Amp recommendation -- McIntosh, Luxman, Yamaha


My system now is a Benchmark DAC3L and AHB2 with standalone phono stage for Technics SL-1200GR.

I want to simplify my system and I think a solid integrated will do that (reduce to almost one box)
Interested to possibly use 2 pairs of speakers and A/B them.
Interested to drive a separate power amp (probably tubes) with the same unit.

I'm looking at the Yamaha AS-2200 and Luxman L-507uXII which pretty much fit all the requirements:
Both allow 2 pairs of speakers. MM and MC carts. Preamp out with ability to toggle speakers off. Nice meters.
The McIntosh MA-5300 is another option, it throws in a DAC but lacks MC capability and dual speakers.
Has anyone heard these and compared?

I've got a range of speakers, some vintage JBL L36, JBL 4412 and Klipsch Quartets.
I'm in the process of building Troels Graveson Faital 3WC and Ekta MK2 which will likely be my long term speakers. None are too difficult to drive.

Only interested in additional recommendations if they have similar set of capabilites as above and are in similar range (~$6K and under).
itsikhefez

Showing 3 responses by ei001h

Luxman by far. But the best Luxman integrated is 590, pure class A, look into that, its slightly more money though. 
Luxman is higher build quality and almost as good resale value as Mac. 
The sound signature is quite different. You won't go wrong with either brand.  Rotel and aforementioned electronics are not on the same level. I have Mac and plan on getting a Luxman 590
You already have a superb analog source with Technics, I say dump the CDs and just do streaming. I have an Aurender A100 as a streamer and it has a very good DAC. It's a beautiful piece and will go nicely aesthetically with Luxman. Sell everything else, you'll never look back. I think you should be able to connect your TV via bluetooth to Aurender. 

Alternatively, you can get NAD M10 for around the same price as aurender, it has much better connectivity, a good DAC, and additional class D power amp that can drive any speaker. I use my M10 more than any other gear.