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

I’d put the new Innuos Pulse Mini on your radar for a streamer, and as @jjss49 recommended above an upgraded linear power supply (not necessarily Innuos’ own LPS) should be included in your budget to get the best performance out of it.  Best of luck with all this, and please do share your impressions if you could.  Curious minds wanna know.  BTW, I’ve got 100 bucks the OP chooses the Luxman if anyone wants to take the other side.  Heh heh. 

@paul8088 

 

As for upgrade streamers/DAC from the Bluesound there are many countless options out there : Aurender, Lumin, Linn, Naim, Chord, Simaudio, PS Audio DS DAC with networked bridge ii, Cary Audio, Teac, Esoteric, DCS, and many others depending on your budget. 

Lots of 100 Volt Luxmans out there...new and used...Be Careful. They're made for the Japanese market and they will sell it to Americans.

It would be good if you could listen the the Luxman in your system before you decide. I own the Ma 352 which is the bigger brother to your amp. I can tell you there are attributes to my mac that I just like. I also have a Pass 250, Accuphase 380, Hegal 390. Yet I still enjoy my mac, and I miss no detail at all. In some cased I hear more detail then my Pass. 

Update…Luxman ordered.  😁 I’ll check back in a week or so. Thanks to everyone. 

~ Jerry