Luxman C-10X Preamplifier

As a flagship model that stands at the top of the Luxman lineup, the C10X not only has high-performance preamplifier circuitry that confidently drives the M-10X power amplifier but also has a rich array of functions as a control centre that adjusts the environment of the entire audio system. Turn up the volume and you’ll be captivated by the sense of reality, a spacious sound stage will open up in front of you, filling your space beautifully. This flagship model is the ultimate expression in the art form that is musical reproduction.

The preamplifier gain has been increased to 15dB (previous model C-900u had 12dB), allowing accurate handling of a wide range of levels from various input sources without distortion. In addition to a variety of output mode switching functions that allow you to select unbalanced, balanced or bi-amplified configuration, depending on your system, you can also use the volume shift function in 0.5dB steps via the electronically controlled attenuator LECUA-EX main volume control system. This allows you to adjust left and right balance (L: -6dB to R: -6dB) without causing deterioration, adjust the level for each output system in bi-amp mode (±6dB for each system) and adjust the output level for different listening situations. It is also equipped with an input offset function (0 to -6dB for each input terminal) that allows you to align the levels of multiple input devices, achieving a wide variety of control functions despite its simple circuit configuration

In 2021, when developing the M-10X flagship power amplifier, Luxman delivered LIFES as a new amplification feedback engine to acquire more realistic, fresh and rich musicality and overwhelming audio performance and now it is at the heart of the flagship C-10X control amplifier, the first model upgrade in 10 years. For the volume control system, they refined the LECUA electronically controlled attenuator that switches over a series of fixed resistors arranged in order in the circuit. LECUA-EX, which reads the motion pulses of a rotary encoder entirely disconnected from the audio signal path, thoroughly suppresses sound quality deterioration and enables smooth volume control. The LIFES preamplifier circuit is assembled with bespoke components and is directly connected to the LECUA-EX system, the four units being laid out in a fully balanced configuration in completely identical operational states to realize the ideal structure as a preamplifier.

The C-10X expresses bold and delicate slanted edges between the chassis and the front panel. The three dimensional and sensual housing design, common to both the M-10X and D-10X, embodies the overwhelming presence and high musicality of a flagship model. The finely machined, hairline finished aluminum top panel creates a beautiful contrast to the blasted white front panel.

The metal housing features a loop-less chassis structure that will not generate a ground loop and also isolates the effects of generated magnetic fields and the rise in ground impedance due to chassis current. The C-10X is equipped with large, density gradient cast iron feet that protect delicate music signals from unnecessary vibration by firmly dampening vibrations generated internally, while also blocking external vibration.