Do you REALLY need anything more? ACCUPHASE E-280 Integrated Amplifier Review!

Though not cheap, the e280 is the best value that I've heard from Accuphase! Japanese Luxury Hi-Fi
Review Sample Provided by: Motet Distribution
This review is free of sponsorships, affiliate links, and financial compensation. Product was purchased after the review.
Accuphase E280 Product Page: www.accuphase.com/model/e-280...
Accuphase Canadian Distributor (provided the review sample): motetdistribution.com/
Luxman 550 AX II: www.luxman.com/product/detail....
Accuphase E-480: www.accuphase.com/model/e-480...
Zero Fidelity's Awesome Patreon: / zerofidelityhifi
BDI Stand (as seen in this video): bit.ly/38ozr11
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0:00 Intro
0:43 Product Overview (General Specs and Features)
3:00 Under the Hood
3:52 Short Performance Summary
4:47 Detailed Performance Summary
8:29 Speaker Pairing
9:15 Comparison to Luxman 550
11:28 Comparison to Accuphase 480
13:43 Some Problems
15:26 My Own Thoughts

[@blagojevichisadem]

I was so excited when you said “you don’t have to be in the highest income bracket “. Then you said $6000 and I had to reassess my status in life.

[@Roof_Pizza]

It'll prob last 50 years with a decent service at 30 years. All analog baby. Currently rocking a TOTL Yamaha that is 20 years old and the only thing it doesn't do well is modern digital.

[@daniannaci3258]

@@Roof_Pizza You’re right. On the strength of Sean’s Luxman L-550 AxII review last fall, I purchased it’s bigger brother the 590. I added a $35 Rocketfish Bluetooth receiver and plugged it in the Luxy. Sounds great with my phone! I’m in the 21st century! Honestly, digital is disposable it moves so fast. All those all-in-one amp solutions will be worth squat when the next new, improved, more up to date model is introduced in the spring.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

@@Roof_Pizza My Brystons are now in their 40th year as well as 2 sets of JBL studio monitors.

[@Turtleback8024]

🙆🏻‍♂️

[@wckkee7]

😂😄

[@nitinsoniism]

Just moved from Yamaha A-S1200 to Accuphase e280. Man, what a jump. This is a piece of jewellery. Better tighter bass, fuller sound, sweeter tone, more clarity, significantly better low volume performance, and better build. Yamaha is great and I thought I was done until I got e280.

[@masamunexc]

Just bought a E-280 , came from a Hegel H190 on Totem Metals. This amp is simply incredible. I think it’s worth it’s asking price if your budget allows. I am blown away by the clarity and ease of listening. The tone is simply superb , bass is not boosted like the Hegel and matches the rest of the frequencies perfectly . The build quality is outstanding. Im an instant Accuphase fan for life. Thanks Sean!

[@FabriG-yd5ft]

Accuphase is completely another level compared to most brands on the market today. Hegel sounds like big bluetooth speaker in comparison. Glad you made the change.

[@boboutelama5748]

I believe the bass wasn't boosted on the hegel, he simply had more watts, what helped your speaker to become stronger in this part. The lesser powerful Accuphase will probably have less authority in its grasp of the bass boomers.

[@EasyMusic36]

Accuphase is one, if not, the only leading brand in the world, not only for its sound, for the quality of its components, but for the aesthetics that are unique in the world. The Japanese have achieved the old and the new on their equipment to maintain the validity of their products. Having one of these devices at home is not only having the best sound equipment, but also the feeling of having it all. Thank you Accuphase and thank you for sharing your video. Congratulations!!!

[@kovy689]

You like this or McIntosh?

[@miroslavkelekovic2507]

Which components inside you see are top notch quality? Did you ever open yet service one of these?

[@MikeConrad-oj6se]

I just wish Accuphase would manage to have the LED numerals match the illuminated logo. The red is very jarring and 1970s style.

[@michaellittle2995]

This gets me nostalgic for the stereo shop when I was a teen in the 70's and my old Yamaha integrated.

[@revo1336]

Had the 25 w/ch Realistic integrated in ‘70s

[@Audiomainia2310]

Absolutely gorgeous! My wallet cant afford this absolute piece of art - I can dream though.

