Luxman America has redefined high-fidelity audio with the release of its flagship D-10X SACD/CD player, a masterful blend of cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship. Building on the legacy of the acclaimed D-08u, the D-10X sets a new standard for digital audio reproduction, positioning itself as a must-have for audiophiles seeking unparalleled sound quality.
32-bit Delta-Sigma design DAC
The D-10X introduces the world’s first implementation of the ROHM Semiconductor MUS-IC™ BD34301EKV digital-to-analog converter (DAC), a 32-bit Delta-Sigma design boasting an impressive signal-to-noise ratio of -130 dB. Configured in dual-mono, this DAC delivers exceptional clarity and musicality, capturing every nuance of a recording with breathtaking precision.
The D-10X is a testament to Luxman’s commitment to advancing audio excellence, said Jeff Sigmund, president of Luxman America. It’s not just a player—it’s an experience.
Enhanced LxDTM-i disc transport
At the heart of the D-10X is the enhanced LxDTM-i (Luxman original Disc Transport Mechanism-improved), encased in 8 mm thick aluminum sides and a 5 mm steel top plate to minimize vibration and resonance. This robust design ensures flawless playback of SACD, CD, and MQA-CD formats, with a disc tray that operates with silent precision, resembling a miniature bank vault. The player’s composite, loop-less chassis shields against digital noise, while a 27% larger power transformer and independent regulators ensure stable, high-quality power delivery.
Digital formats
Versatility is a hallmark of the D-10X. Beyond physical media, it supports a wide range of digital formats via USB, coaxial, and optical inputs. The USB input handles PCM up to 768 kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 22.4 MHz/1-bit, while also supporting four modes of Bulk Pet® transfer to optimize data delivery for enhanced sound quality. Full MQA decoding allows playback of MQA files and MQA-CDs up to 24-bit, delivering master-quality sound. The included Luxman Audio Player software, available for Windows and macOS, supports formats like FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MP3, DSF, and DSDIFF, making the D-10X a comprehensive digital hub.
Real life performance
The player’s analog output stage features Luxman’s proprietary ODNF-u (Only Distortion Negative Feedback-ultimate), a fully balanced configuration that minimizes distortion and enhances microdynamics, particularly in higher frequencies. This results in a natural, smooth waveform without conventional output filters, achieved through tailored 1st order filter × 3 band processing. The D-10X also boasts premium components, including 100 μm copper foil traces, gold-plated connections, and Neutrik XLR terminals for balanced outputs.
Aesthetically, the D-10X exudes understated elegance with its brushed aluminum finish and matching RD-29 remote control. A 4X zoom function on the fluorescent display ensures readability, while a three-color indicator (Studio: blue, Authentic: green, Renderer: magenta) confirms MQA decode status. Despite its hefty 22 kg build and $16,495 price tag, the D-10X has been praised as a “bargain” for its reference-level performance, rivaling players costing significantly more.
In a market dominated by streaming, Luxman’s commitment to physical media reflects a dedication to audiophiles who value tangible music collections. The D-10X stands as a pinnacle of digital playback, blending tradition with innovation to deliver what many call the ultimate soundstage. Available now, it’s a statement piece for those who demand nothing less than perfection.
