Just got the 509z a couple of days ago and right off the box, it sounds amazing. Better than my Pass Labs INT60. Just as you described it on your review. Yours was still in the burn in process when you posted this review. Just wondering how it is now after months of use. A long term use review would be nice. Thanks
Hi, First off congratulations on your purchase! Yeah you're right. When I made the review it was still in the burn in period. It gets better after about 2-3months. At first right out of the box I could definitely hear that it was better than the 509x, but as it burns in the sound stage dramaticcally improves. The best way that I can describe it after its burn in period, is that sound literally seems to appear from around the speakers. On some tracks like Issac Hayes: Do Your Thing -remastered edition 16 bit 44.1 khz FLAC on Tidal, there is what I can describe as a guitar effect that verbirates at the very beginning and throughout the track, but that effect wraps around to the left of my ear and it creates what I guess is a phantom surround effect. The bass also greatly improves as it burns in. The concerning thing during the first month while it's burning in is that the sound almost gets flat in some areas and you can still hear its signature of tonality, but it makes you question what is going on and what changed. But its character greatly improves afterwards. Honestly I've been tired of chasing after Hi-Fi gear for the pleasure of hearing music the way I do now- for most of my life until now with the 509z and my current set-up, and now I'm finally done. It checks all my boxesand I always can discover new music without getting aclimated to its sound. As silly as this may sound it has taught me new concepts or put into context the many reviews and terminology that I've read about but never really understood. I still may not be able to write or talk about what the professional reviewers express, but it definitely has surpassed my expectations. I can safely say this because I have owned many iterations of my current system with the foundation of my Sopras, plus the 509x with all the same ancillary pieces and never have I heard it do this well or felt this good and proud of my system. The same oh WOW moments are also noticed by my non audiophile friends and family that visit. 😀
@@LuxAudio389 Hi. Thanks for replying and again, for the well written , well said, long term update on the 509z. Our (my wife and myself) decision to purchase and go with the 509z pretty much blindly was based on your review.😄. You described the amp and its’ sound reproduction so eloquently that we seriously bought the 509z based on it. I was completely happy with the Pass labs even though I know there’s always something better out there but it was my wife (who is even a nuttier audiophile than I am) who caught the upgrade bug. There was always something about the sound that she was after that she felt she was missing with our set up at that time (Pass plus Persona 3F). I made a list of potential amps and speakers we would want to try out and audition but none of our local dealers had the 509z out for demo. We did hear how the 509x sounded and it was pretty impressive. And we then auditioned it with the KEF REF 5 Meta and that caught my wife’s attention. I’ve tried searching for more online reviews on the 509z before I put in the order but unfortunately, there weren’t much around that time. There was a couple on print but sometimes the professional reviews get a bit too technical in terms of their description. It’s almost not a real world review and merely just trying to be poetic and editorial. I used to be captivated by that but having had my own decent system for awhile , i want a more real world feedback. Not something that’s almost patronizing. Until I came across your review. I knew, somehow, with the way you described the 509z’s sound character and what it was doing to you in terms of connecting emotionally , that it was what my wife and myself are looking for and maybe missing with the Pass and Persona, I forwarded your review to her and she immediately gave me the “go” signal. This was a blind purchase that we’re truly proud of and we are so grateful from your very eloquent yet real world, honest description of the 509z. How you described it is exactly what we’re hearing. So thank you very much. Seriously. From the bottom of our hearts:). We, too, have come to a point where we’ think we’ve reached our own personal audio bliss and nirvana that contentment is finally settling in. I have heard from 2 other owners of the 509z about the first month (or maybe 300 hours plus) of sound signature pain 😁(flat, lacking bass, bright, etc) and then opening up again and even improving for the better (or best) afterwards. Not to say I’m looking forward to it but more of preparing ourselves for when that day comes. My wife and I just swore to ourselves we will push through 😀. Again. Thanks for helping us with our decision and also for taking time to reply. We do appreciate it. Enjoy your system. You have an amazing set up.
@@yotnit1170WOW thanks for sharing your experiences. It's fantastic that you and your wife share the same passion! I'm definitely glad I could help and MOST importantly that I accurately told it's story, is bonafide and not just fluffy. Lol
hello, I also used Luxman Ll-550AXII and L-590AXII, then I switched to pass int-60 because I liked its sound more, if we compare, Luxman L-590z produces 120 watts of power at 8 ohms, has a 600 watt power transformer, 80,000 microfarad capacitor power reserve and 16 output transistors, Pass labs in-60 has 8 ohms 60 watts (first 30 watts Class A), 1000 watts of power transformer, 240,000 microfarad capacitor power reserve and 40 output transistors, in my opinion, Luxman is a very good amplifier for short listenings with much finer details, but I can say that pass labs is a much better amplifier for long listenings, of course these are my opinions and ideas
Looking at this exact combo as my endgame system - D10X and L509Z. Owned a Cary 306 CD Player for many years; which has been very difficult to improve upon. Looking forward to this Luxman setup; when I can swing the funds!!
I also purchased the 509z from Albert in late September. Also had the 509x for comparison. You are spot on with a little cleaner smoother top end with nothing missing. Better mid bass etc etc... I have Martin Logan ELS13a speakers and they sound fantastic with the 509z. Previous setups included Bel Canto REF600M mono amps with PSAudio BHK Preamp. The Bel Canto's are rated at 300w into 8 ohms and 600w into 4 ohms. I did some tube rolling in the preamp to get the sound I wanted out of that setup but the Luxman is at another level. The Martin Logans dip down to 2 ohms on the panels and the Luxman has no problems driving these to very high volume levels. Great dynamics and never fatiguing. The massive power reserves in the Luxman really make the difference imo. Less equipment and much better overall sound. I think this will be my last amp purchase. Happy listening!
