Rob181 Posted September 20, 2014 Author Share Posted September 20, 2014 (edited) Thank you AD... I have...looked into my crystal ball & seen a sign...& I take full responsibility for it... Arena distributors are best avoided. This also applies if you are looking for a competitive price on new gear. They apply the "Australia tax" at a rate as high or higher than many other resellers.They have been the importers of Accuphase gear for 40 years or so but fail to understand the market as it exists today. They feel they can control the market by alienating anyone who chooses not to buy from them. They continue to extend that to importers of used gear as well.You only have to look at Pricejapan to see what Accuphase products cost in Japan and compare those prices to those quoted by Arena.People buy new Accuphase gear from Pricejapan or directly from Japanese dealers and feel it is worth the risk to not have any warranty because of the huge savings in initial purchase price. Marketing models from the 1980's are not relevant today...move with the times or die... Edited September 20, 2014 by Rob181 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob181 Posted September 20, 2014 Author Share Posted September 20, 2014 Good Product..Bad Service...Shame Yep...couldn't not have put it better myself.... I thank you for your support... 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob181 Posted September 20, 2014 Author Share Posted September 20, 2014 This post is less than 12 hours old & the support from SNA members is just sensational... The are good laws & bad laws...there are good company policies & bad company policies...this is an old, out-dated business policy the is a bad company policy...it adversely affects the consumer & Accuphase owners alike...the only way to change a bad law or policy is to start a ground swell of opposition. FROM LITTLE THINGS…BIG THINGS GROW…MAKE A DIFFERENCE…YOU HAVE THE POWER TO CHANGE THIS… 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob181 Posted September 20, 2014 Author Share Posted September 20, 2014 Except from most (but not all) of the WA team.... Where is @@Tasso...@@kajak12...@....@nyrantz...@@SteveM...@@loki65...@@MarkT...@@THOMO...@@Pops110 If this was your business...would you treat your customers like this... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Stereophilus Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 It is quite disappointing to see this sort of behaviour from a reputable company and their Australian distributor. The report is appreciated Rob. FWIW, I can understand a company refusing warranty claims in these circumstances, but refusing support is counter-intuitive. It degrades resale opportunity and therefore value, thereby devaluing their product. Audio Research maintain product support irrespective of resale, and just look at how valued and respected their products are second hand... 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Demondes Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 (edited) Hmm, accuphase have the following basic manual for that tuner on there website as a PDF. Probably not the more detailed service manual you were after. This document mentions 3 FM ranges, but doesn't make it clear that FM range can be modified on any particular model. http://www.accuphase.com/cat/t-109ven.pdf. And I could only find the full service manual for the T100 model Edited September 20, 2014 by Demondes Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TP1 Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Except from most (but not all) of the WA team.... Where is @@Tasso...@@kajak12...@....@nyrantz...@@SteveM...@@loki65...@@MarkT...@@THOMO...@@Pops110 If this was your business...would you treat your customers like this... I did try to help you directly with your problem by PM which you seem to have forgotten already. This included supplying you with a service manual of a different model at your request. Since we exchanged PM's I have made enquiries on your behalf including one to a previous vendor of a T-109V who claimed to know how to change the voltage. If you don't want this just say the word. You can use a 100V step down transformer while investigating the voltage change- that's what I did for a few months when I bought an Accuphase DP-700 SACD player from Japan. The only real issue you have to operate the unit perfectly in Australia is the de-emphasis setting. Bandwidth is not an issue because all Accuphase tuners sold in Japan cover all international frequencies. For de-emphasis Australia uses 50μSec and Japan and USA use 75. With earlier tuners this was easy because there is usually a switch on one of the circuit boards giving you a choice of 50μs and 75μs. The later models change it by a sequence of key presses. I bought the T-1000 manual from some mob in Russia and I have sent an email to them to see if they can supply a T-109V manual too. Notwithstanding that, I would suspect there are people on FMtunerinfo who may know how to change the de-emphasise settings if we don't get anywhere with the line of enquiry. In terms of voltage changes, the later Accuphase tuners have an option to change voltage either by re-configuring an existing matrix of connections ( with spade lugs) or by soldering jumper connections. If you could send a photo of the unit with the underneath plate removed, we might have a chance of figuring it out. 