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Leben cs300 vs Luxman sq38

Hello all,

Happy to be joining the group. Following 2 months of intense reading & listening to a variety of systems, I have started narrowing down my choices for a new amplifier (I consider this a first step before start looking for the speakers), between a used Octave V80 (which i liked but scared me with it's size and high valve replacement cost) and the cuter Leben cs300.

I was mesmerized by the virtues of Leben cs300: for me it combines good analysis and sheer musicality, I really like it's sound. My only problem with the Leben being it's low power, I was ready to buy it and then look for something like a Zu or a small monitor to partner it with (not ideal, but I felt ok).

Still I was just given the chance to buy a Luxman sq38u at a very good price, new, unfortunately without the option at this point to hear it. I'm thinking about the Luxman's bigger power and phono stage and I'm wondering:

How would you compare the two? Are they close in terms of sound? What should i expect as differences between them? Would i find in the Luxman the things i like on the Leben?Would you go for it? Leben somehow has a more "boutique" kind of feel while Luxman seems a bit more "mass" is it like that? Is the Luxman able to drive many more speakers and if yes what kind of speakers would you partner it with?

Many thx in advance, sorry for the long post,

Peter
peterbel
ef227
9 posts
 
The Luxman sq38 should be compared to Leben CS600, they are closer in terms of price, power and tube selection
(around 25-30W from EL34/6l6 tubes)
The CS300 is based on EL84 which have less power, but great musicality and charming tone.
If you do like the kind of sound of the EL84, and need more power, consider the Manley Stingray II as well.
peterbel OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for your answer. Indeed I have now excluded the Luxman (I've auditioned it and was not persuaded) and I'm now between the Leben cs600 and cs300. In full honesty I've liked the 300 more, probably the el84 but not fully happy with the limited power thus speaker choices. I will look into the Stingray as well, thanks!
randyk
70 posts
 
Peter,

I am in total agreement with Roscoeiii. I would first choose speakers that sound great, work well in your room's size, and meet your budget. Then you can look for an amplifier that will make them *sing* and meet your aesthetic requirements.

I actually have owned a Leben CS600 for over three years now -- paired with DeVore Super 8's. Good synergy with the DeVores, and I actually preferred it over the Leben CS300, which I found to be too bright for my taste. One advantage with the CS600, if you're so inclined, is the ability to do some tube rolling for tailoring its sound. After one of the stock Sovtek 5881 tubes failed, I switched to Winged C 6L6GC's and have been very happy with the sound. Of course, it is best to let your own ears determine what is right for you.

Also, remember that if you plan on playing LPs, you will need a separate phono stage. One advantage of the Luxman is the built-in phono stage and remote control (if that's important to you). And you can also roll tubes in the Luxman to tailor its sound. Just a thought.

Good luck to you in your quest.

Randy
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