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The MQ-88u is a respected push-pull tube power amp, and at US$4,000 this looks fair to slightly strong, not a steal. Benchmarks are thin for this exact version, but the current MQ-88uC sells new for US$5,995, and clean used examples of the earlier MQ-88u/MQ-88uSE have been showing up roughly in the US$2,900–US$6,000 zone, with nicer dealer pieces often landing around the middle of that spread.
What makes it worth chasing is the Luxman house sound and the amp’s reputation for refined, controlled 25Wpc performance with excellent build quality. If this one is truly clean, stock, and fully functional, US$4,000 is a sensible buy for someone who wants a premium Japanese tube amp rather than a fixer-upper. I’d mainly want confirmation on tube health, service history, and whether it includes the original box, manual, and cage/accessories, since those help preserve value.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Luxman traces its origins to 1925 in Osaka, Japan, when brothers T. Hayakawa and K. Yoshikawa launched a radio equipment division within their Kinsuido picture frame import business, coinciding with Japan's inaugural radio broadcast. Initially importing components, the company soon pivoted to in-house manufacturing of transformers and switches, birthing the Luxman brand and establishing it as one of Japan's oldest electronic component makers. This heritage of precision engineering has endured through ownership shifts, including stints with Alpine and Samsung, before returning to Japanese hands in the early 2000s under dedicated Luxman Corporation.
The brand specializes in luxury high-end audio components, with a storied emphasis on amplifiers—both integrated and power models—preamplifiers, and receivers renowned for their warm, detailed sound. Luxman also produces turntables, CD players, tape decks, and speakers, alongside modern digital offerings like DACs, all handcrafted in Japan with custom parts and dual-mono designs for ultimate fidelity.
Positioned firmly in the high-end market, Luxman commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its timeless aesthetics, uncompromising build quality, and sonic refinement that bridges vintage warmth with cutting-edge performance. Classics like the 1970s CL-32 preamp and 1980s L-507 integrated amplifier fuel its collector appeal, while contemporary lines reaffirm its status as a boutique benchmark for those seeking "Ultimate Fidelity since 1925."
See all Luxman listings on RADAR.
