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Accuphase A-80
The A-80 is a Class A power amplifier developed as a stereo amplifier version of our 50th anniversary A-300 model. Optimizing the 10-parallel push-pull power MOS-FETs in the output stage produces an output power of 65 W into 8 ohms, 130 W into 4 ohms, 260 W into 2 ohms, and 520 W into 1 ohm. Rigorous investment into new, cutting-edge noise reduction technologies has achieved a sense of presence and minute expression that rival live performances. The A-80 power amplifier perfectly fuses modern technology with the wealth of knowledge Accuphase has amassed in its pursuit of perfect sonic expression.
- 65 W into 8 ohms, 130 W into 4 ohms, 260 W into 2 ohms,and 520 W into 1 ohm large linear output power
- Class A driven 10-parallel push-pull MOS-FET output stage
- Instrumentation amplifier
- Signal input section with a fully discrete configuration for low noise
- Current feedback amplification topology
- Balanced remote sensing
- MCS+ circuitry
- High damping factor of 1,000
- Large, high-efficiency toroidal transformer
- High capacity 120,000 μF filtering capacitors
- Power amplification section on circuit boards using glass cloth fluorocarbon resin
- Hold time switching function that changes the meter peak display time
- 4-step gain control
- Bi-amping connection and bridged connection switching
- Large speaker terminals connected directly to protection circuitry
- Speaker output protection circuit guards against short-circuiting
- Highly reliable MOS-FET switches with no mechanical
- Aluminum hairline finish top plate
- High-carbon cast iron insulator feet with superior damping characteristics
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Professional Reviews 90/100
Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
93/100
Build Quality
91/100
Value for Money
80/100
Accuphase’s A-80 delivers deep, articulate bass, a seductive midrange and expansive, richly continuous staging. Adrian found its Class A presentation smooth yet highly resolved, with superb dynamics and exceptional ease across acoustic, vocal and orchestral music. Beautifully understated construction and commanding loudspeaker control complete a remarkably involving high-end amplifier.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Deep, punchy and highly articulate bass, with excellent woofer control and strong speaker authority.
Smooth, richly present midrange retains clarity, resolution and articulation across vocals and acoustic instruments.
Superb micro- and macro-dynamics, plus a large, immersive soundstage with sharp imaging.
Beautifully made, understated chassis with Class A warmth that does not noticeably heat the room.
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Cons
Observed clipping at high playback levels means demanding listeners may want additional power headroom.
Treble is slightly darker and less airy than some competing amplifiers.
Its approximately CAD $28,000 price is a significant investment.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 93/100
The A-80 is described as exceptionally musical, smooth and articulate, with a spectacular midrange and deep, controlled bass. It combines strong micro- and macro-dynamic expression with a large, involving stage, though its perspective is somewhat forward and its imaging is not presented as the last word in pinpoint precision.
Transparency Resolution
93/100
The reviewer calls the midrange “absolutely spectacular,” smooth and articulate, and reports a striking improvement from merely very good to “shockingly good.” Bass articulation is also singled out, suggesting that detail remains clear even when the amplifier is delivering substantial low-frequency weight.
Tonal Balance Musicality
95/100
The A-80 is repeatedly characterized as effortlessly musical, seductive, inviting and captivating across a wide range of music. Its combination of powerful, punchy bass with a smooth, articulate midrange made it an especially engaging and versatile listen.
Dynamics
94/100
The reviewer praises both micro- and macro-dynamics as superb, with deep, punchy bass that stayed powerful and controlled regardless of programme material. There was one observed instance of clipping, however, so its apparently effortless delivery is not entirely without a practical upper limit.
Soundstage Imaging
89/100
The A-80 produces a big soundstage and an immediately impressive sense of scale. Its perspective is described as slightly forward and intimate, while image placement is sharp rather than the more pinpoint-focused presentation some listeners may seek.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Build Quality
91/100
The reviewer finds the amplifier beautifully made, with an understated sense of quality rather than overtly showy construction. It runs warm after stabilizing, but not so hot that it noticeably heats the listening room, indicating well-managed real-world Class A operation.
Value for Money
80/100
At roughly CAD $28,000 in the review, the A-80 is explicitly acknowledged as a lot of money. Its performance is praised in unusually enthusiastic terms, but the review does not make a direct case that it outperforms comparably priced rivals or represents exceptional value at this level.
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Verified Dealers
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Authorized dealers for Accuphase A-80
- Resolution A/V — in-store — New York City, New York, United States (website)
- AD Dealer — in-store — Los Angeles, California, United States (website)
- All Elite Audio — online and in-store — Perry Hall, Maryland, United States (website)
- Alma Music & Audio — online and in-store — San Diego, California, United States (website)
- Alpha High End — online and in-store — Brasschaat, Vlaams Gewest, Belgium (website)
- Ann Arbor Audio Design — in-store — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (website)
- Apex Audio Denver — in-store — Denver, Colorado, United States (website)
- Audio Antiquary — online — Italy (website)
- Audio Connexion — online and in-store — Burlington, Ontario, Canada (website)
- Audio Excellence (CA) — online and in-store — Markham, Ontario, Canada (website)
and 125 more verified dealers