Luxman SQ-606 (1968)
The Luxman SQ-606 is a solid-state integrated amplifier released in September 1968 at an original price of ¥39,000. Luxman pitched it as a "popular type" - a cheaper way into the Luxman sound than the step-up models. According to the design notes, it shares its basic configuration with the SQ-505. The differences sit in the auxiliary circuitry of the preamp section, and Luxman apparently cut cost by relaxing component acceptance criteria instead of redesigning the circuit. So it is a slightly de-contented SQ-505 underneath.
Output is rated at 30W + 30W into 8Ω (20W + 20W into 16Ω). Distortion is 0.1% or less at 10W and 0.2% or less at 30W. Frequency response is specified at 20 Hz to 50 kHz within 1 dB. Input sensitivity is 2.5mV for phono and 125mV for tuner. Signal-to-noise is 65dB (phono) and 70dB (tuner). Damping factor is approximately 70 at 16Ω, 1 kHz. The unit draws 15 VA at idle and 120 VA at full output.
The front panel has the usual Luxman features of the era: an NF-type tone control with bending-point switching, a tone control defeat switch, tape monitor, a stereo/mono mode switch, an attenuator, and a headphone jack. It uses 27 transistors and 5 diodes total. The amplifier was built for Japanese AC 100V operation.
The record on this model is thin beyond the specifications. No original brochure text, service manual contents, or period reviews surfaced in research. What exists comes mostly from the collector market. Units appear intermittently on eBay and HifiShark, often described as fully restored. One Japanese YouTube video shows a "極美品" (extremely beautiful condition) example bought as junk from a Hard Off store, and calls it "a favorite LUX blend." A HifiShark listing from May 2026 had a parts/repair unit at £443. A French-language eBay review praised a restored SQ-606 for its "taste and professionalism" in restoration work, and for the speed of delivery.
One caution for buyers: the SQ-606 was made for the Japanese domestic market and is wired for 100V. Running it on modern 120V mains without a step-down transformer risks damage.
Known specifications:
- Output: 30W + 30W (8Ω), 20W + 20W (16Ω)
- Distortion: 0.1% or less (10W), 0.2% or less (30W)
- Frequency response: 20 Hz – 50 kHz within 1 dB
- Input sensitivity: Phono 2.5mV, Tuner 125mV
- S/N ratio: Phono 65dB, Tuner 70dB
- Dimensions: 451 × 147.5 × 268 mm; 10 kg
- Released: September 1968; original price ¥39,000
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