Hi-Fi Hall of Fame
Business Inductee
Luxman
Luxman: Introduction
Our next inductee is a company that is celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2025: Luxman.
Luxman is a Japanese Hi-Fi equipment manufacturer that is best known for their amplifiers, but they have manufactured many other components such as tuners, turntables, and Compact Disc players over the years.
Let’s look back at a hundred years of Luxman excellence to see why they belong in the Hi-Fi Hall of Fame.
History of Luxman
Luxman’s history traces back to 1925, the dawn of radio broadcasting in Japan. The company started as a radio department within Kinsuido, an Osaka picture frame company.
Kinsuido was groundbreaking in its approach, being the first to display and sell radio receiving equipment, attracting listeners with the allure of radio’s sound and laying the foundation for Luxman’s future focus on tonal excellence. Recognizing the limitations of relying on imported technology from the US and Europe, Lux Corporation made a strategic decision to manufacture components internally to enhance competitiveness and reduce costs. This pivotal move gave rise to the Luxman brand and established their reputation for producing high-quality transformers and switches. As a result, Luxman has become a venerable name in Japanese electronic components, producing a wide range of equipment for the luxury end of the market.
Amongst Luxman’s first audio products were the LUX-1730 phonograph and LUX-735 radio, which were produced as early as 1928.
Luxman’s first “Hi-Fi” product was a tube amplifier, model MA-7A, which was available in 1958. It was the first fully assembled power amp from the post-war period and featured their patented Negative Feedback circuitry. Luxman has been producing a wide range of equipment ever since. We’ll take a look at some of their iconic products below.
In the 1970s, Luxman offered a number of “Do-It-Yourself” (DIY) audio kits. These were known as “Luxkits”. There were a few other companies such as Dynaco, Heathkit, EICO, and Hafler that were selling kit components. Luxkits were essentially the kit form of some popular Luxman products. For example, the Luxkit A3600 was kit version of the Luxman MQ3600 power amplifier, and the Luxkit A3034 was the kit version of the Luxman CL34 preamplifier.
To celebrate their 80th and 90th anniversaries, the company produced anniversary posters, shown here.
Sometime in 2025, Luxman will be celebrating their 100th anniversary, so we can expect to see a commemorative poster and some “Centennial” products to commemorate the event. If you’d like to read more about the history of Luxman, there are two websites that you can visit.
The Luxman (global) website has a detailed history which can be found at: luxman.com/company/
Luxman America also has a history of the company at: luxmanamerica.com/a-brief-history-of-luxman/
Iconic Luxman Products
Let’s take a look at some of Luxman’s iconic products over the years.
Luxman MA-7A Power Amplifier
Luxman introduced the MA-7A amplifier in 1958. It was a mono (single channel) hi-fi power amplifier that utilized vacuum tubes. It holds the distinction of being the first fully assembled amplifier marketed by Luxman after World War II. This makes it a significant piece in Luxman’s long history.
A key feature of the MA-7A was Luxman’s worldwide patented Negative Feedback (NFB) circuit. This was a significant technical innovation at the time.
Even in its early days, as highlighted in Luxman’s company history, the emphasis was on the “beauty of the sound” and the pursuit of tonal quality. The MA-7A would have contributed to this early reputation. The MA-7A represents the beginning of Luxman’s long-standing tradition of producing high-quality audio components, initially specializing in vacuum tube amplifiers.
Luxman SQ-38 Control Amplifier
The Luxman SQ-38 series of integrated amplifiers holds a significant place in audio history, renowned for its warm, musical sound and classic design. Originating in 1964 with the SQ-38, this lineage of tube amplifiers became an icon, particularly in Japanese jazz cafés, establishing Luxman’s reputation for high-fidelity audio. The series evolved through several iterations, including the SQ-38D, SQ-38F, and the popular SQ-38FD, each building upon the sonic characteristics and aesthetic appeal of its predecessor.
A hallmark of the SQ-38 series is its use of vacuum tubes, typically EL34 output tubes in a push-pull configuration, delivering a rich and natural sound with a touch of warmth. This design philosophy prioritizes musicality and a holographic presentation over clinical precision. The amplifiers often feature well-regarded phono stages, catering to vinyl enthusiasts, and offer versatile connectivity options, including multiple line inputs and selectable speaker outputs.
The aesthetic of the SQ-38 series is distinctly vintage, often featuring a silver or gold front panel adorned with numerous knobs and switches, complemented by a wooden cabinet. This timeless design exudes a sense of quality and craftsmanship. The robust build quality, utilizing high-quality components, has contributed to the longevity and continued desirability of these amplifiers in the used market.
While power output is typically in the range of 25 to 30 watts per channel, the sonic character of the SQ-38 series makes it a compelling choice for listeners who prioritize musicality, engaging midrange, and a smooth, natural presentation. Its enduring appeal and the continued appreciation for its sonic signature underscore its status as a classic in the world of high-end audio.
