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?

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!

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.

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!

What is the current voltage in Japan?

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

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.