Leben CF300F INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER

Leben CS-300F Integrated Valve Amplifier

The Leben CS-300F is a beautifully crafted 15-watt-per-channel integrated valve amplifier that combines classic Japanese engineering with an unusually distinctive choice of valves.

At the heart of the CS-300F are four General Electric JAN-6197 output valves. Originally developed in the USA for demanding computer and military applications, these exceptionally robust valves were acquired by Leben many years ago. Leben subsequently developed a circuit specifically to exploit their qualities for high-fidelity audio reproduction. The output stage is partnered by a pair of 17EW8 Hi-Fi driver valves, resulting in an amplifier quite different from more conventional EL84-based designs.

Producing 15 watts per channel, the CS-300F demonstrates why outright power figures tell only part of the story with a well-designed valve amplifier. Partnered with appropriately matched loudspeakers, it offers the immediacy, tonal colour and natural musical presentation for which Leben amplifiers have become so highly regarded.

The amplifier is also refreshingly straightforward to own. Its self-biasing circuit means replacement valves require no manual bias adjustment, while the circuit automatically compensates for normal differences and changes in valve characteristics over time.

Construction is unmistakably Leben. High-quality internal components are complemented by substantial speaker binding posts and beautifully finished Canadian white ash side panels. The combination of natural timber, gold fascia and traditional controls gives the CS-300F its characteristic appearance – distinctly retro, yet beautifully executed.

Despite its compact dimensions, the CS-300F is exceptionally versatile. Speaker impedance can be selected for 4, 6 or 8 ohm loudspeakers, while a dedicated headphone output allows the amplifier to form the heart of a very high-quality personal listening system as well as a conventional loudspeaker-based hi-fi.

For listeners attracted to the immediacy and natural presentation of valves but who also value excellent build quality, simplicity and distinctly individual engineering, the Leben CS-300F is a particularly appealing integrated amplifier.

Features

• 15 watts per channel stereo valve integrated amplifier
• Four NOS General Electric JAN-6197 output valves
• Two 17EW8 Hi-Fi driver valves
• Self-biasing design – no manual valve bias adjustment required
• Selectable 4, 6 and 8 ohm loudspeaker impedance
• Dedicated headphone output
• High-quality audio components throughout
• Substantial speaker binding posts
• Natural Canadian white ash side panels
• Compact, traditionally styled Japanese construction

Specifications

Specifications are based on Leben's current published information and may be subject to change.