2. amps-preamps
  3. 175440-171875

Amplifiers from the big [expensive] brands in Japan?

Hi all,

I’m a new member on audiogon!

My question is regarding amplifiers. But first, a bit of backstory so you guys have an understanding of my current audiophile situation.

I have owned vintage gear from brands like Technics, Pioneer, Sony, AKAI, etc. I’m talking about amplifiers, CD players, etc. and they all sounded pretty good.


Currently I have a pair of headphones and a dongle for my Android smartphone. Looking to build a system one day. Got to save up money for it.

 

I’m looking into the following brands as the ultimate end game.

Accuphase, Esoteric, TEAC (higher-end line up), and Luxman.

 

There is an audio store pretty close to where I live and they carry some of these brands. The owner said that she could set up an audition for me with different speakers - and I even get to use my headphones on the 6.3mm out of the integrated amplifiers.

 

My question is - are these very expensive audio components able to bring you closer to the original sound? is that the reason for their high prices?

 

For any owners of audio gear from these brands, please tell me your impressions about sound quality, build, parts, etc. Since they are all high-end brands, is the sound quality similar or very different between them? For example, is there a "signature" sound that only an Accuphase can have?

 

I’m here to learn and I appreciate all the help I can get.

 

My best,

Jack.

jackhifiguy

Showing 2 responses by jackhifiguy

jackhifiguy OP
151 posts
 

 

tuberist

I spoke with her on the phone yesterday. She could not tell me which brand was better. She only said: "it’s up to your own personal taste in music and sonic signature." And I think she’s right about that.

@erik_squires

Thanks for the heads up! I think perhaps I could message you or others here regarding my listening impressions once I try the gear out. It has been a long time since I had seperates components for audio. I’m really excited to see how far high-end audio has progressed since the vintage days!

 

@ghdprentice

Thank you for confirming! Plenty of great information there. I will certainly take your advice to heart. My ideal sound would be slightly warm in the midrange and treble....just enough to make sharp sounds a bit softer. And peaky vocals a bit more tame. I guess you could say I’m aiming for a smooth overall presentation with my music.

@johnto

I’ve got a pair of KEF M500 headphones. Maybe not the best, but aside from speakers I would also like to collect some nice headphones. I’ve been doing quit e a bit of research on sites like HeadFi and watching some YouTube headphone reviews.

jackhifiguy OP
151 posts
 

Has anyone had experience with the Esoteric F-03 (Class A?) 

Or one of the higher-end models from Luxman, also Class A?

 

These should be end-game amps.

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