Really appreciate your opinion and your sharing it. You’re the first I’ve seen who has preferred 509x directly to 595ase. Probably not many have had the opportunity to compare given that 595ase limited to 300 units worldwide, only 100 in USA. I’ve demo’d the 509x but have never seen the 595ase
kzk: Most likely not long enough of a demo, ironically the 595ase is limited but I have seen them on the used market already. They are both beautiful pieces and I could live a very long time with either one, but in my situation; 4ohm speakers and low efficiency speakers Dynaudio C2’s (87db) and Joesph Audio Graphine 2’s and Sonus Faber Olympica III (90db) the 509X seem to pull the most out of all of the speakers I have on hand. The 595ase really shinned on the SF which makes sense based on their sensitivity ratting. I already have a Tube Pre/Amp so it was a no brainer for me to just keep the 509x. I should have took some pictures side by side pics but I was so exited as I upped my game in the Int. Amp space, no going back now! 
Yes, I was thinking even before you posted that those were not easy speakers to drive. Yet it is impressive that on all 3 you mentioned you preferred the L509x.
Did the 595ase sound warmer than the 509x, if you remember? That’s a comment that many would make about the 590axii (also class A) as compared to the 509x. SF are on the warmer speaker side but I don’t typically associate Dynaudio or JA as such, so maybe your preference wasn’t merely limited to the extra power on tap but maybe also a slight tonal difference?? I don’t expect them to be tonally disparate, of course, probably a matter of minor difference, again just guessing as I’ve never had pleasure to hear side by side.
I’m still thinking also that 509x is the one for me. Absolutely loved it when I demo’d on Wilson Audio SabrinaX.
I bought an original 590A new in the box 15 months ago and it plays with a Luxman D08.
And I must say this is a great combo.
As a loudspeaker I use casa blancas completely modified with band tweeter and mundorf filter.
The only downside is a bit less low, but we are working on that.
Now to wait and see whether a 509Z will indeed be released within a few years.
Would be a nice upgrade with a little more power.
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I think the 595ASE splits the difference between the 509x and the 590axii. The 595 is a bit warmer and rounder, whereas the 509x has more drive. The 595 combines the best of both to a great extent.
Ultimately, I preferred the 590axii to all of them as it just felt “right”. Don’t look at the specs, it can drive almost anything and everything.
I have since sold my Luxman and replaced it with a Gryphon Diablo 300. It retains the warmth, but adds more details, more depth, and a boat load more slam. It’s truly as close to perfection as I’ve ever heard any amp (or integrated)
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The Gryphon 300 is of course a lot more expensive than the Luxman 590.
But saves on electricity costs.
Might also be worth considering.
For sure. Diablo 300 is not in same price class as any of the Luxman integrated amps, so should be much better given the ticket price
I wouldn’t necessarily assume it would save on electricity… it’s biased very highly into Class-A and it does get quite warm (almost the same as the 590). Luckily, I have solar, so it doesn’t impact by electric bill at all (in 2022, I had one bill only… the rest was either off-set from production or from accrued credits)
But yes, it is significantly more expensive.
I just stumbled upon this thread. I’m in the process of simplifying my system with a great integrated amp with a phono stage. I had tunnel vision towards the Luxman 590 AX ii. My speakers are the Harbeth 40.2 Anni’s…any thoughts on if the 509 would be a better match ?
Thanks in advance.
The 590 is much more powerful than the rating would indicate but even so, if you’re driving the speakers to ear splitting levels in a large room, then the 509 would be better but otherwise the 590 is one sweet amp!!!
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Thanks… I was shooting for a low wattage class A amp. I love a lush mid range.
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I’d suggest trying it both ways, assuming you can arrange for it. The Harbeth 40.2 are a somewhat demanding load. Depending on your listening preferences the 509X will offer better dynamics, better bass control, and the ability to maintain the illusion of image specificity and soundstage during fortes. The 590 will provide for better coherence, and slightly sweeter midrange. Personally I opted for the 509X for the reasons provided. My speakers are not Harbeth, but are a slightly easier load than the 40.2. I had considered the Harbeth Compact 7es-3, and found the Luxman 509X to be a fine partner. My critical listening is typically acoustic jazz/creative music.
I’ll be buying used so that’s not going to possible. Just trying to figure out the best match.
Crazy idea, but buy both, and sell one. If you are local I’d be happy to lend you my 509X for a reasonable period.
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What a thoughtful offer. I’m in Cleveland Ohio, I doubt your close.
I bought my Harbeth’s locally from a guy who was actually driving them with a Luxman 590AXii
So I know the 590 is a great match…just wondering weather the 509 is a better match.
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BTW- I’m simplifying my system for several reasons.
I currently have all Pass Labs- XP-22 / 250.8 / XP-17
My goal is to find a one box solution for now.
Which would be an integrated amp with a good phono section.
What you currently have is ideal. Hard to walk from an XP-17.
Cleveland is a bit of a drive. Chicago not so much. Best of luck with your decision.
Thanks brother…very generous offer. Love the audiophile community.
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Don’t bother with a 30w amp and 40.2. It is below minimum required spec. I’ve had 3 pairs of Harbeth and went to the 40.2 launch demo. Alan Shaw used a massive amplifier. He appreciates that they are OK with minimum power, but better with more. Last I heard, Harbeth used a couple of Hegel H390. I found 140w Quad 909 got most out of SHL5+.
I have a 509x with Wilson, but I reckon it would get 99% of 40.2 performance.
I got my Harbeth from a dealer who has sold them since they launched in the 1970s and has probably sold more pairs than any dealer anywhere. He sold me my Luxman 509x, his mainstays for Harbeth are Quad, Luxman and Rega.
The H390 is an integrated stereo amplifier, not sure how one would use two. Possibly you meant the Hegel H30 monoblocks.
Your thoughts line up with mine regarding the Luxman 509X versus the 590axii, but if possible it would be best to audition both with the 40.2. I will also depend on the listener’s preferences and the room. IMO either is a fair step down from his current Pass Labs set-up.