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  1. #1
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    Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Im in the market for to upgrade my amplification , can anyone compare contrast the Classe delta monos with the gryphon essence monos. i know 2x the cost not really a fair comparison. but none the less i would love to hear peoples thoughts.

    what im looking for - sweeter highs , fuller midrange , better bass texture (want to be drawn in more)

    Auditioned a parasound jc5 in home and found the sound to dark and slow.

    Budget $40k for amplification

    i will be upgrading the tube preamp as well perhaps VAC.


    System
    Speakers – jbl 4367
    Cables – Cardas
    DAC – Holo Audio – May DAC KTE
    Amp – crown xls2505
    Preamp – Schitt Freya tube preamp with NOS 6sn7's
    Streamer - LUMIN U1 mini
    Inwall – 3 20a circuits with Cryo 10ga romex with cardas outlets

    Thank you

  2. #2
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Rich I look forward to hearing what you decide. The Freya is not a bad preamp, surprisingly good if you want to wait on the new preamp.

    Oh and welcome to the forum.
    Marty

    Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
    MSB Premier
    Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
    Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
    PS Audio Powerplant 15

  3. #3
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    We’ve had both in the store. RITMO heard them both. I think he’s partial to the Delta monos. We’ve also run them with the VAC master and it’s a sweet combo.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
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    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  4. #4
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Thanks marty and mike ill reach out to @RITMO and see if he can elaborate.

    Would you consider the classe to be on the sweet side like the luxman 900u? Is there any comparison?

  5. #5
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Nice speakers, if I do say so. Welcome to AS

    Just my opinion, Schiit is decent but would be a weak link in the level of gear you are talking.

    Have you considered or heard the Levinson 534 (stereo) or 536 mono's? The 534 is fast and sounds great. The 536's I've only heard with Kef Ref 5's and, they did have amazing bass on those speakers able to reproduce Reference label Classical with authority and depth.

    With your budget though, a lot of great options.

    If you haven't yet I recommend either bi-wiring your speakers or purchasing same brand Cardas jumpers to replace the ones that came with the 4367. I found it a worthy improvement.

    I do like Gryphon, it is some dark leaning warm from neutral. I've heard older Classe but not the new amps.
    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    Im in the market for to upgrade my amplification , can anyone compare contrast the Classe delta monos with the gryphon essence monos. i know 2x the cost not really a fair comparison. but none the less i would love to hear peoples thoughts.

    what im looking for - sweeter highs , fuller midrange , better bass texture (want to be drawn in more)

    Auditioned a parasound jc5 in home and found the sound to dark and slow.

    Budget $40k for amplification

    i will be upgrading the tube preamp as well perhaps VAC.


    System
    Speakers – jbl 4367
    Cables – Cardas
    DAC – Holo Audio – May DAC KTE
    Amp – crown xls2505
    Preamp – Schitt Freya tube preamp with NOS 6sn7's
    Streamer - LUMIN U1 mini
    Inwall – 3 20a circuits with Cryo 10ga romex with cardas outlets

    Thank you
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  6. #6

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    A contrarian view for sure, but if I were in your shoes, I would consider putting the $40k on the speakers. That is where you are going to get the most bang for your buck.

  7. #7
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by nicoff View Post
    A contrarian view for sure, but if I were in your shoes, I would consider putting the $40k on the speakers. That is where you are going to get the most bang for your buck.

    I tend to disagree. In my experience you can make good speakers sound phenomenal with the right electronics/equipment. Not the other way around.

  8. #8
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Sweet system. From the right dealer, for 40k you could get a set of Magico A5s (24,800), Pass Labs 260.8 monos (13,500), and a Pass XP-12 Pre (5,800). List price is about 4K over your budget, but … This would remove any weak links in your system … Pass gives you the tube like sound w/o tubes.

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    Im in the market for to upgrade my amplification , can anyone compare contrast the Classe delta monos with the gryphon essence monos. i know 2x the cost not really a fair comparison. but none the less i would love to hear peoples thoughts.

    what im looking for - sweeter highs , fuller midrange , better bass texture (want to be drawn in more)

    Auditioned a parasound jc5 in home and found the sound to dark and slow.

    Budget $40k for amplification

    i will be upgrading the tube preamp as well perhaps VAC.