[@sbhand5740]

I am very familiar with the E-270 which likely has a near identical sonic signature. So obviously I am happy to hear a validation of my opinion on this model of Accuphase. However that is not why I find this review so compelling, rather it is the balance and context that Sean has brought to the table. He has clearly described what he liked but then placed that in vivid context of who would have a similar preference along with what alternative preferences would be (Luxman), with eloquence and integrity (E280 vs E480). I don't think any reviewer has achieved that to the level Sean has and definitely not in the print journals. In my opinion, with this review Sean has cemented his place as one of the best audio reviewers currently out there.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Thank you so much!!

[@petethegreekre]

Oh man, this sounds perfect for me. That comparison with the Luxman was extremely helpful Sean. Nice one, glad you did this one, and have fun in the near future with the E-280. It's stunning, can't wait to see one close-up.

[@OverkilledUnderdog]

This was a really well done enjoyable review. Thank you. 👏 I used to be into high end hifi but I moved to an oceanside place when I retired and sold all my equipment. I'm worried about spending the money again as EVERYTHING rusts here in a few months and fails. So I do miss it. Also, the ocean waves are always constant. I have extreme sound proofing windows but you still hear the ocean. 😊 so having a clean silent background sound room is pretty much impossible. Furthermore, I prefer the waves than music now. It is so pure and magical. That said, I miss my hifi time to time and need my fill, so I will always come back to this channel and the like to get it. 😊😊 Thanks again brother. Keep doing what you're doing. More people appreciate what you do than you will ever know. 👍

[@flintmonz]

Enjoyable review ! I've been using a Accuphase E202 since 1978 and it still amazes me !

[@approach11]

I’m not easily impressed with reviews, but this is …by far..the..best…accurate…and helpful review of a product that I have seen for a long, long time. Did not shoot down the cheaper amp (being an owner of the more expensive one) and the whole review was on a detailed but easy to follow level. I have been lucky enough to have a few nice amps, Gryphon Diablo 300, Rega Isoris, and have just bought a E-270 with DAC-50 (yet to collect) to replace a little Naim Atom, I have CELEF LS-8 and Boenicke W8 speakers, and really think this is going to do what I’m after. As I understand, the headphone amp is good on it as well? Great work, well done.

[@MrPkimura]

Thanks for doing the Luxman comparison. It was very informative.

[@daniannaci3258]

Yep. Sean nailed the comparison.

[@canadianwildlifeservice8883]

Amazing product from an amazing company. Just waiting on the second mortgage approval from the bank and this baby is all mine.

[@carolineleonard8214]

I was looking at Luxman for my happy end amplifier. I have reviewed all your Accuphase reviews and am convinced that my auditions will be Accuphase vs Esoteric. Thank you Sean for very valuable reviews.

[@jbenz9348]

Good to see you active, I hope all is well health wise. ✌🏻

[@garyjones5947]

Great feature as always…nice relaxed yet incisive balance. Thanks

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Damn, these things are drool worthy. Both the Luxman and Accuphase. Old school and modern is a neat trick to pull off.

[@davelaidlaw3795]

Another superb review Sean. Always informative and entertaining. 👍 Must get my hands on one of those Accuphase amps! 😀

[@imosolar]

Awesome review and keep up the good work

[@andrewforsythe7240]

Great 👍 review thanks. Accuphase looks retro but modern at the same time beautiful.

[@Blackhatsax55]

Wonderful fresh and genuin review. I like your style and honesty. Nice one!.

[@bryanpaulgilbert7308]

great review, Sean!

[@omilianful]

Thanks for the review. I've owned an E-407 for nearly 20 years. It's a great amplifier but I would like your viewers to be aware of Accuphase's harsh service policy. I live in Australia but the amp was originally purchased in Hong Kong. I have scratches on the volume dial and have contacted Accuphase and both the Australian and Hong Kong distributors. Under their policy, the only way to replace the dials is for me to bring the amp to Hong Kong and have their technician install them. There is no option to have a local service agent do the work, or to supply the dials (a trivial 20 second install). Accuphase and their distributors in my region have been very unhelpful. For anyone considering an Accuphase, please be aware that you are going to run into issues if the amp was originally supplied in a different geographical region.

[@franknelissen8041]

That is just outrageous customer service! Or rather, lack thereof. We live in an interconnected world and people move countries and continents. So silly that at that level of product quality one cannot take ones one product with and have it serviced elsewhere.

[@mikeg2491]

I acquired a accuphase cd player from the 80s and it sounds gorgeous even today, but it’s missing the power button and it drives me nuts. Is there any place I can find a replacement?

