Accuphase P-500L (1989)
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 made in Japan and released in February 1989. It was developed with technology from the M-1000 and P-800 models, and the aim was high output power along with precise small-signal reproduction. The page describes it as having "phenomenal performance," with sturdy construction and the highest quality parts. It supports bridge connection for monaural operation, which gives up to 1100W at 4 Ω. Original price was ¥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 input stage is a class A cascode differential push-pull design. The front stage uses MOS FETs in a cascode push-pull configuration, built to emulate non-switching class A drive. The output stage is a parallel push-pull circuit with 10 wide-band 150W transistors per channel. The power supply has independent transformer windings for the output and preceding stages, with dedicated rectifiers and filters for each channel. Balanced XLR inputs are standard, and the signal goes straight to the differential input circuit. A DC servo system means no input coupling capacitors are needed. The amplifier also has a logarithmic output meter, bi-wiring through dual speaker outputs, and natural persimmon side panels.
Context
The P-500L came out during the "Golden Era" of Japanese high-fidelity audio equipment. It borrowed technology from the flagship M-1000 and P-800 models to get high output and accurate signal reproduction.
Market
One unit was listed at $3,300 in very good condition. It showed its age with scratches, rust, and oxidation on the rear panel, and professional testing confirmed it worked flawlessly.
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Service Manuals, Schematics & Catalogs
- Catalog — archive.org
- Catalog (1991) — archive.org
- Catalog (1992) — archive.org