Luxman 590AX II Break-In

Sadly I was not able to find frequency charts, but my impression of other similar KEF models is it’s very neutral, with good tonal balance and extension. meaning, the bass peaks at the right place and the rest drops correctly.

However! It may be too hard on-axis, and in an untreated, reflective room may put out too much treble energy relative to the bass.

So, experiment with these things:

• Put it closer to the rear wall
• Keep it away from side walls
• Minimize toe-in (keep speakers flat to rear wall)
• Turn down the treble on the Luxman. It has excellent tone controls.

If you find the tone controls work, it’s a great sign you may have too many reflections.

Another experiment, bring the speakers out to the room and sit very close to them. That’s what the speaker / amp sounds like without the room. The difference between that and listening normally is all in the room.

Was the bass better with the amp you had prior to the Luxman?

@erik_squires 

Thanks, great advice. I am currently 1ft. from the rear walls with a slight toe-in. I am still questioning the break-in time. Many have stated at least 300 hrs. Also, the KEFs are brand new and need some time. Right now, this is not an involving system by any means. I question whether a 509X would have been a better match.

@swede58 

This is a brand-new system, so I do not have a reference.

Make sure you have plenty of space to the side walls. I should have stated, I have the 507ux which is not class A, but it was always a stellar performer from end to end.

I am really concerned you have too much treble in your mix.  The tone controls on the Luxman pre-amp section really are superb, don't miss out.  Try them!

It is not unusual for a couple hundred hours to be required to get in the ball park of what you will hear in the future. But, to be honest, your speakers require a lot of power, 85db efficiency, and the Luxman you have chosen is outstanding, but of very low power. Not a match made in Heaven.