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Luxman L590AXii vs Accuphase E-650 for a Shindo lover

I have loved tubes all my audiophile life, but looking to pare down to a SS integrated.
These two are the only ones under consideration (not looking for other recos).

I love the Shindo sound (in an ideal world I would own a full Shindo system), rich, full, lush yet transparent with ample details and good thumping bass.

In that case which of these two amps would work best. Where I live Accuphase is 50% more expensive than the Luxman, so that is also worth considering while buying.

My speakers are Devore O/96s. Source AMR DP777
essrand

Showing 5 responses by greginnh

greginnh
382 posts
 
The Accuphase is marginally better.   I have owned the Luxman L-590 AX and the Accuphase E-600.   

I have heard the new Luxman L-590AX II and it does sound better than its predecessor.

The bottom line is the Accuphase will cost you twice as much (once you add the AD-50 phono card).   It may give you a 5% to 10% improvement sonically.   The Luxman is far better value without question. 
greginnh
382 posts
 
@restock I have not heard the 509 yet.  From those who have, the consensus is that it’s not better than the 590. I’m with you on the Luxman/Harbeth thing.  I never really cared for it.  Perhaps too much warmth? Almost too polite in terms of presentation. 

I also owed an E-470 prior to the E-600.  I can understand why you think it is a better match for Harbeth.  

I have always wanted to hear the O/96, I have heard nothing but great things about them. 
greginnh
382 posts
 
@builder3 - glad to know that you still love the 590.   Of all the gear I have owned, it's the piece I regret selling!
greginnh
382 posts
 
mimar2910 -  Glad to see that you actually made money on the sale of (used) Accuphase gear.  

I AM comparing Luxman to Accuphase since I have owned many pieces (L-590 AX, E-470 and E-600).   Accuphase and Luxman amps sell for about the same price in Japan.   The Luxman L-590AX provides about 98% of the performance (IMO) as an E-600.   The Luxman is half the price.   Last week, I heard the L-590AXII and Luxman has taken that model to the next level AND has lowered the price by $1,000.  So now we have two competitors - When you add the phono card to the E-650 you are at $18,500 retail.  The Luxman is $9,000.  Luxman is simply better value - it's a shame that the US importer has chosen to mark Accuphase up some much.  Many retailers I have spoken to have been interested in the line - they just can't justify the economics.

I hope you enjoy your E-650 for many years.  The minor improvements over the E-600 will hopefully be noticeable.
greginnh
382 posts
 
I am not aware of any immediate plans to upgrade the L-590AX II..  It has only been around for a couple of years. 
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