I think Albert told me about you before I upgraded. He mentioned that you or someone with Martin Logans had the 509x and really liked the 509z. I also had the Bel Canto 600M a few years ago too and they were great. Very close to the Black series EX, but nothing like Luxman. Yeah Albert proved to me along time ago that watts mean nothing when he demoed another high-end amp against the Luxman 590AXII. It easily out performed the other amp and was smooth and dynamic . I call Albert Hi-Fi Jesus. Or Aladdin Lol His store is Aladdin's treasure cave. 🧞♂️
Heck of a set up man. All very nice components, especially that D10X. It took about 7 months (roughly 250 hours) for my 595ASE to fully burn in. Love the tonal richness and warmth of it. Before the burn in, it had a bit too much attack in the treble. At times a bit too revealing and left me fatigued after a couple of hours. Now that the warmth has settled in and the accentuated highs now tamed, I can't imagine wanting anything else. Looks like Luxman struck some of that tonal richness and density of the 595ASE into the 509Z without compromising that wide holographic sound stage.
Just got an absolute steal on a 509X last week. Dollar for dollar I don't think it can be beat because it would cost me double to get the 509Z. It is so interesting to hear that the 509X is actually brighter than the 509Z! To me, the 509X is almost borderline not bright enough, but I guess it all comes down to the speakers and other equipment. I'm going to be happy with this integrated for many years and when I do move up, it will be to Luxman separates, whatever follows the M10X. There is something difficult to describe but extremely inviting about the Luxman sound. God bless you too and thank you for the 509Z video!
I heard the 509 Z driving a Focal Scale Utopia Evo at the Munch high end show back in May this year - it was an amazing performance! Furthermore, I could imagine that the 509 Z would be a good match for the Sopra 2 (or 3).
I too received one of these from Albert just a few days ago. I couldn't be more pleased with this integrated amp. I will be receiving an Aurender A20 in a few days, also from Albert. I wish I still had my Focal Kanta No.2's but I am very happy with my HarbethSHL5s. What truly amazed me is how well this amp plays with my Klipsch Chorus ll speakers. I was listening to the Eagles When Hell Freezes Over and the song Hotel California. The band sounds like they are in the room with me. This is an amazing amp.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I couldn't agree with you more on how life like performances are. That term is thrown around quite a bit, but in this case it truly fits. Congrats on the A20. You'll love it. Their Conductor App is excellent and so is their customer service.
....wow you have vintage Chorus II? I had those in the 90's. They were my first high end speakers. I loved them. I had Adcom components with them. My parents bought them from Simply Stereo. 👍
I have a friend in Rochester NY (I live about 30 minutes away) who deals in vintage gear and you would be amazed at what he comes across. He gets to hit up estate sales before anything gets auctioned off. A few years back he took me on one of his expeditions where I put together a McIntosh tube system that was completely redone by Audio Classics near Binghamton only a few months prior to the owner's passing. I picked up essentially new tube power amps, preamp, tuner, and cd player for a price I felt guilty paying. He is the one that came up with the Chorus 2s. I walked in the shop one day a few months back and he asked if I was interested in a pristine pair of the Klipsch. He already bought them and had them in his shop. We sat for an hour or so listening. I offered him $400. I took them home. I paired them with an XA-25 and an Ayre VX-5 Twenty. I have always been a fan of the Klipsch house sound and was very impressed with how these sounded with a variety of amps. The 509Z made them sound sublime. In his shop he has a pair of reworked corner horns. He also has a 509X and the sound of the corner horns was amazing. He typically uses an old Sony TA-N77ES with any audition of speakers or other gear. Or you can bring your own amp. I will never sell the Chorus 2s. I have a Decware Torii that loves those speakers.
First of all, I salute you, I'm very glad to hear there are improvements over the previous model. Last week, I also ordered the new 509 z and can't wait to receive it. Unfortunately, in Germany, it will be available from January 24, so I still need patience until then. It would be great to put sound videos with the new amp. Wishing you a good listen and all the best!
Thank you for acknowledging the burn in process! Your gear is too nice for hybrid soround ;-) but I understand that two dedicated systems can take up too much space.
Thanks for doing this review. Could you post maybe a demo song with the 509z please. I know it won’t be true sound to what it sounds like but I would love to hear it either way :) if possible and not too much trouble of course. Thanks!
Thanks for posting this video. Your gear is commendable. I am contemplating either getting sepratae DAC (5-8k) and CD transport (4k) or get D10x here. But i need to hook up a streamer that i have.. so how D10x will handle that is not clear to me..
Hi, Physically the D-10X has 3 inputs (USB, Optical, and Coax) for accessing it's internal DAC. As for its sampling rate, that depends on what your streamer outputs or what your streaming service offers.I use Tidal Max so it automatically switches the sampling rate and if applicable decodes MQA. My streamer also allows up sampling, but I don't use that feature. As far as performance, the D-10X is phenomenal and very smooth, but what you get out of it depends on your streamer and what your goals are. My goal was to have streaming sound as good as CDs sound on the D-10X. I've heard DAC's with Sabre, AKM, and Texas Instruments and they're good but nothing like what's been done with the ROHM chipset in the D-10X. In my experience I started with a Blue Sound Node going to the D-10X and it never sounded as good as what the D-10X does with CDs. I was from the thought that digital was digital and quickly learned I was wrong. In order to get a great performance out of it I had to find something that was as electronically quiet as the D-10x and had a low jitter. I stumbled into an Aurender A30 that was priced way below it's value. I told my dealer about it and he said, "why did you do that?" I said because it's one of the best. Nope. It is if you need a DAC, preamp, ripper, streamer, and headphone amp. It sounded good, but still not as great as playing a CD on the D-10X on its own or through the D-10X. I talked to my dealer and Aurender and they told me a better match was the N20 and it was. It is electronically quieter and has a better clock. My goal was met when I bought it. So it depens what you want. Most of my music comes from streaming. I also have a good amount of CDs. Now most of my CD purchases come from artists I discover through streaming. I hope this helps.
