F-2B in Japan

[edwardofhuncote]

https://reverb.com/item/64367984-alembic-f-2b-stereo-tube-preamp


Pretty good buy here... a little bit concerning for an international sale, since this is the only listing and no feedback, but the ad looks genuine, no red flags. Maybe a Club Member over in Japan might score a local deal?

[hieronymous]

I have an F-2B that I bought in Japan and brought back to the States. It eventually burned out - sent it to the Mothership, Mica said it was because the transformer wasn't right for US electricity (though I'm sure she said it more accurately!) - Japan and the US are close so I've never worried about it but I think my F-2B is happier now!

[edwardofhuncote]

Thanks for pointing that out Harry, I hadn't considered that the Japanese voltage standard might be different from U.S. though I knew European models were.

[hieronymous]

In the 70s & 80s, we used Japanese electronics in the US and US electronics in Japan with no difficulty. I remember my dad had a transformer, but I also remember it sitting unused in a closet - I have no memory of it ever being used. I currently have a Japanese-market Space Echo that I use here (though sparingly). But the burnt-out F-2B is the cautionary tale - I am NOT encouraging anyone to ignore the voltage differences!

[StephenR]

What is the current voltage in Japan?

[JimmyJ]

Japan current is 100 VAC.  (Makes for easier math!) If the photos of this unit are to be trusted the back panel is clearly marked "117VAC" so it looks like a US model.
Jimmy J

[StephenR]

Thanks Jimmy!

This one is shows as recently sold but was re-listed again today at the same price. Not sure what is going on but if I was considering purchasing this unit I would be more concerned about the integrity of the seller and listing than it being compatible with US voltage. But, to double-check the voltage would request a picture of the interior to check if the transformer was replaced for use in Japan.