2. misc-audio
  3. 1369412907

Accuphase E-560 Voltage Conversion 100v to 230v

Hello All

I have just placed an order with a Japanese company to supply me with an Accuphase E-560 Integrated Amplifier. The obvious reason to order a Japanese (100v) Model is Price. I need to use it in the UK (230v 50hz). My initial thought was to use it with a Step down Transformer. However, I am getting increasingly concerned with idea.

I would really appreciate if someone can share their experience on the following:

1. Is there a performance issue with Step Down Transformer.
2. Has anyone used a Balanced Power supply with this Amp.
3. Advice on choosing Step down transformer.

And Most importantly:

4. Can it be converted to work on Higher Main Voltage of UK/EU/US.

Please share your thoughts.

Thanks

Kam
onenippon
pbnaudio's avatar
pbnaudio
1,534 posts
 
The few Accuphase pieces I have come through here had multi tap primary transformers in them so it should be possible to convert to 230V quite easily, from memory there was even a diagram on the transformer.

If not just use a adequate sized step down / isolation transformer and you should have no issues.

Good listening

Peter
mechans
2,999 posts
 
I don't mean to thread jack your thread, but I never understood the use of the phrase "step down transformer" when the voltage needs to be stepped up.
If it is any consolation to you I have heard of sucessful voltage conversions in both directions but have no personal experience doing it.
One of the problems encountered is people not recognizing the 100 volt Japaneses standard in this country where voltage are 115-120 volts with wide variances in some areas. This ultimately harms these pieces bought in many cases by GIs while in Japan.
It seems true, that step down transformers however work well from what I have read here and elsewhere, I certainly hope you find the same success.
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,152 posts
 
Mechans...I don't understand either. Are you stepping up/down the voltage from the unit to match the wall or are you stepping up/down the voltage from the wall to match the unit? Or is it just semantics?
jjrenman
279 posts
 
A lot of makers find it more economical to purchase a mains transformer that have the various inputs to work in all markets. You just have to find out which unused leads are for 230V.
onenippon OP
8 posts
 
Thanks for the responses, as I have already said, much appreciated.

To answer the question of whether its step up or down, in my opinion:

Electricity, like water, flows downhill toward the appliance. In my case, the mains supply is 230/240v but the Amp accepts 100v only, so a transformer which sits in between 'steps the voltage down from 230v to 100v', so I suppose it is rightly call a Step-down Transformer.

And otherwise would be true if someone took a UK/EU appliance to Japan.

Please keep sharing you experience about Accuphase.

Many Thanks
More to discover