For each of the three inputs of the Leema Acoustics Agena phono preamplifier, there are two configuration options for cartridge cartridges. This allows you to configure the phono stage to work with six different types of cartridges. Saved settings can be recalled at the touch of a button. The Leema Acoustics Agena phono stage has fully balanced XLR outputs.
The rear panel contains two cartridge level inputs and two outputs (as well as a USB monitor output). The front panel contains controls for the HIGH (high pass filter) and LOW (low pass filter), MONO (monaural mode) and MUTE (mute) filters.
Recommended resistance and capacitance values must be specified by the cartridge manufacturer and can usually be found in the specifications sheet included with the cartridge or on the manufacturer’s website. The gain should be set to the next highest value after that selected for the cartridge output, i.e. if the cartridge is specified
at 300 µV, use the 340 µV setting, etc. This will provide maximum dynamic range headroom.
These settings are for the input and cartridge currently in use and may differ for each combination. If a different input or cartridge is selected, the settings should be adjusted to suit the requirements of each combination.
In Mono mode, the cartridge signals are summed to form a monaural signal. This is very convenient when playing monaural discs. In this mode, any surface noise and crackles will also be output in mono and thus become less noticeable. If monaural mode is not used, monaural records will be played back with “stereo” noise, which can become annoying.
The USB port allows the user to record to a computer for copying, archiving or restoring. When using modern operating systems, such as Windows XP, Windows Vista or Mac OS-X, no special drivers are required. The device will be recognized automatically and will be ready for use immediately. You can use any suitable recording software to record from a vinyl disc.
The RCA monitor output connectors and the SPDIF output connector carry the playback output signal from the computer. The monitor outputs are usually connected to the Tape amplifier’s inputs to provide monitoring of the recording progress.
Characteristics Leema Acoustics Agena
Frequency range, Hz-kHz 10 – 100
Input impedance 47 kOhm, 100 kOhm (MM), 20 Ohm – 1 Ohm (MS)
Sensitivity, dB 1, 2, 4 mV / 125 mV (MM/MS)
Connections connectors input
Analog audio 2 x RCA
Connectors output
Coaxial 1 x S/PDIF (RCA)
USB 1 x USB type B
Analog audio 2 x RCA, 1 x XLR
Dimensions, mm 440 x 110 x 320
Weight, kg 11
