By: CE Critic

Luxman has unveiled its latest creation: the L-505Z integrated amplifier. As a proud member of the acclaimed Z Series, the L-505Z seamlessly blends decades of audio engineering expertise with cutting-edge technology, offering audiophiles an accessible entry point into the world of Luxman's renowned sound quality. Priced at $5,995, the L-505Z builds upon the legacy of its predecessors in the 505 series, introducing significant enhancements that cater to both analog and digital audio enthusiasts. This comprehensive review delves into the technical specifications, design features, and sonic performance of the L-505Z, highlighting its position as a true embodiment of Luxman's commitment to audio excellence.

Technical Specifications

• Output Power: 100W + 100W (8 ohms), 150W + 150W (4 ohms)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz to 100kHz (+0, -3dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.007% (8 ohms, 1kHz)
• Input Sensitivity/Impedance:
  • Phono (MM): 2.5mV/47k ohms
  • Phono (MC): 0.3mV/100 ohms
  • Line: 180mV/47k ohms
  • Balanced Line: 180mV/55k ohms
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 105dB (Line), 84dB (Phono MM)
• Inputs: 4 Line-level RCA, 1 Phono (MM/MC switchable), 1 Balanced XLR
• Outputs: 1 Preamp Output, 1 Rec Out, Speaker Terminals (A, B)
• Headphone Output: 6.3mm standard jack, 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced jack
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 440 x 178 x 454 mm (17.3 x 7 x 17.9 inches)
• Weight: 22.5 kg (50 lbs)
• Availability: Currently available through authorized Luxman dealers
• Price: $5,995 USD

Amplification Technology: LIFES1.0

At the heart of the L-505Z lies Luxman's proprietary LIFES1.0 (Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System) technology. This innovative amplification feedback engine represents the culmination of Luxman's decades-long pursuit to harmonize the benefits of negative feedback with the expressive, natural sound often associated with non-feedback designs. LIFES1.0 builds upon the foundation of Luxman's acclaimed ODNF (Only Distortion Negative Feedback) circuitry, which achieved remarkable static characteristics while preserving the integrity of the musical signal.

Through extensive simulations, component selection, and rigorous listening tests, Luxman engineers meticulously refined the LIFES1.0 circuit, achieving a significant reduction in distortion compared to previous iterations. The output stage employs a parallel push-pull configuration with bipolar transistors, delivering a robust 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 150 watts per channel into 4 ohms. This substantial power output ensures effortless handling of demanding speaker loads, guaranteeing dynamic and impactful music reproduction.

Precision Volume Control: LECUA

The L-505Z incorporates Luxman's sophisticated LECUA (Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator) system for precise volume control. This innovative system employs a custom-designed solid-state IC precision attenuator, enabling meticulous volume adjustments across 88 discrete steps while minimizing sound degradation. By eliminating the traditional variable resistor, LECUA effectively mitigates noise and tracking errors that can compromise stereo balance and sonic purity.

Complementing the LECUA system is a newly developed discrete buffer circuit, further enhancing the amplifier's signal integrity and ensuring robust performance throughout the volume range. This meticulous attention to detail makes the L-505Z an ideal choice for discerning audiophiles who demand pristine audio clarity and precise volume control.

Phono Stage and Connectivity

Catering to vinyl enthusiasts, the L-505Z features an enhanced moving magnet/moving coil phono preamplifier, easily accessible via a front-panel selector switch. This high-quality phono stage allows users to connect both MM and MC cartridges, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of turntables and cartridges.

In addition to its phono capabilities, the L-505Z offers a comprehensive array of connectivity options. Balanced XLR inputs cater to high-end source components, while multiple RCA inputs accommodate a variety of analog sources. The amplifier also includes a versatile headphone section, featuring both standard 6.3mm and balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn jacks for enhanced stereo separation and immersive headphone listening experiences.

Aesthetic Design and Build Quality

The L-505Z exudes classic Luxman elegance, with a front panel adorned by iconic needle-style VU meters, now illuminated by white LEDs for enhanced visibility. A 7-segment LED display provides precise volume level indication, allowing users to easily monitor and adjust volume from their listening position. Both the LED display and VU meter lighting can be toggled via the supplied remote control, offering a personalized touch to the amplifier's visual presentation.

Luxman's commitment to quality extends beyond aesthetics. The L-505Z boasts a robust internal structure, featuring OFC (Oxygen-Free Copper) internal wiring and Luxman's loop-less chassis design to minimize interference and optimize signal transmission. The amplifier's Beeline construction ensures efficient signal pathways, further contributing to its exceptional sound fidelity.

Additional Features and Functionality

The L-505Z incorporates a range of additional features that enhance its versatility and user experience:

• Tone Controls: Provides bass and treble adjustments for personalized sound tailoring.
• Loudness Control: Compensates for the ear's sensitivity at low volumes, ensuring balanced sound reproduction even at quiet listening levels.
• LR Balance Adjustment: Allows for precise channel level balancing to optimize stereo imaging.
• Separate Function: Enables bi-amplification configurations or seamless integration with AV systems.
• 12-volt Triggers: Facilitates integration with compatible home automation systems.
• Control Input/Output: Allows for coordinated operation with other Luxman components.
• Preamp Output/Power Amp Input: Enables flexible system configurations, including bi-amping and subwoofer integration.

Remote Control

The L-505Z includes a substantial, ergonomically designed aluminum remote control that offers comprehensive control over the amplifier's functions. This multi-functional remote can also operate compatible Luxman CD players released after 1996, providing seamless integration within a Luxman-centric audio system.

Conclusion

The Luxman L-505Z integrated amplifier stands as a testament to Luxman's unwavering dedication to audio excellence. Its advanced amplification technology, precision volume control, comprehensive connectivity, and refined design elements converge to deliver an exceptional listening experience that caters to the most discerning audiophiles. With its robust build quality and timeless aesthetics, the L-505Z promises years of musical enjoyment, solidifying its position as a true investment in high-fidelity audio. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score.