As a long‑time owner of an X1, I was initially reluctant to trade it in for the X2. The X1 has been superb in my system, and I honestly wasn’t convinced that a dual discrete DAC, new output buffer, improved clocking, updated processor, and the rest of the redesign would translate into meaningful real‑world improvements.
I finally decided to make the leap, and purchased an X2 from Taylor at Goldprint Audio here in North Carolina. Even though the X2 has only been in my system for two days, the benefits of the new architecture are already clear.
I’ll write a full review once the break‑in period is complete, but even at this early stage the differences are audible. Voices have a more rounded and natural presence, strings are smoother and less edgy, brass has more bite and immediacy, and the overall presentation feels more engaging and effortless. I expected these changes to emerge gradually over the burn‑in period, but they’re apparent right out of the gate.
I’m looking forward to reading both professional and user impressions as they appear, to see how others describe the transition from X1 to X2.
Attached is a photo of my system: Mola Mola Perca amplifier on the top shelf, the X2 in the middle with its power supply below, all housed in a BDI cabinet. Not pictured is the Lumin L2 switch/library feeding the X2 via fiber.
An outstanding review! Interestingly, the reviewer suggests using the MQA Labs QRONOd2a filter, which I had been doing with the X1 and have continued with the X2. One of the reasons I am a fan of Lumin is its openness to external innovations, such as Leedh Processing and the MQA Labs filter, both offered to customers as part of the company’s value proposition.
Two quotes from the review are worth mentioning:
“That’s why we listen to music with the Lumin X2, as if we were hearing it for the first time every time.”
“An excellent product, one of the best complete file players currently available on the market. It is definitely the best Lumin has ever made. A well-deserved GOLD FINGERPRINT.”
Coincidentally, we just had MQA Labs verified its sonic characteristics being in compliance with MQA standards, and will look into the possibility of further improvements.
Jose, I use a pair of Vivid B1 Decade speakers. I purchased them used. They pair beautifully with the Mola Mola Perca amp, also purchased used. As for the X2, I traded in my X1, so I didn’t pay full price. It’s a lovely system!
Thank you for sharing. I was curious and I appreciate your answer. And your modest words about the stereo equipment you are enjoying makes you a real nice person.