[@ANALOGUEAVENGER]

Hi, Thanks for such a wonderful review. I own E-480 (Purchased after watching your review). Hearing that you have ordered the same. I may order as well for my summer home. Long Live Music, Long Live Analogue Sound.

[@LuxAudio389]

Very nice Sean. I'm speechless. "Ooo Yeah Baby!"

[@erichoehn8262]

Great review and a beautiful amp.

[@mlowndes3]

Truly enjoyed your review, very insightful. Thanks

[@Harley1Lovegrove]

Another really great review!

[@watcheswork1217]

Nice job! Really enjoy your reviews. I have a PS audio set up, but you make a case for that beauty.

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Man Sean that is one sweet looking machine! I love that front panel design. Meters just plain rock. I really like the rear panel layout. Thank you for that awesome under the hood look!

[@gdwlaw5549]

This is quite simply a dream amp for many of us here. The sheer quality of components is enough for me. Something to pass on down to future generations. Like a modern Sansui from the early 70's...

[@JCATG]

You did a great review of this one. And yes, I said 'great.' You were able to cover ground on its sound signature and the way you used defining words helped me imagine how this would sound like in contrast to a Marantz, a Yamaha, or a Pioneer. I liked and subscribed, man. Keep it up! God bless. P.S. Please do more vintage premium Hi-fi!

[@MissPalorte]

Great job, very good review.

[@markinjhawkland724]

Great review man.

[@speeding_botak]

Great review!

[@georgebz1469]

Superb review. I like how you covered it from so many angles: sound quality, value wise, etc. I'd love to see how the Accuphase 280 compares with the McIntosh MA 530.

[@TheOrthodoxMachine]

I’d be interested in that comparison too, perhaps ignoring the MA5300 internal DAC and then the price would be a bit comparable also…

[@angelorasmijn7306]

Great review, thanks! 👍🏼

[@AudioElectronicsChicago]

Beautiful and solid amp 👍🏻

[@michaelcollins2473]

Very nice. If the biggest issue are the plastic tone control knobs, I'd say that it's a winner.

[@andreplante4705]

J’ai acheté un pour mon cadeau de retraite l’hivers passé, aucun regret,satisfaction 100% , écoute aussi très agréable.le modèle est pleinement puissant avec mes Silver 300 . Très bel appareil. J’ai passé un très bon hiver.

[@nicomodesto5282]

You always deliver !

[@themastroiannis]

great review and nice comparison with the Luxman. aesthetically i definitely like the 'cleaner' facade of the luxman.

[@tonikukkonen6806]

I don't know much about sound tech but that thing looks very classic and cool at the same time

[@robertturner7892]

Thanks for another great review Shaun. I love the Accuphase sound and have the E-480 which I know you love too. Luckily here in the UK it is a little less expensive than over your side of the pond and to me it's worth every single penny, best amplifier I ever owned in the 40 years I have been an audiophile. Thanks again for all your hard work, I highly respect your work.

[@ZeroFidelity]

The E-480 is such a great amp! I'm happy for you!!

[@Turtleback8024]

In South Africa that number will easily and quickly jump up to $13 000.00🙆🏻‍♂️

[@davidlambert3892]

A beautiful piece of equipment! Where's my bib? I'm drooling!

[@zackpetrovic3029]

Today I learned of the tube E 280F, looks interesting, no tubes here but the engineering on this is excellent

[@daniannaci3258]

Sean, you are now my favorite TV star. Your reviews continue to be informative, fact-filled, well-prepared, concise and entertainingly presented. Also, you are absolutely correct in refusing to air KZbin sound-clips as they are highly misleading. I currently have no interest in purchasing any hifi equipment now (well, maybe a phono cartridge for Christmas), but you do well keeping me informed of what’s new in the field.

[@ZeroFidelity]

I'm just a dude with a ballcap. Thanks though! I genuinely appreciate it!

[@triodedude]

I love your reviews. I have had an E270 before. While it was clean and neutral, it was boring. No jump factor at all... currently running Bel Canto eOne series and am happier. Either way great review! Keep it up!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yep. This certaintly isn't for somebody who wants a lively listening experience!

[@jshim100]

Luxman comparison was very helpful.

[@michaelmityok1001]

We buy this stuff because it makes us feel good. Exactly. Perhaps if I can be more personally direct about it, it's an addiction - but in the grand scheme of things, a relatively harmless one (although my Bank of Wife would beg to differ).

