The heart of any preamplifier is the volume control. If not executed properly, this key circuit element can cause left/right channel imbalances and introduce subtle but tangible distortions at low volume. For this reason, Luxman created our acclaimed Lecuta attenuator system. Now we’ve refined the concept with Lecuta, the Luxman Electronically Controlled Ultimate Transformer Attenuator.
The front panel volume control is actually a 34-step rotary switch that triggers 34 relays located totally outside the signal path. The relays activate 34 taps on matching left and right transformers. It is these taps that adjust the volume in carefully calibrated steps. Because transformer cores can influence sound quality, we selected FINEMET® core material from Hitachi Metals, Ltd. This has a unique nanocrystal structure for high saturation flux density, high relative permeability and low core loss. So you’ll enjoy rich, detailed, uncompromising sound even at low volume.

External vibration is the enemy of vacuum tube reproduction. For this reason, Luxman engineers built an extremely rigid box chassis reinforced by internal partitions. For added protection, brackets which hold circuit boards are isolated from the main chassis by special rubber dampers. The result is supple, nuanced music reproduction.

Through countless hours of listening, Luxman evaluated the sonic characteristics of every circuit element. We adopted two-stage P-K NF amplification. The balanced inputs incorporate super permalloy core transformers. Next, the attenuator driver amplifier achieves 6 dB of gain thanks to a JJ Electronic E88CC dual triode vacuum tube. We selected the E88CC for superb reliability, extremely low noise, attractive dynamics and a densely detailed midrange. After Lecuta volume adjustment, the output stage incorporates a second E88CC and independent left/right super permalloy output transformers.
We couple the stages with our own oil capacitors, which greatly improve audio quality. And to minimize the potential degradation caused by resistors in the signal path, the Line Straight mode completely bypasses the tone controls. So audio reproduction is energetic, yet effortless.

Vinyl playback with MM/MC phono preamp

Transformers can have a profound impact on vacuum tube sound quality. We chose independent left and right output transformers with high-permeability super permalloy cores. And we applied the same grade of transformers to the independent left and right balanced inputs. The result? Reproduction of outstanding musicality.

Exceptionally stable power supply

Our deep experience in signal path transformers has alerted us to a significant downside: residual magnetic fields in the cores. For this reason, the CL-1000 oscillates and demagnetizes the transformer cores every time you turn the power on. For an even higher degree of sonic purity, you can perform manual demagnetization using the Articulator switch.