Accuphase E408, E407 or E530 ?


Hi, my system consist of Sonus Faber Concerto speaker, Marantz SA15-S1 SACD player & I am using a old vintage Accuphase E206 integrated amp.

I would like to upgrade my E206 to a higher model integrated amplifer. I am thinking about the above models.
Any advise ?

I thought of going from integrated to pre-power but I think an integrated should work as well as a pre-power amp.

I am using Elco HPC-10SP power cord & Crystal Clear Audio Studio Reference RCA interconnect for my SACD player .

I thought of getting the E408 ( S$6250 in Singapore here ) but comparing it to the E407, I can't really see a difference. Is it worth while ?

E530 is a class A 30 Watts amp. As compared to E408, the sound should be much warmer but is 30 Watts too little.

I am intending to upgrade to a floorstanding speaker down the road ( eyeing on the JM Lab Utopia Be model ). No intention to upgrade to electrostatic speaker & will keep to box speaker.

I like all kind of music/song but not into heavy metal rock.

Thanks in advance.
jeremy

Showing 3 responses by seurat

Jeremy, of the models you list I've only heard the 407, and IMHO it's a great amp.
The new one 408 (it replaced the 407) it's more complex design in terms of topology.
The 530 is a class A amp, and uses Mosfet transistors, it should have a diferent sonority, as you say warmer.
One of the great things of Accuphase amp is that he plays all kinds of music, not only classical or jazz.
Power can be an issue, because of the music you listen, how you listen, the size of the room and your speakers, then you should consider the amp with the higher power rating.
Whatever your choice, you will be a very happy customer.
Congratulations on your new Accuphase, the E530 is a jewel.
Beeing a Class A design it will run hotter than a class AB design like the E408.
Concerning your new speaker dilemma I will give you my opinion. SF are one of the most coloured speakers, some like it that way, some dont; Proac allways had a strange treble for me and never seemed easy to install in a room (never heard the D38).
The JM lab Diva Be is a good speaker and it might work with your system. For this price point there are numerous models that are worth an audition, try hearing the Audio Physics Avanti III and the Marten Design Miles II.
Hello Gregg, I've heard a system with an Accuphase E407 and the Audio Physics Virgo III.
I cant say that this combo is a match made in heaven, there is moore variables in
place (like personal preferences or my frieds CEC transport, wich he doesnt like), but
the sound was very impressive - Big, dynamic, realistic timbres, excellent soundstage
and focus (it's an AP!).......
I would love to have is amp and speakers, maybe some day. But that's me.