Luxman CL-38uC Valve Pre Amplifier

An attractive custom vacuum tube control amplifier

The CL-38uC uses SRPP (Shunt Regulated Push Pull) circuitry for all stages to achieve the highest sound quality possible.A genuine phono equalizer is included, the MC-low and MC-high impedance (gain) inputs each have independent MC transformers and are selectable using the MC impedance lever switch.Tone controls enable the listener to fine tune the sound quality.Refined exterior design and newly added balanced inputs make this vacuum tube control amp a new standard for its generation.

LUXMAN's vacuum tube amplifier legacy

Since the launch of our SQ-5A vacuum tube integrated amplifier in 1961, we have continued making vacuum tube amps without a break. We have produced many models that are highly valued as signature models and satisfied music lovers are enjoying them to this day, even several decades after their release. The CL-38uC and MQ-88uC combine LUXMAN's history of producing fine vacuum tube products and the traditional wisdom and skills gained along the way.

The essence of high-end products:
selected high quality components

Due to their relatively simple circuitry, vacuum tube amplifiers are greatly affected by the quality of individual components, hence we utilize LUXMAN's own high-quality transformers and blocking capacitors. Further customization comes in the form of Nichicon made, high voltage, metalized polypropylene film coupling capacitors, which have been introduced for their supple, natural tone. Improved audio quality has been realized by shortening the internal wiring.

Reviving designs from the golden era of vacuum tube amplifiers

The CL-38uC control amplifier and the MQ-88uC power amplifier are based on the latest technology and design, but the exterior styling evokes a classic image from the heyday of vacuum tube audio products. The CL-38uC is modeled on the CL-35, released in 1970, and the MQ-88uC is modeled on the MQ-60, released in 1969. A classic front panel design should be functional, but also beautiful, achieved by careful selection of knobs and lever switches. Listeners can appreciate such traditional design features, with their nostalgic flavor, whilst enjoying these contemporary, high performance audio products.

Long life and reliable design

Each CL-38uC control amplifier and MQ-88uC power amplifier undergoes a final performance check after a 48 hour aging process following assembly. We have selected JJ Electronic (Slovakia) vacuum tubes for these models as they are renowned for their reliability, long life and the ease with which they operate at vacuum tube amplifier voltages and heat dissipation conditions.

Standard size chassis in traditional wooden case

We have retained the outer wooden case, as it represents the tradition of the 38 series. The chassis has been expanded to a width of 440mm which is the standard size for current LUXMAN products. The internal chassis acts as an omnidirectional shielded metal enclosure. In order to prevent magnetic flux leakage and eliminate noise, the toroidal power transformer and choke transormer have integral shielded cases.

Elegant construction with SRPP circuitry

The CL-38uC's SRPP circuitry, used for the phono equalizer section, tone control section and amp section, ensures a flat frequency response and has other advantages, such as a low output impedance (300 ohm), low distortion and extended vacuum tube life. The elegant construction of such a control amplifier in a dedicated enclosure allows us ample space to mount a full complement of vacuum tubes inside, realizing clear and accurate musical expression and enviable sound quality which we feel will attract many music lovers and enthusiasts.

New features, balanced inputs and various controls

The CL-38uC’s balanced input terminals have dedicated transformers, improving integration with other high-end equipment. The built-in phono equalizer circuit is compatible with MM and MC cartridges and is equipped with step-up transformers for MC cartridges an independent left & right two step gain selector. The three-position switchable crossover frequencies for bass and treble tone controls enable the listener to fine tune the signal to the desired tonal character.

Dedicated remote control

The CL-38uC comes with a compact aluminum remote control, making it easy to control the volume smoothly from your listening position.

