Luxman vs. Accuphase

accuphase.

Thank you everyone for your responses. I read some similar threads and Accuphase seems to be the most favored although Luxman should be shown no disrespect. I got a quote on a new Accuphase e-360 for 10 grand. Whew, I certainly can't afford a new one so I'll be searching for something used.

Wow, that's over double the price of a new E-360 in Japan. Thanks!

Routeman21, please note that while Luxman has its strengths, it cannot compare with Accuphase in its versatility. I use both digital (PC) and analogue front ends, and my e-450 has made life simple as it use teh plug in DAC board (DAC 30) and the phono board (AD 20), which are both top class. If I want, I can use 2 phono boards, as the two slots are usable for either of the option boards. Accuphase is also a bit more rugged, though there is very little between the two.

I have had the Luxman L-550ax in my system for 3 months now. This is Lux's new iteration of the L-550aII. I replaced a big system, with full blown preamp (EAR 868) and CJ Premier 140 (big tube amp) and haven't looked back. The Luxman offers a very nice sounding selectable MM/MC phono stage (I've got a low output MC cartridge, this was important feature for me), had lots of bells and whistles and knobs and meters, but most importantly for me, has 20 watts of BIG class A (t does run warm/hot) power. In my room, with the Gallo 3.5's, I can't turn the volume past 12 or 1 o'clock. The soundstage, width is maybe a bit narrower than with my old system, the depth is comparable, and the overall quality of the sound is totally dependent upon the recording as it should be. I didn't compare with Accuphase which I'm sure is killer as well. I personally use an Audio Note 3.1 external DAC with my mac mini / JK MK3 digital front end. I'd be surprised if the Accuphase "more rugged" but who knows.