I’ve reviewed the new Luxman L-507z integrated amplifier on the TAS YouTube channel. Here are my show notes for this episode for those of you who are intrigued by this integrated amp:

Superpower(s): The L-507z presents music with an uncommonly pure, low-grain tonality that isn’t compromised by frequency response or dynamic trickery. No trickery? Well, the frequency balance of the L-507z is very even-handed and the dynamics are outstandingly realistic, and those are the two standard “cheats” that make some instruments sound natural in a tonal sense, but not when you listen longer. This combination of purity, balance and dynamics is hard to find at any price and makes the L-507z an especially good value. $9k may not seem like good value for those who measure value by the pound, but for those with ears, let them listen and judge. I think you’ll like what you hear if you have medium or high-efficiency speakers (88db – 93db or thereabouts) in a medium to small room (under 2000 cu. ft).

Special features: LIFES 1.0 distortion-cancelling feedback engine. Is this why the L-507z has such a beautiful, grainless sound? Well, I think it is absurd for reviewers to tie sonic elements to features, but Luxman seems to think it is a big deal. They emphasize that “extensive computer simulations” were used, along with repeated trials of different components and listening to prototypes. This R&D is part of why products like the L-507z seem somewhat expensive “for what you get”. You are paying for intellectual property, not only parts.