[@FelixtheMetalcat]

Hahaaa, bank of wife...I'm with ya there. As they said in the movie Risky Business, every once in awhile ya gotta say "what the fu--"😀

[@rentalproperty2953]

Hi @Zero Fidelity, first off thank you for the energy you put into this hobby for the community. I'm coming to you from Canada and purchased Gresham's Grand Avand Garde. I know you haven't tested those but you did meet their sibling! I currently have pass labs x150.5 driving them with audio research ls16mk iis. I see two paths to go to the next level, double down on their strengths (accuphase/other?) or balance the smoothness with bryston/luxman. What advice would you offer or route would you take?

[@frederikjacob1985]

Hi Sean! Thank you for this absolutely great review! They are way to less accuphase reviews on KZbin in my opinion. As a vintage accuphase owner (c200x with a p400) and an audio buddy owning a whole stack of accuphase gear I totally fell in love with the brand after hearing those on b&w. For me it's the right speaker combo on these amps. From the moment accuphase made their signature gold on their gear it doesn't matter to me wich series it is. You will know that they deliver what you would expect from this brand. Even with their e-2xx entry level line up.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

I own all high end separates. Yes they sound great BUT, IMO separates are totally over rated. I honestly can not tell a difference or hear an advantage over going the 'full' receiver route-- at least for home audio. The simplicity and beauty of a high end receiver like this one would be my first choice if I had to do it all over again. Love the analog knobs, the view meters, EQ, modular upgrades, and most of all the -- LOUDNESS button!

[@lmstefanini1]

Thanks for the great review! I consider the 550AX2 is the best value of the Luxman’s transistor line. Although it is not the most powerful, neither transparent, nor with the ultimate bass control, it does some musicality and immediacy that you will not find even in the upper models. For the accuphase, I agree that the e280 is their best value. Only the E650 is fully balanced, although all the models have the power amplifier module balanced.

[@neps4th]

Exactly what do mean technically by " balanced". Does each channel (right & left) consist of two amplifier sections operating (wired) in differential push-pull mode at the speaker terminals ?

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Thanks Sean . (Sean) I might just HAVE TO add to my collection . Love the build quality screams relability The AAVA Volume/control is built very well thats so important . Very nice controls overalll. Sean Where is all the internal cables/wires ?😆 😆(hidden) Almost a 50 pounder impressive The engineering and build quality is truely impressive.

[@tonyb5789]

Great review and great channel! Im thinking of buying Accuphase 280! Sean ,would Accuphase pair well with Bowers Wilkins speakers in your opinion (since you know B&W sound signature)? Particulary BW 705 S2.Or is Luxman a better match with B&W.Thank you.

[@violin-schwerin]

Great review! I’d love to hear your opinion on Croft acoustics gear, if it’s available in the USA

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Great review as usual Sean! Beautiful piece of equipment. Wish the 280 were sufficient to move my speakers but no doubt the 480 would do a better job. But then again, the value is questionable... Even though prices in Europe are sliglty more palatable (for once!)

[@erwindewit4073]

I wish I could afford one. It sounds like a great companion for my Super HL5 speakers.. Perhaps one day, I might buy one used....

[@patrickmacias1878]

The distributor markups on Accuphase are truly insane. I got an E-480 in Japan *for less* than the US price of the E-280. The AAVA Volume control is the killer app either way.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Bro. You could fly to Japan. Have a great 1-week vacation. Buy an E-480. Ship it to the US. Buy a converter. And still be AT or UNDER the cost of the E-480 over here. At least the e-280 is fair given the cost of sea freight, domestic shipping, taxes, import, dealer margins, etc..

[@79Tiamat]

@@ZeroFidelity aside for the cost itself, another problem is with that kind of markups for Accuphase gear (and others, obviously) is that when you do a comparison with another amplifier "in the same price range", as you normally do, it is not really fair. The E-280 in Japan is USD 2'750!!! I never understood if the "international" price of Accuphase gear is decided by Accuphase itself or by distributors, here in Switzerland is almost 2x Japanese domestic price, in the U.S. even worse... I love Accuphase, right now I have 7 Accuphase pieces, but ALL of them were bought in Japan and set to the my local voltage by me. In case of a failure and "the local distributor/store does not touch an imported machine"? Well, I'll simply buy another and still be +/- at the cost I would have paid for and official one...

