Have you ever wanted to own a high-end Luxman Integrated Amplifier? The iconic Japanese manufacturer does not cut corners and that has made its components rather expensive over the past century. Quality engineering, bulletproof build quality and world class sonics come with a hefty asking price. The latest from Luxman appears to offer all of those things — but for only $5,995 USD.
And yes — $5,995 USD is a lot of money for any hi-fi component in case you think we consider that to be “affordable.” It’s just affordable for Luxman.
The L-505Z completes Luxman’s Z Series integrated amplifier line. This new model represents the latest development in a series of 505 models going back to the L-505f of 2001 while introducing significant upgrades including the Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES1.0) and the Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator (LECUA).
The L-505Z is designed to replace the previously released L-505uXII (2018) and completes the Z Series joining the L-507Z (released in 2022) and 509Z (released in 2023).
Upgrades from the 505uXII include an improved moving magnet/moving coil phono preamp, LECUA controlled LR balance adjust function, 12-volt triggers, parallel headphone output jacks including a “Pentaconn” balanced type and 7-segment LED volume level-VU meter display.
LUXMAN Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES 1.0)
The LIFES 1.0 power amp stage is designed to combine the power of negative-feedback-free amplifiers with the ultra-low distortion that feedback enables. While feedback plays a major role in reducing distortion, it can compromise musicality.
To overcome this paradox Luxman developed the Only Distortion Negative Feedback (ODNF) circuit in 1999 and refined it through five generations up to 2021. LIFES1.0 now supersedes ODNF, with a redesigned circuit featuring improved distortion detection, regulation, and thermal stability.
The result is a combination of low distortion and the natural sound quality associated with “non-feedback” type circuits.
The L-505Z combines high power and precise linearity. This is accomplished by using bipolar transistors in a triple parallel Darlington push-pull configuration.
For added support, the highly regulated power supply boasts a massive, 540 VA EI-type transformer and an array of four new-generation type 10,000 µF filter capacitors.
The Class AB output stage is rated at 100W+100W at 8 ohms and 150W+150W at 4 ohms.
The Importance of the Volume Control
The volume control is often an afterthought but it can be the source of audio playback issues. Conventional, variable-resistor volume controls often introduce noise and left/right tracking errors can unintentionally shift the stereo balance as the volume is adjusted.
As a result, Luxman has implemented its LECUA system. This system is built around a solid-state IC precision attenuator. It delivers accurate volume adjustment across 88 discrete steps while minimizing distortion. LECUA technology is also applied to the balance control.
Vinyl Record Playback Support
The L-505Z provides several source inputs (including one set of balanced inputs) but Luxman has also paid close attention to vinyl playback with an advanced phono equalization circuit featuring a parallel first stage for better musicality. The circuitry accommodates both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges via a front-panel selector.
To maintain signal integrity while enhancing the output quality, Luxman considers the preamplifier stage as a “power amp driver.” This means that the last stage of the preamplifier is fitted with discrete buffer circuitry and a high-current supply.
Status Display
The L-505Z incorporates a 7-segment LED display. This enables users to see volume levels from any listening position. Instantaneous output is displayed on large, VU meters illuminated by white LEDs for optimum viewing.
The “Pentaconn” 4.4 mm, five-conductor, balanced headphone jack provides independent left/right grounding for improved stereo separation. It supplements the standard 6.3 mm jack. If desired, users can disable the display using the supplied remote control.
Trigger Control
Rear-panel 12-volt trigger input and outputs provide home automation systems. Control input and output terminals coordinate operation with compatible Luxman components. A preamp output and power amp input enable bi-amping and powered subwoofer connections.
Internal Topology
Beeline topology minimizes internal signal runs. Oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring helps ensure optimum musicality. The internal cables also protect the signal with spiral wrap shielding for each non-plated core wire. Because slight variations in ground impedance can have a subtle smearing effect on music, the L-505Z features a loop-less chassis structure.
The L-505Z circuit boards solidify Luxman’s build approach with round-cornered asymmetric printed circuit traces to ensure smooth current transmission while resisting interference. There is also the 18-mm spacing between input terminals to accommodate high-grade interconnects. The speaker terminals offer spacing for large gauge speaker cables and Y terminators.
Hefty Weight
To suppress vibrations that can interfere with quiet musical passages, the L-505Z weighs in at a hefty 50 pounds (22.5 kg).
Pro Tip: The supplied RMA-17A wireless remote control also operates Luxman digital players released after 1996.
From Jeff Sigmund, president of Luxman America: “The Z Series is now complete, in anticipation of the company’s 100th anniversary in 2025,…The global community of reviewers, resale partners, and music lovers has welcomed our Z Series. We’re looking forward to introducing the L-505Z’s level of performance to a wide range of listeners.”
