Reference Analog Preamplification with Extraordinary Transparency and Precision
The Benchmark LA4 Reference Line Amplifier/Preamplifier in Silver is a fully balanced analog control preamplifier engineered to introduce exceptionally little noise, distortion or coloration between a source component and power amplifier. Its relay-controlled gain architecture uses precision resistors and 256 discrete volume positions to provide repeatable 0.5dB adjustments while avoiding the channel-balance, noise and distortion limitations associated with conventional potentiometers.
Two balanced XLR inputs and two RCA inputs accommodate high-quality DACs, phono stages and other analog sources, while balanced XLR, RCA and mono-sum outputs provide flexible system integration. Home-theater bypass, programmable input gain offsets, a -20dB Dim function, dual bidirectional 12V trigger ports and a color touch-screen make the LA4 equally suitable for reference two-channel systems, professional monitoring environments and combined stereo/home-theater installations.
Highlights & Benefits
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256-Step Relay-Controlled Volume — Precision resistor networks provide 0.5dB adjustment steps with excellent channel matching and exceptionally low added noise and distortion.
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Fully Balanced Analog Signal Path — Differential input amplifiers, relay-controlled gain stages and balanced output drivers maintain signal integrity from input to output.
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Ultra-Wide 500kHz Bandwidth — Extended response from below 0.1Hz to 500kHz helps maintain linear phase response and preserve fast transient information.
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Home Theater Bypass — Allows the LA4 to integrate into a combined two-channel and surround system without compromising the dedicated stereo signal path.
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Extensive System Control — Input gain offsets, balance control, -20dB Dim, soft unmute and dual bidirectional 12V triggers simplify system optimization.
Technology & Design
High-Precision Relay Attenuator — Twelve relays per output channel select laser-trimmed thin-film resistor networks to create 256 precisely repeatable volume settings without placing a conventional potentiometer in the signal path.
16-Step Input Gain Stage — A relay-controlled gain architecture works with the attenuation system to optimize overall gain structure and maintain excellent signal-to-noise performance across the volume range.
Fully Balanced Differential Architecture — Balanced XLR signals remain differential through the input, gain, attenuation and output stages, while RCA connections allow integration with conventional unbalanced components.
Color Touch-Screen & Optical Encoder — The front-panel display provides access to programmable settings, while a heavy-duty optical volume encoder offers precise tactile control without the wear mechanisms associated with traditional potentiometers.
FAQ — Benchmark LA4
Does the Benchmark LA4 have a built-in DAC?
No. The LA4 is a dedicated analog line-level preamplifier. A DAC, phono stage or other source component must provide an analog XLR or RCA output to connect to the LA4.
Does the LA4 have a headphone amplifier?
No. The LA4 is designed specifically as a line amplifier and preamplifier. Benchmark's HPA4 uses a similar line-amplifier architecture but adds a dedicated THX-888 headphone amplifier.
Can the Benchmark LA4 be used with a home theater system?
Yes. The LA4 includes a programmable Home Theater Bypass function, allowing a compatible surround processor or AV receiver to control volume for the front channels when the theater system is in use.
How precise is the LA4 volume control?
The LA4 provides 256 relay-controlled settings in 0.5dB steps. Its control range extends from +15dB down to -127.5dB, providing precise and repeatable level adjustment.
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