Accuphase A-80 Amplifier: First Impressions

Here are Adrian's first impressions of the new Accuphase A80 Amplifier. Has Accuphase succeeded in its pursuit of perfect sonic expression. Drop a comment below on your thoughts!
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Audio Excellence Inc. is a high-end audio/video store in Markham, Ontario, Canada, a suburb of Toronto. We've been in business since 1991.
Check out our interviews with designers and audio luminaries like Daryl Wilson of Wilson Audio, Paul McGowan of PS Audio, Paolo Tezzon of Sonus Faber, Wendell Diller of Magnepan, John Atkinson of Stereophile, Dan D'Agostino of D'Agostino Master Audio Systems, Nelson Pass of Pass Labs and others.
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[@Bob-sw2zj]

I bought an Accuphase A-75 based on this review. It is amazing and the best amplifier I have owned. Luxman, Parasound, Classe, Conrad Johnson, Audio Research, Primaluna, many, many. There is something magical about the way that it puts a spotlight on the midrange while keeping everything in balance. I am hearing things that were hidden in the past. This review highlights and summarizes comments made by others on the internet. Thank you.

[@musica_emovere]

Awesome review, the amp is not clipping. The top meters are only coming from the input signal. The actual output is showed on the power meters and it’s true output, meaning it's depending on the speakers resistance. If you unplug the speakers, the power meters are not active. Actually, it has way more power than rated. It goes into class A/B after the initial class A bias. I’ve seen close to 400 watts with really dynamic recordings and the amp wasn’t clipping. Here are some measurements that Stereophile did on the A-300: ''Accuphase specifies the A-300's maximum power in Normal mode as 125W into 8 ohms, 250W into 4 ohms, 500W into 2 ohms, and 1000W into 1 ohm, all of which are equivalent to 21dBW. We define an amplifier's clipping power as being when the THD+noise reaches 1%. With that criterion, the A-300 exceeded its specified powers. I measured 210W into 8 ohms (23.2dBW, fig.4), 385W into 4 ohms (22.8dBW, fig.5), and 610W into 2 ohms (21.8dBW, fig.6). I didn't examine the clipping power into 1 ohm, as I don't have a high-power test load with that value.'' Also, the damping factor is more than 1000, Accuphase can’t measure higher with their test equipment, they say that it’s should be closer to 2000. From Accuphase: ''The A-80 has a guaranteed Damping Factor of 1000. It is the same as the A-300. The actual value is well more than 2000.'' Another correction, it has 2 120,000 μF capacitors for a total of 240,000 μF. Also from Accuphase: ''Two sizeable 120000μF special-made filtering capacitors in the unit's center.'' IMO, this is one of the best amplifier ever made. Thank you.

[@leeloopatsy]

This Accuphase a80 with a Dcs bartok source, a preamp audio research ls26se and speakers Wilson audio Sabrina x is by far the best quality price system I’ve ever heard. It’s like the band is playing in your living room. Yes it’s still very expensive but as far as I am concerned there is no need to pay more to get a better sound.

[@weetjeweetje4054]

Got my A-80 a week ago. Really a dream of an amplifier. Amazing sound stage.

[@jamesfarrow6752]

I’m envious. I recently upgraded my preamp from the C2150 to the C2300, which is a huge improvement, I currently have the A48 and would love to listen to the A80 but I can’t afford it so I’ll have to resist.

[@weetjeweetje4054]

@@jamesfarrow6752 That is interesting to hear. Currently, I am using my E-530 integrated as a pre-amplifier. I am waiting for the C-2900 pre-amplifier but for the time being I will get C-2150.

[@jamesfarrow6752]

Ok, I succumbed. The dealer offered a good trade in price for my A48; so after having the A80:on loan for a few days, I ordered one. It was a good workout helping the guy from the retailer move the new amp from his car and putting the loan A80 and my A48 in the back of his vehicle 😊

[@binhdu5005]

@@jamesfarrow6752 How is the A-80 comparing to A-48? Is it a big step up and worth the upgrade?

[@jamesfarrow6752]

@@binhdu5005 I think it’s better in every area and for me, it’s a significant improvement over the A48. What I have noticed with Accuphase amps is that they take some time to sound at their best. I’ve had the A80 for about 7 weeks and it does seem to be getting better. I was fortunate enough to be able to loan an A80, which allowed me to hear a fully run in unit. If you do decide to compare the two, I would be interested in your thoughts.

