The role of a phono equalizer amplifier is paramount. It serves to amplify the emotional nuances captured by the phono cartridge from vinyl records, transmitting these delicate signals to the next stage amplifier. As part of its commitment to excellence and innovation, LUXMAN, a brand celebrating its centenary in 2025, has introduced the E-07, an all-solid-state phono equalizer amplifier that sets a new benchmark for performance and sound quality. This model is meticulously crafted to enrich the experience of deep analog vinyl playback.
Design and Compatibility
The E-07 features a sleek chassis crafted to match the width of LUXMANโs separate and integrated amplifiers, showcasing a stunning blasted white finish on the front panel for design consistency. This model boasts advanced functionalities tailored for modern phono equalizer amplifiers, further enhancing the joy of analog playback. One of its standout features is the newly developed step-up transformer for MC cartridges, which utilizes a high-performance super permalloy core. This transformer is designed for high responsiveness to small signals and is composed of two independent units for each channel, providing Low/High gain options for optimal transformer selection based on the chosen impedance group. The E-07 also supports balanced inputs, facilitating the reception of differential signals from MC cartridges without any loss of output energy, thus improving left-right stereo separation and image localization.
Superior Technical Performance
Handling minute audio signal voltages is a critical requirement for phono equalizer amplifiers, and the E-07 excels in this area. Leveraging LUXMANโs extensive expertise in amplifier circuit technology, this unit boasts a high signal-to-noise ratio and is compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. The RIAA curve is expertly implemented using high-quality NF-type transistors, which are arranged in a low-noise circuit design, achieved by paralleling four individual FETs in the primary stage. The E-07 incorporates carefully selected components that prioritize supreme audio quality, including high-end, original, custom-developed parts that have undergone rigorous listening tests, resulting in a rich, dynamic sound.
Precision Load Adjustment
For optimal cartridge performance, the E-07 features a six-position rotary load impedance selector for MC cartridges (4.7/10/40/100/300/1kฮฉ) conveniently located on the front panel. The rear panel is equipped with load impedance selector switches for MM cartridges (34/47/56/100kฮฉ) and load capacitance selector switches (0/100/220/320pF). This level of customization allows users to make precise adjustments to maximize sound quality across a wide variety of phono cartridge types.
Robust Power Supply Design
The E-07 is equipped with three robust power transformers, each configured independently for the left and right audio processing circuitry, alongside a separate transformer for indicators and relay drive circuits. This configuration ensures that load fluctuations in each circuit block do not interfere with one another, contributing to an ideal power environment. The unitโs independent power supply regulation ensures a stable current supply, supported by power amplifier-grade, large-value block capacitors (10,000ฮผF x 5).
Enhanced Grounding and Noise Reduction
Large grounding terminals, machined from solid brass and finished with gold plating, are another hallmark of the E-07. Each input terminal (Unbalanced 1, Unbalanced 2, and Balanced 1) is fitted with a dedicated phono ground terminal linked to that circuit’s reference point, minimizing hum, noise, and other interference. Additionally, LUXMAN has introduced features such as an articulator function to prevent magnetization of the cartridge and MC transformer, a low-cut switch to suppress woofer instability caused by warped records, and a Mono Mode switch for convenient playback of mono records.
Innovative Ground Connection Structure
The E-07 utilizes a petal-shaped grounding structure (PGS) designed to enhance transmission stability in circuits handling minute signals. This innovative design consolidates each circuitโs signal reference point into a single location, with ultra-thick steel plates connecting the ground in a radial pattern to ensure uniform low impedance. The PCB tracing features a unique rounded pattern to facilitate smooth current transmission, allowing for a natural flow of music signals.
Exceptional Chassis Design
Finally, the slim, fully-sized aluminum chassis of the E-07 not only boasts a stunning aesthetic with its blasted white finish but is also engineered for superior performance. The bottom of the chassis is constructed with two ultra-thick copper plates (totaling 3.6mm in thickness), enhancing ground mass, lowering the center of gravity, and improving chassis rigidity. Density gradient cast iron insulator feet are installed to isolate the unit from unwanted vibrations during music playback, ensuring that every note is delivered with precision.
