Lehmann Audio Drachenfels
Modular headphone amplifier and preamplifier by Lehmann Audio, designed to evolve over time thanks to its interchangeable cards.
Description
The Drachenfels by Lehmann Audio is a headphone amplifier of modular design, also intended to function as a preamplifier. Its architecture is based on interchangeable internal cards, which allows the unit to be adapted to digital or analogue sources as required, without changing the main unit.
This modularity is expressed in particular through the Drachenfels USB and Drachenfels DAC versions, two variants offering different input modules. The principle relies on replaceable PC cards paired with a dedicated rear panel: when a new digital standard emerges, it becomes possible to upgrade the unit by changing only the module concerned rather than the entire amplifier.
In terms of listening performance, the Drachenfels uses an ALPS Blue Velvet potentiometer, recognised for its channel tracking, paired with a circuit claimed to be very quiet. The unit delivers a gain of 12 dB, a value designed to cover everyday needs without having to multiply gain adjustments depending on the sources or headphones used.
On the practical design side, a power switch is placed on the front panel and allows standby consumption to be limited to less than 1 W. The unit's compact dimensions make it easy to fit into different setups, whether on a desk or within a larger hi-fi system.
The Drachenfels is aimed at music lovers equipped with high-end headphones, looking for an amplifier capable of driving a variety of sources and evolving alongside their future digital equipment. Its use as a preamplifier also broadens its scope for those wishing to integrate it into a more complete system, alongside a separate power amplifier.
Technical specifications
| Gain | 12 dB |
| Standby consumption | < 1 W |
What to check before buying used
The ALPS Blue Velvet potentiometer warrants a check of channel tracking and the absence of crackling at the start of its travel. On modular versions, check that the original USB or DAC input card is present and properly clipped into the rear panel, as a poorly fitted module can cause dropouts or background noise. The front-panel switch, used every time the unit is operated, should engage firmly with no intermittent contact.
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