2. amps-preamps
  3. 173313-9486

Audio Research or Luxman?

I recently acquired a 1973 Luxman L-507 integrated amp only to learn that the volume/balance control pots are bad and can't be replaced, but I was able to bypass the pre-amp section and run it with the amp section only, and oh my, did it sound good.

I was very surprsed to find that its sound quality came too close in sound quality to my ARC separates: a Reference 3 preamp and Ref 75SE amp. So now I'm wondering how a modern Luxman like a l-505uXii or 507uXii would compare with my ARC separates. 

Any thoughts anyone?

 

audiojerry
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,928 posts
 

OP search eBay for vintage Luxman and you will find the Japan based dealers.

 

alan60's avatar
alan60
180 posts
 

+1 for Nobel for volume pots. Would be very surprised if there is not an equivalent that can be used, only issue may be space to fit. As for balance control, would suggest it is not required.

If not Nobel I would hope that any reputable service engineer would be able to find a good quality suitable pot that would fit and probably better than the original.

tsushima1
1,165 posts
 

@audiojerry 

You might find this guide to identifying pre 1990 6h30-DR’s useful, they are expensive but you only need a pair 

http://www.aca.gr/index/hiend/hiendArticles?row=1988

richopp
760 posts
 

I don't know specifically, but after years of a Luxman CL-32, I put an Audio Research SP-6B in my system and it woke-up.

I always wanted an Audio Research pre-amp, but could not afford one.  The old one I got used was in perfect condition and sounds 10x better (more accurate) than the Luxman ever did.

Not sure if that is true with the 2 items you are auditioning, but BUY WHAT SOUNDS BEST IN YOUR ROOM and forget all the "opinions" we have.

Cheers!

 

kren0006
1,859 posts
 

It depends on what level of Audio Research you are talking about.  For example, within the last month I had a one hour audition of Wilson SabrinaX speakers both with the Luxman L509x integrated amp ($10k) and also with the ARC separates LS28 and VT80 stack (about $20k).  I preferred the Luxman as being more dynamic with better grip on the bass and just a better presentation.  DAC was a Chord dac.  So it depends.

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