Luxman L-507uX Mark II: A Flagship Fusion of Retro Charm and Modern Audiophile Precision

The Luxman L-507uX Mark II integrated amplifier, crafted in Japan, shares many characteristics with its sibling, the Luxman L-505uX Mark II. It is essentially a more powerful iteration of the latter, yet it remains nearly identical in both design and schematic layout. Notably, the Luxman L-507uX Mark II represents a natural evolution of the iconic 505 series, which debuted in 2001, retaining all the advantages that have made this series so popular.

Renowned for its crystal-clear sound, dependable components, and user-friendly controls, the Luxman 505 has set a high standard. The L-507uX Mark II enhances this legacy by introducing additional features, including a remote control, four pairs of inputs for analog devices, two pairs of inputs/outputs for recording equipment, and ports for both MM and MC cartridges. This expansion significantly increases the versatility of device connectivity within an audio system.

The Luxman L-507uX Mark II integrated amplifier stands as a distinguished successor to the esteemed legacy established by the initial models in the series. A notable feature of this line is its arrow indicators for output signal levels, enhanced by blue backlighting, along with a retro aesthetic that includes a multitude of controls on the front panel, such as balance and timbre adjustments.

This model incorporates the advanced 88-step volume control LECUA1000, which operates electronically and shares characteristics with the attenuator found in the high-end Luxman C-900u preamplifier. This volume regulator minimizes noise and connects directly to the amplification circuits, ensuring an exceptionally short signal path. Additionally, its robust design is resistant to vibrations, contributing to its overall performance.

The amplifier incorporates the advanced proprietary ODNF 4.0 negative feedback circuit. This technology is specifically designed to eliminate noise and distortion without adversely affecting sound quality, enabling a reduction in impedance and an improved signal-to-noise ratio. ODNF 4.0 enhances the output signal’s rise time and broadens the frequency response. The amplification circuits utilize Darlington configurations, while the output stage features a parallel push-pull design. The power supply is equipped with a robust transformer and a configuration of four electrolytic capacitors, totaling 40,000 μF in capacity. This setup delivers 110 W per channel at 8 ohms and 210 W per channel at 4 ohms, making it compatible with a wide range of speakers.

Additionally, a buffer discrete circuit is positioned between the preamplifier and output stage of the Luxman L-507uX Mark II, ensuring the integrity of the audio signal. The internal wiring employs oxygen-free copper conductors with effective shielding. Following Beeline technology, the amplifier’s printed circuit board contact paths are designed without right angles, resulting in shorter signal routes. Thanks to these proprietary advancements, the Luxman L-507uX Mark II amplifier achieves a higher damping factor compared to its predecessor.

One of the notable features of the Luxman L-507uX Mark II amplifier is its integrated MM/MC phono preamplifier, along with a switch that isolates the pre-amplifier and output sections. This design allows for independent operation, making it ideal for biamping or for use in a home theater setup. In terms of connectivity, the amplifier includes a standard array of connectors, as well as two balanced inputs that offer phase inversion capabilities, a Pre Out output, and a Main In input for direct access to the power stage. Additionally, it is equipped with four pairs of versatile screw terminals for speaker connections.

Luxman L-507uX Mark II specifications:

• Output power: 2 x 110 W (8 Ohm); 2 x 210 W (4 ohms)
• Input Sensitivity/Impedance:
  • 180 mV/47 kohms (RCA Line)
  • 180 mV/55 kohms (XLR Line)
  • 1.05 V/47 kohms (Main In)
  • 2.5 mV/47 kohms (MM Phono)
  • 0.3 mV/100 ohms (MC Phono)
• Output Voltage:
  • 1 V (Pre Out)
  • 180 mV (Rec Out)
• Frequency Response:
  • Line Input: 20 Hz – 100 kHz (-3 dB)
  • Phono: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion:
  • Less than 0.007% (1 kHz, 8 ohms)
  • Less than 0.08% (20 Hz – 20 kHz, 8 Ohm)
• Signal-to-noise ratio:
  • 105 dB (line input)
  • 91 dB (MM phono preamplifier)
  • 75 dB (MC phono preamplifier)
• Volume attenuator: new version LECUA1000
• Feedback circuit: ODNF 4.0
• Output section: parallel push-pull amplification using bipolar transistors
• Damping factor: 260
• Tone control:
  • HF: ± 8 dB (100 Hz)
  • LF: ± 8 dB (10 kHz)
• Tone block bypass option: yes, Line Straight button
• Inputs:
  • 2 balanced XLR (with slide switches for phase inversion)
  • 4 line RCA
  • MM/MC phono preamplifier connectors (RCA)
  • Monitor (RCA) for recording monitoring
  • Main In (RCA) for direct access to the final section
• Outputs:
  • 6.3 mm for headphones
  • For recording (RCA)
  • Pre Out (RCA)
• Other connections: ground terminal
• Loudness compensation: yes
• Speaker output: 4 pairs of universal screw terminals
• Remote control: RA-17A
• Power consumption:
  • 350 W
  • 86 W (no signal)
  • 0.4 W (standby)
• Anti-vibration feet: yes
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 440x178x454 mm
• Weight: 25 kg