Luxman L 560 (1985–1988)
A stereo integrated amplifier in Luxman’s revered L-550 series, produced from 1985 to 1988.
Overview
The Luxman L 560 is a stereo integrated amplifier made by Luxman between 1985 and 1988. It belongs to the L-550 series, following the L-550 and L-550X and preceding the L-570. While sharing core circuitry with the L-550X, the L 560 features a redesigned wood enclosure and simplified phono loading options, with a dedicated "straight" signal path for phono or CD. Unlike earlier models in the series, the L 560 was distributed outside Japan. It received a "Best Product" distinction from Stereo Sound in 1986, despite reportedly modest sales.
Specifications
| Power output | 50 watts per channel into 8Ω (pure Class A, both channels driven, 20 Hz – 20 kHz) |
| THD | 0.005% (8Ω, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, -3 dB) |
| IMD | 0.005% (8Ω, -3 dB) |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz – 100 kHz (-1 dB, lines and main-in); 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.2 dB, phono MM/MC) |
| S/N ratio | >86 dB (MM, 5 mV input, IHF-A); >80 dB (MC); >110 dB (lines and main section, IHF-A) |
| Inputs | 2 mV / 50 kΩ (MM); 90 µV / 40 or 100 Ω (MC); 150 mV / 40 kΩ (lines); 150 mV / 47 kΩ (main in) |
| Outputs | 150 mV (pre out) |
| Bass control | ±9 dB with turnover frequencies at 55, 77, 110, 155, 220, 310, 440, 620, 880 Hz |
| Treble control | ±9 dB with turnover frequencies at 620 Hz, 880 Hz, 1.2k, 1.7k, 2.5k, 3.5k, 5k, 7k, 10 kHz |
| Filters | Subsonic filter (below 15 Hz); High-cut filter (above 9 kHz) |
| Power consumption | 310 W |
| Dimensions | 453 x 174 x 470 mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight | 20 kg |
| Original list price | 310,000 ¥ (Japan) |
Design
The Luxman L 560 features the DUOβ circuit/S, STAR earthing system, a large Bando toroidal transformer, a partly copper-plated chassis, and dual heat-pipe cooling. It supports both MM and MC phono inputs via a PHONO/CD straight circuit system. The amplifier uses the same core circuitry as the L-550X but includes a simplified phono loading selector and a redesigned wood enclosure.
Context
Positioned as a successor to the L-550X, the L 560 was marketed as a cosmetic evolution with improved specifications. It was part of Luxman’s strategy to extend the success of the L-550 series during its final years of independence under Alpine. Though less commercially successful, it earned a "Best Product" award from Stereo Sound in 1986 and was notable for being exported internationally, unlike some earlier models.
Market
The Luxman L 560 is described as a collector’s item, with at least one fully revitalized unit listed for 3,398 euros. Forum discussions indicate ongoing interest in repair and restoration, including requests for schematics.
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