2. amps-preamps
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Luxman L505u . . . why not?

I'm getting close to pulling the trigger on one of these--an upgrade from my Rotel receiver. Before I do, I'd like some perspective from the learned A'gon community. First, will it be a significant upgrade from the Rotel? What kind of sonic improvements can I expect? Second, why shouldn't I buy from Audiocubes II? http://www.audiocubes2.com/brand/Luxman/product/Luxman_L-505u_Integrated_Amplifier.html
I know On a Higher Note is the official U.S. distributer, but my budget pushes me towards the less expensive purchase option. Third, regardless of where I purchase it from, it will need a transformer to boost the power to 220. I don't know anything about the possible effects this might have on sound and performance of the component--can anybody speak to this? Is it possible to have the piece modified to accept the U.S. 110 current? I want the piece because it meets my requirements for an integrated: it's at least 100W, it has speaker A/B (I've got speakers in the kitchen and the main living room), it's got a great phono section (I play 50% records, 50% CDs), and it's got a headphone amp. Those are the features I want in an integrated. Any advice, suggestions, dissuasions will be appreciated.

Danny
rosedanny
chashas1
596 posts
 
Jim, I started reading a thread on pf that would be perfect for you, and then saw that you were already on it!
So how do you think sitting on the floor affects the overall sound? Any different than if they were on stands?
Too bad about the shishamo... Our's here are frozen, sob, so it doesn't matter for us...
jimthewebguy
44 posts
 
Chashas1 Thanks for thinking of my search! There is also an older thread on pf with a different title of almost the same meaning that gave me loads of insight.

I've never heard them on stands, so I don't know what the difference is like. I've discussed stands with several people and tried to find some original ones before, but haven't yet. I almost bought a pair of wooden stands for giant mortar/pestles for grain grinding, which were just the right height and size, but people convinced me the wood might not be good sounding, so at risk of having even more junk around with nowhere to store it, i didn't buy those in the end. Anyways, I really don't think they need stands in the room they are in.

My space is limited, and because it's a tatami room we sit on the floor when seriously listening, so our ears are at just about the right height for them. The sound is so wonderful already I really wonder why I am looking for an even better amp.
jimthewebguy
44 posts
 
Brianmgrarcom Would you mind letting me know a bit about your set-up and how you came to choose your Luxman?
brianmgrarcom
1,317 posts
 
Jim,

I had a McIntosh MC402 and C46, which will now be replaced with the L590a II; I have Ridge Street Audio Sason speakers.

I came about the Luxman in researching class A amps as I am wanting to find a better pairing with my speakers. Honestly I wasn't aware of the Luxman gear until somewhat recently and I really liked what I was learning.

Brian
jimthewebguy
44 posts
 
I just read some reports. Those are certainly interesting-looking speakers. Doubtful that I'll see them over here soon. Were you able to somehow listen to the Luxman you ordered with your speakers before you ordered it?

As a happy owner of simple but classic older Luxmans, I am eager to start listening to new Luxmans. No time until February.
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