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MusicOne Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 I did try to help you directly with your problem by PM which you seem to have forgotten already. This included supplying you with a service manual of a different model at your request. Since we exchanged PM's I have made enquiries on your behalf including one to a previous vendor of a T-109V who claimed to know how to change the voltage. If you don't want this just say the word. You can use a 100V step down transformer while investigating the voltage change- that's what I did for a few months when I bought an Accuphase DP-700 SACD player from Japan. The only real issue you have to operate the unit perfectly in Australia is the de-emphasis setting. Bandwidth is not an issue because all Accuphase tuners sold in Japan cover all international frequencies. For de-emphasis Australia uses 50μSec and Japan and USA use 75. With earlier tuners this was easy because there is usually a switch on one of the circuit boards giving you a choice of 50μs and 75μs. The later models change it by a sequence of key presses. I bought the T-1000 manual from some mob in Russia and I have sent an email to them to see if they can supply a T-109V manual too. Notwithstanding that, I would suspect there are people on FMtunerinfo who may know how to change the de-emphasise settings if we don't get anywhere with the line of enquiry. In terms of voltage changes, the later Accuphase tuners have an option to change voltage either by re-configuring an existing matrix of connections ( with spade lugs) or by soldering jumper connections. If you could send a photo of the unit with the underneath plate removed, we might have a chance of figuring it out. Tasso, that is a very informative post and no doubt it will be very helpful to those in need of the info it contains, but surely, all audio manufacturers should be forced to supply full service manuals, on demand. One shouldn't have to go to some obscure Russian website to obtain service manuals which should be freely available. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TP1 Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Tasso, that is a very informative post and no doubt it will be very helpful to those in need of the info it contains, but surely, all audio manufacturers should be forced to supply full service manuals, on demand. One shouldn't have to go to some obscure Russian website to obtain service manuals which should be freely available. I am simply trying to help the best way I know how. I personally don't like the distributor's attitude one bit and this is the best way to make sure they don't win. 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob181 Posted September 20, 2014 Author Share Posted September 20, 2014 I did try to help you directly with your problem by PM which you seem to have forgotten already. This included supplying you with a service manual of a different model at your request. Since we exchanged PM's I have made enquiries on your behalf including one to a previous vendor of a T-109V who claimed to know how to change the voltage. If you don't want this just say the word. You can use a 100V step down transformer while investigating the voltage change- that's what I did for a few months when I bought an Accuphase DP-700 SACD player from Japan. The only real issue you have to operate the unit perfectly in Australia is the de-emphasis setting. Bandwidth is not an issue because all Accuphase tuners sold in Japan cover all international frequencies. For de-emphasis Australia uses 50μSec and Japan and USA use 75. With earlier tuners this was easy because there is usually a switch on one of the circuit boards giving you a choice of 50μs and 75μs. The later models change it by a sequence of key presses. I bought the T-1000 manual from some mob in Russia and I have sent an email to them to see if they can supply a T-109V manual too. Notwithstanding that, I would suspect there are people on FMtunerinfo who may know how to change the de-emphasise settings if we don't get anywhere with the line of enquiry. In terms of voltage changes, the later Accuphase tuners have an option to change voltage either by re-configuring an existing matrix of connections ( with spade lugs) or by soldering jumper connections. If you could send a photo of the unit with the underneath plate removed, we might have a chance of figuring it out. Tasso has been a gentleman & has tried to assist me with the Accuphase...I sincerely thank him for all his help & everyone should be aware that if Tasso can assist...he will & there is plenty of evidence of that in the various threads... In another post I also thought he was supporting Arena Distributors (well that is how I read the post anyway)...but he has since cleared up that misunderstanding. I guess it is the way we say things...I would swat the fly...Tasso would shoo it away. I have never met Tasso but would much rather get the opportunity to do so when next I am in WA...than let a misunderstanding jeopardise that happening... 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kaynin Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Thanks for sharing Rob, it's this sort of information that makes SNA a community and not just a forum website. So disappointing from what is commonly viewed as a quality brand. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Once was an audiophile Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Except from most (but not all) of the WA team.... Where is @@Tasso...@@kajak12...@....@nyrantz...@@SteveM...@@loki65...@@MarkT...@@THOMO...@@Pops110 If this was your business...would you treat your customers like this... AS Darren hinch would say Shame shame shame 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guru Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 (edited) His brother Derryn would also agree..... Edited September 21, 2014 by guru Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThirdDrawerDown Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 @@Tasso has been a gentleman As an idle tourist just visiting this thread, that's my impression too. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
djb Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 What was date of manufacture of this model? I assume this is a vintage/aged item? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Saxon Hall Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 What was date of manufacture of this model? I assume this is a vintage/aged item? Some aged vintaged things do OK Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
