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McIntosh to Luxman?

Hey everybody. I need some advice.  It's fair to say I've lusted over Luxman equipment for a few years now.  Something about Japanese hifi that just gets me. Anyway, one of the online retailers of new and used equipment has a Luxman L-507uX (not the mark ii) for sale.  I do really like the sound from my hybrid MA252 integrated, and it drives my Maggie 1.7s with ease.  Most of my listening is of the streaming variety (Bludesound Node/Qobuz), and some vinyl (Music Hall MMF-5). 

Here's my question: what will the Luxman bring me that the McIntosh isn't providing?   More refinement?  More authoritative bass? Better soundstaging?  If the answer is yes, then I may pull the trigger on the Luxman.  By the way, I can get a nice trade-in on my McIntosh, so my out-of-pocket won't be too bad.    Please weigh-in if you've had both McIntosh and Luxman gear and what your experience with both brands has been.   Thanks in advance!   ~ Jerry

jrod68
woots's avatar
woots
368 posts
 

@russbutton There actually is a significant audible difference between McIntosh and Luxman.  The detail and soundstage of Luxman is superior to McIntosh.  Having owned McIntosh 1.25KW mono amps and demoed Luxman products you would be surprised at the differences.  Also, based on @jrod68 speakers he would notice an even bigger difference.  Check out Ohm's law and you will see that the Luxman goes much lower than the McIntosh. Hope this helps provide some color around the two products.

elliottbnewcombjr
7,825 posts
 

 

jrod68

congrats, I bet you will love it.

I just glanced thru the manual, love it's optional features

https://luxmanamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/L-507uX-English-Manual-print1127.pdf

 

curtdr
348 posts
 

I'd be careful about letting go of a nice Mac that you like... 

overthemoon
502 posts
 

I've owned Mac gear and really enjoyed it.  Then I auditioned it with some Moon gear and I then identified a 'veil' lifted - more dynamics and clarity.  

I switched and have enjoyed it.  And really appreciated my time with McIntosh and encourage you to audition if you can and trust your ears.

I've heard some Luxman gear casually - they make quality gear and I think you are in a win-win situation 

dwest1023
361 posts
 

I would like to correct something. I have a Mac 352 Hybrid and it is NOT rolled off at all. In fact I had to change the preamp tubes to warm it up a bit. Treble detail was very good, used on my Goldenear BRX

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