Vitus audio?

I've heard the huge mono amps, the small integrated and a prototype SACD player at a show last year, paired with Peak Consult Zoltan speakers, and the latest PAD cables (top of the range throughout). Mostly it was excellent, natural-sounding, airy and relaxed, obviously capable of some beautiful sound. Unfortunately some room issues made it sound a bit strained at times, so it was hard to give a fair judgement. I liked it initially with calm music, but with music with more "action" (rock, large scale stuff) it wasn't nearly as good.

Since they are very expensive indeed, I strongly suggest you listen carefully before going ahead. Most stuff in this price range is good, it's up to you to find what you prefer. :)

I haven't heard Gryphon much, only briefly so I can't really compare those. What I heard sounded nice though, soft and beautiful (they were playing female vocal jazz).

As for Boulder, if you like the sort of presentation they have - I find they bring the music to your room and not you to the event - I think they are impossible to beat. I'm very, very impressed with Boulder. From what I heard at the show, the Vitus gear don't share that philosophy so they aren't really comparable per se. Haven't heard FM, but would like to!

In this price range, don't miss MBL either. In their type of sound (large soundstage, "bringing you to the event") I think there is nothing close.

Here is a review : http://www.stereotimes.com/amp011807.shtml

It all depends on your speakers, sources, tastes, personality, experience, room, goals, etc. Answering this sort of question is all hand waving.

Having said that, I really like Gryphon - beautiful sounding but has lots of authority too. MBL was super nice but you need to hear it with their speakers for the real enchilada. Haven't heard Vitus yet but they are popular in England especially. Hifi+ has reviewed a few of their components.

Arthur

I find it hard to believe that the better Pass models,like the XA-160's,would not be completely in this league.Unless,of course,one is inclined to have expensive boutique stuff,which has been inflated by the U.S. dollar being weak in Europe.