Accuphase P-500L (1989)

Name: Accuphase P-500L
Brand: Accuphase

Stereo power amplifier released in February 1989 with high output and low distortion across a wide impedance range.

Overview

The Accuphase P-500L is a stereo power amplifier manufactured in Japan and released in February 1989. It was developed using technology from the M-1000 and P-800 models, aiming to deliver both high output power and precise small-signal reproduction. Described as having "phenomenal performance," the P-500L features robust construction and the use of the highest quality parts. It supports bridge connection for monaural operation, enabling up to 1100W output at 4 Ω. The amplifier was originally priced at ¥530,000.

Specifications

Output (Stereo)	550W/ch (2 Ω), 420W/ch (4 Ω), 270W/ch (8 Ω)
Output (Monaural, Bridge)	1100W (4 Ω), 840W (8 Ω)
THD	0.01% (4–16 Ω), 0.02% (2 Ω)
Frequency Response	20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.2 dB (full power); 0.5 Hz – 150 kHz ±3 dB (1W, -6dB)
Damping Factor	500 (Stereo, 8 Ω), 250 (Monaural, 8 Ω)
Input Sensitivity (8 Ω)	1.85 V (Stereo, full output), 3.26 V (Monaural, full output)
Input Impedance	20k Ω (Unbalanced), 40k Ω (Balanced)
Gain	28.0 dB (both modes)
S/N Ratio	120 dB (shorted input), 95 dB (1k Ω source, 1W)
Power Consumption	185W (idle), 920W (8 Ω rated output)
Dimensions	481W × 210H × 445D mm
Weight	35.0 kg

Design

The P-500L uses a class A cascode differential push-pull input stage and a front stage with MOS FETs in a cascode push-pull configuration, designed to emulate non-switching class A drive. The output stage employs a parallel push-pull circuit with 10 wide-band 150W transistors per channel. The power supply provides independent transformer windings for the output and preceding stages, with dedicated rectifiers and filters for each channel. Balanced XLR inputs are standard, with signals fed directly to the differential input circuit. A DC servo system eliminates the need for input coupling capacitors. The amplifier includes a logarithmic output meter, bi-wiring capability via dual speaker outputs, and natural persimmon side panels.

Context

The Accuphase P-500L was released during the "Golden Era" of Japanese high-fidelity audio equipment, leveraging technology from the flagship M-1000 and P-800 models to achieve high output and accurate signal reproduction.

Market

A unit was listed at $3,300 in very good condition with signs of age including scratches, rust, and oxidation on the rear panel, and was confirmed to function flawlessly after professional testing.

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