Beautiful piece!! Incredible system. I loved how you went trough every component. Could you share cables, furniture and power conditioning? Really well done.
Thank you so much for a great review. Could you please advise as lm stuck between Luxman 509z and McIntosh MA 7200. I have a pair of Sonus Faber Olympica ll. I’m more for Luxman but I’m not sure whether it will have sufficient power. Please advise. Sorry to be a bother.
Sorry, but I'm not familiar with those models. You definitely need to hear them both with your speakers and music. Here is a link by Stereophile that may guide you. www.stereophile.com/content/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier
Thanks for the mini-review! I too am coming from the 509X looking to upgrade... Did you compare the 509Z to anything else before purchasing? -I'm waiting for my dealer to stock the new Simaudio Moon North amps to compare.
Thanks for doing this review. I'm new to the Luxman brand and haven't had a chance to demo one yet, but after reading lots of reviews I think it might be a good fit for me. I'm hoping to bring a little more detail out of my B&W 803 D4s which I'm running through a McIntosh MC462. I think the MC462 is rolled off up top and not very dynamic, so switching to the Luxman should help to create a more open and transparent sound. I'm just concerned that it's not going to be enough power for the 803s, so I'm also considering bi-amping them with the Luxman taking care of the mids and high end. Any thoughts on this from your perspective as an experienced user of the 509X and 509Z would be much appreciated!
I understand your dilemma and there's a few of them. 1st The 803's are a large and an efficient speaker. But I think you'll really notice the decrease in power when it comes to bass performance when moving down from 462 wpc to 120 wpc, especially if you have a larger room. I do use a SVS Ultra sub for 2 ch as well as hometheater which works for me. But you're already used to that massive amp. 2nd The 509x or Z will definitely give you the dynamics. The 509Z is definitely cleaner, smoother, and not as bright as the 509x which for diamonds is better so they don't become too bright. I used to own B&W 800 series speakers and the McIntosh products paired really well with them because they tamed the diamond tweeter and were warmer, so I understand where you're coming from. 3rd and 4th. If you are going to biamp or want something more dynamic you may want to look into other brands too. The Luxman 509x used is about 7k-8k, and the 509z would honestly be better, but now you're looking at 12k list. The 507z 110 wpc @ 9k list maybe a better choice if it can be biamped and used as a preamp to your McIntosh at the same time it's driving your top end. You definitely need to find a dealer that will let you trial it at home or that has the same or very similar setup you have at home. Financially down the road you'll be safe because like McIntosh the resale on Luxman is very good. I found these reviews the day I uploaded my video by Tom Martin on the 507z. He nicely describes the Luxman's sound signature and price vs performance analysis. Good luck. Let me know how it works out.👍 ruclips.net/video/qHAN9pRaJkE/видео.htmlsi=AXg20aQdMiO6SemF ruclips.net/video/fMAAxD2bQuc/видео.htmlsi=jq0_rFsP6Wijwekm
@@LuxAudio389 thanks very much for your detailed and very helpful reply! It's nice getting the perspective of a regular user (not a dealer, etc.) like yourself and you confirmed a lot of my thinking. I'm fairly confident that the bi-amping situation might be the best of all worlds because (assuming I like the sound) I don't think there's much else out there which can deliver the experience that Luxman can, especially at a somewhat reasonable price point. I'll absolutely let you know my thoughts if/when the L-509(x or z) makes it into my system 👍👍
Next month I might listen to this compared to the Accuphase. I can audition them at the same sales place. Both about the same price at almost 20k. Both overpriced but oh well.
You are very lucky to be able to audition both Luxman and Accuphase at the same time! You may be surprised and find value in either of them if they exceed your expectations. Please share the models, speakers, sources, music, and your thoughts. If you'd like I'll pin your your experience 👍
@@LuxAudio389I listened to the Accuphase 5000 a few days ago on Audiovector R3 Arette floorstanders. Sounded beautiful to my ears. I actually forgot at the time to ask to listen to the Luxman but I intend returning in a few days to let him know my decision on the speakers, I think I will get them. My only issue with the Accuphase is in the unlikely event it needs servicing it needs to be trucked to the other side of my country, about 6,000 kilometres return trip. The Accuphase have such a great reliability reputation that I might be able to overlook that big negative. I think Luxman can be serviced in my city. I will ask to audition this Luxman for that reason, if it’s not too bright and busy sounding then it might be the more wise choice. It lacks some features that the Accuphase has including the DAC board but it does have mid tone control which is nice.
If you had a chance to get a new 595SE at roughly the same price, would you have gone with that? Reason I ask is I see them occasionally pop up on the used market going below this new I think.
Good question. No, but that's a phenomenal piece. It's very similar to the discontinued and missed by many 590AXII Class A integrated, which I did audition and liked. Both the 590 and 595se are great pieces and can easily drive any efficient speaker effortlessly. If you like the Class A sound it's definitely worth getting and doesn't disappoint.
I own the 590ax2. How does it differ from the 509z in terms of sound? I really like the sound of the 590 but it gets hot in my ventilated cabinet. Tia!