    System
    Speakers – jbl 4367
    Cables – Cardas
    DAC – Holo Audio – May DAC KTE
    Amp – crown xls2505
    Preamp – Schitt Freya tube preamp with NOS 6sn7's
    Streamer - LUMIN U1 mini
    Inwall – 3 20a circuits with Cryo 10ga romex with cardas outlets

    Thank you

  9. #9
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    It's funny how people paint certain gear into a certain area....like sweet and dark, or thin. or neutral or whatever.

    I have owned Classe' monos...CAM 600's. Listened to the new Classe' Delta monos, and now own a Gryphon Diablo 300. I don't see how you could go wrong with either brand. Regarding the sound, they are both top notch.

    If I hadn't wanted an integrated amp to downsize I would have bought the Classe stuff for my Kharma DB9's. Now the Classe won't win on the snooty factor, but it will provide you with everything you could want in sound. Plus it's a stinking bargain compared to the boutique brands. They remind me of the way Parasound JC1's were perceived, everyone knew the were great but they had no snob appeal.

    My Gryphon is excellent. It certainly doesn't sound dark paired with the Kharmas. It's very articulate. Great detail with absolutely no fatigue. A fantastic piece....except for the remote, it sucks.
    Mark


    Kharma DB9 Signature
    Pass Labs XP32......incoming
    Pass Labs X350.8
    Esoteric N-05XD
    VPI Avenger with Magnetic Drive
    Manley Chinook Phono Pre
    Ortofon Cadenza Black cartridge
    Kharma Elegance speaker cables
    Kharma Elegance interconnects
    REL Subs

  10. #10
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Here is my complete "short" list of amplification i have or am trying to audition. so far ive only herd the Parasound JC5 (dark/slow) Passlabs x350.8 (thin) , the Gryphon diablo 300 (Impressive/Chills) , and the Gryphon Antileon Evo (a little dark but may be nice with my horn Jbls) which is the hard part because nothing sounds like my JBL's. BTW im a huge jbl fan ive been in pro audio for a long time and watching a live concert at home at 100db+ jbl horns and jbl 18" subs to me do it for me unlike ive herd elsewhere.

    Again these will and be paired with a tube preamp such as VAC.

    AMP - MSRP

    Classe delta stereo - $10500
    Pass labs x350.8 $14,200
    Luxman M-10X - $16k
    Gryphon diablo 300 - $17k
    Parasound Halo JC 1+ monoblocks - $17500
    Sim Audio 860A v2 Power Amplifier $19500
    Classe Delta monos - $21000
    Gryphon Audio Designs Essence Stereo Amplifier - $22,000
    Constellation Audio Taurus Stereo Power Amplifier -$22,000
    Boulder 1160 Stereo Amplifier $33,000.00
    Dan D'Agostino Momentum S250 Stereo Amplifier $35,000.00
    Element 118 Power Amplifier Monoblocks - $38000
    Gryphon Antileon Evo Stereo Amplifier - $42,000
    Gryphon Essence monos Amplifiers - $44,000

  11. #11
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Impressive list Rich......About 3/4 could be heard at Suncoast. Not sure what you have for dealers in MD.

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    Here is my complete "short" list of amplification i have or am trying to audition. so far ive only herd the Parasound JC5 (dark/slow) Passlabs x350.8 (thin) , the Gryphon diablo 300 (Impressive/Chills) , and the Gryphon Antileon Evo (a little dark but may be nice with my horn Jbls) which is the hard part because nothing sounds like my JBL's. BTW im a huge jbl fan ive been in pro audio for a long time and watching a live concert at home at 100db+ jbl horns and jbl 18" subs to me do it for me unlike ive herd elsewhere.

    Again these will and be paired with a tube preamp such as VAC.

