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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
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.
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,679 posts
 
Put Leben on your list as well. 
jond's avatar
jond
5,833 posts
 
For tubes: Air Tight, Kondo, Shindo, Leben, Luxman,Concert Fidelity, come to mind.

SS: Accuphase, Luxman, Esoteric to name a few.


gryphongryph
378 posts
 
The high end Denon’s are said to be very good.
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