Accuphase amplifier choice

Relating to Soul Note above, I was able to audition both the top end Soul Note P-3 and the Accuphase C3900 pres in my system, feeding into a Gryphon Essence amp. The Soul Note sounded nice, but the C3900 was superior. Main differences were that the Accuphase had a punchier, better controlled bass and a deeper, more precise soundstage. It wasn’t a close contest. 

I owned an Accuphase E-50 class A integrated years ago. I enjoyed it, but it was definitely voiced as a more romantic sound. I’m impressed that the C3900, and the current higher end Accuphase sound, is a big soundstage, quick and resolving, yet the sonic signature is still built from the bottom up. 

I would encourage curious folks to watch Adrian of Canada’s Audio Excellence store youtube channel. He reviews the A80, and give one of the best descriptions of the newer Accuphase house sound that I’ve heard. 

I really like my Gryphon Essence, but do wonder at times what an A80 would sound like paired up with the C3900.

In the end, great choice going with the Accuphase.

O-H!

milpai and others,

Reading the inputs to this post filled me with amp-envy -- not really.

I've been in this hobby for decades, but while my system sounded quite good I had an underlying feeling it could be better for my last go-round.  I'd long been aware of Accuphase's reputation for build and sound quality.  At the same time I'd been using separate amps (often mono blocs) and preamps/line stages and their products seemed beyond my means.

In deciding to look for my "last" system I also wanted to simplify.  That meant finding an integrated amp.  Finding a couple of helpful reviews online I decided to take a chance at the shallow end of the Accuphase pool.  I've been very pleased by that decision.  My new integrated amp is extremely well built, offers a full array of controls, and most importantly delivers a top level of musical satisfaction.

So my reason for commenting is to encourage anyone reading this post who may feel these components are beyond them, not to ignore the lower levels of Accuphase product lines.  They can still be wonderfully rewarding.

@pryso EXACTLY!  I am fortunate to have owned (and even heard) some rather decent components but I knew my Accuphase A-48S amplifier was special the moment I turned it on. But once it broke-in, WOW!  The synergy with my other Accuphase components is a match made in heaven. My A48-S amplifier is a testament to what Class-A amplifiers truly are - it's natutal and highly detailed with excellent transient response.

@fire_water "But once it broke-in, WOW!” 

all Accuphase amps run 50+ hrs at the factory before final test, recording measurements data, and releasing to customers! 

@liquidsound "The A48 is built like a tank"

tank is built for one / few battles, Accuphase for decades!