Lindemann Limetree Phono II Review: A Vinyl Enthusiast's Dream Preamplifier

In the world of high-fidelity audio, the Lindemann Limetree Phono II Phono Preamplifier stands out as a testament to German engineering excellence. This Lindemann Limetree Phono II review will delve into the intricacies of this remarkable piece of audio equipment, designed to elevate your vinyl listening experience to new heights.

Unveiling the Limetree Phono II

The Limetree Phono II is Lindemann's crown jewel for vinyl aficionados. This high-grade preamplifier is a marvel of modern audio technology, reimagining classic tube amp designs with cutting-edge components. The result? An exceptional sound experience that will make you fall in love with your record collection all over again.

Technical Prowess

At the heart of the Limetree Phono II are two discrete input stages, meticulously tuned for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. This dual-stage design ensures optimal performance regardless of your chosen pickup type.

The preamplifier boasts an impressive set of specifications:

• Gain: 40 dB (MM), 66 dB (MC)
• THD: < 0.001% (at 0.5 V output)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 82 dBV (MM), > 72 dBV (MC)

These figures translate to an incredibly clean and detailed sound reproduction, allowing you to hear your vinyl as the artists intended.

Audiophile-Grade Components

Lindemann has spared no expense in component selection. The Limetree Phono II utilises state-of-the-art J-FET amplifiers, coupled with ultra-precision resistors and capacitors sourced from Japan. This attention to detail ensures unparalleled accuracy in signal amplification and RIAA equalisation.

Innovative Power Supply

One of the standout features of the Limetree Phono II is its power supply. Utilising a "medical grade" wall plug transformer, it provides exceptional isolation from line disturbances. Combined with elaborate onboard filtering and specialised voltage regulators, this results in an incredibly low-noise power supply with a ripple voltage below 10 µV.

User-Friendly Design

Despite its sophisticated internals, the Limetree Phono II is refreshingly simple to use. For MM cartridges, it's truly plug-and-play. MC users have the added flexibility of adjusting input impedance between 50 and 400 ohms, allowing for fine-tuning to match your specific cartridge.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality for both MM and MC cartridges
• Incredibly low noise and distortion figures
• High-quality, audiophile-grade components
• User-friendly design with easy setup
• Compact form factor (107 x 40 x 130 mm)
• Made in Europe, designed in Germany

Cons:

• Premium pricing (but justified by performance)
• Limited to phono preamplification (not a multi-function device)

Who Is It For?

The Lindemann Limetree Phono II is perfect for the discerning vinyl enthusiast who demands the absolute best from their turntable setup. Whether you're using a high-end MM or MC cartridge, this preamplifier will extract every nuance from your records, revealing details you may have never heard before.

The Vinyl Renaissance

As we experience a resurgence in vinyl popularity, the importance of a high-quality phono stage cannot be overstated. The Limetree Phono II is at the forefront of this renaissance, offering a level of performance that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophiles.

A Sound Investment

While the Limetree Phono II represents a significant investment, its performance justifies the price tag. This is a device that will continue to impress for years to come, making it a sound choice for those serious about their vinyl playback.

Experience It Yourself

To truly appreciate the Lindemann Limetree Phono II, you need to hear it for yourself. Our team at The Audio Tailor would be delighted to arrange a personalised listening session for you. Give us a call on 1300 308 711, and we'll help you explore how this exceptional preamplifier can transform your vinyl listening experience.

A Vinyl Lover's Dream Realised

The Lindemann Limetree Phono II is more than just a phono preamplifier; it's a gateway to rediscovering your record collection. Its ability to extract the fullest potential from both MM and MC cartridges, coupled with its incredibly low noise floor and distortion figures, makes it a true audiophile's dream.

Whether you're a seasoned vinyl enthusiast or just beginning your journey into high-fidelity audio, the Limetree Phono II offers a level of performance that will continually impress and delight. It's a testament to what's possible when classic design principles meet modern engineering expertise.

Ready to take your vinyl experience to the next level? Reach out to our team at The Audio Tailor. We're here to help you find the perfect audio solutions for your unique needs and preferences. Let's explore the world of high-fidelity audio together!