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Any Levinson owners/critics out there?

I am looking to build a new two channel digital system. I can read specs and listen at my local dealer but I am interested in the thoughts of real owners and past owners about levinson products. What is good, what is bad, why do you keep it, why did you get rid of it etc. I am looking to spend about 10k (used) on digital source and amplification.
I will be using Revel Studios or B&W nautilus 802's. Other products in this category are welcome. Keep in mind that cosmetics are important to me. I know that ONLY THE SOUND MATTERS, but when one pumps buttloads of discretionary income into the joy of music, PRETTY is an easier pill for those who just don't understand to swallow. (spouses) Thanks for your input.
Brian
griswold
jayctoy's avatar
jayctoy
3,677 posts
 
Iam thinking of buying the 333 amp, was there any
problem noted on this amp?Is this a good amp compare
to the 335.Thanks
larryi
3,718 posts
 
I have a Ref. No. 32 preamp (includes phono stage). In terms of flexibility and ease of use this thing is hard to match (very similar to BAT linestage in this respect). I initially thought the .1db volumes steps was silly, but when one is fine tuning channel balance, .2db is easily discernable.

As for the sound, it sounds more relaxed and less exciting than the Placette active it replaced. The soundstaging is also not as wide. But, the more refined presentation has grown on me. I am not a fan of most solid state components, this is the exception (the No. 32 feeds a push pull triode tube amp with 45 tubes -- about 5 watts output).
kkursula
95 posts
 
If you like muddy undefined sound, of the amp that tries to mimik the tube sound. Sorry but that was my impression of ML house sound. You are better of with Plinius, McCormack, SimAudio MOON and Odyssey amps.
errivera
22 posts
 
I can only say that I have regreted the day I sold my ML gear years ago. I find that they are one of a few manufacturers that have produced exceptional sounding gear.

One day, when I hit the big one, I will again own ML equipment.

Along with ML I consider McIntosh and Audio Research as reliable gear with great sound.

Good luck
oldlee
5 posts
 
I have used the following ML equipment,

transport: 37, 31.5
DAC: 360s
pre: 380s, 32
amp: 432

I love all these except the transports!
Both the 37 and 31.5 have disc reading problems, although they did sound good when they work.

The other ML components I owned, provided me with a combination of high quality and well balanced sound (with little additive!), convenience and reliability.
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