Luxman CL-38uC: Powerful preamplifier with a retro design

Luxman CL-38uC is a tube preamplifier that is an update of one of the classic models of this company, popular among music lovers around the world. The device features a chic retro design that combines metal and wood, as well as an original design of...

Luxman CL-38uC
Luxman CL-38uC

Luxman CL-38uC is a tube preamplifier that is an update of one of the classic models of this company, popular among music lovers around the world. The device features a chic retro design that combines metal and wood, as well as an original design of the front panel with characteristic operating mode switches. The build quality of the Luxman CL-38uC is impeccable and with a standard 440mm width it will look great in any setup. However, this model will look especially natural with the MQ-88uC power amplifier, which is most closely matched in terms of sound characteristics.

p-lux-cl38-01.jpg

The amplifier has tone control for low and high frequencies, with the ability to switch tuning ranges. The Luxman CL-38uC also features a low-pass filter to eliminate interference. In addition to Phono, the device is equipped with three linear unbalanced inputs and one balanced (made with a high-quality matching transformer), input/output for a recording device and two stereo outputs for power amplifiers. Luxman CL-38uC is equipped with a miniature remote control in a metal case, which allows you to adjust the sound volume.

p-lux-cl38-02.jpg

Beneath the outer wooden body of the Luxman CL-38uC lies a metal chassis that reliably protects its circuitry from vibrations and electrical interference. The preamplifier is built using the well-proven SRPP circuit for all stages, which allows you to obtain maximum sound quality in class A. The preamplifier circuit uses selected audiophile-grade components – JJ Electronic tubes, Nichikon capacitors. The device is equipped with a built-in phono stage for MM and MC pickups, which provides accurate RIAA correction and is suitable for most cartridge models. The MC heads are connected via a built-in step-up transformer, and independent gain switching is provided for precise matching with different pickups.

p-lux-cl38-03.jpg

The Luxman CL-38uC preamplifier is designed for music lovers who place high demands not only on the sound quality of Hi-Fi equipment, but also on its appearance, and can rightfully be classified as a premium class model. A companion for the Luxman CL-38uC will be the branded power amplifier Luxman MQ-88u, ideally matched with it .

Luxman CL-38uC Characteristics:

  1. Tubes: ECC83S x 3, ECC82 x 5
  2. Circuit Design: SRPP (Shunt Regulated Push-Pull)
  3. Inputs: XLR, 3 line RCA, Phono (MM/MC), for recorder
  4. Frequency Range:
    • Phono: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
    • Line: 10 Hz – 70 kHz
  5. Signal/Noise Ratio:
    • MC: 63 dB
    • MM: 68 dB
    • Line: 100 dB
  6. Sensitivity/Impedance:
    • MC: 0.33 mV/100 Ohm
    • MM: 2 mV/47 kOhm
    • Line: 190 mV/47 kOhm
  7. Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.006% (1 kHz)
  8. Tone Control: ± 8 dB, LF: 150, 300, 600 Hz, HF: 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz, 6 kHz
  9. Low-Pass Filter: 30 Hz (-6 dB)
  10. Remote Control: Available for volume control, Mute
  11. Dimensions (W x H x D): 440 x 169 x 307 mm
  12. Weight: 13.3 kg

Francis Adamiak
Author: Francis Adamiak

Francis Adamiak is a passionate audiophile and expert in high-fidelity audio equipment, with a focus on amplifiers and speakers. Drawing on years of experience and a deep love for sound quality, he shares in-depth reviews and insights on the latest audio technology.