Thoughts on vintage Accuphase


I have an opportunity to buy some vintage Accuphase gear -- C200 preamp and P300 power amp. Just wondering if anyone has opinions on this combo. More specifically, how do you think it compares and competes with modern equipment, and what should be a reasonable price. If I end up buying, I will either be driving P3esr speakers in a smaller room (12x13), or Sonus Faber Olympica II in a midsized room (20x15). Should I walk away and look for more modern equipment or do you guys think it competes favorably with new’ish stuff? I prefer a warm sound but not at the expense of details, transparency or tighter, fuller bass.
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Showing 1 response by oldhvymec

One of the few pieces of gear I wished I would have never sold. E-305 it had a great preamp at the time and wonderful onboard amps also.

Very clinical, the sound. I used their amps for the mids and highs, and a Mcintosh C2300 for bass duty..  I was using Strathearn, ribbons for the mids, Emits for the highs and Watson DVC 12" Columns (4 per column).  It really was a match made in heaven. Some of the best Mids/Highs I've ever heard, to this day.  So we are real clear, I'm a Mcintosh guy ALL the way. From way back.. 

Things have changed a bit through the years, Accuphase is one of the few I'd choose over the best  Macs I have.  I have a few after 50 years..

Certain Carys, Pass, Mark Ls, Macs, Ampzilla 2000 series, Krells. ALL expensive but, Accuphase will give them a run for their money.

I have never used their power amps for bass duty. No idea on that. 
I suspect it would have been wonderful.. 
Watson's were a TOUGH load, to wire RIGHT... Eat amps....

Regards