Luxman
LUXMAN CONTROL C-900u
Best high-fidelity preamplifier for audiophiles seeking pure, uncolored sound reproduction.
The Luxman C-900u is a high-fidelity control amplifier, serving as the sophisticated centerpiece of your audio system. It delivers exceptional sound quality and precise control, ensuring a pure and uncolored audio signal path. Engineered with premium components and Luxman's renowned craftsmanship, this preamplifier provides an immersive listening experience. It's designed for discerning audiophiles seeking superior sonic performance and seamless management of audio sources and power amplifiers, elevating your home audio setup with its elegant design and refined operation.
$6999.79
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
5
/ 58
#5 in Audio Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-55%
Below average
Type
Control amplifier
/ Control amplifier
Who it's for
- Collectors prioritizing long-term reliability and reference-grade build quality
- Audiophiles seeking absolute sonic transparency and natural dynamics
- Listeners demanding perfect channel balance at every volume level
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for high-end performance at lower prices
- Users with limited rack space or compact audio furniture
- Modern listeners needing integrated DAC or streaming functionality
Performance breakdown
Signal Purity
Ultra-low distortion levels ensure the audio signal remains pristine and transparent.
Volume Precision
The LECUA1000 system offers granular control for perfect listening levels every time.
Build Integrity
Rigid loopless chassis construction minimizes vibration for a rock-solid sonic foundation.
Noise Floor
Exceptional signal-to-noise ratio delivers a silent background for maximum dynamic range.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced and unbalanced inputs provide ample flexibility for high-end audio chains.
Tactile Experience
Premium physical controls offer a satisfying, high-precision feel during daily operation.
Key Specs
Type
Control amplifier
Model
C-900u
Input Sensitivity/Impedance
Unbalanced 255mV/43kΩ, Balanced 255mV/86kΩ
Output/Output Impedance
Unbalanced Rated 1V/90Ω Maximum 11V, Balanced Rated 1V/180Ω Maximum 22.5V
Total Harmonic Distortion
Unbalanced 0.009% (20Hz-20kHz), Balanced 0.005% (20Hz-20kHz)
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz (+0, -0.1dB), 5Hz-120kHz (+0, -3.0dB)
S/N Ratio (IHF-A)
Unbalanced 123dB, Balanced 126dB
Inputs
3 unbalanced, 3 balanced
Features
- Fully balanced circuit for minimal noise
- Advanced ODNF 4.0 feedback circuit
- Precise 88-step volume control
- Electronically controlled tone and balance controls
- Volume-linked loudness function
- Multiple output modes selectable
- Rigid loopless chassis design
- Premium tactile operation and remote control
What customers say
Owners universally regard the Luxman C-900u as a reference grade preamplifier, celebrating its blend of modern design and classic sonic warmth. The core theme is exceptional performance, specifically its sonic transparency and ability to render complex music with effortless detail. Listeners consistently praise the expansive, three-dimensional soundstage that brings realism to recordings. The sophisticated LECUA 1000 volume control ensures precise balance and purity at all levels, contributing to flawless operation. While the investment is substantial, the consensus is that the world-class musicality and impeccable build quality fully justify the premium price, making it a long term investment in enjoyment.
Know before you buy
No, the C-900u does not feature a phono input. You will need to connect an external phono preamplifier to one of the available line-level inputs if you intend to use a turntable.
Yes, the C-900u is highly versatile and features both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) outputs. You can connect your power amplifiers using whichever connection type best suits your existing equipment.
The LECUA1000 is an electronically controlled, stepped attenuator system that ensures precise volume adjustments without the signal degradation or channel imbalance often found in traditional mechanical potentiometers. This allows for extremely accurate level matching across the entire volume range.
No, the C-900u is designed strictly as a high-fidelity control amplifier for speaker-based systems and does not include a dedicated headphone output.
Luxman's ODNF (Only Distortion Negative Feedback) 4.0 circuit is designed to isolate and remove distortion from the audio signal without the phase shifts associated with conventional negative feedback. This results in a cleaner, more transparent sound while maintaining the natural character of your music.
Yes, the unit features electronically controlled tone and balance adjustments. These allow you to fine-tune the sound to your room or personal preference while maintaining the signal integrity of the fully balanced circuit.
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$7000