@@Fransost7367 The 590axii is one of my favorites. I heard Luxman is bringing it back. To answer your question. The 509z is more dynamic and it's tonality with instruments and voices is phenomenal. I have a few songs of what it can do on RUclips and may post more. ruclips.net/video/OKijSVwcxgk/видео.htmlsi=lrlSGNuZqG4PLDs1. For cooling try a Cloudplate T1 fan on Amazon.
Hello, Which model plays brighter, 509x or 509z? I'm a bit lost in these descriptions. Can the 509z, when properly combined with other elements of the audio path, produce sound that can be listened to for many hours? How do you rate the sound signature compared to the 509x model and the A-class Luxman 550ax or 590ax models?
Hi, The 509x is brighter. Not in a bad way, but the 509z is definitely smoother and more enjoyable for long listening, having said that I ever got listening fatigue from the 509x. Sound signature of the 509z is better in tonality, sound stage, and has a touch of warmth that the 509x doesn't have. As for the Class A 590axii.... It's been years since I heard it and can't do justice comparing it to the 509z. What I can say is that it drove Sopras with ease when I compared it to a McIntosh amp at the time. I definitely preferred the 590axii sound signature. I can recall that even though the 590axii was warm and rich, it didn't at all struggle with detail. The 509x has more detail but isn't warm. The 590axiii is very good and it ultimately would come down to what you like.
@@LuxAudio389 Thank you for your reply. It's good that the 509z went towards slightly warming it up and softening the sound. I've heard opinions that the 509x is an excellent amplifier, but with a poorly selected rest of the track it could be a bit tiring during longer listening sessions. How the 509z performs is purely utilitarian. Cy doesn't get too hot, how does the volume control work, etc.?
I commented on your other videos did you still run this Luxman on your Sopra 3? I have the Sopra 2 and am desperately amp searching to get them off my AVR. I'm between Luxman and Mcintosh what are your thoughts what did you like not like and what do you listen to now with theM?
Yes I'm definitely still running the 509z on my Sopra No 3's. As far as my opinion: I like the Luxman sound. The 509z with my other gear makes it so the sound comes from around the Sopras. I've heard McIntosh with the Sopras and it was too warm for me. I think Luxman has better tonality and dynamics. Even with their 590axii which pure Class A and is warmer, it still is more dynamic. The power or current delivery of Luxman is nothing to take lightly. I've heard the 590 axii which is 30 watts Class A easily out perform McIntosh on the Sopras. But it all comes down to taste. Both are great brands that perform with different speakers. Both are extremely well built.
The 509z is the Pinnacle. The gold peeled circuit boards and LIFES technology is used separately in both the preamp and amplifier sections are nice to have. It also has a better power supply which in my case helps with the Sopra No 3 overall, but mostly in the bass. They're both expensive, but the 507z is a also an excellent choice if your speakers aren't hard to drive or demanding. Below is a review from Stereophile www.stereophile.com/content/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier
I also have the Sopra's and seeking for a new amp. Do you do a lot of late night "low volume" listening How does this amp perform at the lower levels. Does the fidelity diminish?
At lower listening levels in Line Straight mode the fidelity does diminish a bit, but for lower levels it does have a Loudness button which helps out a lot. You can also play with the tone controls to further tailor your sound.
Lol yeah it definitely looks old fashion. Initially when I really got into the hobby looking for better gear, I didn't like how it looked. But its sound grew on me and no matter what I listened to or bought, in the end the others never came close to what it could do. Luxman has an appealing signature sound. As for Accuphase, that's one I haven't heard, but their look in my eyes ls worse by a factor of 10. Lol
![Megan Thee Stallion - Roc Steady (feat. Flo Milli) [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/HozPPyqW0dY/mqdefault.jpg)
Just got the 509z a couple of days ago and right off the box, it sounds amazing. Better than my Pass Labs INT60. Just as you described it on your review. Yours was still in the burn in process when you posted this review. Just wondering how it is now after months of use. A long term use review would be nice. Thanks
Hi,
First off congratulations on your purchase! Yeah you're right. When I made the review it was still in the burn in period. It gets better after about 2-3months. At first right out of the box I could definitely hear that it was better than the 509x, but as it burns in the sound stage dramaticcally improves. The best way that I can describe it after its burn in period, is that sound literally seems to appear from around the speakers. On some tracks like Issac Hayes: Do Your Thing -remastered edition 16 bit 44.1 khz FLAC on Tidal, there is what I can describe as a guitar effect that verbirates at the very beginning and throughout the track, but that effect wraps around to the left of my ear and it creates what I guess is a phantom surround effect. The bass also greatly improves as it burns in.
The concerning thing during the first month while it's burning in is that the sound almost gets flat in some areas and you can still hear its signature of tonality, but it makes you question what is going on and what changed. But its character greatly improves afterwards.
