The Hydra II follow-up to Leema’s popular Hydra stereo power amplifier is now available to buy.

Borrowing from developments pioneered in the Leema Reference Series Altair IV mono power amplifiers, the Hydra II promises exceptional dynamic range, resolution of exquisitely fine detail and exceptional clarity.

The design includes two large toroidal power transformers: one for each channel, and a third transformer for the control circuitry. The output stage apparently records very low output impedance which, along with its high current capability claims very precise control of the loudspeakers, even at high volume levels.

Leema’s Intelligent Protocol System (LIPS) minimises the effect of induced signals in the interconnect cables and allows the Hydra II to act alongside the award-winning Tucana integrated amplifier, being driven as a slave in a bi-amp or tri-amp set-up.

However, Leema expects that its most likely home is in a pre/power combination with Leema’s Reference Series Pyxis (pictured, with Hydra) or other preamps. When used with Leema’s Antila CD player however, the Hydra II can perform as a single source amplifier, the volume setting being controlled within the Hydra II via LIPS and adjusted using the Antila’s remote control.

The Leema Acoustics Hydra II power amp is available now for £3,945.