    AMP - MSRP

    Classe delta stereo - $10500
    Pass labs x350.8 $14,200
    Luxman M-10X - $16k
    Gryphon diablo 300 - $17k
    Parasound Halo JC 1+ monoblocks - $17500
    Sim Audio 860A v2 Power Amplifier $19500
    Classe Delta monos - $21000
    Audio Research Reference 160S stereo power amplifier - $22,000
    Gryphon Audio Designs Essence Stereo Amplifier - $22,000
    Constellation Audio Taurus Stereo Power Amplifier -$22,000
    Boulder 1160 Stereo Amplifier $33,000.00
    Dan D'Agostino Momentum S250 Stereo Amplifier $35,000.00
    Element 118 Power Amplifier Monoblocks - $38000
    Gryphon Antileon Evo Stereo Amplifier - $42,000
    Gryphon Essence monos Amplifiers - $44,000
    Marty

    Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
    MSB Premier
    Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
    Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
    PS Audio Powerplant 15

  12. #12
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by nc42acc View Post
    Impressive list Rich......About 3/4 could be heard at Suncoast. Not sure what you have for dealers in MD.
    marty

    i wish i had the time (own a business and my wife is due with our first any day now) id pack up my jbls and drive down to FL to mikes shop. My local dealers have Pass, gryphon , classe , sim , boulder but not all the models im interested in hearing. im talking with them to do the in home demos. first up is the Gryphon diablo 300 and antileon evo.

  13. #13
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Congratulations on the new addition to the family.....I look forward to your thoughts on the Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    marty

    i wish i had the time (own a business and my wife is due with our first any day now) id pack up my jbls and drive down to FL to mikes shop. My local dealers have Pass, gryphon , classe , sim , boulder but not all the models im interested in hearing. im talking with them to do the in home demos. first up is the Gryphon diablo 300 and antileon evo.
    Marty

    Aurender N20 / SonicTransporter i7 / Roon
    MSB Premier
    Constellation Inspiration Preamp 1.0 / Mono 1.0
    Dynaudio Confidence 50 / SVS SB13 Ultra
    PS Audio Powerplant 15

  14. #14
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    It's funny how people paint certain gear into a certain area....like sweet and dark, or thin. or neutral or whatever.

    I have owned Classe' monos...CAM 600's. Listened to the new Classe' Delta monos, and now own a Gryphon Diablo 300. I don't see how you could go wrong with either brand. Regarding the sound, they are both top notch.

    If I hadn't wanted an integrated amp to downsize I would have bought the Classe stuff for my Kharma DB9's. Now the Classe won't win on the snooty factor, but it will provide you with everything you could want in sound. Plus it's a stinking bargain compared to the boutique brands. They remind me of the way Parasound JC1's were perceived, everyone knew the were great but they had no snob appeal.

    My Gryphon is excellent. It certainly doesn't sound dark paired with the Kharmas. It's very articulate. Great detail with absolutely no fatigue. A fantastic piece....except for the remote, it sucks.
    +1
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  15. #15
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    Here is my complete "short" list of amplification i have or am trying to audition. so far ive only herd the Parasound JC5 (dark/slow) Passlabs x350.8 (thin) , the Gryphon diablo 300 (Impressive/Chills) , and the Gryphon Antileon Evo (a little dark but may be nice with my horn Jbls) which is the hard part because nothing sounds like my JBL's. BTW im a huge jbl fan ive been in pro audio for a long time and watching a live concert at home at 100db+ jbl horns and jbl 18" subs to me do it for me unlike ive herd elsewhere.

    Again these will and be paired with a tube preamp such as VAC.

    AMP - MSRP

    Classe delta stereo - $10500
    Pass labs x350.8 $14,200
    Luxman M-10X - $16k
    Gryphon diablo 300 - $17k
    Parasound Halo JC 1+ monoblocks - $17500
    Sim Audio 860A v2 Power Amplifier $19500
    Classe Delta monos - $21000
    Gryphon Audio Designs Essence Stereo Amplifier - $22,000
    Constellation Audio Taurus Stereo Power Amplifier -$22,000
    Boulder 1160 Stereo Amplifier $33,000.00
    Dan D'Agostino Momentum S250 Stereo Amplifier $35,000.00
    Element 118 Power Amplifier Monoblocks - $38000
    Gryphon Antileon Evo Stereo Amplifier - $42,000
    Gryphon Essence monos Amplifiers - $44,000
    Great list of amps to demo. IMO, grab the Essence stereo or even the Diablo 300 and pocket the rest of the cash, which I always think thats just as fun to have in your pocket than to get the last 3%
    _______________

    Main Room: Fleetwood Sound Co. Deville SQ < Bakoon AMP-51R | < Mola Mola Tambaqui < Grimm Audio MU1
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  16. #16
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    If you had some time Capatal Audio Fest is this weekend.