The SQ-38F, introduced in 1968, saw a change in output tubes to the NEC-developed 50CA10, allowing for a higher power output of around 30 watts per channel. The design retained the classic Luxman look, often with a gold front panel.
In 1995 Luxman produced the SQ-38S 70th Anniversary Commemorative model. With a quartet of EL34 output tubes in push-pull configuration and Williamson circuitry, it was a tribute to classic amplifier design.
In 2009, some 45 years after the original model, Luxman launched the SQ-38u. Marking a significant step into the modern era while retaining the classic aesthetic, the SQ-38u was the 11th generation of the amplifier. It utilized EL34 output tubes in a push-pull configuration, delivering around 25 watts per channel. This model incorporated modern components and features like a built-in MM/MC phono stage with selectable impedance, tone and balance controls, a headphone output, and a remote control. While the internal circuitry reflects modern engineering, the external design strongly echoes the vintage charm of the earlier models with its silver front panel and wooden case.
Luxman MQ-36 Power Amplifier
The Luxman MQ-36 was a vintage OTL (Output Transformer-Less) tube power amplifier that is celebrated for its unique and transparent sound quality. This stereo amplifier employed 6336A output tubes, known for their smooth and detailed reproduction. With an output of around 25-35 watts per channel (depending on impedance), the MQ-36 was designed to directly drive speakers without the use of output transformers, a distinctive approach for tube amplifiers of that era. Its sonic signature is often described as delicate and clear, making it a sought-after piece for audiophiles who appreciate the nuances of tube amplification. The MQ-36 was produced from 1966 – 1978.
Luxkit A3500 Power Amplifier Kit
The Luxkit A3500, a classic tube power amplifier from Luxman’s self-assembly “Kit” series, offered audiophiles a chance to build their own high-performance amplifier. Typically employing EL34 output tubes in a push-pull configuration, it delivered around 40 watts per channel.
Known for its robust build quality and excellent sound, the A3500 featured high-quality components, including substantial output transformers (sometimes the same as those in Luxman’s acclaimed SQ38 series). Its sonic characteristics are generally described as warm, detailed, and dynamic, embodying the classic tube amplifier sound. The A3500’s appeal lies not only in its sonic performance but also in the rewarding experience of assembling a piece of high-fidelity audio equipment.
Luxman M-6000 Power Amplifier
The Luxman M-6000 was a flagship stereo power amplifier from around 1975, and it was a statement piece to celebrate Luxman’s 50th anniversary. The 1970s was the era of the high power solid state amplifiers, with models such as the Phase Linear 700 and Crown DC-300 setting the bar very high.
The Luxman M-6000 was a massive, 50 kg (110 pounds) amplifier which delivered a substantial 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms, capable of driving demanding speakers with ease. Its design prioritized high power and sonic excellence, utilizing custom-developed high-voltage transistors and a robust power supply with a large toroidal transformer. Comprehensive protection circuitry ensured reliability for both the amplifier and connected speakers. Featuring a clean aesthetic often with large VU meters, the M-6000 was celebrated for its powerful, detailed, and dynamic sound, offering exceptional control and musicality. Its impressive performance and limited availability have made it a highly sought-after and iconic vintage amplifier.
Luxman PD-441, PD-444, PD-555 Turntables
Luxman was most famous for their amplifiers, but the company also produced some magnificent turntables and tonearms.
The Luxman PD-441, PD-444, and PD-555 were direct-drive turntables from the late 1970s, renowned for their robust build quality, sophisticated engineering, and elegant design. All three models prioritized speed accuracy and stability, hallmarks of well-executed direct-drive systems. Their substantial and well-damped plinths, often finished in luxurious rosewood veneer, effectively minimized unwanted resonances, contributing to a cleaner and more detailed sound. The heavy, precisely machined platters further enhanced speed stability and provide a crucial flywheel effect for consistent rotation.
The PD-441 was the basic model designed to mount one tonearm, offering a solid foundation for a single high-performance setup. It provided audiophiles with a stable and accurate platform to extract the nuances from their vinyl collections.
The PD-444 offered the capability of mounting two tonearms simultaneously. This feature catered to enthusiasts who desired the flexibility of running different cartridges for various sonic characteristics or record types (e.g., stereo and mono). It eliminated the need for frequent cartridge or tonearm swapping, allowing for a more seamless and convenient listening experience.
The PD-555 employed a vacuum disk stabilizer that adsorbed and integrated the phonograph record onto the turntable, and completely eliminated the resonance of the phonograph record and the low-frequency resonance (5Hz-10Hz) of the arm and cartridge caused by warping.
Luxman LTA-710 Tonearm and LMC-5 Cartridge
Complementing these exceptional turntables was a range of Luxman tonearms and phono cartridges. Shown here are just two examples: a Luxman LTA-710 tonearm and a LMC-5 moving coil cartridge.
