2. amps-preamps
  3. 178464-37255

Accuphase fans. Newer & Lower vs Older & Higher model?

Hi all

I am not rich, not a techie, no expereiences in Hi-Fi, and have no dealers nearby

So I need your help.

 

I've been craving for integrated amplifier, either Luxman or Accuphase. I am going to buy a used one off eBay from Japan

Since I am not able to afford current generation of Accuphase, the ultimate final Two is Accuphase E-470 and Luxman 507. Of course, I will go down to previous models if they are not too old.

My wife thinks Accuphase is prettier than Luxman so I will go for Accuphase probably

 

I am considering following models, around 5K budget

E-470~450, 380~360, 550~530

 

My question is

Should I buy a Newer generation but Lower model? Or Older generation but Higher model?

For example, 470 vs 380 vs 550? 

 

And How old is too old? X20?

 

Regards,

Arron

czar2000
lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
4,626 posts
 

1+ inna

lak's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
lak
4,626 posts
 

@czar2000 just curious, are you open to purchasing a used unit from within the USA and if so have you done a search for one?

czar2000 OP
20 posts
 

@lak 

Of course I'm open to used in USA market. But my max budget is 10K total, and for the amplifier is upto $5,000 (maybe I can stretch little more, depends upon speaker & DAC purchase).

I suspect USA version is almost double the price of japanese? 

hgeifman
2,187 posts
 

I understand audio budgets but I suggest you start searching in the USA for an Accuphase amp. If an amp is purchased from outside the USA, you will need to pay for shipping, both ways, for repairs to Japan, for example.

My friend purchased a preowned amp, it stopped working and it cost $3,000 for shipping (both ways) to Switzerland for repairs.

In addition to eBay and Audiogon, I suggest you contact USA Accuphase retailers and ask them for preowned units. You never know what might happen until you ask.   I suggest you tell the retailer your budget amount and see what happens. 

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 

Go to hifishark.  Search "sold" for Accuphase.  You can restrict the geographical area.  That will give you a good idea what models you might be able to afford that are located in Canada and the US.

More to discover