    Merrill will allow in home audition if serious about the Elemet, just contact them. Unless something has changed they were going to be at CAF.

    I'm curious what the 350.8 was paired with, I've never heard Pass to sound thin. I do find them to sound what I call polite, I enjoy a more nimble response.

    The amps on your list do vary in character you should find one or more to your liking.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  17. #17
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Take aways from capitol audiofest


    1) i really like horn speakers
    2) i LOVE tubes
    3) I need more bass then most i guess.

    although the best of show for me was

    IMO Bending wave in the Jackson room had the best sound and one of the most expensive set of components

    Gobel Devin Marquis speakers - MSRP $80,000
    Wadax Atlantic reference dac - MSRP $145,000
    Wadax Server
    CH precision preamp
    Parasound Halo JC 1+ monoblocks

    Absolutely Incredible Endgame sound!

    I also really enjoyed hearing the JBL everest speakers in the VPI room.

    The Randolfh room with Daedalus speakers , lampizator dac and VAC amps was impressive.

    And really interesting the Black Ice Audio room sounded REALLY good with some more affordable components.. fantastic Their Fusion F360 preamp was very cool

    From their website :

    "The F360 takes the guess work out of dialing in the system and the room.

    What is the ideal preamplifier - control, control, control. Welcome to the F360, a preamplifier which can contour sound to your preference.

    Let’s start with the bass equalizer circuit designed to increase low bass impact up to 15dB without bass boom. Conversely, in the event of boomy bass, the bass equalizer can reduce the boom up to 15 dB. In addition, there is a high frequency equalizer circuit that can increase or decrease high frequency up to 11 dB. Of course you can bypass the low/high equalizers and just treat yourself to unfiltered sound with zero negative feedback.

    Getting to business, the Dimension Pro circuit will add a greater sense of spatial range of width that is recongized beyond the walls of your room. The F360 is a stereo preamp that has an added bonus feature.

    The 360 Space Matrix circuit adds the inclusion of rear speakers for soundstage depth reinforcement. Let the concert begin."

  18. #18
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    The VAC integrated should fit nicely with your speakers.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  19. #19

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    My Gryphon is excellent….A fantastic piece....except for the remote, it sucks.
    Yes, that remote is the worst in the history of remote control.

  20. #20

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Why is so much power needed for those speakers? It seems like a nice 25-50wpc tube amp would be enough?

  21. #21
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    I too am surprised that you found the Pass 350.8 thin. But then again, you can still buy the 0.5 series amps if you ask as some people still prefer the sound of them vs the more transparent 0.8 series.
    My Gear- Mains System-Pass X250 amp, BAT VK-51se preamp, Luxman DA-06 DAC, Magnepan 1.6's, Thorens TD-145 TT, Dual Martin Logan Subs, Vintage Luxman T-110 Tuner, Cables-WW Platinum 7 USB, Cardas Parsec XLR, AQ Columbia DBS 72v XLR, Belden 8402 XLR.

  22. #22
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by MDP View Post
    It's funny how people paint certain gear into a certain area....like sweet and dark, or thin. or neutral or whatever..
    Yeah. I have no idea what he's talking about.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
    Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
    | Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali

  23. #23
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Sweet system. From the right dealer, for 40k you could get a set of Magico A5s (24,800), Pass Labs 260.8 monos (13,500), and a Pass XP-12 Pre (5,800). List price is about 4K over your budget, but … This would remove any weak links in your system … Pass gives you the tube like sound w/o tubes.

    hmmm. the poster is asking about new amps and you are advising him to buy sealed A5 Magico speakers in preference to his JBL's. the sound could not be any different. JBL is full of life and his JBL 4367's certainly is not his weak link.

    @94db efficiency and 6ohms impedance leaves the poster with a lot of amplifier options and absolute power is not going to be the be all and end all.