You're so right about Class A's high in general: the amp is not transparent nor brilliant in those frequencies; but it's so engaged! This is what I like with my Sugden: it plays the music in such a pleasant way so I can listen to it for hours. Thanks again for the interview you did with us during the Montreal Audiofest; my girlfriend and I would have stayed much longer listening to Wagner and exchange with you!

[@adrianlow2114]

Great to meet you both!!

[@NosTubes58]

Having heard their entire line back in 2013 at a local shop here in Royal Oak Michigan called David Michael Audio, I came away telling everyone I know……, this is the very best sounding solid state amplification I’ve heard since coming into our shared hobby back in 1978. Luxman | Pass Labs who?.

[@MissPalorte]

Truer words were never spoken!

[@kerbyfab]

First time I heard their products, I was blown away by their performance.

[@edmaster3147]

We modded my Accuphase class A amp in order to get it sounding better in the highs and lows. Accuphase makes a great sounding amp. They need to make fool proof products that can be shipped all over the world, just tinker around and get back to their basics and you end up with an even better amp.

[@gerhardreinecke3945]

It may be interesting to compare the Accuphase class A vs class AB power amplifier sound; A48 vs P4600 at the 'entry' level or A80 vs P7500 at the high end. Thanks for interesting reviews.

[@Optimismalism]

Awesome review. Pls do that full comparison with the E-5000 (I own it - then I will know if I should start saving) 😊

[@barrylyndon281]

No Amplifier test is complete without listening and analyzing the album Uncle Meat By Frank Zappa. The highs and midranges make me feel like I am Hercules. It is wonderful

[@77MovieFan]

finally somebody who listens to America, their debut album on vinyl and specially japan first+second press is so amazing, my absolute fav to show people new to my rig

[@adrianlow2114]

America rocks!!

[@user-ej3ii8zm2b]

Hi Adrian. Another great review. Thanks!

[@adrianlow2114]

Thank you

[@riptheripper9060]

It's awesome as it should be for $27,500. Wish I could afford it. Nice presentation thank you.😀

[@adrianlow2114]

Thanks!

[@binogbongo23]

Hi Adrian, great video as always! Next please A80 vs Gryphon Essence vs McIntosh separates😊 Kr

[@wanlongyu7327]

Very good video review hope to see more especially Accuphase top of line class A A300 if you may have sets !!! :)

[@capelight52]

Del Gesu (Italian) pronounced Dell Jay Zoo) . No relationship to Jay Iagi...lol! Always enjoyable to watch and learn from your videos. Terrific presentation.

[@MissPalorte]

Recebed A-80 about 2 weeks or so ago. Still breaking-in nice and gorgeous sound now after a couple of hundred hours. It’s true this amp presents the live event like if you were there, not like a reproduction of an electronic or mechanical sort. Still I feel I still may have another couple hundred hours to get all 💯 there. I’m enjoying this enormously! A pleasure machine no doubt

[@adrianlow2114]

Congratulations!

[@MissPalorte]

@@wolper2155 hi there! Yes experience with E-5000. E-5000 is just as Adrian describes. Gray bass, very much space around the instruments. If you can do ($) the E-5000 I think it’s the best amplifier for the $!! A lot better than Gryphon Diablo 300 I had here from a friend. Definitely better than anything else I’ve heard in that price range and even more $. The E-800 is a different presentation, like a small camera music small ensamble or small jazz Club. E-5000 is more like a huge stadium concert. Dynamics swings are simply fantastic! E-800 is a sweeter sounding amp. Human voices have a better connection to my feelings.

[@davidfoster5164]

Brilliant review, could you do a review of the e-800 please, would like to buy one but can't find any good reviews

[@cihancetin383]

Great review! A comoarison with P7500 would be very good!

[@mugen2002]

I would be interested in a Accuphase clean power supply vs PS Audio powerplant video.

