LFD Integrated - Please talk me out of buying one


Have a bit of "upgrade-itis". I presently have Luxman L-550ax integrated; have been using and enjoying for a couple of years. I've been intrigued by LFD - such a simple thing - for a while now. I'm an ex tube guy (which is why I bought the Luxman 20W class A amp). I'd pair the LFD with my Sonus Faber Electa Amator II's, Chord Qute EX DAC and - sorry - Spotify 320k into the Chord for the most part.

Anyone on the forum use LFD integrated? Thoughts as to sideways move? Just thinking out loud for now. Probably would get the new LFD Zero LE Mk5.

Thanks guys - I do appreciate your thoughts.
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xsteveashe
"07-29-14: Steveashe
Not convincing enough yet:-). Getting there. Which Ayre?"

Either, but the new 5 series is the better of the 2. As it should be, given its a lot more money. I know Austinbob disagrees but he has Harbeth speakers and they're just not a good match for Ayre. Its understandable why he would pick something else.
Have you listened to the LFD? If so, what did you think? If not, I suppose an audition would be greatly helpful. I went from a Luxman 505u to a LFD LE Mk IV. I much preferred the sound of the LFD over the Luxman. The Luxman was more cosmetically appealing, but the LFD sounded much better to me. I now have the Mk V and enjoy it immensely. At first I wasn't sure how I could get along without a remote. I now find the absence of a remote a positive thing; set the volume, sit down, and delight in the music undistracted by any compulsions to raise and lower the volume. I find the minimalism of the LFD desirable. But then, that's just me.
With the "right" system, it is terrific.

We all know that system synergy matters , but in my experiences and with our local dealer, none moreso than with LFD.
For example, LFD electronics sound sensational at the dealer where it is all LFD cables. I saw one guy chintz it on the cables upgrade to go with his new integrated (over the strong recommendations by the dealer) and the result was predictable.

LFD also excels with certain UK speakers and sources.

Overall it was my second choice (I went with the REGA OSIRIS )
Akgca makes an important point. LFD cabling is a beneficial synergy with the LFD integrated. I use all LFD cables with my LE Mk V- hybrid ribbon speaker cables, silicon signature power cable and an assortment of interconnects ( spirolonk iv, grainless, silver horizon, and reference silver) depending in the source.