Honestly I've been tired of chasing after Hi-Fi gear for the pleasure of hearing music the way I do now- for most of my life until now with the 509z and my current set-up, and now I'm finally done. It checks all my boxesand I always can discover new music without getting aclimated to its sound. As silly as this may sound it has taught me new concepts or put into context the many reviews and terminology that I've read about but never really understood. I still may not be able to write or talk about what the professional reviewers express, but it definitely has surpassed my expectations. I can safely say this because I have owned many iterations of my current system with the foundation of my Sopras, plus the 509x with all the same ancillary pieces and never have I heard it do this well or felt this good and proud of my system. The same oh WOW moments are also noticed by my non audiophile friends and family that visit. 😀
@@LuxAudio389 Hi. Thanks for replying and again, for the well written , well said, long term update on the 509z. Our (my wife and myself) decision to purchase and go with the 509z pretty much blindly was based on your review.😄. You described the amp and its’ sound reproduction so eloquently that we seriously bought the 509z based on it. I was completely happy with the Pass labs even though I know there’s always something better out there but it was my wife (who is even a nuttier audiophile than I am) who caught the upgrade bug. There was always something about the sound that she was after that she felt she was missing with our set up at that time (Pass plus Persona 3F). I made a list of potential amps and speakers we would want to try out and audition but none of our local dealers had the 509z out for demo. We did hear how the 509x sounded and it was pretty impressive. And we then auditioned it with the KEF REF 5 Meta and that caught my wife’s attention. I’ve tried searching for more online reviews on the 509z before I put in the order but unfortunately, there weren’t much around that time. There was a couple on print but sometimes the professional reviews get a bit too technical in terms of their description. It’s almost not a real world review and merely just trying to be poetic and editorial. I used to be captivated by that but having had my own decent system for awhile , i want a more real world feedback. Not something that’s almost patronizing. Until I came across your review. I knew, somehow, with the way you described the 509z’s sound character and what it was doing to you in terms of connecting emotionally , that it was what my wife and myself are looking for and maybe missing with the Pass and Persona, I forwarded your review to her and she immediately gave me the “go” signal. This was a blind purchase that we’re truly proud of and we are so grateful from your very eloquent yet real world, honest description of the 509z. How you described it is exactly what we’re hearing. So thank you very much. Seriously. From the bottom of our hearts:). We, too, have come to a point where we’ think we’ve reached our own personal audio bliss and nirvana that contentment is finally settling in. I have heard from 2 other owners of the 509z about the first month (or maybe 300 hours plus) of sound signature pain 😁(flat, lacking bass, bright, etc) and then opening up again and even improving for the better (or best) afterwards. Not to say I’m looking forward to it but more of preparing ourselves for when that day comes. My wife and I just swore to ourselves we will push through 😀. Again. Thanks for helping us with our decision and also for taking time to reply. We do appreciate it. Enjoy your system. You have an amazing set up.
@@yotnit1170WOW thanks for sharing your experiences. It's fantastic that you and your wife share the same passion! I'm definitely glad I could help and MOST importantly that I accurately told it's story, is bonafide and not just fluffy. Lol
Thanks for the clarification regarding the PASS. I was seriously looking at the INT60.
hello, I also used Luxman Ll-550AXII and L-590AXII, then I switched to pass int-60 because I liked its sound more, if we compare, Luxman L-590z produces 120 watts of power at 8 ohms, has a 600 watt power transformer, 80,000 microfarad capacitor power reserve and 16 output transistors, Pass labs in-60 has 8 ohms 60 watts (first 30 watts Class A), 1000 watts of power transformer, 240,000 microfarad capacitor power reserve and 40 output transistors, in my opinion, Luxman is a very good amplifier for short listenings with much finer details, but I can say that pass labs is a much better amplifier for long listenings, of course these are my opinions and ideas
Just Drop-Dead Fabulous! I could listen to this system until I crossed that Great River Styx! Sublime.
Looking at this exact combo as my endgame system - D10X and L509Z. Owned a Cary 306 CD Player for many years; which has been very difficult to improve upon. Looking forward to this Luxman setup; when I can swing the funds!!
I also purchased the 509z from Albert in late September. Also had the 509x for comparison. You are spot on with a little cleaner smoother top end with nothing missing. Better mid bass etc etc... I have Martin Logan ELS13a speakers and they sound fantastic with the 509z. Previous setups included Bel Canto REF600M mono amps with PSAudio BHK Preamp. The Bel Canto's are rated at 300w into 8 ohms and 600w into 4 ohms. I did some tube rolling in the preamp to get the sound I wanted out of that setup but the Luxman is at another level. The Martin Logans dip down to 2 ohms on the panels and the Luxman has no problems driving these to very high volume levels. Great dynamics and never fatiguing. The massive power reserves in the Luxman really make the difference imo. Less equipment and much better overall sound. I think this will be my last amp purchase. Happy listening!
I think Albert told me about you before I upgraded. He mentioned that you or someone with Martin Logans had the 509x and really liked the 509z. I also had the Bel Canto 600M a few years ago too and they were great. Very close to the Black series EX, but nothing like Luxman. Yeah Albert proved to me along time ago that watts mean nothing when he demoed another high-end amp against the Luxman 590AXII. It easily out performed the other amp and was smooth and dynamic . I call Albert Hi-Fi Jesus. Or Aladdin Lol His store is Aladdin's treasure cave. 🧞♂️
Hi-Fi Jesus🤣. Yes his store is dangerous. Now I need to upgrade my streaming setup..Again lol. @@LuxAudio389
Heck of a set up man. All very nice components, especially that D10X. It took about 7 months (roughly 250 hours) for my 595ASE to fully burn in. Love the tonal richness and warmth of it. Before the burn in, it had a bit too much attack in the treble. At times a bit too revealing and left me fatigued after a couple of hours. Now that the warmth has settled in and the accentuated highs now tamed, I can't imagine wanting anything else. Looks like Luxman struck some of that tonal richness and density of the 595ASE into the 509Z without compromising that wide holographic sound stage.
I love the look of the 595ASE. Very tactile piece with the proper vintage look and fantastic Class A performance. Simply stunning.
Nice review. Warmer is what I am looking for to go along with my Sopra 1
Have the 509x so glad to see the Z is worth it
Mcintosh puts the warm veil on Sopra from listening.
