Lavardin CX42 Analogue Preamplifier France

The Lavardin CX42 is a purely analogue preamplifier from France with up to six high-level inputs and the manufacturer's own Memory-Free circuit. It's operated the classic way, by hand, with no display and no menus.

Why the CX42?

A preamp seemingly has the simplest job in the system: select a source, adjust the level, pass it on. For Lavardin, that's exactly where the biggest source of error lies, because every component in the signal path can introduce memory effects that swallow fine musical information. The CX42 reduces this path to a minimum of high-quality relay switches and discrete amplifier stages instead of volume-control ICs – a deliberately old-fashioned but demonstrably effective solution.

What you hear

Paired with a Lavardin power amp like the A80 or AP150, the CX42 shows what it was built for: a calm, unstrained presentation with a lot of depth and a precision in reproducing quiet details that you wouldn't expect from such an unassuming unit. But even with third-party gear the character stays intact – the CX42 barely colours the sound, it rather makes room for what's already in the recording.

Who is the CX42 for? (and who isn't it for)

For anyone building a separate pre/power combination or looking to add a high-quality, uncomplicated preamp to an existing power amp. Plain talk: if you expect balanced outputs, a display or app control, the CX42 will disappoint – here it's the signal path that counts, not the user interface.

Our verdict

The CX42 is the kind of unit that barely stands out in the rack, and that's exactly why it convinces: no gimmicks, just a preamp that does its job so unobtrusively that you simply forget about it after a few weeks – in the best sense.

Technical data

• Inputs: up to 6× RCA, gold-plated, input sensitivity 330 mV
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Output impedance: approx. 75 Ω, max. gain 12 dB / max. output level +20 dB
• Distortion: 0.001% at full output
• Power consumption: 10 W in standby, max. 40 W
• Option: MM phono input factory-fittable on input 6
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 430 × 80 × 340 mm
• Weight: 6 kg

Frequently asked questions

How many sources can I connect to the CX42?

Up to six high-level sources via gold-plated RCA inputs, selected by hand via cleanly detented relay switches. That's comfortably enough for most chains of streamer, CD player, tuner and further sources, without ever having to give up an input.

Can I connect a turntable to the CX42?

Not directly, but as a factory option an MM phono module can be permanently fitted on input 6. Alternatively you connect an external phono preamp to one of the remaining line inputs – both routes work reliably and convincingly, depending on cartridge and budget.

Does the CX42 only suit Lavardin power amps?

No, it works well with any power amp or integrated amplifier with a high-level input. The combination with a Lavardin power amp like the A80 or AP150 makes the most sense, though, because both share the same Memory-Free philosophy and complement each other perfectly sonically.

Why buy the Lavardin CX42 at HD Zürisee?

We put together a coherent pre/power combination out of the CX42 and a matching power amp for you, instead of just selling you any model. Call us, message us on WhatsApp or drop by – we'll listen to your setup together with you.

Goes well with

The CX42 pairs especially well with our Lavardin power amps; for the final polish we recommend a look at our cable range.