Luxman's M-10X power amplifier replaces the classic M-900u launched in 2013 and, as part of the Japanese-based company's upcoming centenary in 2025, joins the acclaimed D-10X digital player in the flagship tier.

The M-10X is also the first Luxman component to feature LIFES1.0 - Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System. Much more than a mere evolution of the ODNF (Only Distortion Negative Feedback) circuitry, which the brand pioneered back in 1999 and currently in its 4th generation, LIFES is apparently the result of a systematic exploration of alternate designs, using dedicated software to simulate electronic performance across the entire circuit.

Additionally, components had to be evaluated for their contribution to audio performance. We're told that to substantially upgrade distortion detection, Luxman engineers selected a Field Effect Transistor (FET) with unusually high transconductance (gm) and a different polarity in the primary stage. This is said to improve sound quality and reduce the number of parallel circuit elements. Luxman also redesigned the constant voltage circuit with new, high-performance regulator chips and carefully selected Zener diodes manufactured by Vishay in the United States. The manufacturer says the result is a unique balance of low distortion and exceptional musicality.

Of course, there's also the signature Luxman overbuilt heat sink stacks, giant power transformer, super-sized 80,000 µF filter capacitors as well as incorporating a 3-stage Darlington quadruple parallel push-pull output stage boasting sixteen transistors per channel.

Putting the "power" in power amplifier, the Luxman M-10X keeps it pure Class A up to 12W and is capable of 150W per channel into 8 ohms and an instantaneous 1,200W per channel into 1 ohm. It will even deliver 2,400W into 2 ohms in BTL monaural mode.

As with previous Luxman amplifiers, the damping factor is high (710), translating into great control of speaker motion.

The case tips the scales at 48.4 kg with a blasted white finished aluminium front panel featuring small-diameter function switches and analogue level meters, illuminated by incandescent-toned LEDs. Luxman has favoured the left channel meter and placed it centrally with a nod to its use as a monoblock amp. Like the companion D-10X digital player, the M-10X incorporates hairline detailing and a bevelled front panel for added visual interest.

Finally, new trigger input/output terminals enable power supply syncing between compatible products (3.5 mm monaural jack with daisy chain connection is also possible).

The M-10X power amplifier will be available in February at a suggested retail price of $19,995 in the USA. We are waiting to hear if and when it will be available in the UK.

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