Accuphase E-800S

Overview

The Accuphase E-800S is a flagship pure Class A integrated amplifier that condenses Accuphase's separates level engineering into a single elegant chassis. It is built for listeners who value effortless refinement, low level detail, and the natural tonality that Class A operation is known for, delivered with the mechanical solidity and finish that define the marque.

At its heart is a fully balanced signal path and Accuphase's proprietary volume control that adjusts level in the current domain rather than with a traditional resistor based potentiometer, preserving signal integrity across the entire listening range. Multiple parallel output devices per channel drive demanding loads with authority, while a high damping factor keeps the woofer under tight command. The result is a presentation that is powerful yet delicate, resolving without ever sounding clinical.

The E-800S is aimed at the enthusiast building a long term reference system who wants the sonic character of Class A with the convenience of an integrated. It welcomes optional analog and digital input boards, so it can grow with a collection of sources over time, and it partners beautifully with high resolution loudspeakers across a wide range of efficiencies.

Key Features

• Pure Class A output stage for natural tonality and low distortion
• Fully balanced instrumentation amplifier signal path
• AAVA volume control operating in the current domain for consistent quality at every level
• Multiple parallel power transistors per channel for confident control of demanding loads
• High damping factor for tight, well defined bass
• Massive high efficiency power transformer with large filter capacitance
• Expansion slots for optional analog and digital input boards
• Front panel analog power meters and premium machined aluminum chassis
• Logic controlled relays and short direct signal routing for purity

How the E-800S Compares

Accuphase E-800S vs Accuphase E-700

The E-700 is the model directly below the E-800S in Accuphase's pure Class A integrated line and shares the same core design philosophy. The E-800S extends the concept with more refined circuitry and greater reserves for the most demanding loads, while the E-700 remains a superb choice for listeners who want the Class A character in a slightly more compact package. Both deliver the signature smoothness Accuphase is known for. See the Accuphase E-700.

Accuphase E-800S vs Accuphase E-4000

The E-4000 is Accuphase's high current AB class integrated, delivering higher rated wattage into low impedances for large rooms and power hungry speakers. The E-800S instead pursues the tonal purity and finesse of pure Class A operation. Choose the E-4000 when raw output headroom is the priority and the E-800S when low level nuance and Class A character lead the decision. See the Accuphase E-4000.

Accuphase E-800S vs Luxman L-509Z

The Luxman L-509Z is a high power integrated with Luxman's LIFES volume control and a warm, fluid presentation. The E-800S offers the distinct voicing of pure Class A with very high damping factor and an expandable board architecture. Both are reference class Japanese integrateds, and the choice comes down to preferred tonal character and system synergy rather than any ranking. See the Luxman L-509Z.

Recommended Speakers

The E-800S rewards speakers that respond to control and reveal fine detail, and its Class A finesse suits efficient designs as readily as its damping factor commands larger loads. These pairings span room sizes and efficiencies.

• Marten Parker Trio Diamond Its diamond tweeter and ceramic drivers thrive on the E-800S resolving power, revealing micro detail and air with a natural, uncolored voice in medium to large rooms.
• Gauder Akustik Arcona 80 MKII SD The Arcona's steep crossover and precise drivers benefit from the amplifier's tight grip and low distortion, delivering exacting imaging in small to medium spaces.
• Spendor Classic 200Ti This three way floorstander pairs the E-800S control with a rich, room filling presentation, ideal for larger listening spaces and full bandwidth music.
• Klipsch La Scala AL6 The high efficiency horn design lets the E-800S pure Class A watts sing, showcasing the amplifier's low level delicacy and dynamic ease with minimal effort.
• Amphion Krypton 3X Amphion's controlled directivity and coherent design reward the amplifier's transparency, producing precise, fatigue free sound across a range of room sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Accuphase E-800S a Class A amplifier?
Yes. The E-800S operates in pure Class A, which is prized for low distortion and a natural, refined tonal character throughout the listening range.

How much power does the E-800S produce?
It is rated at 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 100 watts into 4 ohms, and 200 watts into 2 ohms, reflecting a robust Class A output stage that doubles into lower impedances.

What is AAVA volume control?
AAVA is Accuphase's volume control technology that adjusts level in the current domain rather than with a conventional resistive potentiometer, keeping signal quality consistent at every setting.

Can the E-800S drive difficult speaker loads?
Yes. With multiple parallel output devices per channel, a high damping factor, and output that doubles into lower impedances, it controls demanding loads with authority.

Does the E-800S have a phono stage?
A phono input is available through an optional analog input board that installs in one of the expansion slots, allowing you to configure the amplifier for your sources.

Can I add a DAC to the E-800S?
Yes. An optional digital input board can be installed in the expansion slot to add digital connectivity, so the amplifier can grow with your system.

What is the damping factor of the E-800S?
The E-800S has a damping factor of 1000, which contributes to its tight, well defined bass control.

How heavy is the E-800S?
It weighs approximately 34.6 kg, reflecting its large transformer, substantial filter capacitance, and rigid machined chassis.

What are the dimensions of the E-800S?
It measures approximately 465 mm wide, 240 mm high, and 514 mm deep. Allow additional room for cabling and ventilation.

Does the E-800S run hot?
Pure Class A designs generate more heat than Class AB amplifiers by nature, so give the E-800S good ventilation and avoid placing it in a sealed cabinet.

How does the E-800S compare to the E-700?
The E-800S sits above the E-700 in Accuphase's pure Class A integrated line, extending the design with more refined circuitry and greater reserves while sharing the same Class A character.

How does the E-800S differ from the E-4000?
The E-4000 is a high current AB class integrated with higher rated wattage for large rooms, while the E-800S pursues the tonal purity and finesse of pure Class A operation.

What speakers pair well with the E-800S?
It suits high resolution speakers that reward control and detail, from efficient horn designs to demanding multi way floorstanders. See our Recommended Speakers section for specific pairings.

Does the E-800S have balanced inputs?
Yes. The E-800S features a fully balanced signal path with balanced XLR inputs in addition to line level RCA inputs.

Can the E-800S be used as a power amplifier?
Yes. It offers a way to bypass the preamp stage so it can be integrated into a larger system or driven by an external preamplifier.

Is the E-800S suitable for a long term reference system?
Absolutely. Its build quality, expandable architecture, and refined Class A sound make it a lasting centerpiece for an enthusiast system.

What warranty comes with the E-800S?
It carries a 3 year parts and labor warranty for the original owner when purchased from an authorized dealer such as All Elite Audio.

Are the front panel meters functional?
Yes. The front panel analog power meters display output activity and add to the classic Accuphase presentation and user experience.

Is All Elite Audio an authorized Accuphase dealer?
Yes. All Elite Audio is an authorized Accuphase dealer, so your E-800S is genuine and covered by the full manufacturer warranty.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
As an authorized Accuphase dealer in Maryland, All Elite Audio offers genuine product with full warranty, expert system matching advice, and attentive service before and after your purchase.