LUXMAN L509X VS M700/C700U
You didn’t ask about the L-590. It’s a great amp, but probably bettered somewhat by the separates, I imagine. Mountainsong has owned it, as well, and hopefully will chime in. http://www.audiodrom.net/en/integrated-amplifiers/detail/31-integrated-amplifiers/297-luxman-l-590ax... |
The Luxman integrateds are VERY VERY GOOD. The Luxman Class A integrateds are also very good, but I think the power issue makes them quite curious things. Based on reviews I've seen, the power supply and output stage seem built for higher output than claimed, but the heatsinks are not. To rate an amp at x watts legally you have to preheat them, and run at steady state. The Luxman can't do it, so you have to think of it more like a smaller amp with enormous dynamic headroom. |
BTW, I love my Luxman integrated and the only amps I've heard better are the D'Agostinos. My only reason for suggesting to keep your separate is the damn low mid-bass issue. It may be helped by a bigger amp with more current and output stages. Since you already have the amp, I'm suggesting you keep it and get a matching pre, but listening is key, and honestly, when these issues come up they are NOT difficult to hear. Listen with an integrated to something with significant bass, especially electric guitar or kick drums. Switch amps. Hear no difference? Buy what is cheaper, smaller and more convenient. Does one amp magically sound more full and breaths easier? Buy that one. Like I said, every time I've seen a speaker with an impedance curve like this they become very amp fussy. I have even seen speakers with this drop deliberately created to make the speaker seem more demanding. Like I need a Dominatrix for a speaker, but apparently many do, and prefer the speaker that will demand a beefier amp. |
