2. amps-preamps
  3. 136720-92605

Preamp Advice Needed - Gryphon Amp - Currently ARC Ref5se

Hello
I am currently running an ARC Ref5se (which i had enjoyed with various ARC Ref amps).

I now have a Gryphon Antileon Signature amp.
In comparison find the set-up a little dark or rolled off in the highs.
I tried a PASS X2.5 in place of the Ref5se and the top end opened up.

Does anyone know of other pres which might match or surpass Ref5se qualities but help the Gryphon top end open up a little? SS or Tube.

Any thoughts would be very much appreciated.
128x128rob67

Showing 7 responses by rob67

rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
Thank you.
Yes, I would prefer balanced operation from preamp to amp.

I am vinyl only, current setup:
Techdas AF3
Herron VTPH2
ARC Ref5se
Gryphon
Wilson Sasha
rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
Hi George
Thats interesting to hear and I suspect the same.
May I ask what passive pre you have?
Rob
rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
Just googled it, the Zena?
Thank you @jackd
rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
@georgehifi
Im not sure how to PM on this site...
My amp has balanced inputs, do you make a balanced version of the Attenuator?
How did you connect to the EVO?
Great reviews.

rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
@timlub 
Tim thank you for the SST recommendation.
I like what seems a wider bandwidth of the SS pre, although it is a bit brash sounding in comparison to the REF5se.
I am hoping a higher quality SS pre will have the best of both.
rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
Thank you all for your comments.
I am researching all recommendations.
rob67's avatar
rob67 OP
73 posts
 
@philipwu I like the sound you are describing of the Backert Labs, although it doesnt seem to have balanced outputs.

More to discover