System Upgrade

Hi Mdmdwyer- Yes the amp is a bit on the low side for this setup, but there is ONE thing you should check first.  The DSD DAC has an internal volume control.  Make SURE that you have that at 100% otherwise it does sound a bit dull and muffled.  Hopefully that is all this is.  Good Listening!!

Thank you. It i s @ 100%.

Integrated or Separates. Just took a look at  the Luxman 509X. Preferred budget is $5-$8k.

Excellent comments by the others. I would add, though, that if you already haven't you should try all four settings of the impedance selector switch that is on the rear panel of your amp.

When I hear someone refer to lack of "presence" I envision an under-emphasis of significant parts of the mid-range. And assuming that the impedance curve of your speakers is the same as or similar to what is depicted in Stereophile's measurements of the Super HL5plus, the speaker's impedance in critical parts of the mid-range is vastly higher than in other parts of the spectrum, and is also vastly higher than its 6 ohm nominal impedance.  Which suggests, for example, that the 6 ohm setting of your amp may very well not be optimal even though it corresponds to the speaker's specified nominal impedance.

Good luck.  Regards,
-- Al
  

You got mud Harbeths are warmly voiced loudspeakers, PS Warm, Cables warm.

Have you considered a cleaner more efficient loudspeaker?

How big is your room? Musical preferences? Do you play loud or moderate.

A less colored more full range more efficient loudspeaker would maxamize the rest of your investment and you would gain on all fronts. 

Can you go with a floorstander?

What part of the country are you?

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ

The amp is not the problem. I have one and it is holographic with the right setup. I have also owned shl5’s, they can sound very nice but dont seem to take full advantage of the Leben. Cables and source though are the likely problem. What is your room like?