Luxman E-07 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier

Experience the Analog Textures, Details, Clarity, Warmth, and Definition You Crave: Japanese-Made Luxman E-07 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier Features Four FETs, Three Power Transformers, and an Abundance of Settings Options

While it seems simple — amplifying the small, delicate signal conveyed by a phono cartridge and sending it to the next-stage amplifier — the job of an MM/MC phono preamplifier is incredibly difficult. Along with its exceptional user interface and flexibility, the Luxman E-07 makes it sound profoundly easy. Easy on the ears, E-07 transmits the textures, details, warmth, definition, naturalism, and clarity sought by every analog aficionado with wondrous ability. Benefitting from the 100 years of engineering expertise touted by Luxman, as well as flawless Japanese build quality, it invites you to experience vinyl in sensory-awakening fashion.

Distinguished with a high S/N ratio, MM/MC-compatible RIAA curve, and high-quality NF-type transistors, E-07 uses a low-noise circuit design achieved by paralleling four individual FETs in the primary stage. Three robust power transformers — configured independently for left and right audio processing circuitry, as well as a separate transformer for the indicators and relay drive circuits — lends to an environment where load fluctuations in each circuit block do not interfere with one another. E-07 further claims superb power supply regulation that yields an extremely stable current supply via five amplifier-grade, large-value block capacitors (10,000μF).

When it comes to control, E-07 has your back at every step. On the front panel, a six-position rotary load impedance selector for MC cartridges (4.7/10/40/100/300/1kΩ) complements rear-panel load impedance selector switches for MM carts (34/47/56/100kΩ) along with load capacitance selector switches (0/100/220/320pF). You can therefore make ultra-precise adjustments to fully maximize the sound quality across a wide range of cartridge types. Other welcome touches include an articulator function that defeats magnetization of the cartridge and MC transformer using the signal current from the record being played; a low-cut switch that suppresses woofer instability by cutting low frequency artifacts; a mono switch for mono LPs; and a phase inversion switch that reverses the phase of the balanced outputs according to your connected equipment.

Speaking of connections. To enhance transmission stability in circuits that handle minute signals, a petal-shaped grounding structure (PGS) consolidates each circuit’s signal reference point into a single location. Extra-thick steel plates connect the ground in a radial pattern to each section at an identical low-impedance and uniform distance. Luxman’s rounded pattern PCB tracing enables smooth current transmission to facilitate the natural flow of signals. In addition, each input terminal (Unbalanced 1, Unbalanced 2, Balanced 1) comes with a dedicated phono ground terminal connected to that circuit's reference point — along with a traditional frame ground terminal connected to the main chassis, making for a total of four terminals. Say sayonara to hum, noise, and other unwanted interference.

Housed in a loop-less aluminum chassis that isolates the power supply from the amplifier sections while minimizing ground impedance generated by currents, E-07 visually shines with a blasted white-finish front panel, robust toggle switches, and slim display window. The bottom of the chassis stacks together two thick copper plates to enhance ground mass, lowering the center of gravity and improving rigidity. Density gradient cast-iron insulator support feet and a three-year manufacturer warranty round off this 3.6 x 17.3 x 16.0-inch (HWD) dynamo.