Luxman L-501S (1998)
An integrated amplifier from Luxman’s L series, released in December 1998 with high-fidelity specifications and advanced circuit design.
Overview
The Luxman L-501S is an integrated amplifier developed as part of Luxman's L series, incorporating technologies derived from the company's high-end models. Released in December 1998, it features a dedicated MM phono input, motor-driven volume and input controls, and a range of user functions including loudness, balance, mono switch, and tone controls. The amplifier supports bi-wiring via dual speaker terminals and includes a straight-through switch to simplify the signal path for improved clarity.
Specifications
| Continuous output power | 70W + 70W (8 Ω) |
| Total harmonic distortion (Line straight, 1 kHz) | 0.005% or Less (8 Ω, Both Channels Driven) |
| Total harmonic distortion (Line straight, 20 Hz-20 kHz) | 0.03% or Less (8 Ω, Both Channels Driven) |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance Phono (MM) | 2.5mV / 47k Ω |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance Line | 150mV / 47k Ω |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance Balanced Line | 150mV / 66k Ω |
| Input Sensitivity / Impedance Tape | 150mV / 47k Ω |
| Output voltage Recorder | 150mV |
| S/N ratio (Phono, IHF-A) | 90 dB or more (5 mV input) |
| S/N ratio (Line, IHF-A) | 106 dB or more (input short circuit) |
| Frequency response (Phono) | 20 Hz to 20 kHz ± 0.5 dB |
| Frequency response (Line) | 20 Hz to 100 kHz -3dB or less |
| Tone control Bass | ± 6 dB (100 Hz) |
| Tone control Treble | ± 6 dB (10 kHz) |
| Loudness control | + 5 dB (±1 dB) at 100Hz, + 3 dB (±1 dB) at 10kHz |
| Power supply | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| Power consumption | 175W |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 467 x 151 x 439 mm |
| Weight | 13.0kg |
Design
The L-501S uses large output transistors and a large heat sink for thermal stability, paired with a high-efficiency EI core power transformer and large-capacity capacitors. Its amplifier circuit employs Luxman's CSSC (Complementary Single Stagger Circuit) topology for high slew rate and wide bandwidth. The OD (Optimized Dual) β circuit and LUX STAR circuit improve linearity and separation by independently managing power and ground paths. DC and AC feedback are handled separately to ensure stability without requiring a DC servo. The amplifier features a dedicated headphone output with relay switching, phase inversion for balanced XLR inputs, and a line phase sensor for polarity correction. It includes a system bus line for remote operation with compatible Luxman CD players and comes with a remote control for power, input selection, volume, and mute.
Market
Originally priced at ¥109,000, the L-501S has seen growing interest among audiophiles. An observed used price from 2019 notes a unit listed for $1,300 USD. As with any vintage electronic component, careful maintenance is recommended to ensure optimal performance.
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