Lehmann Phonolith

The Phonolith combines an enormously ambitious phono preamplifier, a top-class preamplifier and a reference headphone amplifier in one device. The form factor is unobtrusive, the audio performance leaves nothing to be desired.

The development in the hi-fi sector is clear: streaming dominates - and the vinyl record is holding its own with sales figures that have been growing for years, newly built pressing plants and a constantly growing, enthusiastic circle of fans. Other playback sources are steadily losing importance. At the same time, the demands on hardware quality and audio quality by discerning customers are increasing. Lehmannaudio is responding to this trend with the new Phonolith.

The phono preamplifier section in the Phonolith is equipped with extensive setting options for the impedances and four different gain settings for connecting practically all commercially available cartridges. An additional adjustable filter with three selectable cut-off frequencies can ensure silence in the bass range if necessary.

Headphone amplifiers are Lehmannaudio's second domain alongside phono stages. Internationally renowned mastering studios and sound engineers, e.g. at the legendary Bauer Studios, have been using Lehmannaudio devices for many years to reliably assess their own work. The headphone output is at the highest level that Lehmannaudio has been offering so far. Even insensitive headphones will perform at their best thanks to the Phonolith's adjustable output gain.

The Phonolith's preamplifier output effortlessly drives long cable runs and can be connected to any active speakers or power amplifiers - e.g. the Lehmannaudio Stamp.

Both the Phonolith audio section and the PWX II LZ stand on Lehmannaudio's own 3S feet, which reliably absorb parasitic resonances.

Technical Data

The impressing technical details of the Phonolith.

Phonolith

Phono preamplifier

Input impedance
47 kohms, 1 kohms, 390 ohms, 100 ohms and intermediate positions selectable via DIP switch, slot for selectable impedance

Gain
36 dB, 46 dB, 56 dB, 66 dB

Bass filter
7 Hz, 32 Hz, 50 Hz, 78 Hz selectable via DIP switches

Channel separation
>70dB

High level

Input impedance
47 kohms

Maximum gain
0dB, 10dB, 20 dB selectable via DIP switches

Maximum output voltage
9V eff.

Output impedance pre out
50 ohms

Headphone output

Output power
400 mW/60 ohms

200 mW/300 ohms

Output impedance
5 ohms

Connectors audio
1x Phono In stereo, RCA gold-plated

GND

1x High Level In stereo, gold-plated RCA

1x Pre Out Stereo, gold-plated RCA

1x Neutrik stereo headphone jacks 6.3mm with gold plated contacts

Mains voltage
240 V AC

Power consumption
13 W

Outer dimensions Audio W x D x H
110 mm x 280 mm x 50 mm

Outer dimensions power supply W x D x H
110 mm x 280 mm x 50 mm

Weight complete incl. connection cable
2.8 kg

 

Reviews

'An excellent problem solver for minimalists!'

— LP International 02/24

'The Phonolith was really digging into the grooves'

— hi-fi News 09/24

'Not only technically accomplished, but musically compelling'

— hi-hi News Yearbook 2024

LP International 02/24

'Lehmann's complete solution shines with the well-known virtues of the company: transparency, straightforwardness, incorruptibility. The device has no tonal preferences; dynamically it is first class. An excellent problem solver for minimalists!'

Read the whole article (PDF)

hi-fi News 09/24

'The Phonolith is another great product from Lehmannaudio. This phono preamp offers very flexible loading and gain options, and turns in a consistently fine performance with both MM and MC cartridges. With the bonus of a pleasingly transparent line stage and capable headphone amplifier, it’s more versatile than perhaps it looks – the German brand really has crammed the proverbial quart into a pint pot.'

Read the whole article (PDF)

hi-fi News Yearbook 2024

'This phono preamp offers flexible loading and gain, and a consistently fine performance with both MM and MC cartridges. Add the pleasingly transparent line stage and capable headphone amp, and it’s perhaps more versatile than it looks – Lehmannaudio has crammed the proverbial quart into a pint pot!'

Read the whole article (PDF)