[@franknelissen8041]

@@79Tiamat how do you set the voltage yourself? Is there a switch inside the unit (so all units are basically built the same)?

[@latle111]

Great review, Sean. If you want to review another pricey amp, can you do the gorgeous Gato 150? It's screaming your name.

[@ZeroFidelity]

It *does* look purdy.

[@scottyo64]

Loudness button? Sold!

[@riccitone]

Uuummm....salivating. And totally agree, this one seems worth the $$$$. Maybe...just maybe, down the road (and some dedicated saving).

[@krell7909]

Btw, very insightful reviews

[@Labor_Jones]

I want it second.... I'm patient. Pretty much any time you or Steve want something enough to pay for it... I want it too!

[@rickp6731]

The real shocker though is the Accuphase E-5000 is the best value in Accuphase's whole line! Sounds amazing with the new Borresen Acoustics Z5 Cryo Edition Speakers..best value in Borresen's whole line

[@craighoffman6876]

Excellent review as always. With it's pricing so out of whack in the US, and since one can buy these for a lot less in Japan, the Gray Market on the 480 model especially has to be alive and well. Of course there goes warranty support on an expensive purchase.

[@omilianful]

Good point. I would also add that it is not just warranty support which is unavailable out of region. No technical support or parts are available outside of the original supply region.

[@oskay4018]

Many people mentioned warranty, but I don't see that matters as much. For every electronic stuff I bought I never counted on warranty. I bought my monitor (professional one), rice cooker etc from Japan and others all the time. I buy high quality stuff and expect them not to have problem or I buy cheap stuff and don't mind to buy a new one. Yes, there is a chance that accuphase does have problem, but the chances are really really low. it would worth the shipping cost back to Japan to get an Accuphase serviced if neccsasry. Or the cost saving even worths you to buy another new Accuphase from Japan down the road when the first one breaks.....

[@craighoffman6876]

@@oskay4018 Good point. I have never had a big heavy and well made class A/B amp fail me until, after about 30 some odd years of loyal and sometimes very hard service, my 1980s era Yamaha A1000 finally quit, all this without a re-cap along the way. No doubt it was fixable by a vintage repair guy, but it was time for me to move on, so I donated it to him; he was quite happy about that. I have no doubt if a gray market Accuphase amp did have an issue, my vintage amp repair guy could fix it, no problem. Hmmm.. I replaced my old A1000 with a new A-S 1200 bought on sale. The wife would shoot me if I spent even gray market Accuphase money - LOL

[@xstensl8823]

my brother had a Accuphase amp and pre-amp in the mid 70's with Magnapans. wish he would have kept it. i saved some money and got a Rega also hand made

[@adrianconti5718]

I’m just still put off my the plastic knobs, at this price point it’s a no brained to have them metal! That said, I would still happily own it!

[@MikeConrad-oj6se]

It's weird, I owned an E260 and never thought the knobs were plastic. Even removed for cleaning, they seemed to be high-density composition material maybe?

[@peace-yv4qd]

I have Luxman amp I purchased a few years back. I have it paired with Tannoy Gold reference speakers. The speakers and the Amp sound beautiful together and I haven't even finished tweaking the setup so I expect even greater things down the down the road. Accuphase reminds me of the Luxman in a gold color. Accuphase is on my bucket list for the future.

[@lmstefanini1]

Luxman and Tannoy are an excellent match

[@peace-yv4qd]

@@lmstefanini1 Purchased my Luxman and Tannoy's directly from dealers who both gave me terrific deals on the speakers and amp. I just happened to come across them by accident when I was looking for a certain sound. Was interested in a Mcintosh amp a dealer was selling and he asked me what speakers I was driving. He told me that the Luxman amp was a better choice. He was right.

[@philipdeighton47]

Hi ,having an e360(bought preloved for£3k),can't help wondering if the newer e380 might be the perfect answer,more power etc, same brilliant Accuphase build, sound etc,and not that pricey.After all it will probably last a lifetime as you say.Keep 'em coming.

[@senidna]

Sean, THX for your great review!!! as always :) Do you testet the E-280 with Buchardt S400? does the amp deliver enough power for them S400, or will the more powerful E.480 be a better match? THX

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yep. It's a good match with the original S400, and a *fantastic* match wit the new MK2.

