Phono stages - Rega Aura vs Luxman EQ 500
Hi guys,
I just recently upgraded my vinyl rig to a Rega P8 and Aphelion 2 cartridge. Now it’s time to look at a new phono. Currently, I have a Pass XONO but I feel my new table/cartridge could benefit from an upgrade from the 20+ year old Pass.
Two phonos that have caught my eye are the Rega Aura and Luxman EQ 500. I have briefly heard the Aura (and liked it) but a couple friends told me the Lux is wonderful. I unfortunately cannot hear the Lux (before purchasing) as it’s now discontinued. Has anyone heard or compared these 2 exquisite phono stages?
I know many will want to share their favorite phonos but right now I would like to hear only from those who have direct knowledge of one or both phonos.
Also, I just have one table, so the extra inputs on the Lux are really not important to me, just the sound quality.
"The OP specifically request comments on the 2 mentioned models, but gets recommendations and other suggestions." This is a public forum. I know that my suggestion and those offered by others who colored outside of the lines comes from a desire to assist and exchange information. If the OP doesn't like the suggestions, then the OP can ignore them; however, the information could benefit others who may read this (certainly more than comments from those who would try to police speech) |
@tablejockey Are you complaining or shouting praise? You are absolutely right, this is "Classic Audiogon" and one of it's main strengths. I do hope you see that. |
I own the Luxman EQ-500 and I will say it is an excellent piece of equipment. Standard features,: MC/MM selection with impedance settings, capacitance, gain settings in dB and others which I do not really use all that often but may be something one may be interested in utilizing. Comes with balanced outputs and can accommodate 3 Turntables. Consists of 2 -12Au7 and 4 - 12AX7 tubes. This may sway your decision to purchase a used unit because tubes do take some work. I have replaced the original tubes with newly labelled Telefunkens which I found the best sounding of the tubes I have rolled. For me tube rolling is something I am used to because 1, I have a stockpile of tubes from other tube units I have owned in the past and 2ndly I enjoy the hassle so to speak. The Eq-500 is discontinued and has now been replaced by the E-07 which is a solid state unit. Very similar in design and believe me, the Luxman units are solidly built i will assure you of that. I replaced my former phono preamp Music fidelity Nuvista 5 years back. No comparison to be honest. The Luxman is essentially dead quiet compared to the Nuvista and sonically way more rich and full sounding at least for my taste. Hope this helps. |
