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Many preamps have multiple outputs that are simply wired in parallel. I specifically mention this because individually buffered outputs virtually eliminate any interaction caused by hooking up a powered subwoofer to the outputs which is a common scenario. All the outputs are individually buffered. Outputs include two RCA jacks, a pair of XLR jacks, and a single XLR mono sum jack. The front panel features a large LED touchscreen from which you can rename the inputs, individually adjust the gain level, delete the input, and adjust screen brightness along with a number of other features and functions.ĭespite its small chassis, it has ample connectivity on the rear that includes four inputs, two RCA and two XLR. Overall depth including knobs and connectors is just shy of 9.5-inches. 8.65-inches wide and just under 4-inches tall. The first thing you notice about the LA4 is its size. You will, more than likely, learn something you didn’t know. It is well worth your valuable time to visit it and read through the information on the various subjects. This is an extensive section discussing a plethora of subjects like balanced vs single-ended, listening vs measuring, speaker sensitivity and amplifier power, and on and on. However, my favorite part of their website is the “ Application Notes” section.
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Benchmark audio manuals#
I also want to point you to the excellent Benchmark website. It offers a tremendous amount of information about their products and the very informative downloadable owner’s manuals will answer almost any question you may have. While I did audition the LA4 with their matching AHB2 amp and DAC 3 I also evaluated the LA4 with several other amplifiers.īecause of the aforementioned numerous reviews that are available, I am not going to rehash every operational feature of the LA4 and I will spend less time than I normally do on describing the unit because I want to focus more on the sound of the unit and how it impacted my system. Benchmark was kind enough to send me a complete stack of components as they insisted it was important to hear the impact of a “complete Benchmark system” Since my reviewing focus in 2022 is on front-end components I felt it was incumbent on me to hear for myself what all the fuss was about. Released in the last quarter of 2018 this preamp has garnered quite a following and many stellar reviews. I must admit I am a bit late to the party on reviewing this preamp, but as the saying goes, better late than never.