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Luxman 509X, 590AXII, or Gryphon Diablo 300 for B&W 802d3

Hello All and Happy Holidays,

As the title states, I am exploring an integrated for my B&W's. I would like to get some insight as to your experiences with the aforementioned. I do enjoy a "tubey" midrange and also love my bass (a lot)! The top end is not as important to me. I only do digital and hope to utilize a tube DAC (maybe AudioNote). There is something magical about class A, but can the 30 watts of the Luxman do an adequate job in taming the B&W's?

As far as Gryphon, the reviews are legendary. I have heard Luxman some years ago and it was quite engaging. However, I am having struggles auditioning the Diablo. Please advise on the strengths and weaknesses. I hope to make this my last purchase for many years (at least, I hope!).

128x128jeffreyw
erikt
256 posts
 

I currently own the L-509X - fantastic sounding unit with ample power and control, but as an owner of B&W CDM1NTs in my HT setup, I would say that the Gryphon would be my choice for 802D3s.

Just my personal experience, but the B&Ws pair better with amps of higher power than with lower power.

erik_squires
15,879 posts
 

I do enjoy a "tubey" midrange and also love my bass (a lot)!

That's why I love my Luxman 507, read any of my posts about them. :)

erik_squires
15,879 posts
 

Also, consider your listening location.  Some feel the 802's sound a lot better if you sit on the midrange axis or lower than the tweeter axis.

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