An electronic ballast for operating at least one first cascade of LEDs may include an input for coupling to an AC supply voltage, a rectifier that is coupled to the input, wherein the rectifier has an output having a first and a second output connection, a first unit that includes the first cascade of LEDs, wherein the first unit is coupled to the first output connection of the rectifier, a series circuit including an inphase regulator and a shunt resistor, wherein the series circuit is coupled between the first unit and the second output connection of the rectifier, a setpoint value prescribing apparatus for the inphase regulator having an output that is coupled thereto, wherein the setpoint value prescribing apparatus provides a first setpoint value element at its output, and a second setpoint value element—superimposed on the first setpoint value element—for the inphase regulator.