Luxman vs Pass Labs

Luxman 590 specs 30w class A but see the reviews independently tested to 90w into 8 ohms so very conservatively spec’d

Haven't heard this piece, but have listened to many other Luxmans, and for whatever reason I've never heard one that I would buy. What I've heard is a lack of smoothness, or maybe a bit of graininess (don't know what else to call it), on some there was a lack of midrange presence.

What???????????? I call nonsense.

I've heard have a dozen different Pass models and I honestly feel this author is deliberately reversing the difference in these amps. He's actually describing Pass as I've heard them. Wonder if he read my prior posts?

I do recommend everyone looking listen to Pass, Luxman and Ayre. Those are a great triad which to me sound very different.

Lack of smoothness?  Compared to Pass?  Hahahahahahahah.

Best,

E

I agree the 30 Watts on Luxman is conservative. I am guessing the Luxman class A integrateds are under-rated due to heat sink restrictions. The 1/3 power preheat testing required may be too much, so they rated at 30 Watts.

Listening here with my 507s I can't tell I ever use more than 5. :)

I am jumping late in discussion, but thought of giving my 2 cents on Luxman 590AXII.. I just purchased and have been using it since a week now and has barely broken yet. All I can say is wow. Very musical and tube like. There is something about Luxman class A, which is very seductive. Again, as others have mentioned, the 30 watts described are very very conservative. They are more than sufficient to drive any speakers with decent sensitivity. This is an end game integrated amplifier. 

I wish luxman would make the a Power Amp only version of the 590AXII so it could be had at a cheaper price...All their SS power amps are class AB.