    Have fun and try as many amps at home as you can. Tend to agree with some of the reponses, perhaps also listen to a pre amp at the same time to see if your current Schiit actually is a weak link compartively.
    Source: Technics SP10mk3 - Thales Simplicity II, TW Raven AC-3 - Graham Phantom, SME 3012-R, Exclusive P3,,Linn LP12 - Naim ARO
    Cartridges: Lyra Atlas Lambda SL, Lyra Etna SL, Lyra Delos, Dynavector XV-1s,Technics EPC100mk4, Ortofon A90, GM Royal, GM Classic, Denon ESC'd 103R, DL-S1, Audio Technica AT25, OC9II, Linn ESC'd Troika
    Phono Stage: Phasemation EA-1200, Accuphase C-37,TW Acustik phono
    EQ: ​DEQX HDP-4
    Preamp: D'Agostino HD, conrad johnson GAT,
    Amps: conrad johnson teflon premier 8a's, D'Agostino Momentum S250
    Speakers: Wilson Maxx3

  24. #24
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Respectfully, he is speaking of upgrading both his amps and preamps; "... Im in the market for to upgrade my amplification ... i will be upgrading the tube preamp as well..." From what I understood he has a budget of 40K for just the amps; "Budget $40k for amplification." So apparently there's another budget for a preamp.

    Moreover, I somewhat agreed with Nicoff who stated, "A contrarian view for sure, but if I were in your shoes, I would consider putting the $40k on the speakers. That is where you are going to get the most bang for your buck." Since IMO Magicos sound better than JBLs, I made a suggestion on new speakers and amps that would somewhat fit Nicoff's suggestion.


    Quote Originally Posted by XV-1 View Post
    hmmm. the poster is asking about new amps and you are advising him to buy sealed A5 Magico speakers in preference to his JBL's. the sound could not be any different. JBL is full of life and his JBL 4367's certainly is not his weak link. ...

  25. #25
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Moreover, I somewhat agreed with Nicoff who stated...
    Yeah, me 2. Fun spending other peoples' money, hey.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
    Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
    | Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali

  26. #26
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by brodricj View Post
    Yeah, me 2. Fun spending other peoples' money, hey.
    Yea lots of fun!!!

  27. #27
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Magico sounds better than JBL is a matter of opinion and it's a fool's opinion to spend $40k on speakers with afraction of that on the electronics. Seems I remember you using some pretty expensive Pass with $20k speakers not hardly what you are preaching someone else to do.

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Respectfully, he is speaking of upgrading both his amps and preamps; "... Im in the market for to upgrade my amplification ... i will be upgrading the tube preamp as well..." From what I understood he has a budget of 40K for just the amps; "Budget $40k for amplification." So apparently there's another budget for a preamp.

    Moreover, I somewhat agreed with Nicoff who stated, "A contrarian view for sure, but if I were in your shoes, I would consider putting the $40k on the speakers. That is where you are going to get the most bang for your buck." Since IMO Magicos sound better than JBLs, I made a suggestion on new speakers and amps that would somewhat fit Nicoff's suggestion.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
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  28. #28
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Of course, I was stating an opinion. That’s what we do on forums. And I didn’t suggest spending 40k on speakers. Reread my post (#8) I suggested Magico A5s which cost $24,800.


    Memory??? For the record, I own Pass Labs 260.8 monos which cost $13,500.00. My speakers - Magico A3s - cost $15,950.00 with grills and feet. But the speakers are due for an upgrade.



    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    Magico sounds better than JBL is a matter of opinion and it's a fool's opinion to spend $40k on speakers with afraction of that on the electronics. Seems I remember you using some pretty expensive Pass with $20k speakers not hardly what you are preaching someone else to do.

  29. #29
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    You did suggest A5 but then you said yu agreed with Nicoff who did suggest $40k be spent on speakers

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Of course, I was stating an opinion. That’s what we do on forums. And I didn’t suggest spending 40k on speakers. Reread my post (#8) I suggested Magico A5s which cost $24,800.


    Memory??? For the record, I own Pass Labs 260.8 monos which cost $13,500.00. My speakers - Magico A3s - cost $15,950.00 with grills and feet. But the speakers are due for an upgrade.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  30. #30
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    No I didn’t. You were probably just reading too fast, as I sometimes do as well. I stated in post 24:

    Moreover, I somewhat agreed with Nicoff who stated, "A contrarian view for sure, but if I were in your shoes, I would consider putting the $40k on the speakers. That is where you are going to get the most bang for your buck." Since IMO Magicos sound better than JBLs, I made a suggestion on new speakers and amps that would somewhat fit Nicoff's suggestion.
    But I definitely agree with Nicoff that the speakers should be upgraded!

