Leak TruStream: The British Hi-Fi Icon Enters the Streaming Era
- ducurguz
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
With walnut cabinetry, cutting-edge DAC tech and modern streaming support, Leak’s first-ever network player blends vintage charm with ultra-resolution digital performance.
The legendary British hi-fi brand Leak has officially stepped into the world of modern streaming with the launch of its first dedicated network player: the Leak TruStream.
Combining state-of-the-art digital audio technology with the brand’s unmistakable mid-century aesthetic, the TruStream aims to bridge two worlds: classic hi-fi design and today’s streaming-first listening habits.
A Historic Brand Goes Digital
Since its revival in 2020, Leak has been steadily rebuilding its presence in the hi-fi world with products like the Leak Stereo 130 and the Leak CDT.
Both were designed to channel the brand’s classic styling while offering modern performance. With the TruStream, Leak now expands that philosophy into network streaming, acknowledging that digital platforms have become the primary way many listeners access music today.
The result is a device designed to integrate seamlessly into both vintage-inspired systems and modern digital setups.
High-End DAC Technology at the Core
At the heart of the TruStream lies the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M, one of the most respected DAC chips currently used in high-performance digital audio components.
The DAC is supported by several proprietary technologies from ESS Technology, including:
HyperStream II architecture
Time Domain Jitter Eliminator
Together, these technologies aim to reduce timing errors — known as jitter — which can degrade digital audio performance.
Leak also adds a custom post-DAC active filter stage, designed to extract greater dynamic range and sonic clarity from the DAC’s output.
Built for Ultra-High-Resolution Audio
The TruStream is engineered with high-resolution playback firmly in mind.
It supports:
PCM audio up to 32-bit / 768kHz
Native DSD512 playback
This level of compatibility ensures the streamer can handle virtually any modern digital format, from studio-quality downloads to high-resolution streaming services.
Full Streaming Platform Integration
To power its network capabilities, the TruStream uses the dedicated streaming platform developed by Silent Angel.
This same platform also appears in the Mission 778S, another recently announced network player.
The TruStream supports a wide range of streaming ecosystems, including:
Tidal Connect
Qobuz Connect
Spotify Connect
AirPlay 2
TuneIn
It also integrates Silent Angel’s Internet Radio platform and supports UPnP / DLNA, allowing users to stream music from local servers or network storage devices.
For those deeply invested in audiophile streaming ecosystems, the player is also Roon Ready.
Generous Connectivity Options
Despite its vintage-inspired look, the TruStream offers a modern selection of connections.
Digital Inputs and Outputs
USB-C audio input
Two USB-A ports
Optical output
Coaxial output
Analog Outputs
Balanced XLR outputs
Single-ended RCA outputs
For personal listening, the streamer even includes a 6.5mm headphone output, making it possible to enjoy high-resolution playback without an external amplifier.
Vintage Looks with Modern Engineering
Visually, the TruStream stays faithful to Leak’s retro design language.
It features:
A walnut wood-veneered cabinet
A precision aluminium chassis
Classic mid-century hi-fi styling
The result is a component that looks just as comfortable in a vintage-inspired listening room as it does in a modern system rack.
A Natural Next Step for Leak
The introduction of the TruStream signals an important shift for Leak.
Rather than simply reviving classic designs, the company is now fully embracing modern digital listening, bringing its heritage aesthetic into the streaming era.
For fans of vintage hi-fi who want cutting-edge digital capabilities — without sacrificing timeless design — the TruStream may prove to be one of the most appealing network players of the year.
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