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Luxman LX33 Integrated Tube Amp. YEAH? NAY?

Perhaps the Russian Tube Preamp disaster will lead to this different solution:  All Tubes in one shot.

Luxman Vintage LX33 Integrated Tube Amp for: Small Office system:  TT (MM); R2R Tape (line); Computer (line).

https://www.ebay.com/itm/154051395889?mkevt=1&mkcid=1&mkrid=711-53200-19255-0&campid=533...

YEAH? NAY?

30 wpc Enough Power? I think so. I would go Luxman pre-out to self-powered sub's line-in first, then sub line-out to LX33 Main In: so the LX33 and Wharfdale 225's (low 87 sensitivity) would not need to produce low bass.

This LX33 and other Luxman's are Shallow Depth. They fit on top of my 3 shelf high bookcase, next to my Vertical TT and Vertical R2R deck (nicest no-bend operational height I ever had). 

 The Fisher Mono Blocks are also 30 wpc. (35 wpc if I want to get EL37's, no thanks, I'd rather eat).

Not the wood look like the Russian preamp or even nicer Luxman Preamp 35iii,

https://www.ebay.com/itm/114787565164

but the LX33 Brushed Metal finish next to the Grey Mistubishi LT-5V are compatible.

https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS881US881&sxsrf=ALeKk03Mu5EWCTaCuJ5PL6NdqzYO0QqJNg:...

thanks as always for your help,

Elliott




elliottbnewcombjr
elliottbnewcombjr OP
5,310 posts
 
jond

You are right, 10 wpc is borderline. I'll probably go for more power just to be safe. If I risk it, and too small, what else would I do with it?

check out this compact beauty from the 60's

https://www.ebay.com/itm/294148447011?hash=item447c9d1b23:g:8PgAAOSw9ShgibMA

20 wpc, now were talking!


elliottbnewcombjr OP
5,310 posts
 
jperry

Thanks for commenting. I'm USA 120v.

I use a small 120 to 100 transformer for my 100v JVC TT81 Turntable, zero hum. My concern is I move stuff and forget it's needed and plug directly to 120v by error. I think I'll put a wire tie on the plug/transformer to prevent that.

IF the transformer is noise free, is it more of a concern for an amp? I suspect it's done all the time.
elliottbnewcombjr OP
5,310 posts
 
LX33: ALL tubes are readily available, power tube is 6CA7, from the tubestore:

"Other common substitutes for EL34 vacuum tubes are 6CA7 and KT77 tubes. Although not identical, they are close enough to be considered direct substitutes in almost any instance. The EL34, 6CA7 and KT77 also have similar pin outs. Be sure to check out our EL34 / 6CA7 / KT77 tube reviews page for more information regarding the sound qualities of these tubes.

Many of the EL34, 6CA7 and KT77 tubes listed here also have customer tube reviews. We also indicate top sellers for the EL34 tube type".


lewm
12,984 posts
 
If you feel you must make this purchase, and I agree with Russ that it may not be a good idea, then you ought to buy a step down transformer dedicated only to this unit. A preamplifier/amplifier will draw more current than a turntable, and you will need a heftier step down transformer than whatever you probably use for your turntable. Japanese equipment will usually tell you on the back side near the power cord how many watts the unit draws. Take that number and multiply it by two and that should be the rating of your step down transformer, at a minimum.
jperry
2,446 posts
 
@elliottbnewcombjr 

You could probably use a transformer, but I wouldn’t. Maybe my OCD showing through.

I bought two that were US voltage. Kept one and a friend wanted the other one. It is a very good (IMO) vintage tube preamp. Not as good as the current production CL-38uC, which I also own.  The US voltage ones are out there and show up from time to time. I also have the plug in SUT for this. The Luxman SUT is very hard to find, but the Sansui a-603 SUT is a plug in replacement and findable.

You might want to do a little more research on Luxman. They made great gear for a long time, but had some bad times in the 1980’s if I recall correctly. Currently they are making great gear.

Good luck with your search.

Jim Perry
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