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Grey amplifier Imports from Japan?

I have a feeling this has been discussed before, but I can't find the thread. I am leaning towards a Luxman or Accuphase SS, class A/B integrated. Something like the Luxman 507.

Looking online, the savings importing from Japan against buying locally, are enormous. There are clearly, real risks,, the loss of warranty support, having to use a transformer to change the voltage, which must have the potential to degrade the sound.. Against that, brands have a reputation for reliability.

If anyone has bought from one of the Japaneses sites, can they decribe their experience? Thanks
david12
taters
1,149 posts
 
Even though it is a super high end product It's still gray market because it came from unauthorized distribution.
david12 OP
1,454 posts
 
Support from local dealers and distributors is the issue, I know. It feels to me that ex dem or second hand, is a better way to go, for me. The only problem with that, is finding one, but I am not in a rush. Thanks for all the helpful advice
dave_72
1,399 posts
 
Sure, that would be ok too. Definitely don't be in a rush, that's one way to get burned.
bobheinatz
705 posts
 
David12,

I have heard both Luxman & Accuphase products and would be proud to own either brand. Both brands are built to last and if bought used should provide years of trouble free service. I had the Accuphase 560E class A intrgrated in my system for a trail and it was the best integrated I have ever heard. I didn't buy it because I am not quite ready to give up my tube seperates. BTW if your speakers have a easy load look at the class A offerings.
renjy651
74 posts
 
Accuphase and Luxman also McIntosh are worlds top amps because parts are custom made in Japan to last for ever.
I am sure a person in Japan buys a McIntosh from USA they will call it Grey market buyer because price is lot lower in USA. Dave _72 I purchased all my Luxman from a Authorized mega super store in Japan. Audio cubes is a agency that buys Accuphase and Luxman etc from these Japan stores and resell these amps.
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