By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech
Luxman, the renowned audio company gearing up to celebrate its centennial in 2025, has unleashed its latest creation upon the audiophile world – the L-509Z integrated amplifier. True to its heritage of impeccable sound quality, Luxman's new flagship amplifier combines the essence of separate preamps and power amps while introducing groundbreaking innovations. Let's dive into what makes the L-509Z a true standout in the world of audio.
A Century of Excellence
Luxman's journey traces back to 1925, but it was in 1964 when their SQ-38 integrated amplifier became a fixture in Japanese jazz cafes, marking the company's enduring commitment to integrated amplifiers. Today, Luxman continues this legacy with the L-509Z, preparing to celebrate a century of sonic excellence.
Introducing LIFES1.0 and LECUA-EX
The L-509Z is a pioneer in incorporating the Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES1.0) into both its power amp and preamp sections. LIFES1.0 represents Luxman's multi-decade quest to overcome the long-standing tradeoffs in amplifier negative feedback. Negative feedback has historically been a delicate balance between reducing distortion and maintaining expressive power. Luxman's LIFES1.0 circuit, which follows the acclaimed Only Distortion Negative Feedback (ODNF) circuit, takes amplifier performance to new heights by minimizing distortion while preserving the natural sound quality associated with non-feedback circuits.
This integrated amplifier boasts a substantial power output, courtesy of three-stage Darlington bipolar transistors in quadruple-paralleled push-pull configuration. With a highly regulated power supply featuring a massive 600 VA EI-type transformer and eight 10,000 µF filter capacitors, the L-509Z delivers 120W+120W at 8 ohms and 240W+240W at 4 ohms. The result is extraordinary sound quality with an abundance of energy.
Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator-EX (LECUA-EX) makes its debut with the L-509Z, setting a new standard for volume control. This computerized precision attenuator offers meticulous volume adjustment across 88 discrete steps, effectively minimizing distortion. The LECUA-EX is equipped with a weighted rotary encoder, ensuring smooth and immensely satisfying control.
Enhancements Galore
Luxman has left no stone unturned in enhancing the user experience. The L-509Z features a precise 7-segment LED display for easy volume level monitoring from any listening position. Large, highly-sensitive VU meters illuminated by white LEDs provide instantaneous output level information. A "Pentaconn" 4.4mm balanced headphone jack supplements the standard 6.3mm jack, offering improved stereo separation.
The rear panel hosts 12-volt trigger input and output for seamless integration with compatible home automation systems. Control input and output terminals facilitate coordination with other Luxman components. For added convenience, a front-panel Mute button complements the remote control Mute function. Two preamp outputs and one power amp input allow for flexible system configurations, including biamping.
A Solid Foundation
The L-509Z is built upon a robust chassis designed to suppress vibrations that could compromise delicate musical passages. Thick aluminum panels and density gradient cast iron feet ensure stability, while the top panel boasts a classic Luxman hairline finish and 28 individually cut ventilation ports. Weighing in at 65 pounds (29.4 kg), this amplifier exudes durability and precision.
Precision Engineering
Luxman engineers have meticulously crafted the L-509Z, focusing on input/output terminals, signal routing, and materials. Copper alloy RCA terminals offer a combination of conductivity and durability, while ample spacing accommodates high-grade interconnects. Large, parallel-configured speaker relays and ultra-thick 3.5-square-mm cable guarantee low impedance transmission. The inline speaker terminals provide generous spacing for thick speaker cables and Y terminators.
Uncompromised Purity
To preserve musical purity, Luxman employs beeline topology, minimizing internal signal runs. Oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring contributes to exceptional musicality, while printed circuit boards featuring peel-coat technology reduce dielectric effects. Round-cornered printed circuit traces ensure smooth current transmission.
The Full Package
The L-509Z comes complete with the RA-17A wireless remote control, compatible with Luxman digital players released after 1996.
Availability and Pricing
The L-509Z integrated amplifier is available now, with a suggested retail price of $12,495. Luxman's commitment to bridging tradition and innovation shines through in this remarkable audio masterpiece. As Luxman continues to prepare for its centennial celebration in 2025, the L-509Z stands as a testament to the company's dedication to audio excellence.
