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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
builder3
752 posts
 

Jack, I own the Luxman L-590AX, which was the version just prior to the now discontinued L-590AXII.  Class A, rated 30wpc into 8 ohms, actually puts out more like 100 watt/channel. I'll tell you I love it, super detail, great bass control. The bad news is that I'm not a guy that's owned tons of gear, so I can't compare it to anything else in a meaningful way. I'd say listen to one, if you can find one. Supposedly, they're coming out with a new replacement, I haven't seen any details, though.

https://beterbeeldengeluid.nl/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/HFN_Luxman-L-590AXII_lowres.pdf

astolfor's avatar
astolfor
317 posts
 
In my ears the best Japanese amps are the Kondo, circa 1987-2000. I have had AKAI, Nakamichi, Pioneer, Technics.. My Kondos are impressive the have that impressive texture even when I compare them with my nhb468. The nhb468s have an advantage when playing large orchestra and some classic rock, but the Kondos steal the show with 5 and less instruments and chorales. If she has a vintage Kondo and is not out of your budget you would want to take a listen.
georgesallit325's avatar
georgesallit325
25 posts
 

Good advice here, and I agree that Luxman are a great amplifier. They are warm but not syrupy, do great 3D solid images, with real weight to bass and enough sparkle to make cymbals sound metallic but not harsh. They are superbly made and will last a lifetime. Now is actually a good time to buy. They are transitioning between old and new models and some of the older models are being sold at great prices. I have the C700U and M700U here and they sound fantastic with a rich Class A sound for 12watts and after that real grunt to drive my speakers with 210w/channel ( 4 ohms). I got them at a 40% discount. Go listen to them.

pesky_wabbit's avatar
pesky_wabbit
1,183 posts
 

In my ears the best Japanese amps are the Kondo, circa 1987-2000.

do they contain a lot of silver?

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,223 posts
 

Hi Jack,

I do not own any of the gear at the current time but I have to say Accuphase makes some very serious equipment and it is all built to last a lifetime. I amp not a fan of pea watt amplifiers. They have to perform with authority or I am not interested. Accuphase amps will perform with that authority. Having said this the sound of your system is vastly more dependent on the speakers you choose and the room you put them in. It is a combination of the two. How much the room contributes depends to a large extent on the design of the speaker. This is to long a discussion to have here but I suggest you read up on it before you buy loudspeakers. 

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