Buying a Luxman L505z from Japan

@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.

I bought a Luxman 507uX II that needs a step down transformer but I bought it used, not new.  I don’t know what a brand new one would sound like but this unit sounds great!  I think that was your main concern.  This is coming from someone used to good equipment sound.  My last integrated amp was a Pathos Classic Mk III feeding a pair of Sonus Faber Sonetto II’s. About warranty and repairs, that’s another thing you’ll need to consider.  Enjoy, you’ll love it.  

Your net present value calculation is wildly different if you expect to own it forever, vs. for 5 years.  If the latter, your resale value on the Japanese version is way lower than on a U.S. dealer, manufacturer-warranted product.  

Buy a North American unit. Why waste time and effort with potential SQ and repair issues.