Gryphon Antileon Sig Mono vs Ref One Mono

The new expensive one, sorry. The Cary should do fine. Anyway, all my audiophile friends rave about the Audio Research Reference 3. Regards
Pedro

I'm using an ARC Ref 3 with Antileon signature stereo amp and am very happy. I think in most real world situations the monos would add very little. The Ref 3 is VERY synegistic with the Gryphon run, of course, in a balanced set up. - Jim

Aldavis,
Actually, I'm also thinking of the REF 3. Based purely on looks, the MBL 6010 D would be my first choice but I've heard reports saying that it may sound a bit shrill and harsh. Any experience with this MBL pre?

Geshi,

I've had both in house for serious listening (you are right, the MBL 6010 is a stunner to look at !). I hooked them up with my ref one mono's and Avalon Eidolon.

The synergy with the Ref 3 is evident, right from the start. Great combination between the natural (however still tuby) sound of the ref 3 and the detailed and natural musicality of the ref ones.

The 6010D is much more analitical and (for me) to harsh. I like a little warmth. When using PAD Dominus (liquid !) IC's and speakercables I came close, but still lacked a little warmth to my taste.

With the right poweramp, I'm sure the 6010 will offer a lot of quality. Razorsharp images, very detailed and dynamic sound.

I also listened to the 6010 on Pass (xa-160's) and MBL poweramps and that was a great match! Altough the Pass was much more warm sounding and the MBL combo very 'fast' and detailed, both matched very well with the 6010D.

So, unless you really like a sharp and ultra detailed sound, I'd go for the Ref 3.

Good luck

Johnpf4, Thanks for your input. I've never heard the MBL's so I couldn't comment. I absolutely love the REF 3 /Antileon Signature combo for the reasons you mentioned. I had a CJ preamp which was very lush. The REF 3 goes as far into the 'detailed side' as I choose to venture without giving up the advantages (to me) of a tube preamp. Any further would be to lean. JMHO - Jim