LEAK TruStream: New Streaming DAC with Retro Design & Hi-Res Audio

by Anika Shah - Technology
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Leak TruStream: A Retro-Inspired Streaming DAC Arrives

British audio manufacturer Leak has announced its first dedicated music streamer, the TruStream. Building on the success of its recently revived classic hi-fi components – including the Stereo 130 and Stereo 230 integrated amplifiers and the CDT CD transport – Leak is now bringing a modern streaming experience wrapped in a distinctly mid-century aesthetic.

Reviving a Legacy

Leak Audio, originally established in 1934, experienced a period of prominence in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s before ceasing operations in the late 1970s. The brand was acquired by IAG Group in 2020, initiating a revival focused on recreating its classic designs with updated technology [Gear Patrol]. The TruStream continues this trend, visually aligning with the Stereo 130 and Stereo 230 amplifiers.

Design and Connectivity

The TruStream boasts a design that blends vintage charm with modern functionality. It features a brushed-aluminium faceplate combined with a real walnut casing, echoing the aesthetic of Leak’s Stereo 30 amplifier from 1963 [Forbes]. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including:

  • USB-C port for PC/Mac connection
  • Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analogue outputs
  • 6.35mm headphone output
  • TOSLINK and coaxial digital outputs
  • Dual USB-A ports (for USB storage and external DAC functionality)
  • 12V trigger input and link output

Network streaming is supported via dual-band Wi-Fi or Gigabit Ethernet.

Streaming Capabilities

At its core, the TruStream utilizes a streaming platform from Silent Angel, the same technology found in the Mission 778S streamer launched earlier in 2026 [Darko.Audio]. The device supports a wide range of streaming services and protocols, including:

  • Tidal Connect
  • Qobuz Connect
  • Spotify Connect
  • TuneIn
  • Roon Ready
  • Apple AirPlay 2
  • DLNA/UPnP

Internal Components and Performance

The TruStream features an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC chip, paired with ESS’s HyperStream II architecture and ‘Time Domain Jitter Eliminator’ technologies. A key difference between the TruStream and the Mission 778S lies in the power supply. the TruStream employs a Noratel toroidal transformer with dedicated supplies for the XMOS chip, MCU, and DAC stage [Darko.Audio]. It supports high-resolution audio files up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512.

Availability and Pricing

The Leak TruStream is scheduled for release in April and will be priced at £999 [Darko.Audio]. Further information can be found on the Leak website.

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