LUXMAN LV-107u (1989) | Brid Series

 

In 1989, Luxman introduced a remarkable integrated amplifier under the Alpine/Luxman brand—the LV-107u—continuing a lineage that began with the highly acclaimed LV-105 “Brid” in 1984. Building on the success of its predecessors, this model refined Luxman’s distinctive hybrid philosophy to an exceptional degree. At the heart of the LV-107u lies a sophisticated hybrid architecture that combines vacuum tubes and MOS-FETs—both voltage-controlled devices—ensuring superior signal integrity and minimal distortion. The amplification stages were meticulously designed: a high-gain, low-noise FET differential circuit at the input stage, a 6CG7 triode vacuum tube in the second stage, and high-performance MOS-FETs in the output stage. This fully voltage-controlled signal path significantly reduces current-induced distortion, resulting in enhanced clarity and precision. The combination of FET and vacuum tube differential stages establishes a stable and clearly defined amplification reference, enabling exceptionally accurate signal transmission. In the output stage, MOS-FETs deliver 105W + 105W (6Ω), offering high speed and naturally suppressing crossover distortion while maintaining a smooth, musical character. A robust power supply underpins this performance. A large 250VA transformer, coupled with high-capacity block capacitors totaling 32,800μF, ensures low impedance and ample current delivery. The vacuum tube heater supply is regulated by a constant-current circuit, protecting the tubes and maintaining optimal operating conditions. Luxman’s proprietary S.T.A.R. (Signal Transit for Accurate Response) circuit further elevates performance by eliminating shared impedance between stages. Each amplification block receives dedicated power and ground paths, and even the signal ground is isolated up to the amplification reference point. This meticulous layout ensures smooth signal flow, reduced interference, and an improved signal-to-noise ratio. Connectivity includes phono, tuner, CD, dual line inputs, and two tape loops, alongside AV-compatible inputs (AV1/AV2) with integrated video buffering for high-quality signal transmission to external displays. Flexible dubbing options and front-panel AV access enhance usability. Functionally, the amplifier offers processor loops for external tone controls or equalizers, defeatable bass and treble controls, loudness compensation, and a “CD Straight” mode that bypasses unnecessary circuitry to deliver the purest possible signal path. The LV-107u stands as a compelling expression of Luxman’s engineering philosophy—blending the warmth of vacuum tubes with the speed and control of solid-state design. The result is a sound that is both refined and dynamic, combining classic musicality with a clean, modern edge—an unmistakable Luxman signature. Specifications: 105W+105W (6ohm) | THD 0,008% (6ohm) | Dimensions (W/H/D) 470x158x355mm | Weight: 14,4kg | Original sale price in Germany 2.298 DM

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PHILIPS N5846 (1981) | MC-micro computer

 

The Philips N5846 was a genuinely forward-thinking cassette recorder — one of those rare designs where ambition and engineering meet in a very distinctive way. It offered a rich set of recording and playback features that made it especially appealing to tape enthusiasts: a built-in mixer with master control, adjustable tape speed (pitch control), and advanced post-fading with customizable fade-in and fade-out times. One of its most unusual features was the MC-CCS (Micro Computer Controlled Search) system, a computer-coded track search and programming function that was far ahead of its time. Originally introduced as the N2554, this model later evolved into the N5846, gaining eye-catching fluorescent VU meters. Many original brochures describe it as a “3-head” deck and while that is technically accurate, it can be misleading. Unlike true 3-head monitoring decks, the N2554 and N5846 are fundamentally 2-head machines. The third head is dedicated exclusively to the MC-CCS system, not for real-time monitoring during recording. In practice, this sophisticated programming system was likely too complex for most users to fully embrace. A quick look through the user manual makes it clear that mastering its capabilities required patience—and probably limited its widespread use. However, where the N5846 truly excels is in its build quality. Beneath the experimental features lies a remarkably solid and precise machine: a high-quality die-cast, 2-motor transport, a direct-drive capstan motor from PAPST (Germany), and durable FSX heads. This is not just a feature-driven deck, it is a seriously well-engineered piece of hardware. For those who prefer a more purist, performance-focused approach, Philips also offered a compelling alternative: the excellent N2552. This model features a true 3-head configuration with full monitoring capability, built on the same outstanding transport and equipped with ferrite heads. If you’re curious about the "real" 3-head design using this platform, you can explore the N2552 in detail as part of the 1001 Hi-Fi Collection.

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SANYO VZ-S500B (1991) | BS Super VHS Hi-Fi (1991

 

The VZ-S500B(K) Black is a Super VHS Hi-Fi video player with built-in BS tuner from 1991. In the age of satellite broadcasting, where recording opportunities are increasing, the problem of "not having time to watch!" had become increasingly pressing. That's where digest play comes in. With conventional 2x speed playback, the dialogue becomes twice as fast, the tone becomes higher, and it's very difficult to listen to. However, with the newly developed digest play, by using digital memory, only the audio is played back at the normal pitch and speed. It is displayed, allowing you to enjoy 2x speed playback with a natural sense of realism. It's incredibly convenient for sports programs and other similar content. By positioning the tape transport mechanism in the center of the unit and equalizing the weight distribution, the effects of external vibrations are reduced. Combined with the brass twin impedance rollers and twin 12-bit digital servos, this ensures highly accurate tape transport with a jitter value of 0.07% or less. At the same time, a separate construction prevents noise interference with other circuit blocks by isolating the power supply block, which is prone to becoming a noise source. The Sendust alloy head produces clear images even in 3x zoom mode. The head for the 3x speed mode utilizes a single-crystal Sendust alloy, boasting a recording power of over 10,000 gauss saturation flux density and excellent low-frequency characteristics. This improves the image quality in 3x speed mode. Furthermore, the 3x speed mode head has a track width of 26µm, reducing cross-color distortion. You can now enjoy high-quality long-duration recording of BS broadcasts. "A super-fine BS tuner that can receive signals well even in rain or snow." This occurs especially during bad weather such as rain or snow, when the received radio signal weakens. To eliminate image graininess caused by noise, a high-sensitivity receiving circuit is incorporated. This ensures consistently stable and clear images, minimizing image quality degradation. Sanyo's and other manufacturers' major TVs can be operated with just one remote control. There's no need to use different TV remotes as before. Other features included: AI high-definition circuit that automatically adjusts to the optimal image quality for each scene. ● Cinema position that adjusts brightness and color levels for movie software. ● Front input/output terminals for easy editing and dubbing. BS monitor function that allows you to watch satellite broadcasts while recording regular broadcasts. ● BS pass-through compatible, allowing you to watch NHK satellite broadcasts even when the BS decoder is turned off. ● Tape refresh function for quick erase with easy operation. ● Channel auto-preset function that automatically presets receivable channels with a single button. ● Includes an instructional video that explains how to operate the video in an easy-to-understand way.

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