Firsts in High Fidelity: The Products and History of H.J. Leak & Co. Ltd.

by Stephen Spicer, Sylvia Barlow (Contributor), Ted Ashley (Contributor)

This book is the unique and comprehensive story about one of the worlds best high-fidelity audio companies - H.J. Leak & Co. Ltd. The reader is presented with a stunning collection of delights, through a lucid extensively researched text, accompanied by over 300 photographs many of which have been supplied from personal collections. A must for any audiophile is the compendium of 30 circuit diagrams for classic designs of the day, including some of the rarest model amplifiers and radio tuners produced by the company. This invaluable resource is presented in conjunction with detailed technical information on previously undocumented design variation. There are numerous personal anecdotes and contributions from ex-employees that bring the events of the past to a sharp, immediate reality for the reader. This effect is so complete, that the readers will feel that they personally meet the staff, and visit the London factory where audio history was made. In summary, this book represents the authentic history of H.J. Leak & Co. Ltd. - covering its rise from humble beginnings in 1934, to its peak of success in 1969. This is a truly great collection that any audiophile will read with delight and pleasure.

270 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000