2. amps-preamps
  3. 1242246276

Luxman CL 35III/MQ68 Replace or retube?

I bought the Luxman tube gear over 30 years ago. Every 10 years or so I get the itch for something new. Usually retubing the pre-amp scratches the itch and I am good for another 10 years. I have never replaced the power amp tubes although I actually have a rare set of NOS replacement tubes in factory boxes. Retube or replace w/ an integrated from Music Hall, Arcam, Creek, Rega etc? Live in Austin and listen primarily to mid-range vocals and lots of live music. Current speakers are Epos 12.2s and CD player is a Music Hall 25.2. Pros/cons, opinions appreciated. Thanks
mrflora
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
If you like it why change it? I had one of these in the 70s and it was a very good unit. IF I could find a GOOD tech I would have him go through and replace resistors and especially caps with better ones of the same value. This almost always helps even a new unit and yours is old enough to really benefit from it.
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
7,987 posts
 
I agree with Stanwal. Updating the caps and resistors will certainly make a positive improvement, and why even consider getting something else before you have tried those NOS tubes.
mrflora OP
1 posts
 
Krauti's thread on the downside of tubes was very interesting. Will continue to think about a change but will probably talk myself out of it.
buconero117
2,311 posts
 
Replace. It is not cost effective change the caps and resistors. Check out the 'Japan Joy' store on e-Bay, they deal in current Luxman tube gear and may be able to help your decision.
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
I disagree. Very few components of any price use the best available parts. For a new component you are typically paying 10x the manufacturing cost. This is a good design with an opportunity to put in much higher grade parts than you would get in a new one.
More to discover