Luxman L-505sII (1999)
The L-505sII is an integrated amplifier Luxman introduced in January 1999 at ¥195,000. It is a refined version of the earlier L-505s. Luxman did not start from scratch. It took the L-505s platform and added circuit technology and parts from the higher-end L-509s, which upgrades a mid-line model without a new chassis. It weighs 17.0 kg, and the external dimensions are 467 × 179 × 418 mm (W×H×D).
The amplifier section is built around CSSC (Complementary Single Stagger Circuit) technology, which Luxman described as offering ultra-wide bandwidth and high slew-rate characteristics. The company's proprietary OD β feedback circuit is in there too. The power supply uses a large EI-core transformer. Luxman paid unusual attention to the control microcomputer, which got its own dedicated transformer, kept fully separate from the audio circuits so noise can't enter through the power supply loop. Internal construction is symmetrical, with the heat sinks, block capacitors and transformer laid out to balance weight and reduce vibration. The preamp and power amp sections are designed separately, and the metal front panel has a pearlescent finish.
Rated output is 80W + 80W into 8 Ω. Total harmonic distortion is 0.005% (8 Ω, 1 kHz, rated output, line straight on) and 0.04% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The phono stage handles both MM and MC cartridges, with sensitivities of 2.0 mV/47 kΩ and 0.25 mV/100 Ω respectively. Line inputs are rated at 130 mV/47 kΩ, and balanced XLR inputs are provided alongside RCA. Signal-to-noise is specified at 103 dB or better for line inputs (IHF-A, input shorted). The volume control and input selector are motor-driven, so remote operation doesn't compromise the signal path. The included wireless remote also handles power, muting and power meter illumination. The front panel carries VU meters, tone and balance controls, a straight-line bypass, subsonic filter, loudness, phase invert, and a line phase sensor for checking AC polarity. Two unswitched AC outlets are provided (300W total maximum). Power consumption is rated at 188W per the Electrical Appliance and Material Control Law, for 100 VAC supply.
Documentation on this model is mostly the original specification sheet and scattered owner commentary, much of it on Russian-language forums. One owner moved to the L-505sII from a Denon PMA-1520AE. He reported he did not hear a dramatic difference between the two and that the bass did not change on his Spendor S5e speakers, though he stressed the two were never compared side-by-side. Another forum member answered bluntly that if no difference is audible, the amplifier choice hardly matters and one should pick what looks good. The same owner still called the Luxman a good device whose sound does not tire over long listening sessions, and said he used it with Spendor S5e speakers and a REL Quake subwoofer in a triphonic setup. Forum users generally suggested the L-505sII may struggle with low-sensitivity speakers.
A current Russian marketplace listing (Omsk) asks 177,000 ₽ for a unit described as in ideal cosmetic and technical condition, with original remote, power cable and manual. The listing claims 220V operation, which conflicts with the documented 100 VAC specification. Verify that before buying.
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