Luxman L-509X

As long as you're looking in the $10,000+ price range and if you can stretch your budget a bit more, I'd seriously consider the Pass Labs int 250. Outstanding amp from what I've read. Same with the int 60.

Personally I’d never go from Luxman to Pass, so I would not make that choice without listening. The idea that Pass would be universally better does not hold up to my ears.

The 509 and 507 are incredibly similar, with the main difference being slightly lower output impedance thanks to more output transistors in the 509.

If you have more challenging speakers, the 509 is the way to go.

As I've said before, in kind of the same price range I suggest Ayre, Luxman and Pass as integrateds with decidedly different sonic signatures to listen to. Among those, if you can't find a strong preference, go with the cheapest.

Also, the Loudness feature on the Luxman is really nice for late night listening. :)


Best,

E

Eric, agreed that the 509x and int 250 are both superb sounding amps and both should be listened to before making a decision. I had the opportunity to audition both the int 60 and 509x and one sounds as good as the other. My ears just prefer the int's smoothness and sweetness...I like the chocolate ice cream.

If you have $10K and are considering a Luxman, I cannot buy used on this one since I went and demoed them (will buy new) but for someone open to a used purchase.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649568734-luxman-m-900u-and-c-900u-as-new/images/2474255/

In my opinion the difference with the m900u and c900u combo is massive compared to the 509x integrated. Yes, I have heard all three in the same room with the same gear (that is why I will buy new).

Edit: The price is for each unit not for both.

I auditioned a 509x a little over a month ago. It sounded good, no doubt. Great integrated. But it just didn't grab me or excite like the int. Had nothing to do with the quality of it's sound or build. It was more to do with it's sonic personality. As I mentioned in my post, I like the chocolate ice cream. You obviously like the vanilla. Nothing wrong with that.