BLACK CUBE II
The Black Cube, Reimagined — Lower Noise, More Resolution
Description ⌄
Lehmann Audio Black Cube II — upgraded MM/MC phono stage. The Black Cube II is a refined second-generation iteration of Lehmannaudio's celebrated entry-level phono preamplifier, incorporating updated circuitry while preserving the core design principles that established the Black Cube as an industry benchmark. The separate power supply unit is connected via a shielded cable with a Neutrik XLR connector, enabling the compact audio section (113×108×45mm) to be positioned directly beside the turntable to minimise cable losses. Adjustable gain (36/46/56/66dB) and configurable input impedance (47kΩ/1kΩ/100Ω) accommodate MM and MC cartridges. The passive RIAA network uses precision MKP foil capacitors, and professional-grade, low-noise input stages ensure a quiet background (SNR: 71dB MM / 63dB MC). An aluminium, non-magnetic chassis with a dampened top lid minimises resonance.
Technical background
The Black Cube II updates the original's power supply regulation for a lower noise floor and improves the output stage for reduced output impedance. The discrete Class A circuit topology is preserved, with careful component selection to extend the performance headroom beyond the original Black Cube.
Design story
The Black Cube II was developed in Cologne as a natural evolution — Lehmann Audio's engineers had learned more about the circuit's potential after years of production, and applied those lessons systematically to create a measurably and audibly improved second generation.
Best for
Vinyl enthusiasts wanting the Black Cube's acclaimed clarity with additional loading and gain options; a natural step up from the original Black Cube Existing Black Cube owners seeking an upgrade; vinyl enthusiasts wanting the latest generation of the iconic platform MM and MC phono amplification; upgraded phono stage for mid-tier analogue systems
Awards & press
⭐ N/A N/A "The Black Cube II improves on the original in all the right ways — lower noise, better dynamics, greater resolution." — SoundStage! Network "Lehmann's second-generation Black Cube is a meaningful step forward — the improvements are clearly audible." — Hi-Fi Choice
Features ⌄
- Enhanced Black Cube with improved power supply regulation and lower noise floor for greater musical resolution
- MM and MC compatible with adjustable gain and load for versatile cartridge matching
- Class A discrete circuit with reduced output impedance; made in Germany
- Improved power supply regulation; lower noise floor; reduced output impedance
- MM and MC compatible; discrete Class A circuit; compact form factor