Just got an absolute steal on a 509X last week. Dollar for dollar I don't think it can be beat because it would cost me double to get the 509Z. It is so interesting to hear that the 509X is actually brighter than the 509Z! To me, the 509X is almost borderline not bright enough, but I guess it all comes down to the speakers and other equipment. I'm going to be happy with this integrated for many years and when I do move up, it will be to Luxman separates, whatever follows the M10X. There is something difficult to describe but extremely inviting about the Luxman sound. God bless you too and thank you for the 509Z video!
Congrats on the 509x. You'll definitely love it for many years.
I heard the 509 Z driving a Focal Scale Utopia Evo at the Munch high end show back in May this year - it was an amazing performance! Furthermore, I could imagine that the 509 Z would be a good match for the Sopra 2 (or 3).
I had chance to compare side by side 509x and 509z. Almost no difference in sound. On blind test me and my friend were failed to recognize exact amp.
@@singarast4221 refreshingly honest assessment. I have an L509x and it's not going anywhere...
I too received one of these from Albert just a few days ago. I couldn't be more pleased with this integrated amp. I will be receiving an Aurender A20 in a few days, also from Albert. I wish I still had my Focal Kanta No.2's but I am very happy with my HarbethSHL5s. What truly amazed me is how well this amp plays with my Klipsch Chorus ll speakers. I was listening to the Eagles When Hell Freezes Over and the song Hotel California. The band sounds like they are in the room with me. This is an amazing amp.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I couldn't agree with you more on how life like performances are. That term is thrown around quite a bit, but in this case it truly fits. Congrats on the A20. You'll love it. Their Conductor App is excellent and so is their customer service.
....wow you have vintage Chorus II? I had those in the 90's. They were my first high end speakers. I loved them. I had Adcom components with them. My parents bought them from Simply Stereo. 👍
I have a friend in Rochester NY (I live about 30 minutes away) who deals in vintage gear and you would be amazed at what he comes across. He gets to hit up estate sales before anything gets auctioned off. A few years back he took me on one of his expeditions where I put together a McIntosh tube system that was completely redone by Audio Classics near Binghamton only a few months prior to the owner's passing. I picked up essentially new tube power amps, preamp, tuner, and cd player for a price I felt guilty paying. He is the one that came up with the Chorus 2s. I walked in the shop one day a few months back and he asked if I was interested in a pristine pair of the Klipsch. He already bought them and had them in his shop. We sat for an hour or so listening. I offered him $400. I took them home. I paired them with an XA-25 and an Ayre VX-5 Twenty. I have always been a fan of the Klipsch house sound and was very impressed with how these sounded with a variety of amps. The 509Z made them sound sublime. In his shop he has a pair of reworked corner horns. He also has a 509X and the sound of the corner horns was amazing. He typically uses an old Sony TA-N77ES with any audition of speakers or other gear. Or you can bring your own amp. I will never sell the Chorus 2s. I have a Decware Torii that loves those speakers.
I posted a cover of an Eagles song. By the way how did you meet Albert?
ruclips.net/video/iJ8egjVFerc/видео.htmlsi=kpEUr3wK34jVJdD8
First of all, I salute you,
I'm very glad to hear there are improvements over the previous model. Last week, I also ordered the new 509 z and can't wait to receive it. Unfortunately, in Germany, it will be available from January 24, so I still need patience until then. It would be great to put sound videos with the new amp. Wishing you a good listen and all the best!
Where did you order it from - The stockist in Finland never has stock and cant give a date for delivery, so happy to look elsewhere
Beauty 😍😍😍
I think it's a very good review. I like all the personal impressions of the RUclipsr. :)
Thank you for acknowledging the burn in process! Your gear is too nice for hybrid soround ;-) but I understand that two dedicated systems can take up too much space.
Thanks for doing this review. Could you post maybe a demo song with the 509z please. I know it won’t be true sound to what it sounds like but I would love to hear it either way :) if possible and not too much trouble of course. Thanks!
I will try.
@@LuxAudio389 thank you very much!
I posted a demo on my S10.
ruclips.net/video/iJ8egjVFerc/видео.htmlsi=kpEUr3wK34jVJdD8
Thanks for posting this video. Your gear is commendable. I am contemplating either getting sepratae DAC (5-8k) and CD transport (4k) or get D10x here. But i need to hook up a streamer that i have.. so how D10x will handle that is not clear to me..
Hi,
Physically the D-10X has 3 inputs (USB, Optical, and Coax) for accessing it's internal DAC. As for its sampling rate, that depends on what your streamer outputs or what your streaming service offers.I use Tidal Max so it automatically switches the sampling rate and if applicable decodes MQA. My streamer also allows up sampling, but I don't use that feature. As far as performance, the D-10X is phenomenal and very smooth, but what you get out of it depends on your streamer and what your goals are. My goal was to have streaming sound as good as CDs sound on the D-10X. I've heard DAC's with Sabre, AKM, and Texas Instruments and they're good but nothing like what's been done with the ROHM chipset in the D-10X. In my experience I started with a Blue Sound Node going to the D-10X and it never sounded as good as what the D-10X does with CDs. I was from the thought that digital was digital and quickly learned I was wrong. In order to get a great performance out of it I had to find something that was as electronically quiet as the D-10x and had a low jitter. I stumbled into an Aurender A30 that was priced way below it's value. I told my dealer about it and he said, "why did you do that?" I said because it's one of the best. Nope. It is if you need a DAC, preamp, ripper, streamer, and headphone amp. It sounded good, but still not as great as playing a CD on the D-10X on its own or through the D-10X. I talked to my dealer and Aurender and they told me a better match was the N20 and it was. It is electronically quieter and has a better clock. My goal was met when I bought it. So it depens what you want. Most of my music comes from streaming. I also have a good amount of CDs. Now most of my CD purchases come from artists I discover through streaming. I hope this helps.
