Japanese Audio

Thank you to everyone who has posted here, this is a wonderful thought provoking, insightful thread, so many great comments.

I built Onken speakers from info a friend directed me to and info I found on the net. Jean Hiraga who is mentioned above was the author for the articles I found. It surprised me that given the size of homes in Japan that the Onkens are so big. I used Altec 416-8A drivers and Altec 811 horns with Altec 806A drivers which are crossed at 800 hz using crossovers I built.

I use Audio Note Kit 300B mono block amps and their Mentor preamp.

A lot of what has been mentioned here applies to my system, great resolution at low levels, non fatiguing, wonderful sound that draws me back for more. 

I also have several SS systems that I also enjoy.

Again I find this a wonderful thread that many of the posters I have not seen post before.

The pursuit of perfection is why. Try living on an island for several thousand years. Not sure what happened to the Irish though.

As I see it they are the leaders in electronics.

Question is why are they seeming not as good in the speaker world? 

As I see it.

@robertrs,
You wrote,
A lot of what has been mentioned here applies to my system, great resolution at low levels, non fatiguing, wonderful sound that draws me back for more.

No doubt! Your Audio Note kit 300b is very nice and these types of amplifiers do draw you deep into the music listening experience. .
Charles

@ghasley 
Yes, very well, thanks for asking. I've enjoyed your pursuits and sharing of valuable information regarding some of the above mentioned brands over the years.

Lots of great information written here and things to consider. I know several guys that are pursuing the vintage route too. Worth considering. I've always enjoyed low power SS and tubes, but also like full range bass that I can feel (preferably without subs), and all in a reasonably sized package (sometimes challenging). I truly understand why so many guys have two or three systems for different genres of music. 

I would add Takatsuki to this list. Vacuum tubes and amplifiers.

Had the opportunity to listen to their new amplifier in the listening room at the factory in Kyoto. 
Can’t describe how amazing it was.