To improve laccase (Lac) and lignin peroxidase (Lip) production from Streptomyces lavendulae, the Lac and LIP activity models were constructed and the C-N sources formulation in the medium optimal for the simultaneous production of Lac-LiP complex was asparagine 16.44%, urea 23.48%, fructose 18.01%, malt extract 21.21%, (NH4)(2)SO4 20.86%. By nutritional analysis, the optimal initial mole ratio of C/N for laccase and LiP production were 1.48, 1.43 with C, N levels of 1.298-1.308 mol L-1 and 0.875-0.912 mol L-1, respectively. Verification experiment revealed that the initial C/N ratio in medium was the key factor affecting laccase activity, and the combined C, N sources could improve ligninolytic enzymes activity. Thus, enzyme production cost could be cut down effectively, not only by the simultaneous fermentation of Lac-LiP complex, but also by maintaining the initial C/N mole ratio at 1.43-1.48 in the medium with low levels, and different kinds of C and N sources. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.