Beautiful piece!! Incredible system. I loved how you went trough every component. Could you share cables, furniture and power conditioning? Really well done.
The stand is from Monoprice. Its a double wide 3 tier. Cables I dont get into too much that's all personal preference.
Luxman and Accuphase are my dream gear
Thanks , nice video
Very nice system. I always liked Luxman, but I have the Revel Studio. I don’t think the 509z would have enough grunt to power them? Thanks
Yeah your Revel definitely need more power in order to perform-especially with orchestral music.
@@LuxAudio389 Ha-ha! A good amp delievers ! If you believe that a special amp is needed for classical music,you are more stupid than i thought
Thank you so much for a great review. Could you please advise as lm stuck between Luxman 509z and McIntosh MA 7200. I have a pair of Sonus Faber Olympica ll. I’m more for Luxman but I’m not sure whether it will have sufficient power. Please advise. Sorry to be a bother.
Sorry, but I'm not familiar with those models. You definitely need to hear them both with your speakers and music. Here is a link by Stereophile that may guide you.
www.stereophile.com/content/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier
Thank for spending your valuable time pointing me in the right direction. I have accessed the link, which really goes into detail. Thank you so much
Thanks for the mini-review! I too am coming from the 509X looking to upgrade...
Did you compare the 509Z to anything else before purchasing? -I'm waiting for my dealer to stock the new Simaudio Moon North amps to compare.
Before this and the 509x I used my VTL 5.5, and a Burmester 897 with Belcanto REF 600m. Sold those and used Orchard Audio monoblocks.
Ma quanto è bello!?
I giapponesi nell' Hi-Fi sono come gli italiani con le auto!
hi, thanks for the review.
Great video..! Perhaps some samples?
Thanks for doing this review. I'm new to the Luxman brand and haven't had a chance to demo one yet, but after reading lots of reviews I think it might be a good fit for me. I'm hoping to bring a little more detail out of my B&W 803 D4s which I'm running through a McIntosh MC462. I think the MC462 is rolled off up top and not very dynamic, so switching to the Luxman should help to create a more open and transparent sound. I'm just concerned that it's not going to be enough power for the 803s, so I'm also considering bi-amping them with the Luxman taking care of the mids and high end. Any thoughts on this from your perspective as an experienced user of the 509X and 509Z would be much appreciated!
I understand your dilemma and there's a few of them. 1st The 803's are a large and an efficient speaker. But I think you'll really notice the decrease in power when it comes to bass performance when moving down from 462 wpc to 120 wpc, especially if you have a larger room. I do use a SVS Ultra sub for 2 ch as well as hometheater which works for me. But you're already used to that massive amp.
2nd The 509x or Z will definitely give you the dynamics. The 509Z is definitely cleaner, smoother, and not as bright as the 509x which for diamonds is better so they don't become too bright. I used to own B&W 800 series speakers and the McIntosh products paired really well with them because they tamed the diamond tweeter and were warmer, so I understand where you're coming from.
3rd and 4th. If you are going to biamp or want something more dynamic you may want to look into other brands too. The Luxman 509x used is about 7k-8k, and the 509z would honestly be better, but now you're looking at 12k list. The 507z 110 wpc @ 9k list maybe a better choice if it can be biamped and used as a preamp to your McIntosh at the same time it's driving your top end. You definitely need to find a dealer that will let you trial it at home or that has the same or very similar setup you have at home.
Financially down the road you'll be safe because like McIntosh the resale on Luxman is very good.
I found these reviews the day I uploaded my video by Tom Martin on the 507z. He nicely describes the Luxman's sound signature and price vs performance analysis. Good luck. Let me know how it works out.👍
ruclips.net/video/qHAN9pRaJkE/видео.htmlsi=AXg20aQdMiO6SemF
ruclips.net/video/fMAAxD2bQuc/видео.htmlsi=jq0_rFsP6Wijwekm
@@LuxAudio389 thanks very much for your detailed and very helpful reply! It's nice getting the perspective of a regular user (not a dealer, etc.) like yourself and you confirmed a lot of my thinking. I'm fairly confident that the bi-amping situation might be the best of all worlds because (assuming I like the sound) I don't think there's much else out there which can deliver the experience that Luxman can, especially at a somewhat reasonable price point. I'll absolutely let you know my thoughts if/when the L-509(x or z) makes it into my system 👍👍
Next month I might listen to this compared to the Accuphase. I can audition them at the same sales place. Both about the same price at almost 20k. Both overpriced but oh well.
You are very lucky to be able to audition both Luxman and Accuphase at the same time! You may be surprised and find value in either of them if they exceed your expectations. Please share the models, speakers, sources, music, and your thoughts. If you'd like I'll pin your your experience 👍
@@LuxAudio389 well the accuphase is warmer in my opinion
@@LuxAudio389I listened to the Accuphase 5000 a few days ago on Audiovector R3 Arette floorstanders. Sounded beautiful to my ears. I actually forgot at the time to ask to listen to the Luxman but I intend returning in a few days to let him know my decision on the speakers, I think I will get them.
My only issue with the Accuphase is in the unlikely event it needs servicing it needs to be trucked to the other side of my country, about 6,000 kilometres return trip. The Accuphase have such a great reliability reputation that I might be able to overlook that big negative.
I think Luxman can be serviced in my city. I will ask to audition this Luxman for that reason, if it’s not too bright and busy sounding then it might be the more wise choice. It lacks some features that the Accuphase has including the DAC board but it does have mid tone control which is nice.
