Now that's what I call a successful comeback. Luxman is daring to re-enter the cartridge market after four decades – and it's hit the mark. The LMC-5 is one of the best moving-coil cartridges in the analog world, both in terms of sound and performance. I was particularly fascinated by its crystal-clear, wonderfully stable vocal reproduction. It's unmatched in this – admittedly high – price range. A strong performance, Luxman!
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Luxman LMC-5 High End Cartridge MC
€2.290,00 EUR
The LMC-5 is the first LUXMAN cartridge in almost 40 years.
When developing the LMC-5, the engineers focused on the stylus and cantilever to ensure reliable tracking of the groove, reproducing even the finest musical signals. The carefully crafted housing supports every movement and effectively suppresses distortion.
The cartridge's development took a long time, applying the same principles LUXMAN applies to its amplifiers and other components—including careful listening at every stage. The result is a cartridge that captures the style and character of its predecessors, the LMC-1 and LMC-2, and expands it to the maximum thanks to modern technologies and developments.
The aluminum cantilever features a Shibata-cut diamond, which reduces noise and extracts more information from the recording. The large, symmetrically wound coil reduces the sensitivity difference between channels—it also helps reduce the cartridge's weight. The magnet itself is made of samarium cobalt.
Considerable attention was also paid to protection against interference and vibrations. A special magnet system reduces the level of external noise, and the needle cantilever itself is further protected against unwanted vibrations by an external housing. The aluminum housing is painted in a deep red, LUXMAN's corporate color. The interior walls of the housing are curved—again to reduce resonance and reflected sounds.
The LMC-5 weighs 8.5 g, the recommended clamp is 2.1-2.2 g, and the output voltage is 0.4 mV. The pickup operates in the range of 10 Hz to 35 kHz.
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Background to the development of the LMC-5
The first version had a box structure, but the sound quality was terrible, so we switched to a method that only evaluated the drive to generate energy.
The sound quality of the engine alone was excellent. We then repeated experiments with various drive components and moved on to the next step. I designed a semi-open body, but the sound quality wasn't good.
From then on, it became difficult to determine where the body was vibrating. I came up with new ideas every night and continued experimenting the next day. Unlike an amplifier, it was very difficult to steer the sound quality of a pickup in the desired direction. The change in the sound quality of the body was more dominant than the motor of power generation. It was discovered that when dampening materials were applied to the body, the mass influenced the sound quality.
It was also interesting to note that when damping material was used asymmetrically, the left and right outputs had phase problems and the sound was unpleasant.
The resulting body was reduced in size to achieve the optimal shape.
I used an inverted egg-shaped curve for the pickup unit's protective wall and was pleased to find that this did not negatively affect the sound quality.
TECHNICAL DATA
| Internal impedance | 4.7Ω (1kHz) |
| Suitable tracking force | 2.1 to 2.3g (2.2g as standard) |
| Output voltage | 0.4mV (1kHz, 3.54cm/sec.) |
| Playback frequency range | 28 dB (1 kHz) / 0.5 dB (1 kHz) |
| Recommended load resistance (when preamplifier is connected) |
40Ω or more |
| Recommended load resistance (when connecting a boost converter) |
2.5 to 10Ω |
| Dynamic compliance | 8×10-6 cm/dyne (100Hz) |
| Needle tip/shape | Full diamond/SHIBATA needle |
| Boom Φ | 0.5mm aluminum |
| Vertical tracking angle | 25° |
| magnet | Samarium-cobalt magnet BH20 |
| Sink | 30μm UEW |
| Connection Φ | 1.2mm White: L(+)/Blue: L(-)/Red: R(+)/Green: R(-) |
| Magnetic circuit components | Pure iron |
| Housing | Aluminum A6063 |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 17.0 × 18.3 × 21.3 mm |
| Installation opening (without terminals) | M2.6mm ×2 |
| Weight | 8.5g |
| EAN | 4958136036218 |
REVIEW
The magazine LP writes in its issue 02/2022 as a conclusion:
Safety instructions
Electronic devices:
1. General Use: • Electronic devices are designed for use in enclosed, dry rooms only. Direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures may impair function. • Avoid proximity to water sources or other liquids. 2. Electrical Safety: • Use only with the specified power source (e.g., 220-240 V AC). An incorrect power source may damage the device or be hazardous. • Never connect the device to overloaded outlets or extension cords. • If there is any visible damage to the power cord or other components, do not operate the device. 3. Operation and Ventilation: • Place the device on a stable, flat surface. Do not block any ventilation slots to prevent overheating. • Ensure sufficient distance from other devices or walls (at least 10 cm) to ensure optimal ventilation. 4. Children and Pets: • Keep the device away from children and pets, especially small parts that could be swallowed.
Speakers:
1. Setup: • Place speakers on a stable and secure surface or use suitable speaker stands. Tipping over may cause injury or damage. • Position speakers so they are not obstructed and optimal sound dispersion is ensured. 2. Environmental Conditions: • Speakers are intended for use in dry, enclosed spaces. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight, which could damage materials or electronics. 3. Connections: • Use only compatible amplifiers and cables that meet the speaker's technical specifications. • Avoid incorrect polarity connections to prevent damage to the speaker or amplifier. 4. Children and Pets: • Speakers are not toys. Make sure they are placed out of reach of children and pets. 5. Care: • Clean the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or water.
Cable:
1. Use: • Cables are for their intended use only. Use them only with devices that meet the cable's technical specifications. • Ensure that all connections are secure and tight for optimum performance. 2. Handling: • Never pull on the cable to remove it from a device. Always hold the plug firmly. • Do not bend, overstretch, or place excessive strain on the cable. Cables should not run under heavy objects. 3. Children and Pets: • Keep cables away from children and pets as they can be a strangulation or injury hazard. 4. Inspection: • Check cables regularly for visible damage such as breaks, cracks, or frayed ends. Damaged cables must be replaced immediately.
Accesories:
1. Use: • Accessories such as adapters, mounts or cleaning utensils must only be used for their intended purpose. Incorrect use can cause damage. 2. Care: • Clean accessories only according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid harsh cleaning agents or use in damp environments. 3. Safety: • Ensure accessories are correctly fitted or connected to prevent accidents or malfunctions. 4. Children and pets: • Accessories, especially small parts, pose a choking hazard and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Common instructions for all categories: • Operating instructions: Read the operating instructions carefully before using the product. • Repairs: Do not open or repair the product yourself. Contact an authorized service partner or the manufacturer. • Contact us if you have any questions: We are always available to answer any questions you may have about the safe use of our products.