[@destroyerzx1]

I have the ps audio power supply and a a-46. In my location I prefer the wall vs psaudio

[@edmaster3147]

I recognize your review about the Accuphase, I own a modified Accuphase and you describe why I love the amp. I find myself listening to so much different music and enjoying it. Like Marylin Manson Pale Emperor, but you should really try Float by Janelle Monae, its clean, open and fun in the lows. Or Sheryl Crowe Globe sessions, clean, crisp. A system should be something you can't wait to turn on again and just enjoy. Cheers.

[@robvandendolder3157]

Thank you Adrian for more insight into these beautiful Accuphase products. Would bridging the E80 help with giving you more power to increase volume? Of course this would double the cost. Thanks again 👍

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes bridging would increase the output power, though I'm not entirely sure how much of the power is in Class A

[@01egna]

Thank you. I'd like to hear your review comparison v the Accuphase A-300.

[@MissPalorte]

2.3x the $ About 10-15% better performance, law of diminishing returns applies.

[@philhunter9134]

Always entertaining.

[@adrianlow2114]

Thanks!

[@kerbyfab]

Bread rocks man!!! I still listen to them on a regular basis. 😂😂

[@adrianlow2114]

Me too!

[@rapier5]

The energy involved in HiFi is minuscule in the big picture. Still, I think that efficiency is an admirable design goal and should be considered as a part of audiophile aesthetics that is due respect. With all due respect to Accuphase and their path.

[@chaiyahTangtatharakul]

Pls compare accuphase c2300 to mcintosh c55 hook up with accuphase A80 Many thank!

[@HD-su9sq]

I only know about Eva Cassidy because of you. Thank you! I wish I could afford an Accuphase, but maybe in the future.

[@MissPalorte]

Worth every penny! Save, save!

[@adrianlow2114]

Glad you enjoy her!

[@sonicplayroompiano4302]

What's bread? Great review, thank you

[@adrianlow2114]

lol. My pleasure

[@ajs-qv5fe]

a punchy accuphase, thats very interesting, apparently accuphase is changing the voicing of its products now, got to give a try, thnx for the review, adrian ...

[@adrianlow2114]

My pleasure!

[@alaincayer8999]

It sounds magical at 4h00 in the morning. At what time do you open the store? I will come with two espresso!!

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes I start early! lol.

[@pswitzeny]

"But how does it compare to Luxman!?" 😂 Great review, Adrian!

[@adrianlow2114]

YOu're such a troll! lol. Thanks

[@Vvvvvccccc]

Should pair with C3900 pre if got chance

[@adrianlow2114]

soon

[@gryphongryph]

Talking about clipping, I think anyone buying this expensive an amp would pair with speakers that were not too tough to drive. Accuphase makes great gear for sure.

[@adrianlow2114]

It's a complicated and long answer, but in essence, I use speakers I love, enjoy and sell. For most people the power output should be enough. I sometimes listen at loud volumes, and power requirement doubles for every 3dB increase in volume.

[@wanlongyu7327]

Since you have powerful high end speakers to check if A300 can drive them as good as McIntosh 901

[@airwave4948]

Would love to know how this compares to Gryphon Diablo 333. They are in the same price range.

[@bikemike1118]

The 333 actually belongs much rather in the $13.000 price range. Just like it’s predecessor. The unnecessarily additional ‚33‘ is simply a justification for a $ 10 grand price „adjustment“. See through the industry‘s smoke….

[@airwave4948]

@@bikemike1118 Yeah, I hear ya. I was shocked to see such a huge price jump too. But it is what it is, unfortunately. As long as there are still enough people buying all of these products at grossly increasing prices, the manufacturers will continue this practice. ☹️

[@bikemike1118]

@@airwave4948 I don’t think many are buying at these prices. I think it’s more a thing of: „brand X is up there with their price, so that people don’t think our product is „inferior“ we need to „adjust“ our prices too. Tip: buy used.

[@Ivy13276]

Hello how does the Maria 350 compare to this?

[@user-ex9dy7uw9w]

First it was the holy grale but you never hear about it anymore.

[@adrianlow2114]

The Maria 350 is essentially an integrated amp while the Accuphase is a power amp. Not an easy direct comparison.

[@Ivy13276]

@@adrianlow2114 I just listened to the Maria 50 and the value proposition is insane! Even if ML sounds a bit "loco" when he talks, I can see how this product could shake the industry a bit

[@chebrubin]

Once you listen to separates no going back to integrated (budget or expensive).

