Buying a Luxman L505z from Japan


Hey, so I’m looking to purchase a Luxman L505z from Japan - I will need a 120-100v step down transformer . I wanted to find out if anyone has experience with this and if it will compromise the sound in anyway? I saw one from a dealer on eBay with a 99% rating, but I’m unsure if I should trust it. Any insights would be greatly appreciated 

edubbers

There is a used US Market 507z unit in excellent condition (9/10) for sale at TMR for $7,000. You could probably make a deal for $6500 plus $135 shipping.

I went through the same exercise before purchasing a US Accuphase unit. In the end, I justified it by planning to keep it for the rest of my life.  I wanted to maintain access to service and parts in the future, if needed.

 

 

@easystreamer 

Basically, I recommend: "don’t buy crap, but avoid overdoing it".

That is exactly the big overpriced type I say is NOT needed. 

Placement limitations and heat get involved when you ’overbuy’.

Do you have any 100 volt equipment? 

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One issue is HUM. My much smaller one (just a TT motor) is silent, but I advise having a return option, just in case your choice hums.

 

We have a Luxman SQ-N150, US version. Recently blew a power tube, replaced the tube with a new one from Brent Jessee before he retired. The unit would not power on so we called the local Luxman dealer who  referred a local service technician who fixed the problem. Turns out there are internal safety circuit breaker switches that had to be reset. Point is, if you have a local reliable source for service maybe buying a Japanese version is not a bad thing.