Luxman has officially unveiled its latest integrated amplifier, the L-505Z, which aims to bring enhanced performance to a broader range of listeners. This model marks the culmination of Luxman’s Z Series line and represents a significant update in the company’s 505 series, which began in 2001 with the L-505f. The L-505Z is positioned as a successor to the widely popular L-505uXII, incorporating numerous technological advancements that set it apart, particularly in audio performance and user experience.
“The Z Series is now complete, in anticipation the company’s 100th anniversary in 2025,” commented Jeff Sigmund, president of Luxman America. “The global community of reviewers, resale partners, and music lovers has welcomed our Z Series. We’re looking forward to introduce the L-505Z’s level of performance to a wide range of listeners.”
One of the major updates in the L-505Z is the inclusion of the Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES1.0), a redesigned circuit that refines the company’s approach to amplifier feedback. Feedback circuits, while traditionally crucial in reducing distortion, can also compromise sound quality if not carefully calibrated.
Luxman has worked over decades to perfect this balance, first introducing the Only Distortion Negative Feedback (ODNF) circuit in 1999, and now, with the introduction of LIFES1.0, providing an even more advanced approach. This new system improves distortion detection and regulation while enhancing thermal stability, resulting in both low distortion and a more natural sound.
The L-505Z also features the Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator (LECUA), a precision volume control system designed to eliminate common issues such as noise and tracking errors found in conventional volume controls.
Instead of using a traditional variable resistor, the LECUA system relies on a solid-state IC attenuator, offering smoother, more precise volume adjustment across 88 distinct steps. This design also ensures better stereo balance, as it addresses potential left-right tracking errors, enhancing the listening experience.
Under the hood, the L-505Z is equipped with bipolar transistors in a triple-paralleled Darlington push-pull configuration, which allows the amplifier to deliver 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 150 watts per channel at 4 ohms.
The amplifier's power supply features a large 540 VA EI-type transformer, supported by four 10,000 µF filter capacitors, ensuring consistent and powerful sound output. The Class AB amplifier is designed for high efficiency, offering both linear power output and dynamic sound reproduction, which will appeal to audiophiles seeking clarity and depth in their music.
Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the upgraded moving magnet/moving coil (MM/MC) phono preamp in the L-505Z, which features a front-panel selector for easy switching between cartridge types. The first stage of the phono preamp uses a parallel circuit configuration, designed to deliver a smoother, more effortless sound when playing vinyl records. Luxman’s attention to detail in this area underscores the company's focus on providing high-quality playback for analog music fans.
Headphone listeners will also notice improvements. The L-505Z includes both a standard 6.3 mm headphone jack and a 4.4 mm balanced “Pentaconn” jack, which provides independent left and right channel grounding for better stereo separation. This feature is designed to offer improved sound quality for those who prefer listening through headphones, further expanding the amplifier’s versatility.
Luxman has paid attention to usability as well, enhancing the visual experience with a new 7-segment LED volume display. This makes it easy for users to view volume levels from any listening position, while the VU meter, illuminated by white LEDs, adds a classic touch to the design. For those who prefer to focus solely on the music, the LED and VU meter lights can be turned off using the supplied remote control.
The L-505Z also includes a range of connectivity and control options to accommodate modern home audio setups. The 12-volt trigger input and output allow integration with home automation systems, while the rear-panel preamp output and power amp input enable flexible system configurations, including bi-amping or the addition of powered subwoofers.
Weighing in at 50 pounds (22.5 kg), the L-505Z is designed to minimize vibration, ensuring stable performance even in quiet, nuanced passages. Luxman’s engineers have implemented several measures to enhance sound clarity, including a loop-less chassis structure that reduces ground impedance variations, which can otherwise affect sound quality. The internal wiring uses oxygen-free copper (OFC) with spiral wrap shielding, providing protection against interference while maintaining signal integrity.
Even the printed circuit boards have been optimized, with round-cornered asymmetric traces that promote smoother current transmission. Luxman has also spaced input terminals at 18 mm to accommodate higher-grade interconnects, ensuring that the amplifier can easily integrate into premium audio systems.
The Luxman L-505Z is available now, with a suggested retail price of $5,995.
