United Kingdom

LEAK, a brand with deep roots in the history of audio innovation, was established by Harold Joseph Leak in 1934 in London, England. Known for its high-quality audio components, LEAK carved out a reputation for affordability combined with high performance, a hallmark that defined the brand for decades.

Harold Leak, identifying himself as a 'Sound Engineer – Technician,' alongside Ted Ashley, who became Chief Engineer, propelled LEAK to the forefront of the home audio equipment market. Together, they led the company through an era of significant technological advancements in amplifiers, loudspeakers, pickups, and turntables.

The mid-20th century was a transformative period for LEAK, as the brand navigated the challenges of wartime disruption to focus on developing purposeful audio technology. Post-war, the emphasis shifted towards high-fidelity systems, marking LEAK's entry into an era of low-noise, high-performance products that gained international acclaim.

A pivotal moment came in 1945 with the introduction of the LEAK Type 15 amplifier, which featured innovative 'negative feedback' and 'push-pull' triode connected KT66 valves, achieving an impressive 15 watts output. This product laid the groundwork for the brand's reputation in high-fidelity sound reproduction.

The late 1940s and 1950s saw LEAK introducing groundbreaking products like the TL/12, which became a standard for high-fidelity sound, and embarking on marketing campaigns that directly compared live versus reproduced music, showcasing the superior quality of LEAK systems. These efforts culminated in LEAK's products being adopted by prestigious institutions like the BBC.

Innovation continued with the introduction of the LEAK Sandwich loudspeaker in 1961, a design that utilized a novel approach to reduce vibrations and resonance, leading to more dynamic audio reproduction. This period also saw the development of the LEAK Stereo 30, a transition to transistor amplifiers that offered a more accessible price point to a broader audience.

Despite its innovations and contributions to the audio industry, LEAK faced challenges from global competition and changing market dynamics, eventually leading to the brand's acquisition by the Rank Organization in 1969 and a gradual fade from the forefront of the audio market.

After years of dormancy, LEAK was revived by the IAG Group, bringing the brand back to the market with a focus on blending classic styling with modern audio technology, ensuring LEAK's legacy continues for new generations of audiophiles.

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Leak

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The Leak Sandwich 250 represents a landmark achievement in the realm of sound reproduction, building upon a legacy that started in 1961 with the original Leak Sandwich. With a commitment to blending tradition with progressive innovation, these speakers are designed to meet the exacting standards of audiophiles worldwide. The incorporation of a fantastically rigid Leak sandwich cone diaphragm, first introduced in the 1960s and now refined with modern materials, sets a new standard for low distortion and accurate sound reproduction. The diaphragm's construction, featuring a stiff aluminum skin bonded to a core of polymethacrylimide (PMI) foam, ensures unparalleled rigidity and a smooth frequency response over a broad range.

The construction of the Leak Sandwich 250's cabinet is equally innovative, benefiting from six decades of technological advancements. Combining MDF and composite materials in a layered 'sandwich' configuration, the cabinet's design optimizes strength and acoustic performance, featuring intelligent bracing and a distinctive design that pays homage to the original. The aesthetic appeal of the Leak Sandwich 250 is undeniable, with a real-wood walnut veneer, aluminum trim, and carefully chosen grille cloth that complement the classic Leak styling.

Beyond its physical construction, the Leak Sandwich 250 introduces advanced sound engineering innovations. The high-frequency driver is specially designed with a damped rear chamber, reducing resonant frequency and seamlessly integrating the bass, mid, and high frequencies for a detailed and harmonic audio experience. The inclusion of a high-quality crossover, developed through extensive listening tests, further enhances sound quality. To ensure optimal presentation, the Leak Sandwich 250 is paired with a precision-measured plinth, offering a seamless and aesthetically pleasing setup that enriches the listening experience without compromise.

Sandwich 250

Sandwich 250

by Leak

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