These are the audio manufacturers we handle in our store. Both amplifiers have a solid reputation and are from popular manufacturers.
Each one has a different presence, with unique chassis construction and internal circuits. The reproduced sound also reflects each manufacturer's characteristics, so this time I would like to discuss the features of each manufacturer and the differences in sound from a personal perspective.
Bakoon Products
Bakoon ProductsYou can find the product page here.
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=17
Among the manufacturers mentioned this time, this is the only one that does not use vacuum tubes. It is an audio manufacturer headquartered in Kumamoto and recently highly praised in audio magazines like MJ. In addition to home audio, they also make professional amplifiers and microphones.
Its main feature is undoubtedlyBakoon Productsthe independently developed SATRI circuit. It enables ultra-high-precision amplification with minimal distortion (EX specification 0.05% / UL specification 0.007%).
The SATRI-IC, created with the goal of faithfully reproducing recorded sound sources, allows ultra-high-precision amplification with minimal distortion (distortion rate 0.05%~0.007%). Under the genius developer Mr. Nagai, the series has now evolved to the fourth generation. From the MK4 series, the newly developed HIBIKI circuit has been added, further enhancing the high-definition and high-precision sound. The transparency from high to low frequencies without the slightest haze is due to high signal-to-noise ratio, standing out against a very quiet background. The sharpness and clear contours ensure that even the most delicate background sounds or subtle lip movements of expressive vocals are conveyed without loss. The playback sound has no coloration or embellishment and does not emphasize high or low frequencies, reproducing the atmosphere and scenes of the recording location as they are. However, because it is strictly faithful to the source, owners who prefer a focus on deep bass may feel they want a bit more low end.
And then,Bakoon ProductsSpeaking of which, in addition to the SATRI circuit, it uses SATRI-LINK connection with current output, which sets it apart from other companies. By connecting Bacoon devices with SATRI-LINK, it is possible to transmit a music signal with far more information and minimal noise via a large DC current, compared to the usual connection method (voltage connection). Combined with the SATRI circuit, the overwhelmingly detailed, distortion-free, and virtually noise-free music signal represents the essence of the Bacoon sound.
On the other hand, it has high compatibility and can handle combinations with amplifiers from other companies without any issues. As long as it is not a CAP series, tube amplifiers can also be enjoyed without compromising their characteristics, demonstrating its versatility.
The appearance is a matter of personal preference. The contrast of the black body with orange logos and knobs actually aligns well with the color schemes of the majority of speakers and wooden racks, making it blend in naturally without standing out.
The orange knobs are made of bakelite, a high-quality material. The chassis is made of aluminum. The reason is that iron causes sound distortion, and using copper or other materials for shielding increases both weight and cost, so these are not used. Additionally, aluminum is lightweight, which also contributes to compactness, making installation easier—a significant advantage. The transformer uses R-core or toroidal cores, which have minimal magnetic flux leakage, so magnetic influence is not a concern. Speakers also pose no problem. However, the magnetic force from the drives of devices like players is strong, so it is safer to keep a slight distance or place a preamp in between if stacking them, leaving at least one device's space between units.
ASTOR
ASTORProduct page is here.
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=18
This manufacturer produces audio equipment, primarily tube amplifiers, which have received high praise in audio magazines for their robust chassis construction and sound quality.
ASTORIts defining feature is, without a doubt, the sturdy chassis construction. Higher-end models use folded stainless steel 2mm or 3mm thick (mid-range models use duralumin), and the stainless steel is of a higher purity than the fairly expensive stainless used in cutlery, giving it a touch superior to everyday utensils. This chassis alone is quite heavy. The interior is further reinforced with stainless steel or oxygen-free copper. The exterior, with almost no seams or rivets, is finished to a mirror surface, giving a solid and cold impression while showcasing the high level of craftsmanship. The gentle glow of the tubes under warm-colored lighting creates a very atmospheric presence.
Across all models, the front panel is made of an extra-thick 10mm aluminum plate, reinforcing the entire body and reflecting the design of Astro Electronics products.Bakoon ProductsThe heavily reinforced chassis, which was not selected by the company, effectively shuts out vibration and noise. In addition, the vacuum tube mounting opening has a double structure to prevent heat radiation and vibration. The power amp has independent left and right volumes, which helps with slight balance adjustments, and you can listen to music other than records without a preamp.
The transformers are mainly made by Hashimoto Electric, and are specially ordered by Astro Electronics, and the capacitors and volume are all carefully selected and assembled by hand. Almost all of the assembly work is done by one veteran amp craftsman, so although the materials used are different, the quality of the product is the same regardless of the price, so the low-priced model may be a good deal. The sound created by a well-thought-out and well-thought-out chassis, excellent transformer, and large-capacity capacitor has nothing to do with the warmth and softness that you might expect from a tube amp. A transparent and bright sound. The sound image is solid and three-dimensional, and the mid-low range is rich and spacious. The preamplifiers of mid-range and high-end models further enhance high-frequency extension, clear contours, and rich musical expression across the entire range. Since it is basically faithful to the original sound source, the sharp and uncolored sound may seem clear and cool for a tube amp, but it reproduces the sound source clearly, powerfully, and expressively in detail.
