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

I'm with those who recommend using a US dealer. I've dealt with Dedicated Audio and I've have had positive experiences with them. They're a Luxman Dealer. Also sometimes dealers  are willing to deal or have a trade-in or Demo at a discount. I have a Luxman system. Amp, turntable, phono preamp  and cartridge. Highly recommend the brand. 

@incorrigable 

As far as the voltage goes I would take it to an audio repair shop and have them make the changes for 120 VAC."

Easier said than done. Not only that it adds another layer of complexity to a simple transaction. The OP is only here to have forum members validate what he's already made up his mind too.

When I was in the market for a luxman, I called their American support tech  repair and asked them. The guy said don't do it. I can't remember why exactly. But, now that I've been in this hobby for a while your power supply and your power is so important for the best quality sound. And a black background. I would never do it now that I know.

If you ever want to get rid of it or trade up, the resell value will be peanuts, plus the warranty and repair issues.  Find a U.S. dealer that has a demo or show unit with a full U.S. warranty.  Precision Audio in Video is who I dealt with.

@incorrigable  - As I've tried to explain, this isn't something all power supplies are capable of.  I worked for a manufacturer who purchased a lot of transformers and eventually ended up winding our own. 

The issue is very much manufacturer/model specific.  Accuphase uses the same transformer for US, Japan and UK markets.  They do this with split primary windings.  These transformers have multiple primary wires, not just 2.  How you attach them to the terminal strip changes the voltage ratio between input and output.  Essentially this requires knowledge and a Philips-head screw driver. 

Luxman integrated amps do NOT do this.  They use separate transformer models for Japan, the US and the UK.   To convert a Luxman integrated amplifier you need a different power transformer.