I have the LFD NCSE MK II. I went to Axpona 2017 for the express purpose of listening to the Harbeth SHL 5 plus 40th anniversary edition. At the time I had the Harbeth m30.1s for about five years; the Compact 7s before that.
Vinnie Rossi was had his LIO driving the SHL 5+, 40th. Absolutely captivating sound.
I bought a pair of the SHL 5+, 40th. Using them now with the LFD. Like you greta, I have reservations with the LIO output. I thought about the LIO as a pre and the LIO VR120 power amp; 120w into 8 ohm and 225w into 4ohm.
I haven't pursued further inquiry with Vinnie about it due to busy personal matters this summer. I am very happy with the LFD NCSE MKII for now. I have had other LFD integrateds when I had my Compact 7s and was very happy with the combination.
I would not say LFD is better than the LIO or LIO better than LFD. Not better, just different.
BTW, Vinnie Rossi is a real gentleman. Easy to talk with and very knowledgeable.
Vinnie Rossi was had his LIO driving the SHL 5+, 40th. Absolutely captivating sound.
I bought a pair of the SHL 5+, 40th. Using them now with the LFD. Like you greta, I have reservations with the LIO output. I thought about the LIO as a pre and the LIO VR120 power amp; 120w into 8 ohm and 225w into 4ohm.
I haven't pursued further inquiry with Vinnie about it due to busy personal matters this summer. I am very happy with the LFD NCSE MKII for now. I have had other LFD integrateds when I had my Compact 7s and was very happy with the combination.
I would not say LFD is better than the LIO or LIO better than LFD. Not better, just different.
BTW, Vinnie Rossi is a real gentleman. Easy to talk with and very knowledgeable.