Luxman L505u . . . why not?


I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on one of these--an upgrade from my Rotel receiver. Before I do, I'd like some perspective from the learned A'gon community. First, will it be a significant upgrade from the Rotel? What kind of sonic improvements can I expect? Second, why shouldn't I buy from Audiocubes II? http://www.audiocubes2.com/brand/Luxman/product/Luxman_L-505u_Integrated_Amplifier.html
I know On a Higher Note is the official U.S. distributer, but my budget pushes me towards the less expensive purchase option. Third, regardless of where I purchase it from, it will need a transformer to boost the power to 220. I don't know anything about the possible effects this might have on sound and performance of the component--can anybody speak to this? Is it possible to have the piece modified to accept the U.S. 110 current? I want the piece because it meets my requirements for an integrated: it's at least 100W, it has speaker A/B (I've got speakers in the kitchen and the main living room), it's got a great phono section (I play 50% records, 50% CDs), and it's got a headphone amp. Those are the features I want in an integrated. Any advice, suggestions, dissuasions will be appreciated.

Danny
rosedanny

Showing 3 responses by jabas

Merlocpm ...

I'm using Hl5s with the lux 550a II. This after a series of amps, including bi-amping.
The Lux-Harbeth just sings. It's incredible.
I've heard both the 505u and the 550IIa on Harbeths. I went through lots of amps, seperates and integrateds ... I own Hl5s, and I liked the 550a best, for all music... It had to do with the detail and clarity and that illusion of speed with class A. The 550 is more upfront ... and has no problem driving the Hl5s on even deep soul and heavy rock 'n' roll. The 505u is really something, tho. It's down to personal preference. I've heard the 505u amp hold its own against big mono-blocked rogues driving Harbeth 40.1s, which the 550 couldn't handle.