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    You did suggest A5 but then you said yu agreed with Nicoff who did suggest $40k be spent on speakers

  31. #31
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Interesting thread. Agree, if one likes their JBL's, doubt that Magico's are going to be to their taste. The JBL's are rated at 94dB; I doubt the monoblocks are going to offer a big performance increase to the stereo. If you are interested in the Essence, you should listen to some of Jay's Audio Lab podcasts.
    I own the Essence Stereo. I feel its strengths are 3D imaging, and a nice balance of speed and midrange "palpability and liquidity", if that makes any sense.
    I can't comment on Classe. VAC is intriguing to me...
    Buckeye Farmboy translocated to Boulder. Master and slave to my 10 year old twins
    System: Grimm MU1, Mola Mola Tambaqui, Accuphase C3900 pre, TARA Labs 0.8 XLR, Gryphon Essence Stereo Amp, Tara LAbs 0.8 Speaker Cables, Rockport Atria ii's

  32. #32

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Ricky64 View Post
    Interesting thread. Agree, if one likes their JBL's, doubt that Magico's are going to be to their taste. The JBL's are rated at 94dB; I doubt the monoblocks are going to offer a big performance increase to the stereo. If you are interested in the Essence, you should listen to some of Jay's Audio Lab podcasts.
    I own the Essence Stereo. I feel its strengths are 3D imaging, and a nice balance of speed and midrange "palpability and liquidity", if that makes any sense.
    I can't comment on Classe. VAC is intriguing to me...
    I have Tannoys rated 96dB / 8 ohms, and power *shouldn't* be an issue, yet a pair of VAC 200iQ monos sounds a LOT better on them than a single stereo 200iQ. I also have a VAC Master, and from my foray into SS amplification - this preamp makes for a beautiful pairing with SS amps. With op's budget, my God, he should be in for a hell of a treat whichever of these directions he goes in!

  33. #33

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    I think somebody's feathers have been ruffled...

  34. #34
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Im just a fan of compression driver horn speakers. I think my end game would be jbl 67000 Everest. Done right what they do for music is pretty spectacular. Ive herd alot of high end speakers costing 2 3 4 12 times my jbls but to me i just love what they do for the music i listen to.

    I got a chance to demo the classe delta stereo and pre in my room. Loved it. Sound was full rich warm clear bass was big and tight, mids full, highs oh so smooth. With my tube pre acting as a line stage between the dac and classe pre was a good combo.

    My dealer has a pair of used doshi tube monos i may be trying soon.

    Biamp? Doshi tube monos for the highs and classe delta monos for the woofers? Overkill much? 🤘

    Looking to audition boulder 1160 and the gryphon essence stereo in December.

    Ive been playing around with audiolense fir filters running through roons convolution filter. What this as done from my sound in room is nothing short of game changing.

    Ill post some rew measurments shortly.

  35. #35

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    I agree with this^^^^^ I have been down the "low efficiency/high power" road with many speakers and amps. Once I heard what horn speakers and low power amps could do I was hooked.

  36. #36
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Just me but it seems the less components in your path the better, your pre/amp shouldn't need a tube buffer, nor should you want one. I'm using Mark Levinson and the highs are pristine with no harshness. Just using my set up as an example, the money you are spending your electronics should be adequate without buffering.

    The Doshi I heard was really nice, looking forward to your impressions.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

    HT: Marantz AV8003, Linn 5125, JBL SAM3ha, Revel s30,
    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
    Sony XBR-75X940D & BDP
    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  37. #37
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    While i tend to agree with this i tried the classe pre by itself and it was very good. I love the features including app control. When i added in the freya tube pre as a buffer stage i gained quite a bit of that “tube magic” warm bloom , air and shall i say naturalness around voices and instruments are the 2 big things i was able to deduce immediately. I really want to try a vac preamp with the classe amps i think that will be a winner. Or the classe pre with the doshi monos. I have to have tubes somewhere.

  38. #38

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    FYI, the new M-10X amp from Luxman is going to be at least $19,999. not $16K, when it's released in February.

