Luxman tonality

Not sure I would ever classify the Luxman sound as “sterile”.  I have never heard anyone ever describe it that way.  I currently own a bunch of current Luxman models, and I have always found the tonality to very neutral, accurate and ever so slightly on the warm, but very inviting side. My Luxman gear always has me enjoying the music as opposed to analyzing sound and performance. It’s great gear and is great value.  I have recommended the L-590AXII to many people and they have been extremely happy with their purchase. 

greg, good to see you chime in.

@builder3 - hope you are doing well.  Still loving the L-590AX?

Compared to 509, the 590AXII tilts towards warm, but only by a smidgen. After living with it for a few months now, I would say the 590AXII is fairly neutral with just a hint of warmth. And as Eric said, the extension on both ends is really amazing.

I would agree with this post by Arafiq. Similarly I find the L-590AXII to sound very close to neutral, leaning slightly toward warmth. I have owned many amps in the past which include some costlier pre/power combinations and the Luxman L-590AXII is the first high quality integrated which I can live with for life. It may not be a Vitus, Gryphon or other uber-amps costing up to $30,000 but the quality really shows.

The Luxman L-590AXII sounds smooth, warm and natural whilst displaying good detail and a refined and nuanced delivery. The treble is smooth, detailed and illuminating without sounding bright or etched while the bass is very satisfying, showing good definition and detail. Basically a balanced reproduction across the frequency spectrum. I don't have experience with the L-509X but looking at your response I feel the L-590AXII Class A will better fit my Marten Duke 2 and listening preferences.

I’m not so sure that the top luxman integrated amps aren’t in the league of the more expensive brands mentioned. a blind listening test would prove very interesting IMO. Forget the prices and just listen.