LEAK STEREO 230 Integrated Amplifier

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 cover (or back) as there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

The exclamation point 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 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 at 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 symbol of "▲" 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 used 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 to 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.

THE FUSE VALUES ARE:

220 - 240V (UK, China, etc.) T2.0AL 250V Slow Blow

100 – 120V (USA, Japan, etc.) T5.0AL 250V Slow Blow

Trademarks and Technologies

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks, owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by IAG Group Ltd is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

aptX® software is copyright CSR plc. or its group companies. All rights reserved. The aptX® mark and the aptX® logo are trademarks of CSR plc. or one of its group companies and may be registered in one or more jurisdictions.

Being Roon Tested means that IAG Group Ltd and Roon have collaborated to ensure you have the best experience using Roon, software and IAG Group Ltd equipment together, so you can just enjoy the music.

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)

MQA is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information. LEAK STEREO 230 includes MQA technology, which enables you to playback MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.

MQA and the Sound Wave Device are registered trademarks of MQA Limited ©2016

The LEAK STEREO 230 LED on the front panel glows green or blue to indicate that the unit is decoding and playing an MQA stream or file, and denotes provenance to ensure that the sound is identical to that of the source material. It glows blue to indicate it is playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist/producer or has been verified by the copyright owner.

Contents

• Getting Started
• Controls and Connectors
• Remote Handset
• Connection
• Operation
• Warranty
• Specifications

Getting Started

Introduction

The LEAK STEREO 230 is a high-performance, high-fidelity integrated amplifier designed for the audio enthusiast. It is designed to be the perfect match to a wide variety of sources and provides the necessary amplification to realise the highest quality of your stored music through your loudspeakers and headphones.

The LEAK STEREO 230 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. It also offers a newly developed HDMI ARC connectivity function to realise the highest quality audio in AV applications, for a fully equipped integrated amplifier to meet the demands of modern audiophiles and cinephiles.

The LEAK STEREO 230 will operate as a high-fidelity Digital Audio Converter (DAC). You can also stream music to the LEAK STEREO 230 from any Bluetooth device such as portable music players and smartphones. The LEAK STEREO 230 is designed with the innovative built-in aptX codec so that you can hear CD-quality audio over the Bluetooth wireless connection.

To ensure proper operation, please read this owner's manual carefully before using the product. After reading this manual, be sure to keep it for future reference.

Features

• 2 x 75W (8 ohms) / 2 x 115W (4 ohms) amplifier
• ST MOSFET TDA7293 dual parallel amplifier
• ES9038Q2M 32-bit DAC
• Bluetooth 5.0 (aptX / aptX HD) input
• HDMI ARC support
• PC USB port for replaying stereo from a compatible host
• MQA full decoder for PC USB / coaxial SPDIF / optical SPDIF inputs
• Roon Tested for PC USB
• Low-noise moving magnet phono stage
• Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
• USB firmware update functionality
• 2 x Analogue inputs
• 1 x Phono (MM) input
• 1 x Coaxial SPDIF digital input
• 1 x Optical SPDIF digital input
• 12V Trigger input
• Pre-amplifier output
• Loudspeaker output
• Headphone output
• Trigger output

Unpacking the Equipment

Unpack the product fully. The carton should contain:

• The LEAK STEREO 230 amplifier
• One IEC power cord suitable for your area
• One remote handset
• One antenna (for metal enclosure version only. The LEAK STEREO 230 with wooden chassis does not have antenna)
• The LEAK STEREO 230 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 you connect the LEAK STEREO 230 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 which has a different AC mains voltage, seek advice from a LEAK appointed dealer or a competent service technician.

Controls and Connectors

Front Panel Controls:

• Input Selector: Rotary knob to select the input source.
• Volume: Rotary knob to adjust the audio output level.
• Bass Control: Rotary knob to adjust low frequencies.
• Direct Button / LED: Engages or disengages the Direct mode. Indicator light shows when Direct mode is active.
• Treble Control: Rotary knob to adjust high frequencies.
• Balance Control: Rotary knob to adjust the balance between left and right speakers.
• Headphone Output: 6.3mm (1/4") jack for connecting headphones.
• Power LED: Indicates the unit's status (e.g., standby, on).
• Standby Button: Powers the unit on or off from standby mode.

