Luxman L-507Z Integrated Amplifier Repair Guide

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is provided for informational purposes only. I am not responsible for the accuracy of this information. The content may or may not be accurate, and any repairs attempted based on this information are done at your own risk. Always consult a qualified technician for electronic repairs, especially with high-end equipment like the Luxman L-507Z.
SAFETY WARNING: Always disconnect the unit from power before working internally. This unit contains high voltages that can be lethal. Discharge large capacitors before handling. If unsure, consult a professional technician.
CRITICAL NOTE: The Luxman L-507Z is a high-end integrated amplifier with sophisticated circuitry. Exercise extreme caution around the power supply section. Always use a variac for initial power-up after repairs. This unit contains both delicate audio circuitry and high-power output stages.

Model Overview

The Luxman L-507Z is a premium integrated amplifier representing Luxman's commitment to high-quality audio reproduction. Featuring Luxman's proprietary ODNF (Only Distortion Negative Feedback) amplification technology, this amplifier delivers exceptional sound quality with 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms. The L-507Z combines vintage aesthetics with modern engineering, featuring high-quality components throughout.

Power Output

120W + 120W (8Ω), 220W + 220W (4Ω)

Frequency Response

20Hz - 100kHz (+0, -3.0dB)

Total Harmonic Distortion

0.005% (8Ω, 1kHz)

Amplification Technology

ODNF Version 4.0

Common Issues and Solutions

Power Supply Problems

The L-507Z power supply can develop specific issues:

  • Capacitor failure: Large electrolytic capacitors in the power supply can dry out
  • Rectifier issues: High-current rectifiers can fail under load
  • Voltage regulator failure: Regulator circuits can develop problems
  • Transformer hum: Power transformer may develop mechanical hum
  • Soft-start circuit issues: Problems with the protection circuitry

Amplifier Section Problems

Common amplifier issues include:

  • Output transistor failure: Power output transistors can fail
  • Bias drift: Bias current can drift over time, affecting performance
  • DC offset: Improper DC offset can damage speakers
  • Protection circuit activation: Unit may stay in protection mode
  • Channel imbalance: One channel weaker than the other

Preamplifier Section Problems

The preamplifier section can develop issues:

  • Potentiometer noise: Dirty volume/control pots cause crackling
  • Selector switch issues: Input selection problems
  • Phono stage problems: Issues with the MM/MC phono input
  • Tone control issues: Problems with bass/treble controls
  • Balance control problems: Channel balance issues

Protection Circuit Issues

The protection system can malfunction:

  • Relay failure: Speaker protection relay may not engage
  • False protection triggering: Unit enters protection mode unnecessarily
  • Delay circuit problems: Speaker delay not functioning properly
  • DC detection issues: DC offset detection circuit malfunctions

Capacitor Replacement Guide

The following capacitors should be replaced in any comprehensive restoration:

Power Supply Section
C101, C102: 15000μF 80V - Main filter capacitors
C103, C104: 4700μF 63V - Secondary filter capacitors
C105, C106: 1000μF 50V - Regulation capacitors
C107, C108: 470μF 35V - Driver stage capacitors
C109, C110: 220μF 25V - Control circuit capacitors
Amplifier Section
C201, C202: 4.7μF 50V - Input coupling capacitors
C203, C204: 100μF 25V - Feedback network capacitors
C205, C206: 47μF 16V - Local decoupling capacitors
C207, C208: 1μF 100V - Compensation capacitors
C209, C210: 2200μF 25V - Output stage capacitors
Preamplifier Section
C301-C304: 10μF 25V - Input coupling capacitors
C305-C308: 47μF 16V - EQ circuit capacitors
C309-C312: 100μF 16V - Output coupling capacitors
C313-C316: 0.47μF 100V - Tone control capacitors
Phono Stage
C401, C402: 1μF 50V - Input coupling capacitors
C403, C404: 0.1μF 100V - RIAA equalization capacitors
C405, C406: 47μF 16V - Power supply decoupling
C407, C408: 10μF 25V - Output coupling capacitors

Critical Components to Check/Replace

Component Reference Location Notes
Output Transistors Q101-Q104 Amplifier Board Check for failure and thermal paste condition
Driver Transistors Q201-Q204 Amplifier Board Check for proper operation
Voltage Regulators IC101, IC102 Power Supply Check for proper output voltages
Protection Relay RLY101 Protection Board Check for contact oxidation
Power Resistors R101-R104 Power Supply Check for value drift and overheating
Potentiometers VR101-VR104 Front Panel Clean or replace if noisy
Note: The L-507Z uses high-quality components throughout. When replacing parts, use equivalent or better quality components. Always check bias settings after transistor replacement. The ODNF circuitry requires precise adjustment for optimal performance.

Restoration Procedure

  1. Disconnect power and remove covers
  2. Discharge all capacitors completely
  3. Document all wiring with photos before disassembly
  4. Replace all electrolytic capacitors, starting with power supply
  5. Check and replace out-of-spec resistors
  6. Clean all controls and switches with contact cleaner
  7. Check output transistors and replace if necessary
  8. Check driver transistors and replace if necessary
  9. Clean protection relay contacts
  10. Reapply thermal compound to output transistors
  11. Reassemble and power up slowly using a variac
  12. Adjust bias and DC offset according to service manual
  13. Verify proper operation of protection circuit

Calibration Procedure

After restoration, these calibrations are essential:

  • Set DC offset to zero (adjust VR101, VR102)
  • Adjust bias current (adjust VR103, VR104)
  • Verify proper operation of protection circuit
  • Check phono stage gain and RIAA equalization
  • Verify proper operation of all inputs and controls
  • Check balance and tone controls
  • Test headphone output
  • Verify proper operation of tape monitoring circuits

Additional Tips

  • Use high-quality, audio-grade capacitors for best performance
  • Document all adjustments before making changes
  • Check all resistors near replaced components; they may have drifted in value
  • Clean all controls thoroughly as they often cause noise
  • Allow the unit to warm up for 30 minutes before making final adjustments
  • Use Deoxit or similar contact cleaner on all switches and potentiometers
  • Check the thermal compound on heat sinks and reapply if necessary
  • Inspect all PC boards for cracked traces or solder joints
  • Consider upgrading binding posts and RCA connectors if worn
  • Check the power transformer for proper voltages and mechanical noise
DISCLAIMER REPEATED FOR EMPHASIS: This information is provided as-is without warranty of any kind. I am not responsible for the accuracy of this information or any damage that may occur from its use. Always consult a qualified technician for repairs on high-end audio equipment.
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