[@frshtrds]

I own a Yamaha 501 which was quite an investment for my budget. I heard $6000 and almost had a heart attack

[@gw_tube]

Shaun, excellent review! My sincere congratulations on the effort put into this and other reviews, which at least for me are very helpful. However, there is one thing that bothers me in the case of Accuphase. Why in Japan Accuphase amplifiers are almost twice cheaper than in the rest of the world? Do you have any thoughts on this?

[@ZeroFidelity]

Most hi-fi companies do their best to set a fair global pricing strategy. In Japan, there are companies that will pass on the savings of removing freight, import fees, and distributor margins, onto their customers. I'm perfectly fine with this strategy as a consumer. Sometimes people in North America enjoy the same arrangement (with brands like Tekton, for example). As a distributor however, I may grumble a bit as it would encourage people to buy direct from Japan and then connect it to converters. It could also paint the picture of me (the distributor) being rather greedy to the outside who has zero understanding of the costs involved with running a distribution company. As always, there's no perfect solution. I'm fine with how things are.

[@gw_tube]

@@ZeroFidelity Thank you for your answer. I like the "local" patriotism used by Accuphase. However, it is a rare case that the price differs so much on the domestic market as compared to the prices abroad. For me, it looks as if Accuphase is selling its products to distributors around the world at a price similar to ordinary users in Japan :)

[@stopthefomo]

I so dread these reviews because we all love audio jewelry that we can pass down to our grandchildren!! So for $5,000 to $7000: Accuphase vs Luxman vs Yamaha?

[@johndavis1217]

I feel your pain. I want them all.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Answer: Collect them ALL!

[@FarHagh]

@@ZeroFidelity Especially if you guess you will have 3 grandchildren or more :)

[@daniannaci3258]

If you’re collecting, definitely put a McIntosh MC275 tube amp in your trophy case.

[@oleksiifilippov68]

It surely can be precious and valuable to you, but grandchildren rarely care about your shit.

[@gisellamanno562]

BELLISSIMA!!

[@bradleydurbin6784]

Nice! I've got a used Adcom preamplifier and amplifier I bought a couple of weeks ago at this used stereo repair shop . Gfa 535 but I have problems with the preamplifier tuner. I had to take it back 3 times to get the FM radio tuner fixed . But for 250.00 a piece I got a good deal. Maybe I should save up for this bad boy!

[@daniannaci3258]

Gosh, I sold a million of those back in the day. Jason Hanson, retired kicker for the Detroit Lions, bought that same pairing when he first moved to Detroit. Nonetheless, the GFA 535 is a killer little amp, best one Adcom ever made. 60 WPC 8 ohms, 110 WPC 4 ohms. Will drive electrostatic loudspeakers no problem. Ever peek inside it? It’s completely dual mono - there’s 2 power transformers inside, one for each channel. It may image better than that Accuphase because of that 😆😆. That why it’s a GFA ( Great F**king Amp! Yes, it really stands for that. They were high.). The GTP 350 is kinda flat sounding (all ICs) but the tuner - working - sounds great! But waddya want for $350 back in its day? And it was one of the few with a remote back then! Enjoy

[@bradleydurbin6784]

Yeah I like it. All I can afford.

[@emanon321]

Hey Sean, Last year, I purchased a new 550 AXii. My decision was based in part of your review of that amp and a brief but enjoyable audition a couple of years ago. Your description of the Luxman sound (I realize that the amp you compared the 'phase to is a LUX A/B but it is close to what I hear with the AXii. The only issue with the LUX that I have is that IMO, it can sound a bit "dry" at times. Bottom line? I may very well seriously look at the E-280 even though a phono stage is more $$$. Thanks for your work.

[@michaels840]

I think I found my next amplifier. It may take me some time (and money) to find when to buy it. But what to do about other components? Would I need to change my CD transports or speakers? What about streaming? Yes, streaming. Though I really want my next unit to be a 7.2.x theater unit.

[@jonasthegreat]

Hello Sean, have you ever thought of reviewing the new Buchardt I150? Quite intrigued by it, hope you consider it. Cheers!

[@blackcatsarenopussies]

I love my Sugden A21SE. Try it once and see how you like it

[@richardramorino3319]

Wow. Just bought a pair of Rosso Fiorentino Elba2 and looking for an amp upgrade. Wondering whether the Luxman or the Accuphase would be a better match. The speakers are already warm, so maybe the Accuphase is too warm. LOVE the speakers. Better than my old Cremonas. Thanks for another great review Sean!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Congrats on those Elba 2's. Fantastic speakers. I'm sure the distributor would tell you to try out Norma. If he's willing to offer a demo, try that combo first. Otherwise, I'd lean slightly towards Lux for the Rosso's.

