Accuphase E‐
360 is a true example of pure exotica
In this issue, along with various other new products, we had the opportunity to show off a
component for which we can freely say is one of a kind. Not only because Accuphase products
are famously exotic in the world of audio components but also because this is the first
opportunity we have had to show off the products of this Japanese firm in the pages of our
publication.
The Accuphase E‐360 Intergrated Amplifier is the latest model on offer from this company,
premiering a few months ago, and represents an evolution on the earlier model from which it
does not differ in aesthetics aside from the label. Accuphase has a long tradition of producing
high‐end audio products and a continual design aesthetic which is closer to a retro style rather
than a contemporary design.
Unsurpassed Quality in Engineering
The usual vumeters and a small LED display are found in the middle of the thick anodized
aluminium front panel, below which are placed the indicators of active functions. The quality of
the product is unsurpassed which is the usual mark of an Accuphase product. The individual
side panels form a solid housing with the top plate being coated with a special anti‐resonant
layer which minimizes any unwanted effects. The selection and volume dials are found on the
front panel and utilize the patented Accuphase system AAVA. This solution has some
advantages over classic volume dial in terms of higher quality of work and greater durability. A
great many more controls are found behind the front panel cover, the most impressive being
the round tone controls which are a rare inclusion on high‐end amplifiers these days. There are
also buttons for speaker controls for two pairs of speakers, changing phase, recording control,
audio‐direct controls, controls to turn off the display and vumeter, direct‐audio inputs, and
insofar as the amplifier has an integrated phono preamp (optional, modular type) you can
select the sensitivity (MM or MC). The front panel also contains the attenuator and a port for
headphones.
The rear panel also displays a high number of high quality connections. Six line inputs, two of
which are balanced XLR with two pairs of solid speaker plugs. There is also the possibility of
installing a DAC and phono preamp in module slots available on the rear panel.
We had no doubts that the aural results would also be of the highest standard. The sound
presentation of differing musical material was breathtaking. The tonal balance is unique, with a
beautiful mid‐range and crystal clear high frequency and an extremely rich bass.
We were overcome with the incredibly skilful performance of three acoustic guitars from the
song
Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues (Kings of Strings). The presentation of the K2HD
published album
Happy Coat (Shota Osabe Trio) was also thoroughly enjoyable and contained
fine technical details, while the bass in Ray Brown songs shows that such a voluminous bass
lacks clear definition. By changing the speaker system while listening to a CD of
Bolero
(Minnesota Orchestra) we found much better sound results and finally discovered the full
dynamic potential of this amplifier.
Accuphase E‐360 is definitely a powerful unit which demands a very sophisticated match with
the right speakers and other components. This class of engineering is deserving of respect and
care, which is reflected in the final price. While it’s true that this is an expensive intergrated
amplifier, this level of quality, comfort and bounty of options justifies the price. In closing, keep
in mind that Accuphase is also seen a status symbol.
FOR: perfect work and engineering quality, refined middle and high spectrum, great dynamic,
luxury design, an incredible array of additional options.
AGAINST: the bass definition could be better, can be demanding when matching speakers,
price.
CONCLUSION: Extremely powerful amplifier, with a unique sound character and many
potential addons
