environmental safe recycling.