Upgrading form Pass integrated amplifier to a better one


Hello,

Currently I have a PASS INT-250 integrated amplifier . The Pass INT-250 is a very good integrated (in my system it was overall better than Plinius Hiato, Gamut D150se, Mark Levinson 535, Vitus RI-100,  Accuphase E-470 and some others) but I can't get rid of the feeling that I miss some explosiveness (drum kicks for example) and micro details.

I know that its not the speakers. The new Sonus faber tradition I have are much more open, dynamic and airy than previous Guarneri Evos, Elipasas SE and Amati Anniversarious I used to own. And before buying them I auditioned the Serafinos with Audio Research separates and it was the amazing combo. But I really prefer not to go the separates road ( ICs, power cords and space contribute to financial constrains also) and even so I like the combo of Pass and Serafinos overall but from time to time looking for some better integrated on the market.

Currently I presented with a good opportunity to buy latest Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated or latest just released Accuphase E-650.  No possiblilty to demo them, so I am asking here on the forum if anybody can comment if Gryphon Diablo 300 or Accuphase E-650 will be better integrated than Pass INT250 overall and especially in terms of dynamics, micro details and harmonics.

Any advise and opinion would be very appreciated.

My system: Esoteric K-05x, Pass INT-250, Sonus Faber Serafinos, all cabling are the Shunyata Sigmas.

Room is 12" wide by 17" long. Listen mostly acoustic jazz and chamber classical on low to moderate levels.


Thank you.


denon1
Sorry Denon, the intent was not to push the product, but find out why a similar product that may be better for you is not on the discussion or even being considered?

As these two brands are more similar then dissimilar that was what is driving our curiousity. Each of these two companies is widly respected and each brings a little something else to the table.

As per trade in's many dealers give generous trade in deals. 

The Diablo 300 is definately one of the best products of its kind on the market, and you will be hard pressed to find anything which is better, different yes, better no. 

You should feel consident that you will enjoy the piece, as we said earlier these two brands are among the best sounding products on the market and both represent what we feel the best value for dollar for uber high performing gear.

Honestly if we didn't get T+A first and love the brand, we would have pursued a Gryphon dealership so if you are so convinced go get a Diablo you will not be unhappy with it it is a great piece.

We will clam up. Enjoy your Diablo.
Denon1,

I went theough a similar journey earlier this year and I think I understand the why’s behind your short list. In fact, you’ve shared the list of amps that you’ve auditioned along with your impression. What you’re looking for is a small group of ‘elite’ integrated amps. I saw a few suggestions for the alternatives and I don’t think you’d be interested those. In fact, I owned some of those brands myself and I ended up with upgrading to my current amp. Keep us posted on what you end up with purchasing and share your experience is.

Happy listening!  
@denon1

+1.  I agree with kalali’s post above that you should start a new Audiogon tread on the Gryphon Diablo 300 Integrated Amplifier.  This post is giving you MANY recommendations on other integrated amplifiers, that it seems, you are not interested in.  You stated above that "you are only interested in the Gryphon Diablo 300 Integrated Amplifier”.  

I do not believe this tread is giving the information you need to make a decision.  A new Audiogon tread only on the Gryphon Diablo 300 Integrated Amplifier might might result in getting the information you need.

Based on the large number of amplifier recommendation above, as you can see, there is no one integrated amplifier that is the best and recommended amplifier.  I suggest you locate your nearest Gryphon retailer and listen for your self.   I guarantee you that for every person that likes the Gryphon, an equal number will probably not.   I suggest you make your own decision based on what you hear and like and not what someone else recommends.

This is a very strange hobby because of the wide variety of opinions and recommendations on the many different products.  I have listened to amplifiers that other people love and I do not.   In addition, I sometimes agree with what my retailer recommends and sometimes not.  I read the reviews, sometimes, but they do not dictate what I buy.  I have learned to make my own decisions based on what sounds good.  Unfortunately, I sometimes make a mistake that is expensive but I sell the item and buy something else.  I hope this above helps.    


Hgeifman,

You are making a lot of sense. The real issue is that Gryphon has been unavailabe for years therefore trying to find a person who has actually heard one is nearly impossible at least in the States, in Europe it is another matter.

As per Vitus vs Gryphon the less expensive Vitus is not in the same class, while their uper end models are more expensive for less real power even though they have very high headroom.

Personally I have always thought Vitus to be a bit dark while the Gryphon is a more balanced product. 

If the deal is good, just go for it, you will be very happy they make excellent products. 
@denon1
Philip O’Hanlon from On Higher Note is the new distributor for Gryphon audio products.  I suggest you call him for advice and for the name of a Gryphon retailer near you.  I know Philip and he is very consultive and helpful.  Please give him a call to discuss your options.  I also found these links below for your review:

https://onahighernote.com/gryphon/

https://onahighernote.com/shop/integrated-amps/gryphon-diablo-300-integrated-amplifier/

http://enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/1116/Gryphon_Diablo_300_Integrated_Amplifier_Review.htm

@audiotroy
Thanks.  Gryphon audio products are now being distributed in the USA by On Higher Note and Philip might be looking for new retailers.  Maybe the Audio Doctor NJ should contact him to be a Gryphon retailer.  I have never heard the Gryphon, the Vitus, the Hegle360, T+A products and have no interest in replacing my Mola Mola Kaluga Mono Block Power Amplifiers.