Rear Panel Connectors:

• Loudspeaker Outputs: Terminals for connecting left and right loudspeakers.
• Pre-amplifier Output: RCA unbalanced outputs for connecting to a power amplifier.
• Analogue Inputs: 2 x RCA (AUX1, AUX2) for connecting analogue sources.
• Phono Input: 1 x RCA (Phono MM) for connecting a turntable with an MM cartridge.
• Digital Inputs: 1 x Coaxial SPDIF (RCA), 1 x Optical SPDIF (TOSlink) for digital sources.
• USB Type B Input: For connecting to a computer for audio playback.
• HDMI ARC: For audio return channel from compatible TVs.
• 12V Trigger In/Out: For system integration.
• AC Mains Power Input: IEC connector for the power cord.
• Power Switch: Main power switch.
• Fuse Holder: Houses the mains fuse.

Remote Handset

The remote handset provides control over the LEAK STEREO 230. Buttons marked with a cross are for use with other LEAK units and are not functional with the STEREO 230.

• MUTE: Press to mute/unmute the sound. The source indicator flashes in mute mode.
• Skip Track Backwards (2): Press to skip track backwards in Bluetooth / PC USB playback mode.
• Play/Pause (3): Press to Play/Pause in Bluetooth / PC USB playback mode. Press and hold for 3 seconds to disconnect Bluetooth.
• DIRECT (4): Press to select the direct mode.
• INPUT (5): Press to select the source input.
• STANDBY (6): Press to bring the unit in/out of Standby.
• VOL+ (7): Press to increase the volume.
• Skip Track Forward (8): Press to skip track forward in Bluetooth / PC USB playback mode.
• VOL- (9): Press to decrease volume.
• A (10): Press to select the LEAK STEREO 230 remote mode. (Press the CD button for LEAK CDT controls).

Battery Note: Always use AAA batteries (not supplied) and replace them in sets. Do not mix old and new batteries. Very weak batteries can leak and damage the handset. Do not disassemble, crush, puncture, short contacts, or dispose of batteries in fire or water. Discard used batteries according to local recycling regulations.

Connection

Before making any connections, ensure all units in the system 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. Consult your dealer if in doubt.

Digital Signal Output Connections

Coaxial Output: Connect an RCA digital interconnect between the LEAK STEREO 230 unit and the required input of your equipment.

Optical Outputs: Connect an optical (TOSLink) interconnect between the LEAK STEREO 230 and the required input of your equipment.

Analogue Signal Output Connections

Preamplifier Output: The LEAK STEREO 230 has one pair of unbalanced RCA outputs. Connect an RCA cable between these outputs and the unbalanced input of a power amplifier or associated equipment. Interconnections should be low-noise and fully screened.

Loudspeaker Outputs: The LEAK STEREO 230 has 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, and the Negative (-) BLACK terminals similarly. Incorrect polarity can result in unnatural sound or lack of bass. Ensure terminals are tightened securely by hand and that no loose wire strands can cause short circuits.

Headphone Output: A stereo 6.3mm (1/4") jack is provided on the front panel. Connecting headphones will mute 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, comfortable level and reduce listening time at high levels. Headsets should comply with EN 50332-2 requirements.

Input Connections

Analogue Signal Input Connections

The LEAK STEREO 230 has two sets of unbalanced RCA inputs (AUX1, AUX2) for connecting units without balanced outputs. Connect an RCA cable between the unbalanced output of a source unit (like a CD player or DAC) and the LEAK STEREO 230's input. Use low-noise, fully screened cables.

Phono Signal Input Connections

The PHONO input is for connecting turntables fitted with MM or high output MC cartridges.

Digital Signal Input Connections

The LEAK STEREO 230 supports various digital inputs for connecting sources like CD/DVD players or PCs.

