Using foreign amps w/ voltage transformers to save on import cost

[aardvark baguette]

So there are some nice looking Japanese amps that catch my eye. It looks as though the U.S. markup is outrageous ($3.5k higher than the imported amp example below), with the only difference (afaik) being a USA-compensated voltage.

In the Luxman example below, Audiocubes2 offers a voltage transformer with the original japan version of the amp, at a much cheaper price than buying it from the U.S. dealers. I wont mention names, but it seems to fetch about $9,500 from U.S.A. based merchants that I've seen. I'm wondering how much (if any) of a hit I'd take in the sound quality department if I went with the Audiocubes version, that comes with the voltage transformer. I've not seen the transformer, so I dont know what it looks like, how well its built, etc. So I guess I'm looking for feedback from anyone with experience with such a device.

Example:

Audio Cubes II - High Fidelity Audio Products

I'd really like to try the luxman with harbeths, especially after reading an article in issue 15 of Tonepub that compares such a setup. But 3.5 thousand dollars extra puts it in the not-very-likely category for me, especially if the voltage is the only difference. That would just be depressing.

I've noticed similar markups for Leben amps as well, for the same exact issue.

I will note that the picture of the Luxman in the Audiocubes site is different than that of the USA sites, but I'm pretty sure they are just showing a different model in the picture by mistake.

Edited February 26, 2010 by aardvark baguette

[Beefy]

From everything I have ever read and learned, the step down transformer will make sweet bugger all difference. Any manufacturer or distributor who says otherwise is using FUD to extract more money from you.

Perhaps think of it as an extra layer of galvanic isolation

[Hopstretch]

Take this for what it's worth Baggers, but I thought the Luxman I heard (509, IIRC) with the P3s was almost too much of a good thing. Sprinkling sugar on top of honey, or something like that.

[aardvark baguette]

Interesting.

I know that you were able to pick up on a slight coloration from the EAR HP4 that I either didnt pick up, or preferred.

So while I like the idea of absolute neutrality, there may be a part of me that likes a little honey on top. I dunno. Now you've confused me.

[aardvark baguette]

TONEAudio Magazine Issue 15 – Magazine | TONEAudio MAGAZINE

This is the issue with the review for anyone interested.

[CD44hi]

One could always get a power conditioner with adjustable voltage output... that may be a bit better? (i.e. PSA power plant)

[spritzer]

The only issue I have with step up/down transformer is that their build quality is often quite bad since they are built to a price. Few have cores large enough to do the job properly since they try to keep the weight down. OTOH a well built step down should even bring benefits over connection directly to the wall by offering galvanic isolation and removing all DC from the power line. You can have somebody like SumR make you a proper main transformer which should cost a lot less then the price difference is between imported and domestic models.

[aardvark baguette]

Anyone know if these are likely to be of good or bad quality?

Power Converter - Step Up/Down Japan Transformers

[Dreadhead]

Anyone know if these are likely to be of good or bad quality?

Power Converter - Step Up/Down Japan Transformers

I was going to say just buy something that is rated for a much higher power than you need and you should be fine I would think. That said transformer hum can be a bitch and cheaper transformers (which I don't know if those are or not) do it more than a potted SumR ever would.

[spritzer]

I don't think it is a good idea to run 100V gear off 120v. In terms of tube gear with unregulated PSU's, you are seeing a lot more voltage on the secondary which is then further stepped up by being rectified. Lets say a 400VAC output from the transformer which would give us 564VDC. Now run the amp off 120V and you have 480VAC which is 677VDc and that could be too much for the capacitors. This is an extreme case but many tube amps run at these voltages (or even higher) and use very simple PSU's.

Anyone know if these are likely to be of good or bad quality?

Power Converter - Step Up/Down Japan Transformers

I have no idea without looking inside but they do look a lot like one of my cheap ones (230V to 100v/117V) and it is good, not great. I have a huge vintage transformer which is better but then it is really heavy. It's also got multiple taps so I can fine tune the output voltage. I would try to find some surplus stuff in your area but something like these in the link should be more then good enough. Then there are always custom Plitron's and SumR units...

[aardvark baguette]

I looked at the SumR site but it looks like they only have the internal parts.

I suppose you could buy one of those and shove it into one of the units from the link I posted?

I'd consider hiring a headcaser to do such a thing (or whatever entails 'custom unit') if I do get the amp.

[spritzer]

SumR only makes the transformers so you need some chassis to put it in. Something simple like aluminum plates attached to a wooden frame would do the trick.

[penger]

6moon article/review: 6moons audio reviews: From 240 to 117 Volts

Does it really cost $1500 for a custom job?? I realize shipping can be a pretty penny given the weight, but how much does a transformer usually cost?

[spritzer]

Plitron's certainly aren't cheap...

[cetoole]

You could also get it and before getting a 120:100v transformer, see if the amp can be modified to run off 120v directly. Might just be jumpers inside, might need a new power transformer.

[spritzer]

Tru dat. If the gear is meant for the Japanese market only (i.e. most of the older high end stuff) is unfortunately 100V only.

[cetoole]

Just thinking if it also has a US version that isnt just a complete afterthought with a different transformer, it would probably make financial sense for them to just use a multiple primary transformer. Even if you have to change the power transformer, it still saves the cost of the extra case, outlets and wiring, not to mention the tendency to buy an even more overrated transformer.

[aardvark baguette]

it looks like a rather nice unit in the luxman, but I'm just going off superficial looks as I dont know all the technical info you guys do. Also odd is that its almost in the middle of the machine, usually they are near the IEC plug, or so I thought.

I dont suppose the picture above shows if it has the usa-ready primaries/windings/whatever.

Hell, even if its expensive, I'd still be better of paying someone to build one than pay the extra for the US version (again, assuming its just a voltage difference).

[n_maher]

Japan runs 60hz just like the US, AFAIK.

Eastern Japan 50 Hz (Tokyo, Kawasaki, Sapporo, Yokohoma, and Sendai)

Western Japan 60 Hz (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima)

Taken from - Electricity Around the World - which is one of the more complete lists I've seen and has proven to be pretty accurate the few times I've referenced it.

[spritzer]

Most modern transformers are designed to handle both 50/60Hz so that shouldn't be an issue.

i never said it was a good idea, i just said it would probably work.

Fair enough...