Accuphase C-220 (1977)

Name: Accuphase C-220
Brand: Accuphase

Dedicated high-fidelity phono preamplifier released in June 1977, with a switchable MC/MM head-amp and two output options.

Overview

The Accuphase C-220 is a stereo control amplifier built only for phono playback. It came out in June 1977. It's a dedicated record preamp, so there are no auxiliary or tape input terminals. It has two phono inputs, each with its own adjustable input impedance (100 Ω, 30 kΩ, 47 kΩ, or 100 kΩ). A built-in head-amp handles both MC and MM cartridges, and relay control switches between them. One reviewer called it a "world beating phono preamplifier" and picked the RIAA equalizer as its standout feature.

Specifications

Frequency Response	20 Hz to 20 kHz ± 0.2 dB
Harmonic Distortion	0.01% (20 Hz to 20 kHz, rated output)
Phono Inputs	2 (DISC1, DISC2)
Input Impedance (Selectable)	100 Ω, 30 kΩ, 47 kΩ, 100 kΩ
Rated Output (Main)	2.0V/50 Ω
Fixed Output	150mV/200 Ω
Gain (DISC → Main Output)	60dB (head amp off), 86dB (head amp on)
S/N Ratio (IHF-A)	85dB (head amp off), 72dB (head amp on)
Input Conversion Noise	-139dBV (head amp off), -152dBV (head amp on)
Power Supply Voltage	100 VAC / 117 V / 220 V / 240 V, 50Hz/60Hz
Power Consumption	65W
Dimensions (Type A)	482 mm W × 82 mm H × 345 mm D
Dimensions (Type B)	445 mm W × 82 mm H × 349 mm D
Weight	10.7kg
Country of Manufacture	JAPAN

Design

The C-220 uses a full-stage symmetric push-pull circuit. It's derived from the P-300 and C-200, with improvements for better performance. Every amplifier stage, head-amp included, runs in class A as a DC amplifier with no NF loop capacitor. The MC head-amp is a differential push-pull stage built on four RETs (Ring-Emitter Transistors), which combine 100 small-signal transistors in parallel for high gain and superior high-frequency response. The equalizer input is a FET-buffered differential circuit, and a DC servo amplifier stabilizes the power supply. Outputs are RCA and XLR (Canon). There are two mechanical designs: Type A (19-inch rack mount) and Type B (side plate). Timed relay muting keeps shock noise down, and the relays are high-quality, low-resistance types meant to last.

Context

The C-220 followed Accuphase's first three products - the P-300, C-200, and T-100 - and filled the role of specialized phono preamplifier in the late 1970s. It belongs to a lineage of high-end preamplifiers that includes the C-200 and C-230. The Type A version matches the P-20 and P-60 in looks, and the Type B version complements the C-200, P-250, and P-300.

Market

Original price was ¥220,000. Recent market values (2024-2025) run from €2,200 for units in "TOP" condition to €2,800 for fully revised and upgraded models. Common problems are failed relays and aging capacitors - especially electrolytics in the power supply and mylar/large capacitors in the preamp and RIAA stages, which are often replaced during servicing. Units frequently show age-related wear such as scratches and yellowing. Service diagrams are sought after for restoration.