Luxman - C 02 Champaign hi end series preamplifier. COLLECTORS DREAM Solid state preamplifier

Luxman C-02 Preamplifier Champaign

Elevate your audio system with the Luxman C-02, a masterfully engineered vintage preamplifier from Luxman’s golden analog era. Designed with the proprietary Duo-Beta Circuit/S, this preamp delivers an exceptionally pure, single-stage amplification path, minimizing distortion while preserving musical nuance and clarity.

Built for the discerning audiophile, the C-02 features a built-in step-up transformer for high-gain MC (moving-coil) cartridges, making it a dream for serious vinyl enthusiasts. Its phono section handles both MM and MC with finesse, and a “Phono Straight” bypass switch allows for uncolored, tone-control-free playback when you want absolute fidelity.

Other premium touches include LED-based bias stabilization (instead of conventional diodes), gold-plated input/output connectors for low-noise contact, and a warm-up indicator to ensure stable analog performance. In addition, the C-02 supports dual tape monitoring, tape dubbing, subsonic filtering, mono/stereo switching, and tone control with selectable turnover frequencies — giving you flexibility and professional-level control.

The chassis is sleek yet robust, with genuine Class-A operation for that warm, distortion-light Luxman sound. Finished in an elegant champagne front, it’s not only sonically refined but visually timeless.

If you’re looking to build or restore a high-end vintage stereo rig, the Luxman C-02 remains a benchmark preamp — a superb blend of engineering precision, analog warmth, and audio sophistication.


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Technical Specifications

Here are the key technical specs for the Luxman C-02 (based on the original service/manual data):

Specification Value

Type Stereo preamplifier (Separate)
Circuitry Duo-Beta Circuit/S, single-stage, Class A
Production Years ~1983–1985 (some sources up to 1987)
Country of Manufacture Japan
Front Panel Finish Champagne
Inputs Phono MM, Phono MC, Line (Tuner), Tape (monitor)
Input Sensitivities - MC: 0.1 mV - MM: 2 mV - Line: 130 mV
Input Impedances - MC: switchable (approx. 0.04 / 0.1 / 0.3 kΩ) - MM: ~50 kΩ - Line: ~150 kΩ
Frequency Response 10 Hz – 100 kHz (line)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.005%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio - MC: ~77 dB - MM: ~90 dB - Line: ~108 dB
Outputs - Pre Out: 1 V typical, up to 18 V max - Rec Out: ~130 mV
Tone Control Bass ±10 dB (turnover at 200/400 Hz), Treble ±10 dB (turnover at 2/4 kHz)
Other Features Subsonic filter, low-boost switch, mono/stereo switch, dual tape monitor/dubbing, tone bypass (“Phono Straight”)
Physical Dimensions 453 mm (W) × 81 mm (H) × 315 mm (D) (or approx.)
Weight ~5.5 kg



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Dates & Historical Context

The Luxman C-02 was manufactured primarily between 1983 and 1985, according to multiple sources

The Luxman M-02 pre amplifier, represented Luxman’s mid-1980s high-fidelity “champagne” series.

This pre amplifier will elevate your record listening sessions to oh my god levels. With multiple ports for phono i happily ran 2 turntables for years. The warming light stays on. It does not affect playback.
There is a few scuffs on the top rhs of the face. They are cosmetic and do not affect playback at all.
Please see the detailed photographs provided as they form part of the description and sale. We do not garantee vintage electronics for obvious reasons (item is nearly 50 years old) and will probably require an ongoing technical care or service in her near future to ensure her smooth continuous service.

Please know that we ship this item as working with our custom double box and bubble wrap system. We pack with the safety of the item not for economy.