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Experience with Luxman L-550 AXII

I'm considering the Luxman L-550 AXII to drive a system with Klipsch Cornwall IVs during summer months.  My Class A 805 SET amp is a 100lb space heater and I dislike having my package AC unit on the roof of my music room running more just to keep up with the heat the amp creates. 

I've heard some folks love the pairing between the CW IV and the LUX 550.  I am a touch concerned though that this Lux might not be warm enough for my tastes.  Although, I have tried a Marantz PM KI Ruby integrated that uses a Ken Ishiwata tuned Class D design that sounds lovely--despite my bias that it would sound too lean and cool. 

I do prefer a little warmth yet synergy is everything. 

Does anyone have experience with this amp?   I know this is likely something that I'll just have to try out anyway but I'm looking for user experiences, thoughts, and even other recommendations. 

128x128jbhiller
bluethinker's avatar
bluethinker
92 posts
 

I have the larger version - the 590axii - paired with Buchardt s400 mkii speakers. I was concerned the pairing might not be warm enough. Paired with the Buchardt speakers, I’ve found the 590axii plenty warm. 
 

Hope that helps. 

deadhead1000's avatar
deadhead1000
707 posts
 

I also have the 590AXII with Harbeth 30.2s.  It's warm, but not as warm sounding as Tubes. I actually like that it is a bit more detailed then tubes also. And it's way warmer sounding then Class D of which I have owned many different ones (I'll probably receive insults for saying that, but I'm only reporting my experience.)

Yes, it also gives off heat, but not nearly as much as tubes.

webking185's avatar
webking185
187 posts
 

I have the 590AXII, its not a warm amp. Its a neutral amp that matches well with easy to drive speakers. The amp is very refined and detail, I've alwasy found Klipsch speakers to sound a little bright due to the horn tweeter.  You cannot compare a class D amp with Luxman Class A.  I pair my Luxman with Silverline Sonata II and they sound awesome.  My Yamaha AS-3200 is warm sounding.

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