Uesugi and Luxman Vintage


All,

I am currently in Japan on temporary assignment for work. While here, I thought that I would perhaps pick up a vintage amp. I will of course go and listen to any amp I might purchase (to the extent possible), but can anyone tell me about the reputation of Uesugi --- quality, sound, etc.? I am not sure if they made integrated, so I would likely get a power amp of some sort.

Also, are there any thoughts on which of the Luxman vintage integrated amps are considered the "best" -- there is a ton of vintage Luxman stuff out here, and since my time is somewhat limited, should I audition any, I would prefer to focus on the models which have the best reputations.

Thanks so much for your help.
Rob
crob
Rob,
Welcome to Japan. Lots of interesting stuff to find here. I would be surprised if you can get an audition with either one which would be a good stand-in for your own system but it might work. Most places which would sell either will likely have different setups than yours. If you are a tube fan, the Luxman SQ-88 and SQ-38 are famous and, perhaps unfortunately, reasonably sought after in Japan. On the SS side, I think the 550 and 570 (especially the 570Z) are pretty excellent. Uesugi has an excellent reputation in Japan and used prices are quite respectable but I cannot remember any integrated amp model numbers. Some of the top separates have a very strong cult following. AudioUnion often has secondhand units. Yahoo Japan is also a place to pick them up. If you pick up a copy of StereoSound, there are lots of ads for stereo shops which carry secondhand equipment so you can check their ads or websites too.
Hey T-bone ... Thanks a lot! This is very helpful. Out of curiosity, are you anywhere near Osaka or Kobe? PM me.