Japanese Audio

@panchodxb, 
I am a very happy owner of the Coincident Frankenstein 300b SET mono blocks for nearly 12 years. I have no doubt that your Takasuki 300b SET is an outstanding amplifier.  Perhaps one day I'll have an opportunity to hear one.
Charles 

@panchodxb,
You wrote,
A true audiophile and related music isn’t enjoyed at rock concert volume levels. The fine details and the emotions of the artist and his / her music is never captured at such levels

Actually this is how I listen to music (Moderate volume levels) the vast majority of the time, so I understand your point. Certainly this type of approach to music listening coupled with limited domestic space (And other cultural considerations mentioned above) would seem to favor low power amplifiers/efficient speakers. I do acknowledge however that some listeners do prefer louder "cranked up" volumes.

My audio system has been SET amplifier based nearly 12 Yeats and is the best sounding and emotionally engaging I’ve ever had. BTW congratulations on acquiring the Takatsuki TA 501 SET amplifier. I imagine it just sounds fabulous!
Charles

@jkeitel,
If it is rated at only 4 watts output power, that suggests they are using ’very’ conservative operational points for the 300b. This usually means two things,
1 Prioritizing sound quality over higher power capability.
2 Exceptionally long tube life.
I bet it sounds utterly gorgeous!!! This amplifier utilizes the esteemed Japanese Tamura output transformers.  Looks very well constructed. 
Charles

I’ve happily used Takatsuki 300b tubes. I wasn’t aware that they now have an amplifier. It they perform to the level of their tubes then they’re outstanding amplifiers.
Charles

@robertrs,
You wrote,
A lot of what has been mentioned here applies to my system, great resolution at low levels, non fatiguing, wonderful sound that draws me back for more.

No doubt! Your Audio Note kit 300b is very nice and these types of amplifiers do draw you deep into the music listening experience. .
Charles

@todd_segal,
Given your observation, sounds as though conformity runs quite deep in the Japanese culture.
Charles

@boomerbillione, 
I do not doubt that Japanese music lovers desire authentic reproduction of indigenous music and instruments. Jazz is highly popular in Japan so I suspect that they also crave authentic reproduction of trumpets, saxophones, drum kits and piano as well 😊.

Charles

@lukaske,

Many good Japanese lower power tube brands, in addition to the Wavac, there's Zanden and Reimyo to add to the initial list.  Very high quality. 
Charles 

Yep,
From what I’ve been able to gather, living conditions for many in Japan mean, limited space, close neighbors and relatively thin walls. Low power tube amplifiers driving high efficiency (Often horns) speakers is the best sounding solution (For most) with modest listening levels.

I’ve seen pictures of listening rooms in Asian homes and big efficient speakers in small rooms is not an uncommon  sight.
Charles