2. digital
  3. 184520-166368

Is it still worth buying a Lumin x1 in 2023?

Hello,

 

i currently have a Lumin D2 in my system, and i want to upgrade (I know ... typical audiophile problem :-) ).

My system is the following:

Speakers: Spendor sp100r2

Amp: Grandionote Shinai

Streamer: Lumin D2

Power isolation: Puritan PSM 156

Why do i want to upgrade?

I want "more of everything": more clarity, more details, more extension on both ends, better vocals, less digital sounding ... I like music, i don't want something too analytical. I want to be able to seat, enjoy and relax.

 

I've considering adding a DAC to my D2, but a local dealer told me that i should change my streamer and get a T3.

Initially i had this list of DAC in mind (5k price range):

  • T+A DAC 200 
  • Gen. Grand DSDac 1.0 Deluxe
  • Sould note D2
  • Aqua La Scala

Then, looking around, i found a great deal on a demo Lumin X1 ... a bit more than my budget ... but i can stretch.

Now my question: I read a lot of very positive review on the X1, but i'm a little nervous because it is a 5y old device ... and it will be a big investment, quesiton:

  • is it wise to go for a 5y old device
  • How long will i be able to enjoy it before services stop working on it?
  • Is it it better to get a new DAC and connect it to my D2 (and eventually upgrade to a more modern streamer later)?
  • MOST IMPORTANT: Will i get a better sound with the x1 compared to the D2 + a modern DAC in the 5k price range?

What do you all think?

 

best

 

T

 

128x128thibaultgeoui
yyzsantabarbara
4,494 posts
 

When it comes to DACs the term better is really subjective. The differences between similar designed DACs is not that great to my ears. Streamers on the other hand (especially optical) seemed to have a bigger difference to me.

The X1 at $6K is a great deal. I got mine for $7K and I thought that was well worth it for one of the very best streamers and an excellent DAC.

 

willgolf
933 posts
 


If the op can get an X-1 for $6k, you should buy it and resell it for $8500.  

christianb5s4
231 posts
 

One of the great things about Luminis the frequent updates and enhancements they provide, U1 with X1 PSU owner here. Even today, got a firmware update.

 

Customer support is second to none. You also rarely see X1s for sale versus other streamers.

mifanning's avatar
mifanning
12 posts
 

I moved from a T2 to an X1, courtesy of Taylor at Goldprint Audio in N.C. I would jump on the X1 at $6K, which I consider a bargain, even considering its age. The X1 has a lovely organic sound and the best feature set in the Lumin line-up, unless you need the added flexibility of the P1.

Advantages:

— Best DAC in Lumin ecosystem (ESS9038). Importantly, Lumin knows how to get the best out of a DAC through its programming.

— Leedh Processing for digital volume control, thus no need for a preamp. Recall that uber-high-end Swiss manufacturer Soulution uses Leedh, as it’s fantastic.

— Fiber internet for better noise isolation.

— Lundahl output transformers for better SQ.

— Separate power supply.

The next iteration of the X1 will have an updated processor, which will permit future technologies, perhaps room correction as announced in new Auralic streamers. But other than that possibility, it would be tough to best the X1 unless you’re willing to spend tremendously more money.

The bonus: besides a rock-solid product with fantastic customer support, you get constant firmware updates, such as yesterday’s addition of Plex server integration.

 

 

ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,213 posts
 

I really, really, enjoy my Lumin X1. Totally concur with mifanning.

ozzy

More to discover