If you’re still using the PH9 for phono, which is not clear from your OP, I can only say that it was not well regarded when it first came out, one of the few AR preamps that was unloved. I heard it in my system and unloved it too.
Seeking opinions on the Luxman PD151 and EQ500 combination
Merry Christmas to all!!
Interested in feedback on the Luxman PD151 turntable, MC5 cartridge and EQ500 equalizer phono amp combination. Several years ago I got back into the music scene and bought a Project S-Berycxx with a Sumiko Songbird cartridge. Combined with that I added an Audio Research PH-9 a couple years later. I have enjoyed vinyl more than I thought I would and have a nice collection Jazz music, primarily. I'm considering adding the above Luxman set up but before I do, would love feedback from fellow Audiogoner's. Currently, I feel that my weakest link is my turntable but my PH-9 makes it sound so much better.
My current set-up is Audio Research 160S amplifier, REF6SE pre-amplifier, with Wilson Alexia V speakers and 2 REL S812 subs. I have a Grimm MU-1 Streamer and a Nagra Tube Dac with separate PSU. I use Roon exclusively and have subscriptions to Qobuz and Tidal. Cabling is mostly Transparent Reference with some Audience Front Row and Black Cat cables as well. I feel that my digital section is superb, for me, but would like to take up my turntable and analog section a notch.
Appreciate your insights in advance.
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the luxman phono eq500 has impressive features, I’d like to hear it. Stereophile said this: "especially for the LP enthusiast who uses an analog front end with multiple tonearms and an assortment of cartridges—it’s difficult to imagine another contemporary product offering this combination of flexibility and superior sound. In addition to being a pure delight to use, it was easily one of the best-sounding, most musical phono preamps I’ve ever had in my system. If your budget can stretch this far, the Luxman EQ-500 is a must-hear." IF you change your TT, especially Jazz, I’d encourage you to consider having two arms, both Mono and Stereo ready to go back and forth in any listening session. The Luxman PD444 TT is amazing, I set one up for my friend, I would be quite happy with it, we put two Micro Seiki 505 arms (12" and 9") which I also have great respect for, they have easy arm height, tracking, anti-skate, and the headshell fitting has an adjustable collet for azimuth. My TT is deeper than normal, the Luxman is wider than normal. Built in Switch for the Two Arms makes setup easy. http://Luxman PD444 Vintage Knob Info |
Vintage Knob is also valuable for vintage turntable information. This gives me an opportunity to add to my previous statement about the underwhelmingness of the ARC PH9; the Luxman EQ500 is sure to outperform it, in my opinion. Furthermore, you can consider a TT and a phono stage to be two entirely separate items. |
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