Accuphase A-36: High-end Class A stereo power amplifier

The Accuphase A-36 is a Class A stereo power amplifier that replaces the legendary A-35, inheriting many of the technologies from the A-200. The Accuphase A-36 inherits many of the outstanding...

Accuphase A-36
Accuphase A-36

The Accuphase A-36 is a Class A stereo power amplifier that replaces the legendary A-35, inheriting many of the technologies from the A-200. The Accuphase A-36 inherits many of the outstanding design features developed for higher-end models. It redefines the baseline for pure Class A power amplifiers and represents the unwavering attention to detail and commitment to sound quality for which Accuphase is rightly renowned. In the output circuit, MOS-FET switches are used instead of relays to eliminate mechanical contacts and improve long-term reliability.

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At the output stage, high-power MOS-FETs, known for their excellent frequency response, audio performance and superior reliability, are used in a triple parallel configuration and driven in pure Class A. This is supported by a strong power supply with a massive transformer and two large 47,000uF filtering capacitors. Output power per channel is rated at an impressive 150W into 1 ohm, 120W into 2 ohm, 60W into 4 ohm and 30W into 8 ohm. Even ultra-low impedance speakers or sharp swings in the impedance curve can reliably drive this impressive amplifier.

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The Accuphase A-36 power amplifier is built using a fully balanced circuit. It has ultra-low noise and an outstanding signal-to-noise ratio. The front panel is made of anodized aluminum 8 mm thick. Massive radiators are installed inside the case to ensure effective heat dissipation from transistors operating in pure class “A”. This allows them to work much more accurately and save their parameters. The Accuphase A-36 features MCS+ technology and current feedback for superior, clear, and transparent sound. A massive shielded transformer with two independent windings and two massive capacitors with a capacity of 47,000 microfarads each provide clean power to all power amplifier circuits. Each channel contains 3 pairs of field-effect transistors that operate in push-pull mode and pure class “A” provide 30 watts of power at 8 ohms in stereo mode, and 120 watts of power in bridged Accuphase A-36.

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Accuphase A-36 has a control with which you can reduce the gain (0, -3, -6, -12 dB). The amplifier is equipped with a switch for operating modes: Stereo, Dual Mono and Bridged.
You can connect two pairs of speakers to it and switch them from the front panel of the power amplifier. Beautiful analogue dial indicators move mesmerizingly to the beat of the music.
The gold-plated, high-quality speaker connectors allow you to connect spade-type cables. In terms of sound: Absolutely transparent, slightly warm with excellent macro and micro dynamics.
The amplifier has a luxurious velvety midrange and a clear high-frequency range.

Specifications Accuphase A-36

Output power 2 x 30 watts at 8 ohms, 2 x 60 watts at 4 ohms, 2 x 120 watts at 2 ohms, 2 x 150 at 1 ohms.
Playback frequency from 20 to 20000 Hz
Total harmonic distortion < 0.01%
Signal-to-noise ratio > 112 dB
Damping coefficient 400
Operating mode Pure class “A”
Circuit design Fully balanced
Transistors 3 pairs of MOSFETs connected in parallel
Protection Automatic, against direct current, overload , and short circuit.
Inputs 1 pair RCA, 1 pair XLR
Switching to bridge mode Yes, the switch is installed on the rear panel
Gain 28 dB
Acoustic outputs 2 pairs (A+B)
Operating voltage 230 volts / 50 Hz
Power consumption 270 watts
Dimensions (WxHxD) 465 x 171 x 425 mm
Weight 22.8 kg