The esteemed Japanese company's new integrated amp produces a claimed 120 watts per channel into an 8 ohm load (or 240W per channel into 4 ohms) and relies upon the brand's patented "LIFES" feedback engine, first used in the M-10X power amp and then again in the C-10X, to this new flagship model. However, the L-509Z is the first to feature it in both the power amplifier and the preamplifier sections.

The L-509Z brings a new phono preamp with switchable gain, accommodating low-output and high-output moving coil cartridges alongside redesigned tone controls, a seven-segment LED volume level display and a mute switch.

We're told that the L-509Z sports a redesigned negative feedback circuit, with the next-gen circuitry offering what Luxman proclaims results in an "elevated level of musicality and unprecedented detail". Meanwhile, a new rotary encoder helps manage the unit's volume controls for "smoother and more precise volume control than ever before".

Premiering on the L-509Z, the LECUA-EX is a computerised precision attenuator. Luxman boasts that it delivers meticulous volume adjustment across 88 discrete steps while minimising distortion. Furthermore, LECUA-EX enhances the experience through a new rotary encoder, featuring a weighted mechanism to enable smoother adjustment with a "high-quality operational feel".

The L-509Z combines high power and linearity thanks to three-stage Darlington bipolar transistors in a quadruple-paralleled push-pull configuration. The highly regulated power supply boasts a massive 600 VA EI-type transformer and an array of eight 10,000 µF filter capacitors. The Class AB output stage is conservatively rated at 120W per channel at 8 ohms and 240W p/c at 4 ohms. Moreover, low-resistance speaker relays and peel-coated circuit boards are all housed within the unit's ultra-thick aluminium chassis.

Around the back, the new L-509Z has four single-ended RCA line-level inputs and two balanced XLR inputs. High-quality RCA terminals are employed for line-in inputs, and the integrated amp can switch between two pairs of speakers. At the front, the L-509Z offers both 4.4mm and 6.3mm headphone jacks.

The unit's upgraded phono stage supports both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges and lets you switch between low and high MC settings.

The L-509Z sports an LED display for checking volume level alongside two traditional analogue power meters and a pair of rotary control knobs, one for controlling volume and the other for selecting the input. Further functions, including speaker selection, mute and three-dial tone control, are found on the front panel. Finally, you can also control the L-509Z from your listening position via a supplied remote.

The Luxman L-509Z retails for US$12,495..

Visit Luxman for more information