djb Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Sorry Angelo my question required an explanation Assuming it is vintage -and i know it t be a famous classic -most decent manufacturers supply specs cos they are prud of their heritage AND/OR don't want to spend technicians time repairing them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Grimmie Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 (edited) "Tasso has been a gentleman & has tried to assist" Knowing him just a little, as I do, it's hard to imagine him any other way, even after it be demanded he show his loyalty and acquiescence to a cause, not necessarily his. Edited September 21, 2014 by Grimmie 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TP1 Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 (edited) You do have a way with words Grimmie. Personally I think solving the problem at hand is the best we can realistically hope for because the practices are so ingrained in Australian retailing. I know of one case where a person was negotiating with a distributor ( not Accuphase). During discussions he mentioned the prices being so much cheaper in countries x and Y. Instead of matching prices ( or even meeting him half way) to get the sale, the distributor sent threatening communications to the respective countries and informed the manufacturer of a potential breach of franchise agreement. Edited September 21, 2014 by Tasso Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tasebass Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Jim Tate Stereo in Adelaide would not sell me a brand new radikal PS upgrade for my LP12. If i wanted it I had to take the turntable to Adelaide ( I'm in Sydney ) and have the unit fitted in house. It's Linn's policy regarding new equipment and Jim to His credit would not break the agreement.....A $6K sale mind. eventually bought one secondhand via Cymbiosis a Linn dealer in the UK ( second hand equipment is null and void of dealer agreements...go figure!! ) Their service was absolutely brilliant. Tase. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TP1 Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Clarke Audio in Melbourne seem to know a thing or two about converting Accuphase ( and other brands) to Aussie voltages. http://www.clarkeaudio.com/article_240v.htm Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Newman Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 What is this, the world's most complicated tuner? Your "highly respected Australia Tuner Specialist" should have simply gone ahead and done the work by now. It's not that hard. Many a classic hifi company don't even exist today; it should not be an issue to mod it for oz and get on. Of companies that do still exist, it is normal to only offer parts and support up to a certain age. How old is it? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Orpheus Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 What is this, the world's most complicated tuner? Your "highly respected Australia Tuner Specialist" should have simply gone ahead and done the work by now. It's not that hard. Many a classic hifi company don't even exist today; it should not be an issue to mod it for oz and get on. Of companies that do still exist, it is normal to only offer parts and support up to a certain age. How old is it? You're missing the point here, Newman. The reason they do not support it, as they have expressly said, is because it is outside the country of purchase. They have the means to support it, they just don't want to. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Addicted to music Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 , that is a very informative post and no doubt it will be very helpful to those in need of the info it contains, but surely, all audio manufacturers should be forced to supply full service manuals, on demand. One shouldn't have to go to some obscure Russian website to obtain service manuals which should be freely available. Agree with you, however manufacturers regardless of audio or other products reserve the right to withhold information and this includes all service and field manuals. This is to ensure the opposition doesn't get hold of there products. It also prevents unauthorised servicing and modification not just because of monopoly but customer safety as most products go through licensing and certain accreditation, as you appreciate that all this is void if it was serviced incorrectly or modifications were performed without manufacturers approval. Manufacturers also reserve the rights to choose and decide how they will operate, this includes not servicing a component that has exceeded its distribution networks as there are agreements in place. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alistairm Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 @ I can just about accept that for modern equipment. It's common across industries and, for instance, if you buy Nikon gear offshore you're out of luck in your local country if it breaks. It's antiquated protectionism designed to allow local distributors to price gouge. Incidentally, it is also commercially irrational, because it just destroys the local market and everyone becomes accustomed to shopping online. Then the distributor tends to complain that the internet has destroyed their market, neatly ignoring their own involvement. Be all that as it may, the short shrift given to the OP here trying to get basic assistance with a piece of vintage gear never released in Australia to tune in to analogue radio has damaged the Accuphase brand, while doing absolutely nothing to protect the distributor's market. If I were an Accuphase retailer I'd be troubled by this apparent complete lack of interest in maintaining historical Accuphase pieces in good working condition. In essence, this is Accuphase's official face in Australia saying they'd rather your tuner was a doorstop than to help you out. 6 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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