Vitus audio?

I've heard the huge mono amps, the small integrated and a prototype SACD player at a show last year, paired with Peak Consult Zoltan speakers, and the latest PAD cables (top of the range throughout). Mostly it was excellent, natural-sounding, airy and relaxed, obviously capable of some beautiful sound. Unfortunately some room issues made it sound a bit strained at times, so it was hard to give a fair judgement. I liked it initially with calm music, but with music with more "action" (rock, large scale stuff) it wasn't nearly as good.

Since they are very expensive indeed, I strongly suggest you listen carefully before going ahead. Most stuff in this price range is good, it's up to you to find what you prefer. :)

I haven't heard Gryphon much, only briefly so I can't really compare those. What I heard sounded nice though, soft and beautiful (they were playing female vocal jazz).

As for Boulder, if you like the sort of presentation they have - I find they bring the music to your room and not you to the event - I think they are impossible to beat. I'm very, very impressed with Boulder. From what I heard at the show, the Vitus gear don't share that philosophy so they aren't really comparable per se. Haven't heard FM, but would like to!

In this price range, don't miss MBL either. In their type of sound (large soundstage, "bringing you to the event") I think there is nothing close.

Kops, I suggest you start by auditioning the Boulder 1060 or 2060 in your system. If you like what they do, the search ends there. I strongly doubt there is anything out there that does what they do better.

As many have said this is about sound preferences, and you have to listen to the contenders to know what kind of person you are, e.g. what type of sound you prefer. :)

You're in Europe right? Call the guys at Vitus and ask if you can come visit them. They're very friendly, I don't think that would be a problem. And while in Denmark you could most likely find a Gryphon setup to listen to as well.