Lehmann Audio Black Cube Statement
Compact phono preamplifier from Lehmann Audio, compatible with MM and MC cartridges, with adjustable gain and input impedance depending on the cartridge used.
Description
The Black Cube Statement is a phono preamplifier designed to amplify and equalise the signal from a turntable cartridge before it enters an amplifier. It sits directly within the phono chain, between the turntable and the line preamplification stage, and supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges.
The unit offers four gain levels (31, 41, 51 and 61 dB), allowing precise adjustment of amplification to match the output of the cartridge used, whether high or low output. Three input impedances can be selected (47 kohms, 1 kohm and 100 ohms), a parameter that directly influences the tonal character and the matching between the cartridge and the phono stage. The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 78 dB in MM and 57 dB in MC, delivering reproduction with minimal residual noise. The gain stages are built around Burr Brown components, and the passive RIAA filtering network uses high-quality foil capacitors, with MKP types for decoupling low frequencies between stages, low ESR electrolytic capacitors and low-noise metal film resistors.
- Compatible with MM and MC cartridges
- Selectable gain: 31, 41, 51, 61 dB
- Input impedance: 47 kohms, 1 kohm, 100 ohms
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 78 dB (MM), 57 dB (MC)
- Weight: 0.28 kg
Thanks to its compact size, this phono preamplifier is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts wishing to install it as close as possible to their turntable in order to minimise the length of connecting cables. Its versatile settings make it a sensible choice both for a first high-end system and for a user looking to fine-tune the match between their cartridge and phono stage.
Technical specifications
| Signal to noise ratio (MM) | 78 dB |
| Signal to noise ratio (MC) | 57 dB |
| MM reference signal | 7.4 mV/1 kHz |
| MC reference signal | 0.74 mV/1 kHz |
| Gain | 31 dB, 41 dB, 51 dB, 61 dB |
| Input impedance | 47 kohms, 1 kohm, 100 ohms |
| Weight | 0.28 kg |
What to check before buying used
On this phono preamplifier, the gain and impedance selector switches deserve particular attention: test each position to check for crackling or poor contact, as these elements are used every time the cartridge is changed. Also check the input and output RCA sockets and the earth connection, which are often the cause of hum if loose or oxidised. Finally, listen to both channels separately to detect any drift in gain or background noise between left and right.
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