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Accuphase C-280 – Classic High-End Preamplifier (Recently Serviced / Recapped)Up for sale is a beautiful example of the legendary Accuphase C-280 preamplifier, a true classic from Accuphase’s golden era, renowned for its refined musicality and exceptional build quality.🔧 ConditionWood case: Very good condition, no major damageFront panel: Clean and well preserved, only very minor hairline marks consistent with ageOverall, this unit has been carefully kept and presents extremely well for a piece over 20 years old🔄 Recent Service Fully recapped last monthCapacitors inside the internal modules have been professionally replaced (multiple modules serviced)All internal contacts have been cleaned and refreshed to ensure optimal signal integrity👉 This means the unit is ready for long-term use, and should not require further recap work for many years.⚠️ Minor NoteThe Disc 1 input has slightly inconsistent contactThis is a minor issue and easily repairable, likely requiring minimal costAll other inputs and functions operate as expected🎵 Sound PerformanceThe C-280 is widely respected for its:Smooth, refined and “silky” presentationExcellent detail retrieval without sounding analyticalBeautiful midrange density and tonal richnessEffortless, natural musical flowIt’s a preamp that focuses on musical emotion rather than sterile measurements, making it a favorite among serious audiophiles.🎚️ FeaturesBuilt-in high-quality MM / MC phono stageDual phono inputs (Disc 1 / Disc 2)Classic Accuphase engineering and layoutExceptional phono performance comparable to many standalone units📦 SummaryA rare opportunity to own a serviced and recapped Accuphase C-280 in very good condition.With its timeless sound signature and recent maintenance, this is a piece you can enjoy for many years to come.
The USD 3,385 asking price for this gold Accuphase C-280 sits fairly in the used market, aligning closely with a mint 2017 Australian listing at around USD 3,300 (adjusted). Typical clean examples from the early '80s fetch USD 3,000-4,000 among enthusiasts, depending on servicing—ambitious if unproven, but a solid deal if fully recapped.
Buyers should verify the phono stage first, as RIAA feedback capacitors (like silver mica types) fail over time, dropping values and skewing EQ—insist on bench tests for overload margins and noise floor. Also check internal gold-plated relays and multi-pin connectors for corrosion, plus confirm the original power cord and manual are included; skip if volume pot shows distortion artifacts at extremes.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Accuphase Laboratory, Inc., founded in 1972 in Tokyo by brothers Nakaichi and Jiro Kasuga, emerged from their departure from Trio-Kenwood, the company they had co-established decades earlier. Dissatisfied with mass-production compromises, the Kasugas formed Kensonic Laboratories—later renamed Accuphase Laboratory—and relocated to Yokohama in 1973. The brand name, blending "accurate" and "phase," reflected their commitment to precision audio reproduction amid the 1970s hi-fi boom. Their debut products, the P-300 power amplifier, C-200 preamplifier, and T-100 tuner, immediately earned acclaim, including Japan's Compo Grand Prix for the P-300.
Accuphase specializes in high-end electronics, renowned for integrated and power amplifiers, preamplifiers, tuners, CD players, and digital sources like DACs. While their core strength lies in meticulously engineered amplifiers celebrated for phase accuracy and reliability, the lineup extends to digital components, mains filters, and room correction units. Hand-assembled in Yokohama with top-tier parts and innovative circuits, these products prioritize sound purity over volume, eschewing speakers, turntables, headphones, or cables.
Positioned firmly in the ultra-premium high-end market, Accuphase commands reverence among audiophiles for its timeless build quality, engineering excellence, and enduring performance. Synonymous with Japanese hi-fi mastery, it stands as a reference benchmark, appealing to discerning buyers seeking components that deliver uncompromised musical fidelity and last for generations.
See all Accuphase listings on RADAR.
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