Luxman M-12 (1977)

A high-fidelity stereo power amplifier released in 1977 with a DC-coupled design and low distortion performance.

Overview

The Luxman M-12 is a stereo power amplifier introduced in September 1977. Built for high-fidelity audio reproduction, it delivers 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms with exceptionally low distortion. The amplifier uses a DC amplifier configuration and features a parallel push-pull output stage, contributing to its stable, wide-bandwidth performance. It includes advanced features for its time such as a speaker protection circuit with DC drift detection and overcurrent protection.

Specifications

Effective power	80W + 80W (8 Ω, both channel operation, 20 Hz to 20 kHz)
Total harmonic distortion factor	0.006% or Less (8 Ω, 80W, 20 Hz to 20 kHz)
Cross modulation distortion factor	0.006% or Less (8 Ω, 80W, 60 hz : 7 khz = 4 : 1)
Output bandwidth	5 Hz to 100 kHz -3dB (8 Ω, 0.1%)
Frequency characteristic	DC ~ 100 kHz -1dB or less
Input sensitivity	600mV
Input impedance	20k Ω
SN ratio (IHF-A correction, input short)	110 dB or more
Separation	80 dB or More (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
Damping factor	150 or More (8 Ω, 1 kHz)
Protection circuit	Speaker protection circuit with DC drift detection Overcurrent protection circuit
Attachment	Input capacitor IN-OUT switching Left and right independent attenuator
Power supply voltage	100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz
Power consumption	200W (Electrical Appliance and Material Control Law)
External dimensions	Width 436x Height 95x Depth 328 mm
Weight	14.5kg

Design

The Luxman M-12 uses a DC amplifier configuration with no input coupling capacitors, allowing for full DC signal transmission from input to output. The output stage employs a parallel push-pull connection to enhance current delivery and stability. A DML-IC is integrated into the power amplifier circuit, contributing to precise signal control. The power supply features two large power transformers and two high-capacity electrolytic capacitors designed for improved sound quality and dynamic response.

Market

The Luxman M-12 originally retailed for ¥150,000 at release in 1977. It remains a sought-after model among collectors and audiophiles for its robust build, low distortion, and clean Luxman engineering. Units in working condition with original documentation are increasingly rare.