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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
echolane's avatar
echolane
126 posts
 

I’m pleased to report that I own a Luxman MQ-38uC amplifier and a Luxman CL38Uc preamplifier and I have no difficulty with volume when using my turntable, a B&O Beogram 4004.

mdalton's avatar
mdalton
813 posts
 

One other thing to consider:  Stereophile’s measurements of the Volti Razz was 93 db, vs the Volti published 97 db.  Still more efficient than most, but that’s a pretty big difference.  I wouldn’t put that amp with a speaker under 95 db (e.g., the Klipsch Heresy 4 someone else mentioned measured just north of 95 db according to Paul Miller at Hifi News).  

rankaudio OP
200 posts
 

Thanks for sharing. We solved the issue and mystery by using my Erhard Audio’s internal phono preamp by plugging the 1200g into its that phono stage, then ran the output of that preamp to the line-in stage of the Luxman. The results were absolutely smashing, producing the most beautiful sound of any amplifier or speaker to date with this combo using the Volti Razz. The gain was so strong, that the normal line-in using digital streaming seemed even less efficient. The sound was full bodied, airy and silky smooth. I have to say Luxman has done a stunning job with this amp but their phono stages are a complete tragedy. 

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