Leben CS300XS
A stereo tube integrated amplifier praised for its musicality and classic design.
Overview
The Leben CS300XS is a stereo tube integrated amplifier from Leben, a Japanese maker of valve amplification. Exact production years aren't documented, but dealers have offered it, with pricing recorded as recently as 2025. It uses a quad-set of Sovtek EL84 power valves and a pair of Sovtek 12AX7 driver valves. Users and reviewers have praised it. One calls it "the very best amplifier I have ever heard," and another calls it a "recommended valve amp" with "superb sound at a realistic price."
Specifications
| Power output | 2x 15W RMS into 8Ω |
| Distortion | 0.7% @ 10W |
| Frequency response | 15Hz - 100kHz (-2 dB) |
| Input sensitivity | 600mV |
| Output impedance | 4 / 6 / 8 Ohms (variable) |
| Power valves | Quad-set Sovtek EL84 |
| Driver valves | Pair Sovtek 12AX7 |
Reception
Owners in the audiophile community have been well satisfied with the CS300XS. Some say "the search is over" for their ideal amplifier. It has been described as performing "beautifully and seamlessly" with a "great retro classic style." A review from hifiplus in 2024 called it an "admirable" performer and added it to their list of recommended valve amplifiers. One Head-Fi user noted a custom version works as both an integrated and a headphone amplifier. There is also a dissenting opinion, but the available source gives no detail on it.
Market
Recent pricing shows the CS300XS listed at $3,795 USD (USA, 120V version), $4,795 USD, and £4,799 GBP (audiogold.co.uk). That is dealer pricing, not original MSRP. New old stock tubes, including Telefunken 12AX7 and EL84, are available on eBay, so replacement tubes and tube swaps are an option.
eBay Listings
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