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Luxman L-509X for ATC SCM 19v2/40v2, thinking integrated to start with

I like to listen to music at low to normal levels and wondering how Luxman L-509x will work or ATC SCM 19v2. I am considering starting with an integrated first and not go over $8k for amp and preamp. 

Initially I wanted to try ATI AT6002 and a Tube preamp with good phono stage and the price seems to be somewhat close to a good used integrated amp. 

Please suggest integrated with good phono stage and DAC less than $8k . Prefer 200w 8ohm output, but can settle for a bit less for good implementation.
geek101

Showing 2 responses by agrippa

agrippa
160 posts
 
With a sensitivity of 85dB your current speakers will never sound properly alive at low volume.  That's just the nature of low-sensitivity speakers.  Been there, tried it (with an array of different amps) and failed utterly.
The only way to achieve engaging sound at low levels is to use speakers with a sensitivity of at least 90dB.  95dB would be better, 100db better still.
agrippa
160 posts
 
I’m unsure if you misunderstood me or not....

You mentioned in the OP that you " like to listen to music at low to normal levels " and I merely pointed out that in order to achieve engaging and dynamic sound at low sound levels speakers with such a low sensitivity is very much not the way to go.

I never commented on the quality of ATC speakers, which I think are very good indeed. They do however need a lot of power to open up and even then only sound their best at "normal" listening levels and up. Like every other low sensitivity design, at low volume settings they sound a bit boring and unengaging compared to speakers with high sensitivity. That is, again, just the nature of low-sensitivity speakers.
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