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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
sidewinderrr's avatar
sidewinderrr
2 posts
 

I know I maybe late to the party on this....But here it is

Considering an upgrade to my current amp which is a Emotiva TA-1 running a pair of Klipsch Heresy IV's. I have a separate phono-stage with the McIntosh MP100 and a LP8X Turntable with a ORTOFON LVB 250 MM Cartridge and a Bluesound Node as my network streamer. Everything sounds heavily already......However

Got 2 offers at a great price between the Luxman 505uxii and a McIntosh MA252. Trying to decide and ChatGPT can only advise you so much LOL...JK

I am auditioning both on Sunday but wanted to get people's thoughts on this or if anyone has owned any of these 2 devices with my speaker pairing. 

I have heard the tubes are great for the Heresy's and have already been advised by some of my audiophile buddies that my system even with the Heresy's leans more neutral than warmth. The MA252 will add, but if you want to stick to the clarity, go with the Luxman.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Have checked reviews and the LUXMAN has had glowing reviews for the most part and the MA252 somewhat lukewarm but more positive than negative. Thanks in advance!

jrod68 OP
50 posts
 

@sidewinderrr hey never too late to the party! I’m on my 3rd integrated in about 2 years. I traded in the Luxman for a Vincent SV-500.  Man, the Vincent just checks all the boxes for me at this point in my life. I sold the Luxman to pay some bills after my house renovation, but I certainly miss it! The McIntosh didn’t drive my Maggie 1.7s as well as the Luxman, and the McIntosh sounded “thick” in the mid bass.  The Luxman was more neutral I guess, with a more forward top end (compared to the Mc).  The Vincent is warm and inviting (lol) and clicks with my SVS ultra monitors. I’m able to enjoy the music now, and not get too worried about what I might be missing. I’d say go the Luxman route, as there’s nothing like a big ol’ hunk a Japanese gear (IMHO).  Take care! 

faustuss's avatar
faustuss
816 posts
 

I've had a fair amount of McIntosh over the years as well as Luxman and now I have both. Yes!yes

avanti1960
1,744 posts
 

Luxman integrated amps can sound overly smooth (e.g. their class A amps) and need to be paired with non laid back speakers.  

The newer "Z" integrated amps are more detailed and sound excellent. 

Newer McIntosh POWER amplifiers are as smooth yet detailed as anything out there- the midrange is the star- such bloom and clarity- is what sold me on them.  

Their preamps and integrated amps tend to be softer sounding in the treble but still sound amazing when paired with the right speakers.  

webking185's avatar
webking185
233 posts
 

Luxman for me

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