Just retired and want to get back to vinyl listening

Very few people take Eminent Technology LFT-8b speakers as seriously as they do Maggies, for a reason of which I am unaware (I own both, as well as QUAD ESL’s). Harry Weisfeld of VPI, from a recent blog posting: "The ET LFT-8b may have the best midrange of any loudspeaker I have ever heard". A ridiculous bargain at $2499 retail.

He probably have not heard many or his hearing is bizarre at best or he is grossly exaggerating. No wonder I never considered VPI. This is BS.

As I approach retirement age I can tell you my ears have changed. The audio industry has changed too. Today, SOUND is part of the video market and downloading allows music to survive.
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Today’s sound IS accurate, but lacking the pleasant emotion that was built in to those 70/80’s systems of the past. I find that especially true of Klipsch. That sterile like sound is also drives the price of vintage equipment.
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Listen Well

greg -- what are your direct usage and "hearing" thoughts on the luxman 590 and the accuphase e-600

thanks

bill - I get what you are saying -- I think I'm ready to get back to vinyl and explore

all -- I’m starting my education and asking and listening as noted in first post

thanks for the input -- some things suggest while interesting and I do go read on all suggestions are out of what I have budget for at least my first start setup

Hi Steve -  First of all, I have a MAJOR problem that causes me to analyze the performance of my gear.  Over the last year, I have switched amps 5 times and speakers 3 times (not to mention DACs, SACD players, speaker cables and interconnects. Since "ugradeitis" is normally in play, I always find a way to justify these frivolous expenditures - and I have a very understanding wife!  Even now, I am tempted with replacing my Accuphase E-600 with the $21,000 Luxman MQ-300 tube amp. 

During my quest, I have auditioned or owned Arcam, PrimaLuna, Luxman, Gato, Esoteric, Pass, Plinius and Accuphase integrated amps.  I still own Gato AMP-150 and PrimaLuna DiaLogue Premium Integrated amps.

Without going into the reasons and circumstances for each purchase, I will tell you that my biggest regret was not leaving well enough alone and keeping my Luxman L-590AX and D-06U SACD player/DAC.  Several amps and $$$$ later, I have incrementally gone up the sonic "food chain" but not by orders of magnitude.  If I had to do it again, it would be the Luxman L-590AX II and I would call it a day.


Other than the value proposition the Luxman has over the Accuphase, here are my thoughts on the differences:

Overall realism and purity of sound:   Probably a tie.
Bass Authority: Accuphase
Soundstage: Luxman
Warmth: Slight edge to Luxman (more "tube-like sound)
Detail: Slight edge to Accuphase

It is important to note that synergy of components, interconnects and even power cords will have an impact on performance as well as room acoustics.  As others have mentioned, TAKE YOUR TIME and enjoy the process.  Work with a couple of reputable local dealers and always try to audition the gear at your home.  

The most important thing to remember is that NOTHING that anyone tells you on this forum is gospel.  What appeals to your ears is the only thing that matters. Having said that, everything sounds great until you hear something better so make sure you can establish the point of diminishing returns (something I obviously cannot do!)  The good news is that you are considering some really good gear and your budget will allow to assemble a first-class system!