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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
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the e450 is one of the great all purpose integrateds. accuphase often gets overlooked...andthe grython is nice...but the e450 will drive anything to the max with no coloration and outlive most components. it is not fussy either. a classic.
rwjp
33 posts
 
Hi Lee,

I was in a similar situation to you recently and ended up with an Acuuphase e-450.
I am really happy with mine, and also use the optional phono card for LP duties.

Having heard some older Accuphase amps I was surprised to find the newer models sound a bit more open and detailed.

While i haven’t heard the Diablo, most reviews describe it as being a very detailed fast sounding amp so my guess would be it could sound somewhat bright in some systems?

If you have any other questions about the E-450 feel free to ask.

Regards Rob
badger748's avatar
badger748 OP
1 posts
 
Hi - im leaning towards the E-450 as the dealer i use a lot over here, and where i got my Peak Consults from has the PC/E-450 combo on dem and having heard it - im very impressed. The Gryphon dealer is 500 miles away and there is only 1 here in the UK so it would be a lot of hassle.

Thanks for all the replies so far.

Best

Lee
dgad
782 posts
 
I would also listen to the Luxman Integrated. I forget the model but it is the 30 Watt Class A. It is similar to Accuphase in looks and sounded wonderful driving Vivid Audio speakers in a very large room at RMAF. This room was thought by many to be one of the best at the show. A dealer I work with used to sell Peak Consult (might still do) and Luxman.
nolitan
865 posts
 
I also 2nd the opinion of the E450. Its a very good integrated and one of the best out there. Very linear sound. very powerful,detailed, slightly on the warm sound and ultrareliable.
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