Grey amplifier Imports from Japan?

That's cool and all, but why are these units (both brands) 2-3 times the price than in Japan. I understand dollar to yen, tariffs, duty, taxes, and so on and so forth. But, this has to be profit driven. Big profits, I would think...

I'm with Dave_72, everyone knows a dealer importer has to make a living, also, that all the difference in price, is'nt down to the dealer being greedy, but when the difference is so great....

There is an ethical issue here. For me, this means I am not going to a dealer to audition the product, then importing from Japan. The same applies to buying second hand and incidentally, a viable and possibly safer alternative to a direct import. I am simply not going to buy an Accuphase integrated amp at over $10000. I have'nt got the cash and don't think they are worth it to me."Buy something cheaper", I can hear the reply. Well I want an Accupase or Luxman and there is a way of getting it a lot cheaper and why not, if I'm not dishonestly using a dealer's services, then buying elswhere.

Basically, a lot of us have ears bigger than our wallets. What you do about it, is the question.

David12

Since you are located in Europe 230V/50Hz operation using a step down transformer will not be a problem because Japan uses both 50Hz and 60Hz at 100 Volts. Japan is the only country that uses 100V 60Hz/50Hz. All transformers are designed for both 60Hz/50Hz.

I have purchesd Three Luxman and and one CEC from Japan at half the price in USA. The Luxman L-507U you can change the 100V to 115V or 230V by just moving the jumper from 100V to 230V. Also disconnect the wires that is connected from 100V/115V to 230V operation, The transformer one section works for 100V/115V and the other section is for 230V/50Hz operation. Also you need to replace two main fuses to 250V. There is no such thing as Grey amplifier import both Luxman and Accuphase are super high end custom made Japan product.

That's helpful thankyou. Most amplifiers seem to have adjustable voltage, by changing the taps on the transformer. The one exception for me, was the Viva Solista I bought in the US. Adjusting the transformer changed the voltage from 110 to European standfard 220V. Unfortunately the 240v we have in the UK, was enough of a difference to blow a few caps.

Luxman sound? Give me a break. The sonic qualities of these Luxman products are a myth. It is reported that quite a few double blind tests conducted and published in Japan have proved Luxman product performance is indistinguishable from many other amps that are sold in Japan, many at lower price points. Why subject yourself to all that pain for a product that is very 'ordinary?' Move on to China where great sound and value is available.