Luxman L-509Z Integrated Amplifier

Electronically controlled attenuator LECUA-EX* incorporating an elaborate rotation mechanism

A tactile, satisfying volume control function is essential for audio amplifiers. To feed a fixed gain power amplifier with a musical signal at a level suitable for listening, precise control is required to smoothly attenuate the voltage while maintaining the quality of the input source. LECUA, developed by LUXMAN, is an electronically controlled attenuator system that switches through a series of high-quality, fixed value resistors for each channel independently. These are neatly arranged on the sub-assembly according to the position of the volume control knob. Since the release of the C-1000f control amplifier in 2006 to commemorate LUXMAN’s 80th anniversary, “LECUA1000”, which similarly integrates into the amplification circuitry, has been used in many LUXMAN products as a volume control system that minimizes the effects of external vibrations and changes in sound quality across the operating range of the volume control and is also resistant to deterioration over time. The L-509Z combines a highly precise rotary encoder with a newly developed weighted rotation mechanism to create the “LECUA-EX”, which offers even greater reliability and a natural, high-quality operational feel. 88 fine steps from 0 to 87dB and an acceleration setting for the speed at which the volume knob is rotated and a long-press setting for the remote control allow for comfortable and thorough volume control action with minimal degradation in sound quality.

*LECUA-EX stands for Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator – Excellent eXperience

Highly regulated power supply

The L-509Z is equipped with LUXMAN’s traditional, highly stable power supply circuitry, featuring a bespoke, highly regulated 600VA El transformer and newly developed large-capacity filter capacitors (10,000μFx 8) .

High-quality phono EQ

The built-in high-quality phono equalizer circuit, which supports both MM and MC cartridges, features a new two-step gain switch to select between high and low MC settings to accommodate a wider range of MC cartridges, enriching quality vinyl playback in terms of both operation and sound quality. And a Mute-Button is now featured on the front panel.

3-band tone control

In addition to BASS and TREBLE, a new MIDDLE control effective in the vocal and lead instrument frequencies bandwidth has been included. LR balance, line straight, loudness, and other functions are also conveniently at your fingertips.

Original technology, special attention

Peel-coat circuit boards are used for the main audio signal path, eliminating the negative effects of the coating film that can adversely affect sound quality. Unique attention has been paid to every detail, such as the beeline construction, which configures circuits to take the shortest route possible, and a non-angled wiring pattern for smooth signal transmission.

Low-impedance transmission

Large, low resistance speaker relays are connected in parallel to transmit the driving force from the substantial power supply and output circuitry. Internal, 3.5mm2 ultra-thick cable is directly connected to the speaker terminals to ensure low impedance transmission, achieving a damping factor of 330 (current injection method).

High-quality hairline finish top panel

The top panel is made of ultra-thick aluminum with an exquisite hairline finish. Large ventilation holes are carefully machined one by one to ensure efficient heat dissipation. Supporting the unit are four large insulator feet made from cast iron, their density gradient protecting the main chassis from unwanted external vibrations.

Large needle-movement VU level meter and 7-segment LED

Needle-movement type analog VU meters are traditional design statement, proudly characterizing LUXMAN’s solid state integrated amplifiers. The L-509Z is equipped with two large meters, brightly back-lit by LEDs, with sensitive response characteristics. The newly included 7-segment LED display in between the left and right level meters displays the current attenuation amount and is easily visible from the listening position.