Accuphase E-800S review: Refined Flagship Sound

Accuphase E-800S: A Refined Flagship Integrated Amplifier

The Accuphase E-800S, the successor to the celebrated E-800, represents the pinnacle of Accuphase's engineering prowess in high-fidelity audio. Building on the legacy of its predecessor, the E-800S introduces subtle yet significant improvements in design, performance, and usability, solidifying its position as a flagship integrated amplifier. This review synthesizes insights from various sources to provide a comprehensive evaluation of this remarkable piece of audio equipment.

Design and Build Quality

The E-800S retains the iconic champagne gold finish and robust construction that Accuphase is known for. While its external dimensions remain unchanged, the amplifier features a larger display and gold-plated rings around the input selector and volume knobs, enhancing its aesthetic appeal110. The top panel's heat dissipation grille has been redesigned for improved safety and efficiency, showcasing Accuphase's attention to detail.

Key Features and Innovations

1. Balanced AAVA Volume Control
   The E-800S employs Accuphase's proprietary Balanced AAVA (Accuphase Analog Vari-gain Amplifier) volume control system. Unlike traditional potentiometers, AAVA adjusts volume by modulating current levels, minimizing signal degradation and mechanical noise. This results in a remarkably low noise floor of 105dB, a 1dB improvement over the E-800.

2. Dual-Mono Power Amplification
   The power stage features a dual-mono design, with each channel independently mounted on internal heat sinks. This configuration ensures high channel separation and stability, delivering 50W at 8Ω, 100W at 4Ω, and 200W at 2Ω. The damping factor of 1,000 further enhances control over speaker drivers, ensuring tight and precise bass response.

3. Enhanced Power Supply
   A custom-designed toroidal transformer and two high-capacity filter capacitors (63,000µF each) provide a stable and abundant power supply. This upgrade from the E-800's 60,000µF capacitors contributes to the amplifier's improved signal-to-noise ratio and overall performance.

4. Expandability and Connectivity
   The E-800S offers extensive connectivity options, including five RCA and three XLR inputs. Two expansion slots allow users to add optional modules, such as a DAC or phono stage, enhancing the amplifier's versatility.

   

Performance and Sound Quality

The E-800S delivers a sound signature that is both detailed and dynamic. Its Class-A amplification imparts a warm, natural tonality, while the high damping factor ensures tight and controlled bass response. The amplifier excels in rendering intricate details and spatial cues, creating a lifelike soundstage that immerses the listener.

• Highs and Mids: The highs are crisp and airy, with no harshness, while the mids are lush and articulate, making vocals and instruments stand out with remarkable clarity.

• Bass: The low-end is punchy and well-defined, with excellent extension and control, even at high volumes.

• Soundstage: The E-800S reproduces a wide and deep soundstage, with precise imaging and separation of instruments.

  

Comparison with the E-800

While the E-800S shares many similarities with its predecessor, it introduces subtle refinements that elevate its performance. The improved signal-to-noise ratio and enhanced power supply contribute to a cleaner and more transparent sound. However, some users may find the E-800's warmer and more relaxed tonal character appealing, highlighting the importance of personal preference when choosing between the two.

Conclusion

The Accuphase E-800S is a masterpiece of audio engineering, combining cutting-edge technologies with meticulous craftsmanship. Its balanced AAVA volume control, dual-mono power amplification, and Class-A operation deliver a listening experience that is both refined and exhilarating. While its price point places it in the luxury segment, the E-800S justifies its cost with unparalleled performance and build quality. For audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of integrated amplifier design, the E-800S is a compelling choice.