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Gryphon Diablo vs. McIntosh C2700/MC611

I know similar questions have been asked, but I was looking for input regarding the Gryphon Diablo and the current Mac separates.  I currently have Harbeth Super HL5+ XD speakers. I listen through a Technics turntable and will be getting an Aurender N200.  I will likely change speakers down the road.  
 

I am replacing my Peachtree Nova 500.   I have narrowed my pre-amp/amp choices down to a slightly used Gryphon Diablo with DAC and a McIntosh C2700/MC611 combo.   I will be able to audition the Mac combo this week but am not able to audition the Gryphon Diablo. The non-audio pluses and minuses are:

 

Mac - dealer close by, I prefer its traditional layout

Gryphon - less expensive, one box. 

Does anyone have any experience with the Diablo and the current Mac separates?  Most threads that I read were before the C2700 with its DAC 2.  Also, if I upgrade speakers, it would likely be to the Harbeth 40.3 or the Sonus Faber Amati, Serarino or Guarneri Traditions.

 

TIA

Lew

 

lewl28

Showing 4 responses by lewl28

lewl28 OP
27 posts
 

Yes, I will definitely audition with an open mind.  I fall into the classic rock genre (Beatles, Traffic, Stones Grateful Dead) but also blues and older stuff and acoustic music.  I generally don’t play very loud, so I would like a full sound at lower volumes.  The Macs I can try. And I would also be purchasing from my local dealer (Overture) whom I would like to support.  And I take comfort that they will be there to support me.  I can also try other things there as well. The Gryphon Diablo piqued my curiosity because of the glowing praise that it receives.  But I would be buying it without a test and not from a local dealer.  

lewl28 OP
27 posts
 

Thanks for all of your valued input.   I auditioned the Mac C2700/MC611 combo with my Harbeths and really liked the sound.   I am going with the Mac system over the Gryphon.   Plus I like supporting my local retailer.  

lewl28 OP
27 posts
 

Room is 14’x26’x8’

lewl28 OP
27 posts
 

Thanks.  I have heard Macs with SF’s before and I like the sound.  On Tuesday I will be able to demo the Max C2700/MC611 with the Harbeths that I have.  There is no place to demo the Gryphon, so that would be a leap of faith and only if the Mac/Harbeth combo sounded really off. The Mac combo is about $10k more than the Gryphon Diablo but I can get comfortable with that. 

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