If you had a chance to get a new 595SE at roughly the same price, would you have gone with that? Reason I ask is I see them occasionally pop up on the used market going below this new I think.
Good question. No, but that's a phenomenal piece. It's very similar to the discontinued and missed by many 590AXII Class A integrated, which I did audition and liked. Both the 590 and 595se are great pieces and can easily drive any efficient speaker effortlessly. If you like the Class A sound it's definitely worth getting and doesn't disappoint.
I own the 590ax2. How does it differ from the 509z in terms of sound? I really like the sound of the 590 but it gets hot in my ventilated cabinet. Tia!
@@Fransost7367 The 590axii is one of my favorites. I heard Luxman is bringing it back. To answer your question. The 509z is more dynamic and it's tonality with instruments and voices is phenomenal. I have a few songs of what it can do on RUclips and may post more. ruclips.net/video/OKijSVwcxgk/видео.htmlsi=lrlSGNuZqG4PLDs1. For cooling try a Cloudplate T1 fan on Amazon.
Hello,
Which model plays brighter, 509x or 509z? I'm a bit lost in these descriptions. Can the 509z, when properly combined with other elements of the audio path, produce sound that can be listened to for many hours?
How do you rate the sound signature compared to the 509x model and the A-class Luxman 550ax or 590ax models?
Hi, The 509x is brighter. Not in a bad way, but the 509z is definitely smoother and more enjoyable for long listening, having said that I ever got listening fatigue from the 509x.
Sound signature of the 509z is better in tonality, sound stage, and has a touch of warmth that the 509x doesn't have.
As for the Class A 590axii.... It's been years since I heard it and can't do justice comparing it to the 509z. What I can say is that it drove Sopras with ease when I compared it to a McIntosh amp at the time. I definitely preferred the 590axii sound signature. I can recall that even though the 590axii was warm and rich, it didn't at all struggle with detail. The 509x has more detail but isn't warm. The 590axiii is very good and it ultimately would come down to what you like.
@@LuxAudio389 Thank you for your reply. It's good that the 509z went towards slightly warming it up and softening the sound. I've heard opinions that the 509x is an excellent amplifier, but with a poorly selected rest of the track it could be a bit tiring during longer listening sessions. How the 509z performs is purely utilitarian. Cy doesn't get too hot, how does the volume control work, etc.?
Class amplifier
Nice review…. Thanks!
Thats a bad boy there.❤
Really good review!
Nice system.
What are you using for DAC? D-10X?
Thanks yup. I'm using the D-10X for it's DAC. Love it.
I commented on your other videos did you still run this Luxman on your Sopra 3? I have the Sopra 2 and am desperately amp searching to get them off my AVR. I'm between Luxman and Mcintosh what are your thoughts what did you like not like and what do you listen to now with theM?
Yes I'm definitely still running the 509z on my Sopra No 3's. As far as my opinion: I like the Luxman sound. The 509z with my other gear makes it so the sound comes from around the Sopras. I've heard McIntosh with the Sopras and it was too warm for me. I think Luxman has better tonality and dynamics. Even with their 590axii which pure Class A and is warmer, it still is more dynamic. The power or current delivery of Luxman is nothing to take lightly. I've heard the 590 axii which is 30 watts Class A easily out perform McIntosh on the Sopras. But it all comes down to taste. Both are great brands that perform with different speakers. Both are extremely well built.
very helpful thank you, I am struggling to decide between the 507z and 509Z ... any thoughts?
The 509z is the Pinnacle. The gold peeled circuit boards and LIFES technology is used separately in both the preamp and amplifier sections are nice to have. It also has a better power supply which in my case helps with the Sopra No 3 overall, but mostly in the bass. They're both expensive, but the 507z is a also an excellent choice if your speakers aren't hard to drive or demanding. Below is a review from Stereophile
www.stereophile.com/content/luxman-l-509z-integrated-amplifier
@@LuxAudio389 Thanks so much, think I'll go for the 509!
you have very heavy gear in your littlr room man
I also have the Sopra's and seeking for a new amp. Do you do a lot of late night "low volume" listening How does this amp perform at the lower levels. Does the fidelity diminish?
At lower listening levels in Line Straight mode the fidelity does diminish a bit, but for lower levels it does have a Loudness button which helps out a lot. You can also play with the tone controls to further tailor your sound.
Have you compared it with Yamaha for example?
Sorry I have not. But I've heard good things about both the Yamaha and Technics Flagship models.
How can people buy these oldfashioned products today?!
Lol yeah it definitely looks old fashion. Initially when I really got into the hobby looking for better gear, I didn't like how it looked. But its sound grew on me and no matter what I listened to or bought, in the end the others never came close to what it could do. Luxman has an appealing signature sound. As for Accuphase, that's one I haven't heard, but their look in my eyes ls worse by a factor of 10. Lol
Will it drive two pairs of headphones at the same time?
Honestly I don't know. I haven't used either of the headphone jacks.
HI do you know what the phono is like..
Sorry I don't.
How would you compare the Luxman to Accuphase sonically?
I've never heard Accuphase my dealer doesn't carry them.
But honestly, their asthetic look to in my opinion isn't appealing.
How long was burn in
About a month
instead of all talk, little demo of the audio would have helped.
Here's a demo:
ruclips.net/video/iJ8egjVFerc/видео.htmlsi=kpEUr3wK34jVJdD8
I already ear all those musical nuances with my Moon 600i V2…
インプットセレクターを回したあとのリレー音がうるさい
It's the same on the 509x. The D-10X also has a relay when it changes sampling rates.
Thousands worth of equipment but no tripod for camera.
Nope it's shot on my Samsung S10. I don't plan on reviewing anything else.