  39. #39
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    While i tend to agree with this i tried the classe pre by itself and it was very good. I love the features including app control. When i added in the freya tube pre as a buffer stage i gained quite a bit of that “tube magic” warm bloom , air and shall i say naturalness around voices and instruments are the 2 big things i was able to deduce immediately. I really want to try a vac preamp with the classe amps i think that will be a winner. Or the classe pre with the doshi monos. I have to have tubes somewhere.
    VAC Master with Classe Monos is incredible. Tubey goodness and Class A.


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  40. #40
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    VAC Master with Classe Monos is incredible. Tubey goodness and Class A.
    So i Tried the classe delta pre/amp combo. Impressive. Love the app. needed more time only got 2 days before i had to return.

    I have the essence stereo now and wow after i ran it in for 8 hours.. very promising perhaps a little thin in the bass , but very emotional midrange. maybe the most emotional ss ive herd. Highs are almost to forward with the cd horns. Times like this i wish for a simple tone control.

    I want to get the classe monos next my dealer has a used pair his personal pair he said i can borrow for a couple week.

    Im also looking into Mcintosh c12000/mc901s, i could active biamp my 2way jbls , 300w tube on the highs , 600w ss on the lows.. very interesting.
    I also like the idea of being able to attenuate the horns/highs a couple db and bumping the lows a couple db.

    Keep you posted.

  41. #41
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    So i Tried the classe delta pre/amp combo. Impressive. Love the app. needed more time only got 2 days before i had to return.

    I have the essence stereo now and wow after i ran it in for 8 hours.. very promising but perhaps a little thin sounding but very emotional non the less maybe the most emotional ss ive herd.

    I want to get the classe monos next my dealer has a used pair his personal pair he said i can borrow for a couple week.

    Im also looking into Mcintosh c12000/mc901s, i could active biamp my 2way jbls , 300w tube on the highs , 600w ss on the lows.. very interesting.

    Keep you posted.
    The Classe monos are very impressive. Glad you liked the stereo. The monos are a very nice step up.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  42. #42
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Quote Originally Posted by Rich4284 View Post
    So i Tried the classe delta pre/amp combo. Impressive. Love the app. needed more time only got 2 days before i had to return.

    I have the essence stereo now and wow after i ran it in for 8 hours.. very promising perhaps a little thin in the bass , but very emotional midrange. maybe the most emotional ss ive herd. Highs are almost to forward with the cd horns. Times like this i wish for a simple tone control.

    I want to get the classe monos next my dealer has a used pair his personal pair he said i can borrow for a couple week.

    Im also looking into Mcintosh c12000/mc901s, i could active biamp my 2way jbls , 300w tube on the highs , 600w ss on the lows.. very interesting.
    I also like the idea of being able to attenuate the horns/highs a couple db and bumping the lows a couple db.

    Keep you posted.
    My take on the Essence Stereo is that it is quite neutral. Where it shines is a silky dense midrange, and extremely good imaging, especially depth. My old system was a bit dark and slow. It took a bit of getting used to the Essence. It is extraordinary with complex and spatially well recorded classical. Sometimes I do long for a bit of added bloom and richness, especially with Rock. However, I suspect the key work there is "added". I did read one review where it was described as a bit shy on the bass. I have run frequency sweeps through my system and haven't found this to be the case.
    Buckeye Farmboy translocated to Boulder. Master and slave to my 10 year old twins
    System: Grimm MU1, Mola Mola Tambaqui, Accuphase C3900 pre, TARA Labs 0.8 XLR, Gryphon Essence Stereo Amp, Tara LAbs 0.8 Speaker Cables, Rockport Atria ii's

  43. #43
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    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Trying the classe again for an extended week or so the essence is really really good with well recorded material thats for sure. It sounds fantastic

  44. #44

    Re: Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

    Gotta say...the Classe Delta mono amps and preamp sure do look nice. Would love to hear them in my system.
    Kevin

    Main: VPI Aries 3/Grado Reference3, and Aurender N200 > PS Audio DS DAC. Luxman L-509Z integrated amp. Sonus Faber Elipsa SE speakers. PS Audio P10 power. Transparent Audio, Cardas and Audioquest cables.

    Bar: EAT C-sharp/Hana MH, and exaSound s82 > Luxman L-595SE amp. GolderEar One.R speakers. Shunyata power, Audioquest cables.

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Looking for new amps Classe / Gryphon

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