Luxman L-509Z Reference Class A/B integrated amplifier

L-509Z Reference Class A/B integrated amplifier

Integrated amplifier – The new flagship of the Z series

With the L-509Z, LUXMAN's Z-Series reaches a new pinnacle. This model embodies the vision of an uncompromising integrated amplifier, uniting the qualities of high-end pre- and power amplifiers in a single, elegant chassis. The result is an amplifier that goes far beyond the classic concept of an integrated amplifier and impressively realizes the ideal of a "single-chassis separate."

The L-509Z combines decades of engineering expertise with state-of-the-art amplifier technology, setting new standards in musicality, performance and ease of use.

Single-chassis separate – the best of both worlds

The newly developed single-chassis separate concept integrates high-quality, fully discrete preamplifier and power amplifier sections into a single enclosure without compromising sonic quality. For the first time, both sections operate simultaneously with the latest generation of the LIFES amplifier feedback engine, achieving exceptional transparency, detail resolution, and sonic naturalness.

The L-509Z thus combines the precision and power of separate components with the elegance and everyday usability of an integrated amplifier.

LIFES 1.0 – Music in its purest form

At the heart of the L-509Z is the new LIFES (Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System) version 1.0, which is based on the proven ODNF technology. Unlike conventional negative feedback systems, only the actual distortion components are fed back.

The result:

• extremely low distortion values
• excellent linearity
• a natural, vibrant sound characteristic
• Musicality like in a non-feedback design

The technology developed in the high-end M-10X power amplifier has been completely restructured and now serves as the blueprint for the next generation of Luxman amplifiers. The L-509Z employs separate LIFES modules in the preamplifier and power amplifier stages – a rarity in the integrated amplifier segment.

The power amplifier uses three-stage Darlington bipolar transistors in a four-way parallel push-pull configuration and delivers an impressive output power of 120 W + 120 W at 8 ohms and 220 W + 220 W at 4 ohms – powerful, confident and with exceptional control even over the most demanding loudspeakers.

LECUA-EX – Precision you can feel

Volume control is handled by the newly developed LECUA-EX system (Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator – Excellent eXperience). Instead of conventional potentiometers, precisely selected fixed resistors are used, which are switched electronically. This ensures that the sound quality remains constant across the entire volume range.

A high-precision rotary encoder, combined with a newly designed, weighted rotary mechanism, ensures an exceptionally high-quality, analog operating feel. With 88 finely graduated volume levels, variable rotation acceleration, and precise remote control, the volume can be perfectly adjusted to any listening situation – without any loss of sound quality.

Highly stable power supply – the basis for control

The L-509Z features a traditionally generously sized Luxman power supply with a custom-designed 600 VA EI transformer and eight newly developed large-capacity filter capacitors (10,000 µF). This combination ensures an extremely stable power supply, high impulse handling, and superior dynamics even at high volumes.

High-quality phono equalizer for MM and MC cartridges

The integrated phono EQ supports both MM and MC cartridges and, for the first time, features a two-stage MC gain switch (High/Low). This allows the L-509Z to be optimally adapted to a wide range of MC systems – including low-output MCs. Vinyl playback benefits from extremely low noise, fine resolution, and excellent dynamics. A dedicated mute button on the front panel further enhances ease of use.

Advanced tone control and flexible adjustment

In addition to bass and treble, the L-509Z features, for the first time, a middle control that specifically affects the sensitive presence range of vocals and lead instruments. Functions such as LR Balance, Line Straight, and Loudness allow for individual adjustment to the room, speakers, and listening preferences – or, if desired, a completely unaltered signal path.

Uncompromising attention to detail

Luxman employs a variety of its own manufacturing techniques in the L-509Z:

• Peel-coat circuit boards in the main signal path to avoid sound-degrading coatings
• Beeline layout with shortest signal paths
• Non-angled conductor routing for clean signal transmission
• large, parallel-connected loudspeaker relays
• ultra-thick internal cabling (3.5 mm²)

These measures enable low-impedance signal transmission and an exceptional damping factor of 330, which ensures precise bass control and accurate speaker guidance.

Design that combines function and aesthetics

The massive top plate made of ultra-thick aluminum with an elegant hairline finish underscores the high-end aspirations of the L-509Z. Precisely milled ventilation openings ensure efficient heat dissipation. Four large, insulating cast iron feet with graduated density gradients effectively protect the chassis from external vibrations.

Classic VU meter & modern display

Two large, LED-illuminated VU meters with needle movement combine tradition with modern technology. They are complemented by a central 7-segment LED display that clearly shows the current attenuation value – even from a greater listening distance.

Reference-level headphone jacks

In addition to the standard 6.3 mm headphone output, the L-509Z features a 4.4 mm Pentaconn connector with independent grounding for the left and right channels. When used with balanced headphones, this significantly improves channel separation and creates a spatially precise, three-dimensional soundstage.

The Luxman L-509Z is an uncompromising high-end integrated amplifier that redefines the boundaries of its segment. With enormous power reserves, exceptional musicality, state-of-the-art amplifier technology, and impeccable craftsmanship, it embodies the current pinnacle of Luxman engineering – a true statement for discerning music lovers.

Technical data

• Rated power: 120W + 120W (8?O), 220W + 220W (4?O)
• Input sensitivity / impedance:
  PHONO (MM): 2.5 mV / 47 kΩ
  PHONO (MC-H): 0.3 mV / 100 Ω
  PHONO (MC-L): 0.1 mV / 40 Ω
  LINE: 180 mV / 47 kΩ
  BAL.LINE: 180 mV / 79 kΩ
  MAIN IN: 1.1 V / 47 kΩ
• Output voltage PRE OUT: 1 V
• Frequency response: PHONO 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.5 dB), LINE 20 Hz – 100 kHz (–3 dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.007% (8?O, 1 kHz), 0.03% (8?O, 20 Hz - 20 kHz)
• Signal-to-noise ratio (IHF-A): PHONO (MM) = 87 dB, PHONO (MC-H) = 70 dB, PHONO (MC-L) = 62 dB, LINE = 106 dB
• Volume control: LECUA-EX
• Gain feedback: LIFES 1.0
• Output stage: Bipolar, 4-way parallel push-pull, damping factor 330
• Tone control: Bass ±8 dB at 100 Hz, Middle ±8 dB at 760 Hz, Treble ±8 dB at 10 kHz
• Power supply: 230 V ~ 50 Hz / 115 V ~ 60 Hz
• Power consumption: 390 W, 150 W (idle), 0.5 W (standby)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 440 × 193 × 463 mm (including 20 mm front controls and 37 mm rear connectors)
• Weight: 29.4 kg
• Speaker connection: Cable lug = 16 mm, Y-terminal = 7 mm
• Accessories: RA-17A remote control, power cord