Luxman Z-Series Comparison
| L-505Z (2024) | L-505uXII (2018) | L-507Z (2022) | L-509Z (2023) | |
| Price (USD) | $5,995 | $4,695 | $8,995 | $12,495 |
| Product Type | Integrated Amplifier | Integrated Amplifier | Integrated Amplifier | Integrated Amplifier |
| Amplifier Class | AB | AB | AB | AB |
| Rated Power Output | 100W + 100W (8Ω) 150W + 150W (4Ω) | 100W + 100W (8Ω) 150W + 150W (4Ω) | 110W + 110W (8Ω) 210W + 210W (4Ω) | 120W + 120W (8Ω) 220W + 220W (4Ω) |
| Input Sensitivity/ Input Impedance | PHONO (MM): 2.5mV/47kΩ PHONO (MC): 0.3mV/100Ω LINE: 180mV/47kΩ BAL.LINE:180mV/55kΩ MAIN IN: 1V/47kΩ | PHONO (MM): 2.5mV/47kΩ PHONO (MC): 0.3mV/100Ω LINE: 180mV/47kΩ BAL.LINE:180mV/55kΩ MAIN IN: 1V/47kΩ | PHONO (MM): 2.5mV/47kΩ PHONO (MC): 0.3mV/100Ω LINE: 180mV/47kΩ BAL.LINE:180mV/79kΩ MAIN IN: 1.5V/47kΩ | PHONO (MM): 2.5mV/47kΩ PHONO (MC-H): 0.3mV/100Ω PHONO (MC-L): 0.3mV/40Ω LINE: 180mV/47kΩ BAL.LINE:180mV/79kΩ MAIN IN: 1.1V/47kΩ |
| Output Voltage | PRE OUT: 1V | PRE OUT: 1V REC Out: 180mV | PRE OUT: 1V | PRE OUT: 1V |
| Frequency Response | PHONO: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.5dB) LINE: 20Hz to 100kHz (within -3dB) | PHONO: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.5dB) LINE: 20Hz to 100kHz (within -3dB) | PHONO: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.5dB) LINE: 20Hz to 100kHz (within -3dB) | PHONO: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.5dB) LINE: 20Hz to 100kHz (within -3dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.009% or less (8Ω, 1kHz) 0.09% or less (8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) | 0.009% or less (8Ω, 1kHz) 0.09% or less (8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) | 0.007% or less (8Ω, 1kHz) 0.03% or less (8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) | 0.007% or less (8Ω, 1kHz) 0.03% or less (8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) |
| S/N Ratio (IHF-A) | PHONO (MM): 87dB or more PHONO (MC): 70dB or more LINE: 104dB or more | PHONO (MM): 91dB or more PHONO (MC): 75dB or more LINE: 104dB or more | PHONO (MM): 91dB or more PHONO (MC): 75dB or more LINE: 105dB or more | PHONO (MM): 87dB or more PHONO (MC-H): 70dB or more PHONO (MC-L): 62dB or more LINE: 106dB or more |
| Volume Adjustment | LECUA | LECUA | LECUA1000 | LECUA-EX |
| Amplification feedback circuit | LIFES 1.0 | ODNF 4.0 | LIFES 1.0 | LIFES 1.0 |
| Output Configuration | Bipolar parallel push-pull | Bipolar parallel push-pull | Bipolar 3-parallel push-pull | Bipolar 4-parallel push-pull |
| Damping Factor | 200 | 210 | 300 | 330 |
| Tone Control Range | BASS: ±8dB at 100Hz TREBLE: ±8dB at 10kHz | BASS: ±8dB at 100Hz TREBLE: ±8dB at 10kHz | BASS: ±8dB at 100Hz TREBLE: ±8dB at 10kHz | BASS: ±8dB at 100Hz TREBLE: ±8dB at 10kHz TREBLE: ±8dB at 760Hz |
| Power Supply | 230V~(50Hz) 115V~ (60Hz) | 230V~(50Hz) 115V~ (60Hz) | 230V~(50Hz) 115V~ (60Hz) | 230V~(50Hz) 115V~ (60Hz) |
| Power Consumption | 330W 90W (under no signal) 0.5W (at standby) | 300W 85W (under no signal) 0.4W (at standby) | 350W 86W (under no signal) 0.4W (at standby) | 390W 150W (under no signal) 0.5W (at standby) |
| External Dimensions (WHD) | 17.3 x 7.01 x 17.9 inches (440 x 178 x 454 mm) | 17.3 x 7.01 x 17.9 inches (440 x 178 x 454 mm) | 17.3 x 7.01 x 17.9 inches (440 x 178 x 454 mm) | 17.3 x 7.6 x 18.23 inches (440 x 193 x 463 mm ) |
| Net Weight | 49 lbs 10 oz (22.5 kg) | 49 lbs 10 oz (22.5 kg) | 56 lbs 25.4 kg | 64 lbs (29.4 kg) |
| Accessories | Remote control (RA-17A) Power cable | Remote control (RA-17A) Power cable | Remote control (RA-17A) Power cable | Remote control (RA-17A) Power cable |
The Bottom Line
Luxman has been making audio components for 100 years, making them one of the oldest brands still in existence (along with Denon and Yamaha). Also, Luxman joins other brands such as McIntosh, Audio Research, and Mark Levinson to name a few that occupy the high-end tier. This means that you will have to dig deep into your wallet to be able to afford many of their products.
That being said, Luxman puts a lot of thought and engineering savvy into all other product lines and their Z-Series integrated amplifiers are a prime example.
Price & Availability
The L-505Z integrated amplifier is available now at a suggested retail price of $5,995 through authorized distributors and dealers.
For more information: luxmanamerica.com
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ORT
September 30, 2024 at 7:19 pm
“Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a Luxman for?” – robORT Browning
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ORT