Luxman vs Accuphase for Harbeth 40.3 XD

@sro +1

I owned the Luxman 590AXII. Amazing amp! Last year I bought the Aavik U-280 
(basically, the same integrated amp as I-280 plus a built-in DAC). In my system, it is absolutely one or two levels above Luxman in every way. The only exception is the fit and finish. You can't beat a Luxman when it comes to build quality and looks. However, sonically Aavik is a notch or two above the Luxman integrated.

If you considering SimAudio Moon for the Harbeth check out the Benchmark AHB2 amp. The SimAudio is likely a very good choice and something I would take over a warmer toned amp. I heard a Harbeth speaker sometime back with Luxman gear, maybe 509x or m900u and c900u. I liked it a lot but thought it was too warm for my tastes and it would get tiresome. At that audition, I was thinking a Benchmark AHB2 would be what I want to hear with a Harbeth. 

I have a speaker that looks a lot like the 40.3 and it is slightly warm. I am going to have a listen to the new SimAudio 861 amp with these speakers. 

Thanks for all the feedback. My goofyass speakers are sounding really good with the BAT. 

After a couple of 2-3 hour focused listening sessions, my comments above stand but I'd add sweet and very easy to listen to.

While I did not hear the Sim 700i, I think the Sim/BAT dealer gave me good advice.

@macg19 

ignore that goofyass poster... a well known pariah on these pages

enjoy your music and your speakers...👌

@jjss49 Yep - Monsieur dumass is amusing actually.

Thanks, you too - enjoy what's left of the holiday weekend if you are in the US.