Specification

Input sensitivity/ input impedance	PHONO (MM): 2.0mV/47kΩ PHONO (MC high): 0.3mV/100Ω PHONO (MC low): 0.08mV/30Ω LINE: 190mV/50kΩ BAL.LINE: 190mV/20kΩ *2
Output/output impedance	Rated 1V/300Ω
Frequency response	PHONO: 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.5dB) LINE/BAL.LINE: 10Hz to 70kHz (within -3.0dB)
Total harmonic distortion	0.006% or less (1kHz) 0.06% or less (20Hz to 20kHz)
S/N ratio (IHF-A)	PHONO (MM): 68dB or more PHONO (MC high): 63dB or more PHONO (MC low): 60dB or more LINE/BAL.LINE: 100dB or more

Tone control	±8dB, selectable frequency range BASS: 150/300/600Hz, TREBLE: 1.5k/3k/6kHz
Low cut	30Hz(-6dB/oct.)
Circuit	SRPP
Vacuum tubes	ECC83S×3, ECC82×5
Power supply	230V~(50Hz)/115V~(60Hz)
Power consumption	35W
External dimensions	440(W) x 169(H) x 307(D) mm 19mm front panel knob of and 12mm rear panel terminals are included in the depth measurement
Net weight	13.3kg (main unit)
Accessories	Remote control (RA-19), Power cable

*2 This unit uses transformer equipped balanced inputs. Since the maximum input level at the balanced inputs is equivalent to 2.5 Volts, please be aware that the audio signal may be distorted if you connect a device with a higher output level (higher output voltage). There is no problem when using Luxman products (CD players etc.). For details, please refer to the instruction manual for the equipment to be used.

Average Rating (2 Reviews):

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Stunning improvement in my system

26 November 2020 | Joseph

Impressive improvements in both sound quality and appearance! The Luxman bypasses the pre-amp stage on a quality Chinese tube integrated using the integrated's "Preamp In" connection. The improvement in clarity and fullness is apparent from the first listen.

The Luxman phono stage also is an upgrade from a Pro-Ject Tube Box DS with an input from a quality MM cart. I would note that the Pro-Ject has a wider range of adjustments for MC carts - the Luxman only offers two sets of fixed transformers for low level signals. Note that I haven't tried MC carts on either.

Besides the improved functionality and expanded functions, this Luxman is a thing of beauty, both visually and to the touch.

I'm delighted with my purchase and with the support from Analogue Seduction.

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3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Paralyzing beauty

08 November 2019 | Claus

Paralizing beauty

It’s been now over 3 years ago that I have started my journey in the high end world. I was blown away from a Rega Elicit R at first, but bought a Lux 507ux to be on the safe side. As I was now seriously addicted, I wanted more..... and I wanted it fast. Dragging myself to auditions in Holland, Belgium, France and UK, just to find that right thing that does justice to the sound in its most gracious appearance, respecting the pioneers from the very real beginning, but still being the future way ahead. Listing to Michael Fremer, Dark Audio, Art Dudley and over dynamic Kevin Deal, helped by many incompetent dealers to listen to Hegel, Accuphase, Moon, Primaluna, Luxman, Octave etc.... made me realise that going bigger in budget will not give me the answer.
It might be sounding mellow, but thank God that he placed Analogue Seduction on this planet. With them, it is coming home, knowing that they will never influence you, but that they for sure will help you with their massive knowledge to discover the right gear.
Being blessed with the opportunity to buy a NOS Audio Research VS110, I’ve looked to buy my final pre-amp................and they came with this pre-owned Lux CL38UC. This amp made my Spendors SP100R2 sing like never before. Dead quiet, massive soundstage, spot on bass sound, beautiful mid. The S/N specs of the phonostage looked like shit, but it is the first time that a phonostage sounded soooooooooooooooo musical. I have phonostages with far better specs........unfortunately, they can not match this internal one.
I suppose “stunning” would be the trendy appropriate word to be used now, but this would not do it justice and would only reflect 10% of its quality. Forget the Mcintosh, Accuphase, Hegel, Dartzeel....... The only that came close was the Lux 590AXmk2. Close, but still not up to the level of this CL28ux. O thank you allmighty for this technical miracle, a sweet smashing dynamic wonder. Thank you for the outstanding service!!!!!!!!! Impeccable!!!!

11 of 12 people found this review helpful.