Yes. It was made to a higher standard with better parts. Easily worth the difference, I would think. It would be to me. It was their prestige line and had an excellent reputation. Parts quality is one of the fundamental factors underlying the sound of a component. I have looked at the Michi and would buy one if I didn't already have so much stuff (see system for evidence). They were much more popular in Europe , were not promoted much here.I was reading a British audio mag from a few years ago recently and reviewers were listing their choices in different market ranges. It was one reviewer's choice for best top end amp. They are well worth the prices I have seen them advertised for. The Japanese do make good equipment quite separate from their mass market stuff.