[@richardramorino3319]

@@ZeroFidelity thanks Sean. You rock!

[@Robinson8491]

After your review, I'm in between the Accuphase E280 and Doge 10. Would you ever consider reviewing this Chinese amplifier? I have considered many amps, but these two seem to be great value (and looks).

[@jeanlouispvt1522]

Hi Sean. A new subscriber here. I find your reviews awesome, correct, accurate and even passionate. I'm in my late 20s and I'd like to start setting up my audiophile gear system. There are few or even unexistent specialized retail stores in my country for these type of products. This being said, I kindly ask you for your expert advise. I purchased a Denon DRA-800H Receiver which I chose over a Marantz 5005 integrated amplifier which I found rather simple. I recently got an Audio-Technica 120 usb-bt turntable. My big question lies on the speakers. The only ones that I can get here without having to sell a kidney are the Polk T50 floor stand speakers. I think they might be pretty basic, but there are no others. Maybe some Yamahas, but again the prices are ridiculous. So, what is your take on this please? I appreciate your thoughts.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Hey Jean - I love the T50s! I reviewed them years ago, and think they are an excellent speaker at that price. A warm, yet expressive sound. A few tips: 1). Put those speakers on something solid, like say a thick cutting board. Decoupling them from the floor and getting them a little bit higher really cleans up the bass. 2). When it comes time to upgrade, you're actually better off changing out your receiver or turntable. The T50s' are good enough to where they can be paired to fairly expensive components before they become the weak link. That's my take. Good luck and have fun!

[@jeanlouispvt1522]

@@ZeroFidelity Fantastic. Thanks for replying and for the valuable tips, Any chance you review the Denon DRA-800H somewhere in the future?

[@dbert5963111]

good review. however for the price? i highly recommend you review or listen to the yamaha A-s1100. i found a open box unit from cal. fof 1,500 bucks. reg. retail about 2800. i absolutely love everything about this sound! those beautiful v u meters and the classic yamaha sound. the build quality is second to none it weighs about 50 pounds. the dead give away?? look at the back panel..10 times better than the accuphase. by the way, i have the yamaha paired with the triangle bro 3 , on your recommendation. couldnt be happier. cant wait to hear the yamaha with my magnepans lrs+ that are on order. keep up the good reviews. 90 into 8 ohms 150 int 4!

[@joelnorris4064]

Sean, one of your best reviews. Just need to find a good US dealer. That may be a problem.

[@vladimirdorta6692]

The U.S. Accuphase distributor's prices are way higher than in Canada due to greed. That may be a reason to either buy in Canada and damn the torpedos, or buy Luxman.

[@vorpane]

Still hoping to see you laying your hands on some accu power amps (preferably class A)! :)

[@emanon321]

Well, I decided to take a chance on the E-280 about a month ago. Initially it was a big disappointment compared to the Lux 550axii. But at about the 200 hr. break in time the ACC started to come alive. Now, with well over 300 hours I prefer it over the Luxman. One important reason is that I find the E-280 non-fatiguing to listen to, no matter for how long, whether it's to classical, jazz, world, electronic or other genres. (don't do metal, etc....) I sadly cannot say that about the Luxman. Of course, my ears, my room, etc. And the Luxman is a very fine piece indeed. One of the biggest surprises is how nicely the E-280 pairs with Maggie LRS+ (no subs) Have a fine holiday season, all.

[@FabriG-yd5ft]

Accuphase has a much more natural sound compared to Luxman, which is a bit artificial.

[@Joseph-lu2lr]

@emanon321, are you saying the E280 doesn't perform well with Metal or you it's just a genre you don't listen to on it?

[@emanon321]

@@FabriG-yd5ft Agreed. The Lux has its charms but overall I find the ACC e-280 more relaxing and enjoyable to listen to for hours on end.

[@emanon321]

@@Joseph-lu2lr I mean that Metal music holds no interest for me. I do find that the e-280 performs well with a wide variety of musical genres. My favorites are Classical of every period, Jazz mid-century and 21st century cutting edge, electronic, ambient, and much more.