[@bikemike1118]

Depends on the separates… and the integrated. Crappy separates aren’t better than a great integrated just because their separates!

[@NosTubes58]

I’d beg to differ…….., having owned separates upwards of $30.000 for the pairings, of late I’m much much happier musically speaking and emotionally connected to integrated amps within the $2000-$7000 price ranges. I’ll give you this, there’s no going back to said separates.

[@hitechburg]

$26.575 USD

[@adrianlow2114]

@@wolper2155 Thanks guys

[@yttean98]

For $27,000 and you say it is competent, it better be just competent.

[@Jack96993]

I was going to buy it, but after being in Toronto and bought a case of beer, pack of smokes and filled up my car with gas Oh and a Big Mac, I can't afford the amp now 😅😢

[@adrianlow2114]

yes, especially gas now!

[@Skye_the_toller]

So, 1 watt in a A amplifier is not the same watt than an AB amplifier? This one seems as powerful than the McIntosh new monster…

[@alvarocoutinho3103]

Well… if you haven’t heard it with JBL L100s, you simply don’t know what it is really capable of!

[@Yoni1200]

JBL 100 speakers are not in the same league as the Sonus Faber

[@alvarocoutinho3103]

@@Yoni1200🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@MissPalorte]

Glad you enjoy your L-100’s but the A-80 was built with other speakers in mind …. Capable of so much refinement, detail and textures than the L-100 cannot provide. I think you need to hear A-80 with speakers on another league.

[@alvarocoutinho3103]

@@MissPalorte😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@aceofspades6667]

🇯🇵🍱🍣🥷🍶🍚

[@tamil.f.3734]

You know you are an musicophile when you say "cuts" instead of tracks. 😄😄😄

[@ernestporee3697]

Sorry that's Corvette money ! Or Corvette down payment ? I try not to spend more than what the artist was paid to make the recording ! I don't think Miles Davis got $28.0000 for his early work ? I'm not trying to one up Miles Davis ? I don't think most pro studios ! Use $28.0000 amps? I work on Broadway for plays and do sound , and I never see things like this? I get it... But I don't ? Beautiful but ... Over! Most pro speakers are now powered ? So separate power amps have less participation in the pro segment ? I'm saving for a Corvette!

[@paulburr5072]

Really 27,00 for a 80 watt amp no DAC? Find out what they pay for this in Japan before you waste your mula.

[@MissPalorte]

It’s actually 65 WPC . Definitely not for your needs/wants You would probably be a customer for an integrated by Denon or Technics, or even Yamaha.

[@MegaGronis]

the human ear is limited to hear frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and 1 % distortion . Why pay 20000£ for an Amplifier? a 1000 £ Amplifier is just as good. You cant hear any difference with the poor hearing of Human ears.

[@paulpaulzadeh6172]

This not true class A amplifier!! Temp at 55C has only 5 to 6 watt in class A . Another lie by industry to people that have no knowledge in electronic 😮😮😮😮😮😮😮

[@MissPalorte]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 man that was funny!! Back to school ! And learn a thing or three… 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@rw3915]

It sounds like Accuphase took a page out of Nelson Pass's book, and that means adding a 2nd order harmonic into the output, and increasing the bias from its output devices.. Pass found this particular characteristic in its SIT-3 amp & incorporated this into the current line of Class A amps with the XA.8 designation. Okay, I'll stop my trolling, hah! Sorry! I'm sure though competitors do buy each other's product to make it a benchmark. It's just like how when Acura, who bought a Porsche GT3 RS and took it to Porsche's service center for maintenace work. From GPS data extracted from the car, Porsche was able to determine Acura was using this car on their test track to hone and fine tune the performance of the twin-turboed & hybrid NSX supercar. Keep up the good work Adrian!

[@ih-boygreenfield9907]

Stupid story, Accuphase exists since 1972. Pass labs since 1991

[@MissPalorte]

Actually Pappa Nelson Pass started designing class A (and others) way before the First Watt venture. Even b4 Threshold Audio etc. Accuphase started around 1972. Food for thought …🤔…

[@wFullSnakeOilHighMileageSynthe]

Adrian any Diablo 333 coming up?

[@adrianlow2114]

As soon as we get our order