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Luxman SQ-N150 Integrated Tube Amplifier

After we experimented with a Thorens TD165 using a Nagaoka MP200 MM cartridge and a new Technics SL1200G using a Nagaoka MP500 MM cartridge, we are convinced that Luxman has failed miserably to provide enough gain compared to the digital inputs to acquire reasonable volume levels even with the 97db efficient Volti Razz horn speakers. Has anyone else had this experience? Reviews tout the phono stage as being good but this has not been the case. 

rankaudio
rankaudio OP
203 posts
 

Definitely an oversight on Luxman's part to be forced to use specific cartridges unlike Nagaoka's which are popular choices. 

dekay's avatar
dekay
6,219 posts
 

Are you saying that you cannot achieve good vinyl sound even when the volume pot it turned up more than the digital source?

 

DeKay

parkergetdean
1,112 posts
 

I was on the verge of buying this amp several times. But it's just too underpowered in every aspect. I guess a good bedroom choice with thin walls and sensitive speakers. 

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faustuss's avatar
faustuss
876 posts
 

It’s not unusual for a fixed gain phono input to require an extra few degrees towards 12:00 on the volume control, perhaps 10:00 or 11:00 compared to the high-level line in inputs.

I’ve used this integrated with a Planar 8, Apheta 3 (.35mV MC) combo with Klipsch Heresy IVs and easily produced room filling volume with undistorted dynamic peaks.

A good DAC will give you the ability to trim it’s output somewhat to bring it in line with lower-level sources. You also have to consider the digital source you’re using. I have CDs that almost match the level of most vinyl records and those where the content that is so loud and compressed that the volume setting is half that of a properly mastered one.

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