ASTORThe vacuum tubes used are 12AU7, 12AX7, and amplification tubes.output tubeWe use the KT88 series and 300B, not only because of their good sound, but also because they are compatible, widely available, and easy to obtain. As you know, vacuum tubes have different sounds even if they have the same model number but are made by different manufacturers.We have chosen the ones that are easy to obtain, so that the owners can easily replace compatible vacuum tubes and enjoy music. Therefore, except for some high-end models, all can be replaced without bias adjustment.Yamamoto Sound CraftIt's a slightly different approach from amplifiers that use hard-to-find vacuum tubes and enjoy the sound.
Yamamoto Sound Craft
Yamamoto Sound CraftClick here for the product page
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=13
We offer a variety of audio accessoriesYamamoto Sound CraftThe Yamamoto Audio amplifier features a natural wood grain beautifully crafted using excellent woodworking techniques, combined with a brass exterior. This combination gives a warm impression that is different from the above two companies. The wooden chassis, with smooth surfaces and beautifully handled curves, may heighten the presence of Yamamoto Audio amplifiers because of the familiarity people have had with woodworking since childhood, resulting in a visually very satisfying product. The charm of wood is mysterious; people naturally want to touch any wooden product to feel its texture.
The use of cherry and ebony, known for their resonant qualities, is likely to have a vibration-damping effect due to their moderate hardness and flexibility, which contributes to sound quality. Even in terms of components, Yamamoto Audio carefully selects both domestic and foreign parts, including their own original products and specially processed capacitors, to ensure reliability and improve sound quality. Non-magnetic brass covers and insulation measures using Teflon are also thoroughly applied.
Yamamoto Sound CraftBy using rare vintage tubes from brands like Western Electric or Emission Labs, the amplifiers effectively create a specialized experience that maximizes the charm of these tubes for enjoying music. This approach is especially suitable for those who wish to fully enjoy music with coveted vintage tubes.ASTORThis is a different kind of enjoyment than using more easily obtainable tubes, which allow greater freedom and personal preference for the owner.
Yamamoto Sound CraftThe sound impression of the amplifier matches the soft wooden appearance; compared to the two manufacturers mentioned above, it is softer and gentler, exuding a warm, tube-amplifier-like quality. One could say it retains the character of a tube amplifier. It brings out the personality of the used vintage tubes while subtly seasoning the sound in a positive way. All power amplifiers are single-ended types. There is clear definition within the softness, with no ambiguity. The delicate sound typical of single-ended designs is faithfully reproduced. The amplifier offers rich musical expression mainly in the mid to high range, although the low range is somewhat restrained. Since it is a single-ended amplifier, the output is only a few watts. To fully enjoy the sound, high-efficiency speakers are ideal.
Yoshishiba Audio Industry
You can view Yoshishiba Audio products on their product page here.
https://www.exclusive-audio.jp/shop/products/list.php?category_id=42
Yoshishiba Audio is led by Mr. Yoshishiba, who serves as the executive chairman of the Vacuum Tube Audio Fair held every year in Akihabara. Among the four companies this time, it might be the most distinctive. Yoshishiba Audio's amplifiers do not have so-called easily recognizable brand designs and lack much uniformity. The common points are nostalgia and a retro feel. Each amplifier created based on Mr. Yoshishiba's vision has a unique design. Mr. Yoshishiba's artist-like temperament, rather than a mere technical craftsman demeanor, is strongly reflected in the designs.
The same goes for sound creation; unlike manufacturers who aim to faithfully reproduce modern original sound sources, their philosophy is completely different. The sound of vacuum tube amplifiers in the Showa era must have been like this. The sound of the amps people admired in the past was even better than today's. There is a sense of wanting to make the lower frequencies feel pleasant, and the focus is always on how to enjoy music comfortably and how to immerse oneself emotionally. They continuously research day and night to improve amplifier sound quality. Whether it is a single amplifier or a mono amplifier, the sound that firmly produces the mid and low-range frequencies and appeals emotionally is exceptional. The key to creating that sound is Yoshishiba Audio’s original transformers. These are hand-wound transformers arrived at through time-consuming trial and error. Along with the latest cutting-edge technology, this experience is used relentlessly to create the ideal sound.
Yoshishiba Audio is strongly conscious of the sound of European and American amplifiers. Fundamentally, they feel that the sound of long-established Western vacuum tube amplifiers is different from that of Japanese vacuum tube amplifiers. To create sound that surpasses these, they thoroughly investigate old Western amplifiers, including their wiring diagrams and components, compare and study them, and apply that knowledge to Yoshishiba Audio's sound.
Each of the four companies has its own approach and philosophy toward sound.
