Audio Research or Luxman?

Thanks for all the comments so far. I recently purchased both ARC's used, and had both serviced by an authorized dealer. All tubes measred well, and bias settings are correct and have barely drifted since acquiring the amp.

The original pots are from Alps and not longer available. I'd try finding Japan sources. Do you, tomic601, have more information on that or Fleaboy?

I should state that I am thrilled with the sound quality of my ARC gear.

Thanks for all the great advice! I will follow through with your suggestions.

ryder, do you notice any issues using your 30wpc L-590AXII driving the Duke 2  3.8ohm (minimum)? The Duke 2 is not easy to find in the USA. Where are you located?

Your volume and balance pots can't be replaced because you've got the wrong tech working for you.  Find a better tech.  

It was not just my tech who told me the identical Luxman volume/balance could not be replaced. A business known for doing vintage restoration, Hudson Valley HiFi, told me the same thing. L507 Restoration by Hudson Valley HiFi

They did say that I might be able to eliminate the balance pot and look for a compatable replacement, but it would not be easy or inexpensive. 

Thanks for the Khozmo link. They look to have some high quality alternatives.

Following recommendations from here, I purchased a Chase off ebay, but the unit doesn't appear to be compatible with my Luxman because I can only use the main-in on the Luxman. According to the Chase owner's manual, the volume setting on the amplification device should be set to half volume. I can't use the volume control on my Luxman because it is faulty along with the balance pot. 

Is anyone interested in buying my Chase? 

Additional advice is appreciated. Just to clarify, when I placed the Chase between my source and connected to the Luxman main-in, the sound was audible from my speakers, but the volume level was very low and could not be adjusted up or down. Everything else on the Chase worked: balance, treble, bass. 

I don't want to use a simple potentiometer for volume adjustment as it would degrade sound quality, and I have learned how amazingly good the 19 year old Luxman amp sounds. When I use my Audio Research Reference 3 preamp or connect the Luxman directly to my PS Audio DirectStream Dac, it makes me wonder if I should look into a newer model Luxman.   

That was a nice suggestion, rwwear2. Unfortunately, the issues with the   volume/balance pots on the Luxman continued to present themselves through the Chase. Balance drift and volume on/off issues persisted. I have boxed the Chase and will be sending it back to the seller. 

Elliot,

Yes, the red lights change when I press volume up/down, and I kept the volume button pressed for a long time. When the lights changed it had no effect on the volume level.

I live in Wisconsin, leaving soon for Arizona.

I appreciate all your help, but I'm afraid my Luxman is simply not cooperating with the Chase.