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Gryphon Diablo or Accuphase E-450

Hey
Im downsizing my amplification from a Nagra PLP & VPA monos to a one box solid state integrated. This is due to a change in my personal circumstances, available space AND young children (i.e. valves/fingers).

Ive shortlisted the Gryphon, as i used to have a Mikado and really loved it and the Accuphase which has a good reputation. My speakers are Peak Consult Princess Signature floorstanders on Finite Elemente Cerapucs, speaker cabling is XLO Unlimited with Accustica Applicata DAAD diffusers behind.

My sources are a Raven AC TT with various arms, carts and phono stages / step ups, so i need not worry about a phono input on the amo. Digital is a Lindemann CDP and a Wadia iTransport.

The 2 amps i have shortlisted both have strenths an weaknesses - i just wondered what the concensus was in terms of opinion as to whats 'best' - all subjective i know - but be good to hear some views. Im not really keen to widen the selection from either of these two.

Thanks and regards,

Lee.
128x128badger748
egidius
106 posts
 
I own an E55o with Merlin VSM, and it is close to the performance of my Berning ZH270 and Prototype-Pre, which says a lot, the latter being one of the classic speaker-amp combinations. Depending on your power requirements, you might prefer the Class A Accuphase 550?
And - I you havent done so, I might be interested in your Nagra gear ;-)
argyro
438 posts
 
I was using the Grpyhon Diablo for 2 years. Trully excellent!
mcgarick
277 posts
 
I own a Accuphase E-202 and several C-200's I had recapped, and a newer P-350, I can't sell them,so,my Son Aaron will get them someday,there great.
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
Get the E-550 instead. It is SO MUCH better sounding than E-450. You should be happy downsizing from Nagra (which I also know rather well). Diablo sounds distictly different from both Nagra and E-550, so be sure to try before you buy.
denjo
46 posts
 
Agreed, the E-550 is better sounding but it runs hot (class A). The E-450 has more power but sounds very. very good.
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