RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
The natural wear and tear of mechanical and electronic components causes sonic changes in an Accuphase after extended use. In an aging amplifier, switches, controls, relays, capacitors, and solder joints are particularly prone to crackling and other unwanted noises, and in some cases, even failures. Silver-plated switch contacts become coated with black silver sulfide over time as they react with ambient air. It can only be cleaned mechanically, any contact cleaners are powerless here.The main problems with this amplifier when I bought it about 2 years ago were weak tone control, poor contact of the input switches, and the sound on the left channel was weaker while the amplifier was warming up.Thorough testing and service has been performed on the amplifier:- ELNA electrolytic capacitors in the signal path are replaced with Nichicon Muse, - all switch contacts cleaned and lubricated, - some weak solder joints are resoldered, - the interior and all circuit boards are cleaned, - one of the original worn-out OMRON speaker relays was replaced with a sealed modern SCHRACK relay (the other relay, as it turned out, had already been replaced by the previous owner).However, I haven't touched the power amplifier circuit boards yet because no problems were found there. I'll stick to the principle that it's not worth repairing what isn't broken :)For example, out of all the ELNA electrolytes removed, only 1 was defective and 2 were questionable.However, if you would like to replace the remaining ELNAs in power amplifier circuit boards, I can do that, they have been purchased.I have replaced the original speaker terminals with LS terminals. This allows you to connect 4mm banana plugs, spade connectors, and bare wire to the amplifier. However, I can return the originals if you wish.I needed this replacement for faster and easier speaker connection because I still have Accuphase E-207 and I often needed to swap these Accuphases while testing and repairing them.Sound quality is superb!If I were to compare the sound of the Accuphase E-205 and 207, I would say that the E-205's sound is more "analog", softer. But I will stay with the E-207 because it has fewer problems with input switching - it uses hermetic relays.Shipping is quite problematic for such a heavy device but I will pack it as safely as possible with all the necessary materials.Any questions? Please ask! Specifications:Power output: 80 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo)Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHzTotal harmonic distortion: 0.02%Damping factor: 100Input sensitivity: 0.09mV (MC), 2.8mV (MM), 90mV (line)Signal to noise ratio: 68dB (MC), 85dB (MM), 103dB (line)Output: 90mV (line)Speaker load impedance: 4Ω to 16ΩSemiconductors: 66 x transistors, 11 x IC, 24 x FET, 71 x diodesDimensions: 445 x 145 x 370mmWeight: 14kg
Generating expert take…
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.
