Luxman AS-55

Overview

The Luxman AS-55 is a passive speaker level switch designed for direct, by ear comparison of two sets of speakers or two amplifiers. Housed in a compact, robustly finished chassis, it sits between your amplifier and speakers and allows an instant switch from one pair to another so you can hear differences without unplugging cables or interrupting the listening session.

Because the AS-55 is entirely passive, there is no active gain stage or electronics in the signal path to color the sound. Signal travels through heavy gauge internal wiring and high quality speaker terminals, with a rotary selector routing the amplifier output to the desired pair of speakers. This keeps the comparison honest and lets the character of each component or loudspeaker come through cleanly.

It is built for dealers, reviewers, installers, and serious enthusiasts who evaluate gear and want a repeatable, level matched A/B reference. Anyone shopping between two loudspeakers, or auditioning a second amplifier alongside a current one, will find the AS-55 an invaluable tool for making confident decisions by ear.

Key Features

• Passive design with no active electronics in the signal path
• Instant A/B switching between two sets of speakers or two amplifiers
• Level matched comparison for honest, repeatable evaluation
• Heavy gauge internal wiring to preserve signal integrity
• High quality binding post speaker terminals
• Rotary selector for quick, tactile source switching
• Compact chassis that integrates easily into any system
• Luxman fit and finish consistent with the brand's heritage

How the AS-55 Compares

Luxman AS-55 vs Luxman AS-44

The AS-44 is a passive line level switch intended for comparing source or line level components ahead of the amplifier, while the AS-55 operates at the speaker level, downstream of the amplifier. Choose the AS-55 when you want to A/B two loudspeaker pairs or two power amplifiers by ear. Choose the AS-44 when the comparison happens at the preamp or source stage. See the Luxman AS-44.

Luxman AS-55 vs Audioquest Dragon BiWire Jumpers

The Dragon BiWire Jumpers are a fixed connection accessory that optimizes the link between binding posts on a bi-wirable speaker. The AS-55 is a comparison tool for switching between different speakers or amplifiers. They serve entirely different roles, one refining a single setup and the other enabling evaluation across setups. See the Audioquest Dragon BiWire Jumpers.

Use It With

The AS-55 shines when placed between capable amplifiers and reference loudspeakers, letting you switch instantly and hear real differences with level matched fairness.

• Luxman M-10X Power Amplifier A flagship power amplifier makes an ideal reference source when comparing two speaker pairs through the AS-55, delivering consistent drive for a fair A/B.
• Luxman L-509Z Integrated Amplifier Use the L-509Z as one amplifier in a two amplifier comparison, switching instantly against a second unit to hear differences in character.
• Marten Parker Trio Diamond Connect the Trio Diamond to one output of the AS-55 and audition it against another floorstander for a direct, level matched listen.
• Spendor Classic 200Ti A distinctive voiced floorstander that reveals its character clearly in an instant A/B against a contrasting design.
• Klipsch Jubilee High sensitivity horn loading makes the Jubilee a compelling comparison candidate, easily switched in and out via the AS-55.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Luxman AS-55 do?
It is a passive speaker level switch that lets you instantly A/B compare two sets of speakers or two amplifiers by ear.

Is the AS-55 an active or passive device?
It is fully passive, with no active gain stage or electronics in the signal path.

Where does the AS-55 sit in my system?
It sits between your amplifier and your loudspeakers, at the speaker output level.

Can it compare two amplifiers?
Yes, you can route two amplifiers into the switch and audition them against one another driving the same speakers.

Can it compare two sets of speakers?
Yes, it can connect two speaker pairs from a single amplifier for direct comparison.

What is a level matched comparison?
It means both options are heard at comparable output so differences in character are revealed honestly rather than masked by volume differences.

Does the AS-55 color the sound?
Its passive design uses heavy gauge wiring and quality terminals to keep the signal as clean and neutral as possible.

How does it differ from the Luxman AS-44?
The AS-44 switches at the line level ahead of the amplifier, while the AS-55 switches at the speaker level after the amplifier.

Who is the AS-55 designed for?
Dealers, reviewers, installers, and serious enthusiasts who evaluate gear and want a repeatable A/B reference.

What kind of connections does it use?
It uses binding post speaker terminals suited to standard speaker cabling.

Do I need any power for the AS-55?
No, it is entirely passive and requires no power supply.

Will it work with high powered amplifiers?
It is built to handle amplifier output and is intended for use in high end systems. Follow the owner's manual for guidance on your specific setup.

Can I leave it permanently in my system?
Yes, many users keep it installed for ongoing comparison, though some prefer to add it only when evaluating.

Does the AS-55 support bi-wiring?
It is a comparison switch rather than a bi-wire jumper. For bi-wirable speakers, a dedicated jumper such as the Audioquest Dragon BiWire Jumpers addresses that need.

Is the AS-55 made in Japan?
Yes, it is manufactured by Luxman in Japan, consistent with the brand's build quality.

What amplifiers pair well with it?
Luxman integrated and power amplifiers such as the L-509Z and M-10X make excellent reference sources for comparison.

What speakers work well for A/B testing?
Any pair of reference loudspeakers works well. Options like the Marten Parker Trio Diamond and Spendor Classic 200Ti reveal their character clearly in an instant switch.

How long is the warranty?
Luxman America provides a 3 year parts and labor warranty to the original owner.

Is All Elite Audio an authorized Luxman dealer?
Yes, All Elite Audio is an authorized Luxman dealer, so your purchase is fully warranty backed.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Luxman dealer in Maryland with the AS-55 in stock, offering genuine product, full manufacturer warranty support, and expert guidance on integrating it into your system.