[@christopherkent6512]

Hi Sean, have you auditioned the Musical Fidelity Nu-vista integrated? I am looking for something in the $6k to $10k range to drive a pair of Audiovector R3 speakers. I am currently using a MF 3A pre and P140 which are now long in the tooth. I just auditioned the Alluxity integrated and it is extremely listenable, pulls you in and hangs on! Love your channel.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Unfortunately I won't be of any help as I haven't heard the Nu Vista, nor have I heard your speakers. I hear they are pretty clean / slightly forward sounding, which tends to be the reputation of Musical Fidelity as well. Either way, I wish you the best in figuring out a solution!

[@pm4898]

What a beautiful amp! When you opened it up all I could think of was: no globs of glue like the crown amp had. I know not a fair comparison but shows the difference between high end and run of the mill. Thanks for another great review of an amp noone ever reviews!

[@RennieAsh]

The crown is a rack mount pa who is it not? Designed for different purpose. Costing 6k and having money put into aesthetics or 1%rs isn't it .

[@pm4898]

@@RennieAsh Well we could debate who the xls's are marketed too, but my point was the difference in aesthetics between the two. Understandably the $6000 unit should win but is there really any excuse for "globs" of glue deposited in the casing to hold a light part. I think not, it's just hurry and waste. Two things that don't speak well of a product.

[@RennieAsh]

@@pm4898 it's there to prevent excessive vibrations for to nature of the parts used. How would you achieve this otherwise in that price range?

[@pm4898]

@@RennieAsh it's a $600+ amp, there are a number of ways to achieve that without the "globs." If you're cool with it, fine.

[@RennieAsh]

P M please, do elaborate :)

[@TheOrthodoxMachine]

As ANA[DIA]LOG would say “Oooo Baby!!!” 😍

[@LuxAudio389]

I secod that. "Ooo Baby!!"👍

[@willmac5642]

starting to think in a mid system the DAC is all important. Well maybe not 'all' but next upgrade will be a high end DAC, possibly a Sonnet Morpheus if I can pony up 3k.

[@FarHagh]

Hey Sean. Just wanted to say I hate you! I do! I mean, before this video I was in love with the look of this unit as the most beautiful integrated in my eyes. Now with this review, you tell me how to resist the tempt? Thanks for the great video :)

[@shaynakash4222]

sounds amazing with 99 db vintage altec lansing speakers and with seas 8 inch fullrange 97 db ,tha amp makes the speakers sound to go out of the walls the 3 d imaging is unbelivle ,you should get one ,by the way the price in the u.s is about 20 % more than allmost every country ,for the lower price range thats a realy good deal ...

[@GM8D79]

Choosing a piece of sound equipment can be overwhelming. You don't know what speakers go with a specific amplifier to produce the best output. It also impacts the size of the room or where you will be playing your system. Among the two types of speakers that I currently owned Bose offers a good bass just the right amount. I'm looking for something that provides enough power for the room and excellent sound quality. I'm looking for HI quality sound with the right amount of bass. The basement room that I have measures 264 square feet. I'm looking for an amplifier that also provides inputs like digital files, Inputs for CD player and Record player. Do you have any suggestions?

[@stephenjon3502]

Would love you to compare the Accuphase against the Lyngdorf TDAI 3400 with Roomperfect. Both of these are in my wish list.

[@GnosisMan50]

Depressing as hell that hi-fi stereo systems cost so much these days. 30 years ago, I’d go to a stereo outlet in Philadelphia. They had wall-to-wall amplifiers, stereos, speakers, receivers, and turntables from many brands and price ranges. They were affordable to the average joe. I never imagined that todays hi-fi stereo systems are affordable only to the rich. Had I known, I would have bought a garage full of stereo equipment. Then sell them as vintage and make a profit.

[@ZeroFidelity]

This is a luxury item. It's not built for the average Joe. This one review does not represent even a fraction of whats available in 2022. Today, there is NO shortage of great, affordable hi-fi products to chose from. Example: You can buy a set of Triangle Borea 3's for $319 a pair, new, with warranty, that will humble most similar sized/prized speakers that was sold back in the late 1990's. The choices now are endless and very reasonable in terms of price. Accuphase is not and has never targeted that market.

[@hitechburg]

The PASS LABS INT-250 : 250 watts into 8ohms, 500 watts into 4ohms. $12,000

[@outbackwack368]

Thanks! That sounds like my kind of amp! Now if the wallet would open a bit wider :-)

[@weeragardens]

If you have between luxman 509x and Accuphase e380 which one would you choose to pair with Harbeth 30.2 XD? Thanks