A particular highlight is certainly the outstanding volume control of the current Accuphase generation. The Japanese manufacturer calls the switching network of buffer amplifiers, voltage and current converters AAVA (Accuphase Analogue Vari-gain Amplifier), which regulates the music signal authentically, undistorted, and cleaner in level than any pot, no matter how good. The entire processing process is analog. Since the input signal is not affected by impedance changes of potentiometers, high signal-to-noise ratio and minimal signal distortion are ensured at all volume settings. Accuphase simply offers the best solution in the €5000 price range and is already at a reference level in this price class. However, a good volume control is nothing without the right "environment".
Highly resilient power transistors in a parallel push-pull arrangement in the output stage, as well as the powerful power supply, guarantee low output impedance and deliver 90 W of high-quality power at 8 ohms, with a damping factor of 200. Signal current feedback technology ensures excellent phase behavior in the upper frequency range, and the instrumentation amplifier principle in the output stage allows fully symmetrical signal transmission.
The Accuphase is also very versatile in terms of connectivity. At the push of a button, it can be separated between Pre-Out and Main-In, for example, to use the power amplifier in a surround system. In addition, there is also the well-known "Options Board Slot", which can accommodate an excellent phono module or a D/A converter board from Accuphase. Both vinyl and digital enthusiasts should therefore take a close look and listen to the new model.
Accuphase E-260 Rear View
Overall, the E-260 offers the best resolution, tonal balance, and control like hardly any other amplifier in its price range. A listening test is definitely worthwhile!
* For all those who might not know: The name Accuphase is a word composition derived from the English "accurate phase".
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