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Living in Japan. Any opinions on amplifiers?

Living here I figured I would be in audio heaven but it seems like Japan falls in love with certain brands and ignores others. Since I need to buy something here 100V I’m wondering if any of you have an idea of underrated/overlooked value products currently in production. I know this sounds like a lame question and that I should do research but my Japanese still sucks and I thought there might be a few of you who are familiar with what is available here now. I have looked at vintage Luxman and there are a lot available but I thought a current production amp would be more practical and utilized modern technology Ie streaming etc. 
128x128todd_segal
lucidear
88 posts
 
From what I have read:Accuphase will change the transformer in your unit to one for your destination/home country for a minimal charge, if you’ve lived in Japan over 6 months ( or was it 12?)...
Also haggling/bargaining seems to be the norm, like getting 20% off.
audiounion.jp carries major brands new and used...

petg60
1,486 posts
 
You are in audio heaven. I have visited Tokyo 7 times and always fancied what was offered but pricing was high even for used products. You can find anything displayed, in excellent condition and get good info from salesmen if you can manage to communicate.
So many things that never made it outside Japan, and also made to higher standards for their local market. Offerings from Accuphase and Luxman have better pricing in Japan when compared to Europe and USA. I expect the same for some other Japaneese brands.

G

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Don't make it harder than it needs to be. Call Dave Thompson at Raven. Tell him you need 100V. Have him set you up with a Raven Blackhawk and step down transformer. Fall in love with the sound and have a real life amp made in Texas amp to sell. Get the Blackhawk it has a four step premium powder coat finish, they like their audio shiny over there.
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
todd

having spent much time in japan, i suggest you heed the solid advice of @petg60 (and ignore the other random comments from the cheapseat know-it-alls)

it is spot on

find a well reputed local high end shop, see what they have - audio note, air tight, accuphase, esoteric etc etc - wonderful stuff, some of which is japan home market only

have fun, good luck


twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
If you're eventually looking to bring it back to the US, then Accuphase is the way to go.

If not, then all of the Japanese brands mentioned.  Also, other brands like Marantz and Denon make models that don't make it to Europe or the US, and they tend to be the higher-end models.
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