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Gryphon Diablo 300 vs 120. Any Difference? Gryphon vs Luxman L-590AXII?

With easy to drive speakers, is there a difference in sonic signature between the Diablo 120 and 300?

After going through several threads on this forum as well as others, I was made to understand that the Gryphon is a very raw, dynamic and live sounding amp which rendered all other amps sound soft, dull or laid back. The Gryphon was said to be slightly dark sounding but very transparent.

In comparison to the Luxman L-590AXII, does the Gryphon sound harsh or unrefined in the midrange and treble? I am aware that system synergy is everything particularly the match between the amp and speakers but I’m trying to get a feel how a Gryphon actually sounds like.

 

ryder

Showing 2 responses by jomonhifi

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jomonhifi
152 posts
 

 

jomonhifi's avatar
jomonhifi
152 posts
 

I loved both…! I can’t tell you that I heard a substantial difference between the two amps. Perhaps a little more dynamic headroom…? The 300 was at the limit of what a single strong person can move on his own and worth every pound….! I was driving a pair of SF Serafino’s and they sounded detailed, clean, precise with a bass whollop that made my chair kick me in the back. I owned both amps for about 3 months each. My only source was a DCS Bartok. Let them warm up a little before passing judgement. They 300 ran pretty hot so give it a lots of breathing room. I eventually sold the 300 as my personal preference headed towards the tube sound. With the Bartok both the 120 and the 300 were a little too clinical and “perfect” for my ears. Maybe the speakers also were a little too bright…? When I bought the 120, I was comparing it to the McIntosh MA 352. My ear jumped right to the Diablo… No contest.

I’ve since upgraded to an ARC amp and pre-amp at practically three times the cost… The Diablo 300 is an awesome piece at $11,500…!

 

 

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