• Coaxial Inputs: Connect an RCA digital interconnect from the source unit's coaxial output to the LEAK STEREO 230's COAX input.
• Optical Inputs: Connect an optical (TOSlink) interconnection from the source unit's optical output to the LEAK STEREO 230's optical input.

Bluetooth Input

A built-in Bluetooth signal processor module allows audio file playback from Bluetooth wireless devices (smartphones, tablets, PCs). Refer to the Operation section for details.

USB Input

A type-B USB input allows playback of audio files stored on a computer.

Update

The LEAK STEREO 230 has 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, and press and hold the STANDBY button on the front panel while switching on the power using the rear panel POWER switch. The unit will upgrade automatically. After upgrading, unplug the USB disk and power on the amplifier for normal use.

Ground Terminal

This terminal is used to reduce noise when connecting with associated equipment fitted with a separate ground lead, particularly if the turntable amplifier and player are double insulated. It grounds the metal housing to eliminate residual hum. It is not intended as a safety ground for other equipment.

ARC (Audio Return Channel)

The ARC function allows audio from an ARC-compliant TV to be sent to the LEAK STEREO 230 via a single HDMI connection. Ensure your TV supports HDMI-CEC and ARC, and that both are set to 'ON'. Only HDMI 1.4 cables support the ARC function.

Operation

Standby Mode

The LEAK STEREO 230 is in standby mode when powered on, indicated by a dark red Power LED. Press the Standby button on the front panel or the remote handset to bring the unit out of standby.

Auto-Standby Function: Press and hold the Standby button on the front panel until the LED blinks. A short press then cycles through the Auto-Standby modes:

• 20 min Auto-Standby: Power LED flashes twice. Unit enters standby if no signal or operation for 20 minutes.
• 1 Hour Auto-Standby: Power LED flashes thrice. Unit enters standby if no signal or operation for 1 hour.
• Never Auto-Standby (Default): Power LED flashes once. Unit will not enter standby mode automatically.

Volume Control

Check the volume level before playing the source. The volume control retains its last setting. Adjust volume using the front panel knob or the remote control's volume buttons. Press the MUTE button on the remote to mute the audio; the selected input indicator will flash.

Playing Music Via Analogue Inputs

Connect the analogue signal from a source unit to the LEAK STEREO 230's AUX1 or AUX2 input. Rotate the INPUT selector on the front panel or use the remote's INPUT key to select AUX1 or AUX2. The selected input indicator will light, and music will play.

Playing Music Via Digital Inputs

Connect the coaxial SPDIF or optical (TOSlink) output from your source unit to the corresponding digital input (COAX or OPT) on the LEAK STEREO 230's rear panel. Rotate the INPUT selector or use the remote's INPUT key to select COAX / OPT. The selected input indicator will light, and music will play when a signal is present.

Playing Music Via USB Input

For first-time connection to a Windows computer, install the USB driver. Connect to 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 LEAK STEREO 230 as the playback output device on your computer and start playing music.

Playing Music Via Bluetooth

Wirelessly connect the LEAK STEREO 230 to a music source via Bluetooth. The Bluetooth input indicator light flashes when not connected and is illuminated when connected. To connect, access your device's Bluetooth menu and connect to 'LEAK STEREO 230 BT'. Use '0000' if a password is required. Bluetooth will disconnect after 1 minute if you switch inputs, and will automatically reconnect when you switch back to Bluetooth input (if the device is in range).

To disconnect Bluetooth: Press and hold the Play/Pause button (3) on the remote for 3 seconds. Bluetooth also disconnects if the source is removed from range or turned off.

Bass Control

Adjust the bass output using the BASS knob on the front panel. Turn clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease. Range: -6dB to +6dB.

Treble Control

Adjust the treble output using the TREBLE knob on the front panel. Turn clockwise to increase, counterclockwise to decrease. Range: -6dB to +6dB.