Luxman L-58A Integrated Amplifier
The Luxman L-58A was a highly regarded integrated amplifier from the late 1970s. It is celebrated for its robust build and refined sound. Pushing out 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, this solid-state amplifier employed MOSFET output transistors, contributing to a sound often described as smooth and detailed, with a touch of warmth reminiscent of tube amplifiers.
A key feature was Luxman’s “Duo-Beta” circuit, designed to minimize distortion across two separate feedback loops, enhancing sonic purity. The L-58A offered versatile connectivity, including phono inputs for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, and the ability to separate the pre- and power amplifier sections. Its substantial weight and elegant design, often featuring a wooden cabinet, underscored its high-end aspirations and enduring appeal among vintage audio enthusiasts.
Luxman C1000F Preamplifier and B1000F Power Amplifier
In 2005, Luxman celebrated their 80th anniversary with the release of two flagship “80th Anniversary Commemoration” models.
The C-1000f was a high-end preamplifier. This model was notable for its massive build quality, fully balanced circuitry, and the incorporation of Luxman’s new LECUA1000 (Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Attenuator) volume control system.
The matching B-1000f was a monoblock power amplifier. Designed as a perfect partner for the C-1000f, these amplifiers delivered substantial power and were built with meticulous attention to detail.
These models were created to showcase Luxman’s engineering prowess and heritage, reaffirming their position in the high-end audio market. The technologies and design philosophies present in these anniversary products often influenced subsequent Luxman offerings.
Luxman MQ-300 Power Amplifier
To mark their 90th anniversary in 2015, Luxman released the MQ-300 stereo power amplifier, a significant product embodying their decades of expertise. This flagship amplifier featured direct-heated triode TA-300B output tubes from Takatsuki, known for their natural sound, in an 8W + 8W single-ended configuration.
Its meticulous design, drawing inspiration from the MB-300, utilized carefully selected components and large capacity output transformers with aligned magnetic fields for stable power. Floating output tube sockets with PORON were used to support minimize noise. Independent power supplies for each channel, along with a high rigidity chassis ensured optimal performance. The MQ-300 employed classic aesthetics with engraved details and a walnut frame. Representing the pinnacle of Luxman’s vacuum tube design, the MQ-300 served as a fitting tribute to their 90-year legacy.
Luxman Today
Today, Luxman offers a wide range of high end Hi-Fi equipment aimed at the luxury end of the market.
They offer a wide range of solid state and vacuum tube electronics, including integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers, and power amplifiers. The lineup also includes headphone amplifiers, turntables, disc players and network streamers, Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), phono cartridges, and cables.
Aesthetically, Luxman products are available with a very modern look, or a very vintage look, or their “NeoClassico” line which blends both vintage and modern styles.
This year (2025), to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary, Luxman is producing some special “Centennial” models.
The P-100 Centennial Headphone Amplifier features a unique LIFES amplification feedback circuit for rich sound and high power. It offers multiple output modes including parallel and bridge-tied load (BTL) for optimum sound quality. The P-100 includes a high-rigidity housing and an oversized steel bottom plate for durability.
The NT-07 Black Edition Centennial Network Transport is a music streaming platform that can handle digital music playback from a wide variety of sources. Beyond USB and HDMI digital audio, the NT-07 unlocks a new realm of audio quality by seamlessly streaming from Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices and popular music streaming services.
The D-07X Centennial Digital Player is a versatile optical disc player with excellent sound quality. It can play Compact Disc (CD) and Super Audio CD (SACD) format discs. The D-07X employs a rugged, reliable transport and chassis and the latest Digital-to-Analog converters to extract the best sound from any disc.
If you’d like to check out the entire Luxman product range, there are two websites where you can do that.
The global Luxman website is at luxman.com/
For the North American market (United States and Canada), please visit luxmanamerica.com/
Luxman: Induction into the Hi-Fi Hall of Fame
For a hundred years, Luxman has graced the world of audio with peerless Hi-Fi equipment—a truly venerable accomplishment in our swiftly evolving technological landscape.
Yet, this remarkable milestone should come as no surprise to those familiar with their creations. Luxman crafts equipment of the highest caliber, imbued with enduring elegance and formidable resilience.
When Luxman embarks on the creation of a new offering, their designers embrace the vanguard of technological innovation, meticulously ensuring superlative build quality, all while presenting it within a design that is both contemporary and timeless.
Simultaneously, Luxman upholds the legacy of classic and neo-classic designs, continuing to produce components that embrace technologies of yesteryear: vacuum tube amplifiers, analog turntables, and cartridges, among others. These treasured artifacts are often presented in visages that thoughtfully echo the aesthetics of bygone eras.
In the realm of visual artistry, Luxman products invariably stand as paragons of beauty, distinguished by control panels finished in the enduring hues of silver, gold, or champagne. Their cabinets are fashioned from the finest metals and woods.
For all of these reasons, Luxman is inducted into the Hi-Fi Hall of Fame.
