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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
hgeifman
2,239 posts
 
@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. 
hgeifman
2,239 posts
 
@denon1, I found this link on Audiogon regarding the Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated amplifeir:

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/gryphon-diablo-300-unchained

Please do a Google search on the Gryphon Diablo 300 integrated amplifier for additional reviews and comments.

I hope this helps........
markalarsen's avatar
markalarsen
654 posts
 
Bel Canto Black Intergrated. $25000
denon1 OP
345 posts
 
Folks, thanks a lot for your help. Good advises on the starting a new thread, but no need for it , as AudioTroy said, , the deal is too good to pass, next week I’ll pull the trigger on Gryphon.
when I get it, I post my humble one on gryphon vs pass integrates. 
Based on the Gryphin dealer who’s opinion I learned to trust, 
the gryphon is richer, more detailed an dynamic with sweet highs and better bass. Considering that Pass Int-250 is no slouch either, the Diablo me be my last integrated to buy for a long time.

miketuason
337 posts
 
Why no one mention McIntosh, aren't they not good integrated amp anymore?
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