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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
julie_priest
131 posts
 

If you’re lusting after Japanese refinement in the sound, look for Accuphase E-480 upwards. You’ll forget Macs and their "meaty bass, but blanket-over-high-end" American sound that others here have pointed out. Macs are more bling than refined sound. 

soix
8,781 posts
 

Since you didn’t read the post from the beginning last time, let me spell it out for you so that you can comprehend.  Best Buy Magnolia stores across the country uses a Plano for all of their displays.
 

Man you are thick headed.  Let me spell it out for you — I actually worked at Magnolia and they all ARE NOT exactly the same no matter what your manager friend says.

Apparently you’re have an issue with McIntosh and the company model.  Last I checked they set the market for the audio world.

Love to know where you read that because it’s utter rubbish.

I’ve volunteered many times in college at radio stations,  so trust me!  I know what great music should sound like.

You gotta be kidding me.  HA!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

bwguy's avatar
bwguy
216 posts
 

I don’t understand the McIntosh bashing. I use 611’s with an Esoteric N01XD streamer, Clearaudio turntable, and B&W 802D3’s (another brand that gets bashed on this site). The sound is balanced, but not veiled in any way. I think the sound is clean, glorious, and dynamic. YMMV.

maholl50
53 posts
 

I had Mac for years but alway lusted for Luxman. When I lost my Mac gear in a flood I tried several different brands: Cary, NAD, Yamaha, Vincent, Cronus Magnum, before finally settling on Luxman. I’ve now had 4 different Luxman amps and currently have both the 550axII and the LX380. I would never go back to Mac. Just my preference. Enjoy the music.

jrod68 OP
42 posts
 

@vitussl101  Detail, imagine & impact. I think the Luxman nails it on all three fronts. One word comes to mind: Command…total control of my 1.7s.  Snare hits have more impact and “bite” with the Luxman. The top end is more present and very smooth. I haven’t  really listened critically, as work has kept me pretty busy the last few days.  More to come…

One odd thing…with the Luxman volume dial at zero, I still can hear the Bluesound Node playing. That’s using both RCA and balanced connections.  I’m sure there’s an easy explanation. 
 

~ Jerry

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