Accuphase E-380: Takes the sound quality of an integrated amplifier to a new level

Accuphase Laboratories, Inc., initially established as Kensonic Laboratories, Inc., is a prominent Japanese producer of premium electronic devices. Founded in 1972 by former Kenwood engineer Jiro Kasuga, the company emerged from Kasuga’s dissatisfaction with Kenwood’s equipment development strategies. Many of his innovative designs were not mass-produced, as they were deemed commercially unviable by the company. Following extensive discussions with Kenwood’s management, Kasuga launched the Kensonic brand, successfully attracting several top engineers from Marantz and Luxman.

The brand name Accuphase is derived from the prefix “ACCU,” which signifies accuracy and precision, combined with the term “PHASE,” representing a crucial aspect of sound reproduction technology. This trademark aptly encapsulates the essence of the company’s offerings, highlighting essential qualities that delve deep into the intricacies of sound reproduction.

In the relentless pursuit of superior quality, which necessitates an exceptionally high standard of production organization, the decision was made to forgo assembly line methods. Consequently, production volumes are limited, and Accuphase products are available exclusively at select specialized retailers. The equipment produced by Accuphase is not influenced by fleeting trends, as it is primarily designed to achieve true high fidelity in sound reproduction. This commitment to quality is a key factor in why these products have not entered the realm of mass production.

The Accuphase E-380 elevates the sound quality of integrated amplifiers to an exceptional standard. A key advancement in this model is the groundbreaking AAVA (Accuphase Analog Varigain Amplifier) volume control circuit. This innovative design ensures that the audio signal bypasses variable resistors, eliminating impedance fluctuations. As a result, distortion and noise remain minimal across all volume levels. The circuit incorporates current feedback at the input stage, enhancing performance at elevated signal levels. With the signal traveling solely through fixed resistors, crossover distortion is kept to a minimum, while the consistency of channel gain is improved.

The output stages of the amplifier utilize Multiple Circuit Summing technology, which connects amplifying elements in parallel. This configuration significantly enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and reduces distortion. Additionally, the implementation of current feedback minimizes phase shifts and transient distortions. On the rear panel, there are two compartments with covers, allowing for the optional installation of DAC-30 DAC boards, MM/MC AD-20 phono preamplifiers, or extra Line-10 linear inputs if needed.

The signal-to-noise ratio has been enhanced by 3 dB. The power amplifier incorporates the latest topology, facilitating the most consistent reproduction of the audio signal. The Accuphase E-380 features high-power bipolar transistors arranged in parallel, ensuring low impedance. This amplifier is constructed using a fully balanced circuit design. The current feedback mechanism in the stages delivers outstanding phase characteristics. Additionally, the speaker protection circuit utilizes Power MOS-FET switches, eliminating the necessity for mechanical relay contacts.

Among its notable features, the use of MOS-FET switches for speaker protection contributes to superior electrical performance and enhances long-term reliability. The output stage circuit topology is optimized for extremely low impedance, achieving a damping factor exceeding 400, which reflects its exceptional capability to drive speakers. Furthermore, the Accuphase E-380 includes a dedicated headphone amplifier compatible with impedances ranging from 8 to 100 ohms.

Features:

• Front panel made of high-quality anodized aluminum.
• Output stage with powerful transistors, in parallel balanced design: 120 W x 2 into 8 ohms
• Logic control relays for the shortest signal paths
• Powerful power supply with a massive high-efficiency transformer and large-capacity capacitors
• MAIN IN button allows separate use of the preamplifier and power amplifier sections
• Beautiful analog pointer meters
• High-quality gold-plated speaker terminals
• The amplifier can be equipped with AD 30 – MM / MC phono corrector board, as well as DAC 40 – digital-to-analog converter board.

Specifications:

• Load impedance 4-16 Ohm
• Power 180 W at 4 Ohm
• Frequency range 3-150000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio 122 dB
• Input impedance 20 kOhm
• Inputs linear x6, balanced x2 PreAmp
• Outputs linear x1, PreAmp, headphones x1
• Power consumption 280 W
• Dimensions (WxHxD) 465x171x422 mm
• Weight 22.8 kg.