Purchasing from Japan

I wouldn't be concerned with CD's, from Japan. However, if purchasing audio gear, you need to be sure it's not a Grey market component...All the risk is on the buyer. 

Well, it will be interesting to see how it goes. I think this IS a grey market item, the seller seems to specialize in a variety of expensive items, from watches to accurate scales to Japanese audio. But, all indications seems positive. I bought the phono module from an authorized U.S. dealer a couple days earlier. It will be instructive to see how the two compare in packaging and timeliness of delivery. 

By the way, I already have a good DAC and a pretty good phono stage, but am just so impressed with my new (used) E-470 that I felt compelled to complete the package. The noise floor of the integrated amp is so low that I'm going on a hunch that the two modules will be exceptionally quite too. I think my basic setup has real promise; Clearaudio Maestro v.2 cart, great (highly modded Rega) 'table, the Accuphase with phono board, and a pair of ATC SCM 19's. 

I agree, you probably purchased a Grey market component. And most likely it is an authentic componets from Accuphase. The only problem your going to have is if you need to get service the US distributer will be of no help. 

Also, looks like you have a great rig, ATC are excellent speakers...Enjoy!

Accuphase DAC-40 in the slot! I'm shocked at how fast it arrived. Nicely boxed by the eBay seller, the inner Accuphase packaging was itself a work of corrugated origami art: a gem of a circuit board inside. I couldn't be more happy with this transaction. Maybe the moral of the story is.... Communicate with a potential 'grey market' seller, do a little research, follow your instincts, and save a bit of money if all looks good.

Do you know how grey market develops and what do you support by saving a few extra bucks?