I got a LM845 Premium this week and it is an exceptional amp even with the stock tubes. For comparison I do also own a ref6/ref75se combo, luxman c900u/m900u combo, and some ANK gear. The premium is about at the same level with a suitable speaker and it is not close to broken in. It is very detailed, nuanced, musical, yet still the most relaxed sounding amp I have heard.
I have owned the 518 and 508 and they are very good for the money, especially the 518, but not even close to this. If you can find a 518 with quiet transformers ( I understand the later production is quiet) used in the $3500 range that is still the vfm winner, great value. But in terms of “ultimate” amp, this thing at $7500 is an incredible bargain.
Last edited by guitardave; 02-27-2021 at 02:01 PM.
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