2. amps-preamps
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Amplifier Experience Gryphon Pass Lamm BAT

After living with a small integrated amp for quite some time (Pathos) I am finally about to take the plunge and buy myself a large power amplifier with a matching preamp. (Speakers are WB Chimeras)

I am focussed mostly on class A amps amd prefer a neutral sound erring on the warm side. After having lived with Pathos for a while I am looking for someting more powerful than most tube amps.

The brands and models I have narrowed it down to are:
- BAT VK52SE+ 2x BAT VK600
- Pass Labs XP-20 + XA160.5 Monos
- Lamm L2 Reference + Lamm M1.2 Reference Monos
- Gryphon Mirage + Antileon Signature Stereo

All models are used or ex-demo equipment I could get a good price on hence if some manufacturers (Krell, mbl etc.) are not included this is because there is either no opportunity or I excluded them for some other reason.

The above are listed according to price I could get them at with the BAT being quite a bit cheaper and the other three being quite close.

I will not be able to compare any of the above in the same room, etc so I would be grateful for any direct experience people have in comparing the above!
hamburgcity
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
I think that Gryphon does not offer the kind of sound you are looking for. Antileon amps are also very problematic, so I would rather avoid them.

I have had Lamm M1.2R, now I have Pass XA-.5 ... personally, I would go with Pass amps.
rtn1
535 posts
 
Elberoth2,

Is this the end of your Amp-O-Rama? You certainly have to give us some details. You've really had some fine pieces of equipment come through your room.
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
It certainly isn't ... I forgot to mention that I still have Audio Note Japan Ongaku amp on loan. I was considering this amp for my Sophias, since it did many things other amps were not able to duplicate, but with Sasha 1.8Ohm impedance dip, I seriously doubt it will have enough current to drive them. I will have to check though, hoping the uber expensive 1940' WE 211 tubes will not say good bye :-)
rtn1
535 posts
 
Elbertroth2. Thank goodness for audiophiles like you. You keep the rest of us appearing 'relatively' sane. When my wife starts yelling at me, I will certainly tell her about all of your amplifiers!
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
Mind you, the $110.000 Audio Note Ongaku amp is only on loan. I would like to consider myself sane as well :-)

BTW - the output tubes are RCA, not WE.
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