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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
overthemoon
399 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
174 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

richdirector's avatar
richdirector
266 posts
 

Luxman class a may be easier jump ...550ax2 or 590ax2 class a for first 20/30w then goes ab .... Bass control good but warm midrange reminiscent of valves ... Think the 505 has the control but not the same musicality if that makes sense 

bjp9738's avatar
bjp9738
64 posts
 

I'm probably a little late with this, but I was going to suggest doing some tube rolling in the MA252 and see if that helps give you more of what you feel is currently lacking.  I haven't yet done it myself in my Mac tube preamp, but have read many comments about it.  Seems many folks feel the stock JJ tubes are not the best to bring out the full potential of the Mac tube gear.  Improvements in soundstage, bass and "top-end sparkle" are often mentioned.

jrod68 OP
42 posts
 

Good evening. The Luxman arrived today. Got my streamer hooked up and listened for a few minutes. Then my lady says “hey, can you pick up some food?” Off to get Chinese. 😁
 

First impression…holy s***. So the Maggie’s CAN make some serious bass. This thing seems to have unlimited headroom. Wow. More to follow. 
 

~ Jerry 

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