NEW CAPS AND TUBES runs smooth and quiet sounds killerYes, you heard correct. From 1981-1985 Ampegs were made in Japan.
Nothing is different from the US models except for the logo is on the right instead of left, it has better handles, and the transformers were made in Japan.
This is still the same 300w all tube (tiny bit lighter) Ampeg SVT we all know and love. It is compared to the '73 SVT and is called the "golden era" of Ampeg. Maybe because the Japanese get most things right, and "made in Japan" has become synonymous with top shelf and has an almost mythical status.
I know 1980's MIJ basses are the top shelf, so it stands to be true that a MIJ Ampeg SVT is simply wonderful, for a lack of more manly words..from talkbass,,,