McIntosh to Luxman?


Hey everybody. I need some advice.  It's fair to say I've lusted over Luxman equipment for a few years now.  Something about Japanese hifi that just gets me. Anyway, one of the online retailers of new and used equipment has a Luxman L-507uX (not the mark ii) for sale.  I do really like the sound from my hybrid MA252 integrated, and it drives my Maggie 1.7s with ease.  Most of my listening is of the streaming variety (Bludesound Node/Qobuz), and some vinyl (Music Hall MMF-5). 

Here's my question: what will the Luxman bring me that the McIntosh isn't providing?   More refinement?  More authoritative bass? Better soundstaging?  If the answer is yes, then I may pull the trigger on the Luxman.  By the way, I can get a nice trade-in on my McIntosh, so my out-of-pocket won't be too bad.    Please weigh-in if you've had both McIntosh and Luxman gear and what your experience with both brands has been.   Thanks in advance!   ~ Jerry

jrod68

Showing 4 responses by bjesien

@jjss49 all the lower powered Luxman units are spec’d class A but go to 95 to 150 plus in A/B. At least the little integrated amps they sold.

I know for a while they did the yellow and blue meters. Are any of the blue meters class A?

@decathalon1991 I love the accuphase gear. I think Luxman specs in a similar way. Would you agree? 

I've owned a few Luxman and McIntosh amps too.  I prefer the Luxman Class A sound to the other class A/B from both companies. If I liked the A/B I'd have to compare them again.

I grew up with McIntosh amps in the house and love the old tone and tempo but they never had good clarity/transparency and I don't think they ever got that part right (for my ears).