Integrated Amp Reviews

Luxman L-509Z integrated amplifier Specifications

Sidebar 1: Specifications

Description: Two-channel integrated amplifier with 4 parallel-bipolar, push-pull, class-AB output stage. Inputs, line: 4 pair single-ended (RCA; Line 1 and Line 2 are "Original high rigidity terminals"), 2 pair balanced (XLR); Amplifier in ("Main In," RCA); Phono, switchable MM, high/low, MC (RCA). Outputs, line: Rec Out, Monitor, Pre Out (all RCA); two pair loudspeaker output terminals with independent on/off switching. Input sensitivity/input impedance, MM phono 2.5mV/47k ohms; MC-H phono 0.3mV/100 ohms; MC-L phono 0.1mV/40 ohms, SE line 180mV/47k ohms; Balanced line 180mV/79k ohms; Main in 1.1V/47k ohms. Output power: 120Wpc into 8 ohms (20.8dBW), 220Wpc into 4 ohms (20.4dBW). Frequency response: phono 20Hz–20kHz, ±0.5dB; line 20Hz–100kHz, ±3dB. Tone controls: Bass ±8dB at 100Hz; Middle ±8dB at 760Hz; Treble, ±8dB at 10kHz. THD: <0.007% (8 ohms, 1kHz), <0.03% (8 ohms, 20Hz–20kHz). Signal/noise ratio (IHF-A): MM phono >87dB; MC-H phono >70dB; MC phono >62dB; line >105dB. Damping factor: 330. Power consumption: 390W (maximum), 150W (no signal), 0.5W (standby). Supplied accessories: RA-17A remote control, power cord.
Dimensions: 17.3" (440mm) W × 7.6" (193mm) H × 18.2" (463mm) D. Weight: 64.6lb (29.4kg).
Serial number of unit reviewed: G30800022. Manufactured in Japan.
Price: $12,495. Approximate number of dealers: 70. Warranty: three years.
Manufacturer: Luxman Corporation, 1-3-1 Shinyokohama, Kouhoku-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa 222-0033, Japan. Tel: (81) (0)45-470-6980. Web: luxman.co.jp. US distributor: Luxman North America, 27 Kent St., Unit 122, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Tel: (518) 261-6464. Web: luxmanamerica.com.

COMMENTS

The new flagship

Submitted by jtshaw on February 9, 2024 - 8:27am

I was surprised several months ago when I noticed several L-509X amplifiers posted for sale at TMR Audio, and I suspected that a new flagship had launched. Indeed, the L-509Z was available and some audiophiles were likely looking to upgrade to the latest and greatest.

For me, the L-509X proved my offramp from the upgrade highway. I have it paired with Joseph Audio Pulsar loudspeakers, and the combination is as good as I could ever have hoped for. Expensive, but not beyond reason and within my window of affordable. If I ever manage to hit Powerball, there is likely a combination of Gryphon amplification and Rockport Technologies loudspeakers that would beckon. Even so, I certainly never feel deprived when the L-509X and Pulsars fill the room with music.

My best wishes to those who audition or purchase the Luxman L-509Z. Based on my experience, you will find yourself in the presence of a truly great amplifier. In addition, it may well represent the point at which the curve of diminishing returns arcs almost vertical. For the vast majority of us, that's likely the best target to have when assembling an audio system.

X owner

Submitted by Stevens on February 15, 2024 - 12:04pm

This new model was first released in Japan almost a year ago. The first UK review suggested there’s only a knat’s whiskers’ difference between X and Z. I bought an X a year ago new open box at trade price because the dealer is getting on in years and could not physically lift it. I was doing him a favour, and he certainly did me one as well. It certainly not straight wire with gain, but has great warmth and detail with a massive soundstage in the right room. The price increase is a bit steep, but it still seems a bargain compared to the competition. A standout feature for me is the maximum power consumption of only 390W, which is remarkably efficient and practical for such a beast.