2. amps-preamps
  3. 132108-1570

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
denon1 OP
345 posts
 
Inna, I agree. But I never buy for full retail. 20% off at least.  As I said above I have been offered great deal that is not easy to pass. It’s still risky, but the dealer that I know for quite some time has both in his showroom and swears that gryphon in a different league. He is saying that to his ears it’s even better (more musically involving) than Vitus SIA-025. I heard that model of Vitus and it is terrific integrated. 
Post removed 
Ag insider logo xs@2x
greginnh
382 posts
 
denon1.  Can you tell me where I can audition the Diablo 300?   I am getting the itch for an upgrade!
Post removed 
inna
7,296 posts
 
I am the first one in fact to recommend auditioning Gryphon to anyone who can make use of it and can afford it. Any Gryphon. As I heard from many sources, there is no better solid state equipment, just different, and not many can match Gryphon's performance, especially big Gryphon's. I don't think that Swiss integrateds could match the Diablo 300' dynamics, punch and possibly clarity as well. Swiss are also overpriced, like Accuphase. 20% off for Gryphon is indeed a great deal. Optional DAC is quite expensive, though. And generally speaking, Flemming Rasmussen of Gryphon is widely respected. Gryphons are very reliable and long lasting, as far as I know.
They are now establishing the limited dealership network in the US, so anyone interested can ask the distributor, On A Higher Note. 
More to discover