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McIntosh to Luxman?

Hey everybody. I need some advice.  It's fair to say I've lusted over Luxman equipment for a few years now.  Something about Japanese hifi that just gets me. Anyway, one of the online retailers of new and used equipment has a Luxman L-507uX (not the mark ii) for sale.  I do really like the sound from my hybrid MA252 integrated, and it drives my Maggie 1.7s with ease.  Most of my listening is of the streaming variety (Bludesound Node/Qobuz), and some vinyl (Music Hall MMF-5). 

Here's my question: what will the Luxman bring me that the McIntosh isn't providing?   More refinement?  More authoritative bass? Better soundstaging?  If the answer is yes, then I may pull the trigger on the Luxman.  By the way, I can get a nice trade-in on my McIntosh, so my out-of-pocket won't be too bad.    Please weigh-in if you've had both McIntosh and Luxman gear and what your experience with both brands has been.   Thanks in advance!   ~ Jerry

jrod68
jeffreyw's avatar
jeffreyw
286 posts
 

@soix 

+1

My C2700/MC611 system is excellent. Mid-bass/bass to die for. I do agree about the highs. I fixed this issue by pairing  Nordost Valhalla 2 XLRs between my DAC and the C2700; boy, what a difference! It has transformed the MAC system from top to bottom. 

@jrod68 

I went from a Luxman 590 AXII to my current McIntosh system. The Luxman did not have enough power to drive my speakers. I did compare the McIntosh to the Luxman M10x and accompanying preamp. The Luxman is fabulous and more detailed than the MAC. However, the MAC is warmer and far more powerful with thunderous bass. My preference is for warmth and bass as exemplified by the direction I headed. It's all up to what your ears tell you!

jrod68 OP
46 posts
 

Thanks guys. I really appreciate your input. I like the comparison of McIntosh to a muscle car. Very appropriate! I do appreciate the “tonally rich” sound of my MA252. It sounds like the Lux is a totally different animal altogether. The Mc has qualities that I like, so maybe I’m better off keeping it. I’ll have to check on the TMR return policy. ~ Jerry

jrod68 OP
46 posts
 

TMR has a 14 day return policy. I assume I’m on the hook for return shipping, should I decided against the Luxman.  Shipping is not cheap, but hey, getting a really cool piece of equipment to try out sounds like fun!  Thanks again guys. 
~ Jerry 

soix
9,809 posts
 

If the Luxman revitalizes your system, I’d think the cost of return shipping is a relatively small price to pay, especially at this level.  I say go for it!  Otherwise u may never know, which as a fellow Audiophile I know will gnaw at u like a mole.  Some things are just worth paying for, and an in-home audition is one of them.  Just do it!!!

riie
227 posts
 

Go with Mcintosh - the 1.25s

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