Note on Tone Controls: The RIAA playback characteristic is incorporated as per international standards. This characteristic is an approximation and may require adjustment using the BASS and TREBLE controls to suit acoustics, recording methods, and personal preference. This is particularly useful for older LP records (pre-1955) or European 78 records.

Balance Control

The balance knob on the front panel adjusts the sound output balance between the left and right speakers. Turning the knob fully left or right will silence the opposite channel.

Direct Mode

Press the Direct button on the front panel to activate Direct mode (indicator lights up). This bypasses certain amplifier circuits to reduce noise and electronic interference for purer sound reproduction. Bass, treble, and balance controls are not available when Direct mode is activated.

Protection Mode

The LEAK STEREO 230 is protected by a thermal switch that interrupts AC power if the amplifier is grossly overloaded. To restore operation, press the Standby button on the front panel. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.

Warranty Coverage

LEAK warrants its products to be free from defects in materials and workmanship, subject to the following terms and conditions.

Online Registration

A 3-year extended warranty is applicable to items purchased from January 1st, 2021, onwards. Items purchased prior to this date are subject to statutory warranty claims and consumer rights.

To qualify for the extended warranty, register your product within ninety (90) calendar days of purchase at leak-hifi.co.uk/warranty-registration. Items not registered online will have a Limited Warranty for one (1) year, or the period of your country's statutory warranty, whichever is longer.

Warranty claims require proof of purchase with date, model, and authorized dealer details. Keep the original receipt/invoice.

This Limited Warranty is non-transferable and valid only in the original country of purchase. Repairs or replacements are the consumer's exclusive remedy. LEAK is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. This warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied.

This warranty provides benefits additional to, and does not affect, statutory consumer rights. Incorrect information or mismatched purchase dates may invalidate the warranty claim.

Exclusions

The LEAK warranty excludes:

• Normal wear and tear, cosmetic damage.
• Products with removed or altered serial numbers.
• Products not purchased from an authorized LEAK dealer.
• Products not purchased new.
• Products sold 'as is', 'as seen', or 'with faults'.
• Parallel imports or grey market products.
• Accidental damage or faults from commercial use, acts of God, incorrect installation, connection, packaging, misuse, or careless operation not in accordance with instructions.
• Equipment operated with unsuitable apparatus.
• Repairs or modifications by unauthorized parties.
• Damage in transit not attributable to LEAK or the authorized dealer.
• Faults relating to abnormal power supply voltage or surges.
• Faults relating to extreme temperatures, exposure to heat, water, liquids, insects, moisture, sand, chemicals, or battery leakage.
• Force majeure events (acts of God, fire, lightning, storm, earthquake, natural disaster, flood, war, riot, public disturbance).
• Other causes beyond LEAK's reasonable control.

Items purchased before January 1st, 2021, are not eligible for the extended warranty claim.

How to Claim

To obtain warranty service, contact the authorized dealer from whom the product was purchased and present the limited warranty certificate. Do not dispatch goods without prior agreement. If returning products, pack carefully, preferably in original packaging, and use an insured, trackable courier service. The dealer will provide return details. Unsuitable packaging may void the warranty. LEAK or its authorized representatives may charge for new packaging. Insurance is recommended as goods are returned at the owner's risk. LEAK or its authorized representatives are not liable for loss or damage in transit. Shipping charges for the return journey will be paid by LEAK, the authorized dealer, distributor, or service center if corrective work proves necessary. For 'no-fault found' or 'no repair necessary' cases, return shipping charges are the owner's responsibility.

Specifications

Measurement made with 230V power supply

Environmental Disposal Note: 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.

Service Centre Address

Should a fault occur with your product, please pack it correctly using the original packing, so you can ship it safely. For technical support, servicing or product queries and information, please contact either your local retailer or the office below:

IAG Service Dept.
13/14 Glebe Road
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire
PE29 7DL
UK

Tel: +44(0)1480 452561

Email: service@leak-hifi.co.uk

For information on other authorised service centres worldwide contact LEAK International, UK. A worldwide distributors list is available on the LEAK website: www.leak-hifi.co.uk