Audio Research or Luxman?

Based on the sound of my one and only Luxman, and what you describe, I would definitely keep/use the Luxman.

I agree, a good tech can get you volume controls inside.

Anywhere near NJ? I am sure Steve Leung at VAS can get some very nice volume controls in it.

Another option, is to use something like this Chase RLC-1 Remote Line Controller, for some or all of it’s features. NEEDS the remote, no on-board buttons.

Try as I may, or my friends may, we cannot tell if it is in/out of the system. it’s 120 S/N ratio makes it invisible

. Office, I use it only for remote power of my Luxman (leave it’s manual power switch on). Then use the Luxman’s inputs and remote volume. I/you could just use the Chase remote volume. Main system, out now, currently evaluating new to me CD players hooked up directly to the Cayin and alternately thru the McIntosh mx110z preamp. It will go back in, I expect un-noticeably, except features. I love having remote balance. I find many tracks benefit a lot from a small balance tweak. I use my preamps inputs, Cayin’s remote volume, I will switch to Chase volume, and use the Cayin’s pre-in. Now, Furman controls power. I may run the power 1st thru the Chase, then leave the Furman’s power switch on, use Chase for remote power, volume, balance, loudness. RLC-1 also has built-in automatic/progressive Loudness for low volume listening, infrequent use, but important when I do, primarily keep Jazz Bassist present.. Most people misunderstand how to set Loudness up, when done right, it maintains involvement at low volumes.

Thanks for all the great advice! I will follow through with your suggestions.

I recently bought a new Luxman L-505uX Mark 2 and it’s driving my KEF Reference 1 speakers so sweetly! I could only be happier if I had a LOT more money to go up the line. Someday, I probably will.

I am aware that the L-507uX Mark 2 will soon be replaced by the L-507z. Other models are also slated to be upgraded, but it will take over a year or more to happen. Of course prices will also rise with the change.

kren0006

1,670 posts

12-21-2021 10:20pm

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.

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I’m not surprised with this. I currently own the Luxman L-590AXII(~$9k) and Naim separates NAC 282, NAP 250DR, Hicap DR (~$15k) and the Luxman sounds better. Speakers are Marten Duke 2. Another person who compared the same Luxman model with a higher range Naim separates costing up to $30k (NAC 252, NAP300 DR, Supercap DR) also preferred the Luxman. He found the Luxman to sound more refined and sophisticated than the Naim separates.

I have not owned many quality separates, and the Luxman L-590AXII is the most expensive integrated amp I currently own. I have owned the Audio Research LS16 and tried the integrated before, forgotten the model since it was long time ago. Nevertheless, there isn’t any doubt the Luxman is a very special integrated that is able to give the costlier pre power options a run for their money. To me, the Luxman is quality. After getting the piece into the system, I now don’t look at other hifi gear or upgrades anymore. It’s pure joy listening to music on the system everyday as my love for the Luxman and the system as a whole has increased tremendously since the day I acquired the amp. Although it’s just an integrated, it performs and punches above its weight, and it’s an eye candy as well.

I believe the other Luxman models will sound equally great. Class A and AB options to cater to different speakers and/or preferences. Just make sure the amp matches the speakers and you’ll be in audio heaven.

ryder, do you notice any issues using your 30wpc L-590AXII driving the Duke 2  3.8ohm (minimum)? The Duke 2 is not easy to find in the USA. Where are you located?